Rows of vines along the road, a church tower on the horizon, and little else to distract you. That is how the day begins from Fontcouverte. It is almost completely flat, and the hills stay small. That sounds easy, but around seven hours on level ground gives your feet very little variety.
Before long you walk into Saintes, an old town on the Charente. There is a Roman arch, and it is a lovely spot for a long coffee stop. After that it opens out again into quiet countryside, with fields and peaceful villages. The last stretch can feel long. Then Pons appears, with its great keep looking out over the town. You walk towards it at an easy pace, knowing you are nearly there. Today, walk by feel, not by the clock.