🚣 From Roanne to Nevers, one hell of a kayaking itinerary!
Imagine kayaking down France's vital artery, the Loire, which, between Roanne and Nevers, plays the diva with its 189 kilometers of capricious meanders. It's "La Loire des méandres" for those in the know, a name that has nothing to envy to a telenovela, with its twists and turns and landscapes that change with the strokes of the paddle. 🌿
5 to 7 days of descent where every bend in the river leads to a new chapter: an improvised bivouac under the stars, a stop in a village for supplies, or an unexpected encounter with the local wildlife (or with a person... you can make some great encounters during these activities 🥰).
This route, accessible from easy to moderate levels, is perfect for trying your hand at navigation over several days, without going all Viking on you. From May to July, it's the ideal time to set off on an adventure, with equipment that doesn't need to be worthy of an Arctic expedition. All you need is a kayak or canoe, even an inflatable one for Sunday paddlers, and off you go!
Camping and bivouacs are the order of the day when it comes to accommodation, allowing you to get up close and personal with the wilderness. Villages are oases where you can stock up on supplies and exchange a few words of advice with the locals. Don't forget to keep your eyes open and your feet dry (as much as possible 😅 ).
A little bonus for families: this descent is a great adventure to share with children. Imagine their little faces filled with wonder at the majesty of the scenery, their laughter during the more eventful passages, and their pride at the end of the day. It's an experience that teaches respect for nature, a love of shared effort, and above all, the art of navigating waters that are sometimes calm, sometimes teasing. 🚣♂️
🛶 From Nevers to Orléans for the brave ones
On these 189 km (also! 🤯) from Nevers to Orléans, we promise scenery to make you forget your everyday life. And there's no need for an Instagram filter to embellish the experience. 📸
Of course, we're not going to lie, passing by two nuclear power plants isn't exactly a highlight in the tourist guide. But consider it a necessary passage to more charming adventures. And for the tricky bits, a little eddy here and there adds just the right amount of spice to the adventure. The route, rated moderate, is ideal for those who already have a few paddle strokes under their belt.
The refreshment stands at La Charité sur Loire and Gien, for example, are welcome stops to recharge the batteries, both physical and mental. And to prolong the pleasure of being on the water, why not consider a detour to Vouvray? After all, who said that adventure and good wine didn't go well together? 🍷
🌊 Touch the river from Saint Dyé sur Loire to Blois
Thanks to the 11 km itinerary from Saint Dyé sur Loire to Blois, which can be completed in just 1h45, you'll be able to touch the heart of the Loire Valley with your fingertips, or rather, your paddles.
Set off from the ancient port of Chambord, with the sole aim of following the current to the base via Cour sur Loire. Here, the Château de Menars acts as guardian of this passage, watching over travelers in search of tranquility and beauty. 🏰
Ideal for beginners, families or groups of friends in search of a chill moment on the water, this ride is the promise of total disconnection. Between paddle strokes, you can look up to admire the flora and fauna, breathe deeply and let yourself be lulled by the gentle murmur of the water. It's time to pay attention to the little details that make big memories.
The canoes and kayaks here are not just means of transport, they become the accomplices of your adventure. Whether you choose to paddle solo, in a duo, or in a squadron, each craft carries with it the laughter, the exchanges, and sometimes the little squabbles that make the salt of these escapades.
🌿 Between Montsoreau and Saumur, it's not hard at all
Two and a quarter hours is the time it will take you to cover the distance between Montsoreau and Saumur, which is perfect for a little adventure. Starting out from the picturesque village of Montsoreau, with its picture-postcard atmosphere, you'll get straight into the swing of things.
Difficulty? Easy! Perfect for novices, families or just a quiet getaway with friends.
For fans of history and fine stonework, playing "spot the château" adds an extra layer of fun to the activity. Between Montsoreau and Saumur, you'll be navigating an open-air history book, without the slightest effort. Well, maybe a little to paddle, but it's up to you, I promise ✋.
⛵ From Cavereau to Amboise, the Loire isn't sneaky
To launch an expedition from Cavereau to Amboise is to accept an invitation to a party where the Loire plays the perfect host. Over 58 kilometers, spread out over three days, this canoe or kayak trip is a festival of relaxation, discovery and pure pleasure, without filters or artifice. 🎉
Three days on the water is the promise of an adventure where every stroke of the paddle takes you further away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, immersing you in a world where time seems suspended. With around twenty kilometers per day, or around 3h30 of navigation, you'll have plenty of time to let yourself be carried by the current, make exploratory stops in villages, or simply enjoy a picnic with your feet in the water. 🍽️
You don't have to be an expert paddler to enjoy this course. Accessible to all, this section of the Loire is reassuringly welcoming. Between sightseeing breaks and moments of relaxation, you'll rediscover the simple but oh-so-rewarding joys of aquatic touring. 🚣
Along the water, let yourself be surprised by the richness of an exceptional natural and cultural heritage. There's no shortage of unique emotions, from the thrill of a majestic castle to the wonder of local flora and fauna. It's total immersion in a world where the watchword is 100% natural pleasure and relaxation. 🌳
Before or after your kayak tour, don't forget to make a detour to Blois. This city of art and history, with its châteaux, museum and old town, is well worth a visit. It's the perfect opportunity to bring your discovery-filled escapade full circle. 🏰
