Château Royal de Cognac: Hours, Address, Château Royal de Cognac Reviews: 4.5/5
Château Royal de Cognac
Château Royal de Cognac
4.5
10:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 18:30
Monday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
Tuesday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
Wednesday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
Thursday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
Friday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
Saturday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
Sunday
10:00 - 12:00
14:00 - 18:30
About
The Château of Cognac overlooking the Charente river was initially a 10th-century fortress designed to stop Norman invasions, and then in the 15th century became a stately home which was the birthplace of one of France’s most illustrious kings, Francis I. Baron Otard, who had founded its Cognac House in 1795, quickly understands that the thick walls provide exceptional aging conditions for his eaux-de-vie. He purchases the Château, saving it from total destruction The Château of Cognac, which became a historic monument, is now a witness to French history and a Cognac House. We are offering a variety of tours combining two aspects of history: the history of France and the history of Baron Otard cognac up to the present day. Welcome to the Château of Cognac!
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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Top ways to experience Château Royal de Cognac and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
78 within 5 kms
Creperie L'Olympia
415
0.3 km€€ - €€€ • French • European • Vegetarian Friendly
Le Cellier
367
0.4 km€€ - €€€ • French • Healthy
Le Bistro de Claude
610
0.2 km€€€€ • French • European • Vegetarian Friendly
Poulpette
168
0.3 km€€ - €€€ • French • European • Contemporary
Baan Thaï
484
0.2 km€€ - €€€ • Asian • Thai • Vegetarian Friendly
Chez Aristide
324
0.3 km€€ - €€€ • French • European • Vegetarian Friendly
L'Atelier des Quais
842
0.1 km€€ - €€€ • French • European • Healthy
L'Arty Show
82
0.4 km€€ - €€€ • French
Comptoir 17
56
0.4 km€€ - €€€ • French • European • Healthy
Chez Bianca et Philippe
96
0.7 km€€ - €€€ • French • European
Attractions
26 within 10 kms
Jardin Public de Cognac
220
0.3 kmGardens
Musée des Savoir-faire du Cognac
151
0.4 kmSpeciality Museums • History Museums
La Maison de la Lieutenance
27
0.3 kmHistoric Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Eglise Saint-Léger
55
0.4 kmChurches & Cathedrals
Marche couvert
13
0.4 kmFarmers Markets
Office de Tourisme de Cognac
56
0.5 kmVisitor Centres
Musée d'Art et d'Histoire
67
0.4 kmHistory Museums
Espace Decouverte en Pays du Cognac
23
0.4 kmSpeciality Museums
Martell Cognac's Visitors Center
301
0.8 kmHistoric Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Cognac Meukow
140
0.9 kmDistilleries
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
436 reviews
Excellent
238
Very good
153
Average
27
Poor
13
Terrible
5
marilyn36NorthYorks
north yorks7 contributions
We loved this tour it was excellent from start to finish and our guide Angeline was charming and so informative. She spoke excellent English and answered all our questions. The history of the Chateau is fascinating and how Cognac is made - especially enjoyed the details of the angel's share and the drunken spiders! I am not surprised that Jaycee is very taken with this charming place and producing his own brand.
The tasting was a revelation, even my husband got some of the flavours.He was more interested in the history and the place just resonates with it. Enjoy.
The tasting was a revelation, even my husband got some of the flavours.He was more interested in the history and the place just resonates with it. Enjoy.
Written 25 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your visit and the nice review. We are glad you enjoyed the visit and let Angélie know about your nice comment.
We hope we will have the pleasure to welcome you back to Le Château !
Written 26 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Amber
Kesgrave, UK1 contribution
Very nice and informative tour, tasters were nice, especially the cocktail. Ultimately really good value for money, lovely day out
Written 23 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your visit and your nice comment, we are glad you enjoyed your visit at Le Château :)
Written 26 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
MikeyG53
Emersons Green, UK3,139 contributions
We were visiting our twin Rotary Club based in the French commune of Melle, in south west France, to help their Members celebrate their 50th anniversary of being chartered as a Rotary Club. This was the third and final day of our long weekend stay.
My Partner and myself had visited Cognac as part of our last trip to France in July and August 2019 but we didn’t have time to visit the Chateau; so for us, in particular this visit was very welcome.
It was a cool and then wet morning as we travelled, arrived, parked-up and walked to the Chateau. We were split into two groups: one group of ten visitors led by an English speaking guide, and a second group of about fifteen led by a French speaking guide.
We were taken first to see the cellars where the ‘eau de vie’ (the raw spirit) is aged in oak barrels. Some of the Cognac here is very old and special secure rooms are set aside for the oldest and finest Cognac.
Then we toured the ground floor learning about the history of the building itself and how it survived the ravages of time, wars and in particular the French Revolution. Particularly grand was the La Salle des Gardes and La Salle des États combined into a huge single room: a truly wonderful space. The brick vaulted ceiling, designed by Leonardo da Vinci, was just stunning. Also of interest was the graffiti carved into the stone walls by former prisoners of war, some bearing English names.
We then ascended into the tasting room and were provided with small measures of VSOP and XO Cognac. Later I purchased a bottle of the Otard VSOP (which was smoother and less peppery that the XO) from the shop in the chateau entrance lobby.
The Baron Otard Cognac business was founded at the Chateau de Cognac in 1795, and was eventually sold to Martini & Rossi (Italian) and is now owned by the Bacardi Group (Cuban but HQ is in the USA).
An interesting development is a new Cognac sold mostly in the US but made and matured from grapes grown in Cognac in which to be called a ‘Cognac’. This is sold under the “D’Ussé” brand, but we didn’t buy any as it is apparently very spicy.
My Partner and myself had visited Cognac as part of our last trip to France in July and August 2019 but we didn’t have time to visit the Chateau; so for us, in particular this visit was very welcome.
It was a cool and then wet morning as we travelled, arrived, parked-up and walked to the Chateau. We were split into two groups: one group of ten visitors led by an English speaking guide, and a second group of about fifteen led by a French speaking guide.
We were taken first to see the cellars where the ‘eau de vie’ (the raw spirit) is aged in oak barrels. Some of the Cognac here is very old and special secure rooms are set aside for the oldest and finest Cognac.
Then we toured the ground floor learning about the history of the building itself and how it survived the ravages of time, wars and in particular the French Revolution. Particularly grand was the La Salle des Gardes and La Salle des États combined into a huge single room: a truly wonderful space. The brick vaulted ceiling, designed by Leonardo da Vinci, was just stunning. Also of interest was the graffiti carved into the stone walls by former prisoners of war, some bearing English names.
We then ascended into the tasting room and were provided with small measures of VSOP and XO Cognac. Later I purchased a bottle of the Otard VSOP (which was smoother and less peppery that the XO) from the shop in the chateau entrance lobby.
The Baron Otard Cognac business was founded at the Chateau de Cognac in 1795, and was eventually sold to Martini & Rossi (Italian) and is now owned by the Bacardi Group (Cuban but HQ is in the USA).
An interesting development is a new Cognac sold mostly in the US but made and matured from grapes grown in Cognac in which to be called a ‘Cognac’. This is sold under the “D’Ussé” brand, but we didn’t buy any as it is apparently very spicy.
Written 6 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your visit and the nice review. We are glad you had enough time to visit us this time, and you enjoyed the whole experience, from the visit to the tasting. We hope we will have the pleasure to welcome you back!
Written 13 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Reed73
Sheffield, UK39 contributions
From booking to driving away from Cognac, the whole experience was simple and very enjoyable. First time booking through trip advisor (highly recommend - being able to store voucher in apple 🍏 wallet = hassle free at the activity).
Been to the château many times (first time since Covid-19), we took the English speaking tour and our guide was superb at explaining firstly the history of the château and the secondly to creation of Otard cognac. New this time was introduction of D’usse (spicier Otard),
Having been to other cognac producers, this is still the best one in Cognac.
Been to the château many times (first time since Covid-19), we took the English speaking tour and our guide was superb at explaining firstly the history of the château and the secondly to creation of Otard cognac. New this time was introduction of D’usse (spicier Otard),
Having been to other cognac producers, this is still the best one in Cognac.
Written 2 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you very much for your visit and the nice review. We are glad you enjoyed the visit even though you came many times. We hope we will have the pleasure to welcome you back!
Written 13 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ants52
Cognac, France12 contributions
Just did a tour and tasting with my guide, Catherine. Catherine spoke extremely good English and was very easy to understand. She was extremely knowledgeable, very well presented and a great sense of humour. I was astounded to find out that she had only been with the company for just over one month. The amount of facts and information that she knew, was truly amazing. It made my tour or the more enjoyable. I would highly recommend taking a tour with Catherine. Merci.
Written 16 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you very much for your visit and your review. We are glad you enjoyed your visit, we will sure let Catherine know about it :)
Written 13 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Passenger622639
2 contributions
Couples
We had a Château and blind tasting tour. Our tour guide Katherine, was absolutely great and she spoke English very well (just as well as our French is limited, to say the least!). She was very knowledgeable about not just the history of the Château and Cognac, but French history too. Her knowledge of Cognac making was very impressive and we learned a lot. She was also very welcoming and great fun. Fantastic customer service and a super tour. Thank you Katherine.
Written 14 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you very much for your visit and your review. We are glad you enjoyed your visit, we will sure let Catherine know about it :)
Written 13 June 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Annette
2 contributions
Beautiful château well organised tour easy to book. There free parking just opposite the château. There are lots of steps and some uneven surfaces so not suitable for people with poor mobility.
One of our party only did half the tour due to his poor mobility but he was able to sit in the court yard and enjoy the rest then joined us for the tasting.
One of our party only did half the tour due to his poor mobility but he was able to sit in the court yard and enjoy the rest then joined us for the tasting.
Written 21 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your visit and your nice review. We are sorry that one of your party couldn't make it to the end of the tour, there are a lot of steps indeed. We are glad he enjoyed the tasting with you though!
Written 22 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ahardybrit
Champdeniers-Saint-Denis, France264 contributions
A really good tour with Angeline, her first in English and much better explained regarding the cognac process than the Hennessy tour we did a few years ago. The château history and architecture extremely interesting.
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you so much for your visit and your nice comment, we are glad you enjoyed your visit :)
Written 19 July 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
denbob1987
Deinze, Belgium4 contributions
Couples
We booked the tour with English guide and got a great English speaking guide. The tour was very interesting and giving great insights in the making of cognac, both the drink and the history of the city.
Written 4 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your visit and for taking the time to leave a review ! We're glad you enjoyed the visit :)
Written 10 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Pavel K
Redmond, WA349 contributions
The tour was very interesting. There is so much history in this place. We had three tours that day at different distilleries, but I remember this one most for their history and of course tasting. I also purchased my own bottle of cognac - it has my name on it and registered as such in their books. And if you can allow your self - do try their "Fortis Et Fidelis" cognac that includes Otard from 1820.
Written 18 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your visit and for taking the time to leave us a comment ! We're glad you enjoyed your visit and your "Heritage Royal" bottle :)
Written 6 April 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We zouden het chateau graag bezoeken maar vragen ons af of je hond mee mag?
Johanne Zehnne
Cognac, France
Hello, thank you for your question. If you can keep your dog in a bag during the tour that would be perfect. For safety and sanitary reasons we cannot accept big dogs that can walk in Le Château's rooms & cellars.
amadar
Brisbane, Australia362 contributions
Do we need to book ahead for an English tour? What days and times are there English tours?
Could you please give us a website address.
Thank you
JK5148
Bristol, UK3 contributions
.chateauroyaldecognac their website. We didn’t book but in March outside school holidays we felt it was safe to take a chance. English tours are at 2.00 pm, booking is probably the best option in higher season. Have fun!
Annie M
1 contribution
Is it possible for a person using a walker or a cane to go on this tour?
Johanne Zehnne
Cognac, France
Hello Annie, there are a lot of steps in the Château, a walker is not recommended, but you can use a cane. Don't hesitate to contact us if you would like to have more information about the tours.
susanne330
Blue Mountains, Australia
Will you be running tours from 14/12/1016 to 18/12/2016? We will be attending a Wedding on 17/12.
Yolande d
MARSEILLAN3 contributions
Thanks for your question . Yes, The Royal Castle of Cognac is opened every day in December, from 10:00 am to 12:30 & 1:30 pm to 6:pm. M
Paul S
Warwick, UK9 contributions
The time of the tour in English..
Thankyou
Johanne Zehnne
Cognac, France
Dear Paul,
Thank you very much for your interest in the Château de Cognac.
The time of the tours in English depends on the day.
Do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail or by telephone so we can arrange a tour at your convenience.
Waiting for the pleasure to welcome you to the Château de Cognac
Paul S
Warwick, UK9 contributions
Could someone let me know what time of the day are the tours given in English. .
fmarcillaud
Rotterdam, The Netherlands82 contributions
Dear Paul, it actually depends on the seasons and busyness in cognac. I know that all guides speak English (as they are prohibited to do both tours). To ensure yourself give them a call +33545368886
philipdamon
Coconut Creek, FL2 contributions
What days and hours are the tours available?
fmarcillaud
Rotterdam, The Netherlands82 contributions
April 1st to June 30th: Every day, including Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays (except May 1st) from 10 am to 12 noon - 2 pm to 6 pm
July and August:Every day, including Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays
from 10 am to 12 noon - 1.30 pm to 6 pm
August 31st to October 31st: Every day, including Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 10 am to 12 noon - 2 pm to 6 pm
November 1st to March 31st: On demand
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Château Royal de Cognac
- Château Royal de Cognac is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 - 12:00
- Sun - Sat 14:00 - 18:30
- We recommend booking Château Royal de Cognac tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 5 Château Royal de Cognac tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Château Royal de Cognac:
- Au Cœur du Château - VSOP et XO (From €24.91)
- Au Coeur du Château - VSOP Baron Otard & VSOP D'Ussé (From €18.68)
- Au Cœur de D'USSE - Expérience sensorielle (From €36.33)
- Private Day Tour to Cognac from Bordeaux (Van Luxe) (From €674.65)
- Secret des Chais (From €77.84)
- Hotels near Château Royal de Cognac:
- (0.04 km) Logis des Tourelles
- (0.21 km) Hotel Quai des Pontis
- (0.21 km) Au Pre des Pontis
- (0.22 km) La Maison de Bastian
- (0.27 km) Chambres de l'Abreuvoir
- Restaurants near Château Royal de Cognac:
- (0.11 km) L'Atelier des Quais
- (0.23 km) Le Bistro de Claude
- (0.23 km) Baan Thaï
- (0.08 km) La Scala Cognac
- (0.12 km) Le Pont Qui Bouge