Carré Cointreau
Discover the heritage and craft of Cointreau, an iconic orange liqueur, through engaging tours and hands-on cocktail making.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the full tour before crowds build.
Carré Cointreau
Best Time
Experience the full tour before crowds build.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the heritage and craft of Cointreau, an iconic orange liqueur, through engaging tours and hands-on cocktail making.
"A wonderful English-language tour by Alex! We had a great time learning about the history of Cointreau and how it is made."
🎯 Book Online Easily
Secure your spot for the 'Zest to Shaker' tour by booking online in advance. :admission_tickets:
🍸 Cocktail Fun Guaranteed
The 'Zest to Shaker' tour includes a fun cocktail-making session. Be ready to taste!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cointreau Story
Discover the rich history and heritage behind this iconic orange liqueur, from its origins to its global recognition.

Behind-the-Scenes Production
Witness the fascinating process of Cointreau creation, including the unique orange varieties used and the bottling area.

Cocktail Making & Tasting
Get hands-on experience crafting your own Cointreau-based cocktails and savoring the delicious results.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand the Cointreau Difference
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Online Easily
Secure your spot for the 'Zest to Shaker' tour by booking online in advance. :admission_tickets:
🍸 Cocktail Fun Guaranteed
The 'Zest to Shaker' tour includes a fun cocktail-making session. Be ready to taste!
📸 Photo Restrictions
Photography is not allowed in the bottling area, but you can capture memories elsewhere. :camerawithflash:
🗣️ English Tours Available
Excellent English-language tours are offered, making the history and production accessible. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Online Easily
Secure your spot for the 'Zest to Shaker' tour by booking online in advance. :admission_tickets:
🍸 Cocktail Fun Guaranteed
The 'Zest to Shaker' tour includes a fun cocktail-making session. Be ready to taste!
📸 Photo Restrictions
Photography is not allowed in the bottling area, but you can capture memories elsewhere. :camerawithflash:
🗣️ English Tours Available
Excellent English-language tours are offered, making the history and production accessible. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the informative and engaging tours at Carré Cointreau, with guides like Alex and Richard receiving special mentions for their expertise and friendly demeanor. The 'Zest to Shaker' tour, featuring cocktail making and tasting, is a particular highlight, offering a fun and interactive conclusion. While some find the marketing aspect a bit prominent, the overall experience is highly recommended for its educational value and enjoyable atmosphere.
"A wonderful tour in English hosted by the very capable Alex. Interesting to learn about the different oranges, the history and the marketing. Great fun to make some cocktails afterwards."
Fiona McAngus
"A wonderful English-language tour by Alex! We had a great time learning about the history of Cointreau and how it is made. At the end of the tour some of us bravely volunteered to make the cocktails for the group. Very informative and fun visit. Thanks Alex for a fantastic tour!"
Anne-Marie O'Brien
"Very nice tour! Our guide was very good! Richard, if I remember correctly…"
Per Lindgren
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carré Cointreau is located in Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Florent, near Angers, France. The best way to reach it is by car, as public transport options can be limited. If driving, use GPS coordinates or the address provided on their official website. Parking is generally available on-site.
While direct public transport to Carré Cointreau can be challenging, you can take a train to Angers and then a taxi or ride-share service to the venue. Check local bus routes from Angers, but be aware they may not run frequently or directly to the distillery.
From Paris, the fastest way to reach the Angers region is by TGV high-speed train, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Angers, you would then need to arrange local transport to Carré Cointreau.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary, but they are generally considered good value for the experience. Booking online in advance is recommended, and you can check the official Carré Cointreau website for current pricing and package details.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets for Carré Cointreau tours in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or during peak season. This ensures you secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Carré Cointreau website for the most up-to-date information on tour schedules and operating hours before your visit.
Yes, Carré Cointreau offers different tour experiences. The 'Zest to Shaker' tour is popular as it includes a hands-on cocktail-making session. Other tours focus more on the history and production process.
Yes, you can typically purchase Cointreau and other related products at the Cointreau distillery shop. It's a great opportunity to buy your favorite orange liqueur as a souvenir or gift.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'Zest to Shaker' tour is an immersive experience at Carré Cointreau that guides you through the history and production of Cointreau, culminating in a fun, hands-on cocktail-making session where you get to create and taste your own drinks.
Photography is generally permitted in most areas of Carré Cointreau, allowing you to capture the ambiance and displays. However, please note that photography is typically restricted in the production and bottling areas for operational and safety reasons.
The duration of a tour at Carré Cointreau can vary depending on the specific tour package chosen. The 'Zest to Shaker' tour, for example, usually lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, including the cocktail-making portion.
Yes, Carré Cointreau offers tours in English, ensuring that international visitors can fully enjoy and understand the presentation. The guides are often praised for their capability and engaging delivery.
Cointreau is a premium triple sec, distinguished by its use of a brandy base and aging in oak barrels, which gives it a richer, more complex flavor profile compared to triple secs made with neutral spirits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Carré Cointreau primarily focuses on the distillery tour and cocktail experience. While there might not be a full-service restaurant on-site, they may offer light snacks or tasting accompaniments. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly for current offerings.
The area around Carré Cointreau, particularly in Angers, offers a variety of dining options. You can find traditional French bistros, cafes, and restaurants serving local cuisine. Plan to dine in Angers before or after your visit for a wider selection.
📸 📸 Photography
The distillery grounds, the Cointreau museum displays, and the cocktail-making area offer great photo opportunities. The exterior architecture and any orange groves (if present) can also be picturesque. Remember to respect any 'no photo' signs, especially in production areas.
Yes, photography is generally prohibited in the operational production and bottling areas of Carré Cointreau. This is a standard practice for safety and operational reasons. Always adhere to the guidelines provided by your tour guide.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that the tasting portion of the tour is for adults. However, the historical exhibits and the story of the brand can be presented in an engaging way. Consider the timing of your visit to avoid peak crowds, which might make the experience more comfortable for younger visitors. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially in areas with machinery.
🍸 Cocktail Enthusiasts
🥂 Couples & Friends
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the history and production, and then team up or compete in creating delicious drinks together. The tasting element adds a celebratory touch, making it a memorable activity for a date or a get-together with friends. Consider booking a tour that includes the cocktail making for the full experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Cointreau: From Oranges to Liqueur
The distinction of Cointreau lies in its brandy base, setting it apart from many other triple secs that use neutral spirits. This brandy base, combined with a precise blend of sugar and water, undergoes a careful distillation process. The aging in oak barrels further refines the spirit, contributing to its signature amber hue and smooth finish. Visitors often express surprise at the depth and quality achieved through these traditional methods.
Beyond the technical aspects, the tour emphasizes the heritage and branding of Cointreau. You'll discover the story of Édouard Cointreau and his vision for a superior orange liqueur. The marketing and global presence of Cointreau are also touched upon, showcasing how this French spirit has become a staple in bars worldwide. It’s an educational journey that deepens appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
The 'Zest to Shaker' Experience: Crafting Cocktails
Participants get to mix their own Cointreau-based cocktails, using fresh ingredients and guided by the expert staff. This is where the knowledge gained about Cointreau's flavor profile comes into play, as you learn how it complements other spirits and mixers. The satisfaction of creating and then tasting your own expertly crafted drink is a memorable part of the visit.
This interactive element is frequently praised in reviews for adding a dynamic and enjoyable dimension to the distillery tour. It transforms the learning experience into a celebratory one, allowing guests to directly appreciate the versatility and quality of Cointreau in a social setting. It’s a perfect way to cap off the educational journey with a delicious reward.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit