Like any vacation, you always plan to visit the region’s must-sees, but what are you going to do the rest of the time? If you’ve come with a group of friends or family, there are often the sporty ones and the more… lazy ones. Our advice as a Tourist Office is to set aside a few cooler, more rhythmic afternoons.
Experience nature's leisure activities in the heart of the Loire castles
The reputation of the châteaux of the Loire Valley is second to none. But have you thought about taking a few afternoons to discover them in a different way, through a unique experience?
Let our ideas be your guide.
All barefoot
Close to the châteaux, a number of original leisure activities are well worth the detour! Barefoot in the forest, a signposted trail awakens your senses. Walk on wood shavings, listen to the birds or wander along the little river. Admittedly, the first few moments are destabilizing, as we’re no longer used to walking without shoes. Then the sensations return, as you jump from log to pebble to pine cone. Take your time, the trees will help you.
Those who want to extend the afternoon can enjoy archery, net courses, obstacle courses or ultralight flying(Loisirs Loire Valley).


View from above
Now that’s a cool activity! Flying over the chateaux and the Loire River is very popular in our region. Depending on your motivations, you can take to the skies in a hot-air balloon (Compagnons du vent and Aérocom) or a gyrocopter. Each has its own advantages: the balloon promises a calm journey close to nature, with the wind leading the way. A gyrocopter lets you choose your own route, is fast and very stable (ideal for photographers).
Everything's better on a bike
The great thing about cycling is that everyone can do it! Our largely flat landscapes won’t put you off, especially if you follow the banks of the Loire. Take the Loire à vélo for a loop, for example, between the bridges at Blois and Muides-sur-Loire, where you’ll see the Château de Ménars and visit the Loire Observatory.
The second great thing about cycling is that you can combine cycling and châteaux by following the Châteaux de la Loire à Vélo itineraries. Leaving Blois in less than 2 hours, you’ll reach Chambord via the banks of the Loire and the Chambord forest. A mini-adventure to remember!


Paddle
In a small group, canoeing is a very fun activity, requiring a little effort on the arms, but the Loire will help you. The idea is to immerse yourself in the Loire’s riverside landscapes, islands of sand and trees, and migratory birds. There’s no race, no time limit, just two hours or more of downhill fun.