The return of fine weather is the perfect time to go cycling, visit châteaux and take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer. Whether you’re a family or a romantic getaway, let yourself be seduced by the gentle way of life in the Loire Valley.
Adventuring in the châteaux of the Loire Valley
Many châteaux in the Loire Valley offer activities for all the family. Here’s some information to help you prepare for your visit.
Near Orléans, guaranteed fun at the Château de Meung-sur-Loire! Throughout the year, you can explore the castle from the attic to the underground passageways. In the grounds, the Minimes farm, the Dragons‘ Den and Land, and the knights’ trail are sure to delight children! At the Château de Sully-sur-Loire, they can dress up in period costumes. There are also family trails at the Royal Fortress of Chinon. Tintin welcomes you to the Château de Cheverny. At the châteaux of Blois and Chambord, you’ll have to solve riddles… There’s a huge choice, so it’s up to you now!
Explore the most beautiful gardens in the Loire Valley
In spring, the gardens come to life and become enchanting places to explore with the whole family. The ideal setting for a memorable activity in the Loire Valley. Whether they border a château, are an arboretum or a kitchen garden, each one offers a unique atmosphere. At Apremont-sur-Allier, listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’, an English-inspired garden winds its way through lush vegetation, waterfalls and exotic pavilions. At Château du Rivau, fifteen fairy-tale gardens with colourful flowers and fairy-tale-inspired decorations will fill you with wonder. The garden at Plessis Sasnières, a veritable green setting with an English flavour, has vast lawn paths and a natural meadow planted with trees. Its flower enclosure is an explosion of colour, offering an enchanting spectacle every season. These islands of nature, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, are just waiting for you!
Embark on a cruise along the Loire
All year round, embark on a unique experience on the Loire or the Cher with experienced sailors. Les Passeurs de Loire, les Mariniers du Jean Bricau, les Bateliers des Vents d’Galerne… From Sigloy, Tours or La Chapelle-sur-Loire, these enthusiasts invite you aboard traditional boats to discover the fauna, flora and heritage of the river. Ospreys, terns, beavers… nature reveals itself along the water. You can also enjoy sunset walks, accompanied by tastings and stories told by passionate and enthusiastic locals. An authentic and unforgettable immersion in the heart of the Loire landscapes!
Going for a bike ride
Orléans – leisure parc (ile Charlemagne) Orléans Parc de Loire (10/15 km)
If you’re visiting Orléans, make the most of your time here to enjoy a family day out. Leaving your bike hire company or the city centre, simply head for the banks of the Loire and then follow the Itinéraire de La Loire à Vélo in the direction of Jargeau. About 5 km further on, you’ll arrive at the Ile Charlemagne leisure centre, where you’re bound to find something to do with the whole family: accrobranche or lasergame at Léo Parc Aventure, inflatable games, swimming… A full day’s activities on the agenda.
Discover the most beautiful villages in the Loire Valley
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Loire Valley is an invitation to explore. As well as the famous châteaux and vineyards, there are many charming villages well worth a visit. Lavardin, Montrésor and Yèvre-le-Châtel are among the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’, offering the ideal setting for a timeless stroll. Chédigny, a village classified as a ‘Remarkable Garden’ near Loches and the Château de Chenonceau, is the floral destination of spring. Roses and flowers adorn and perfume the entire village.
Discover the troglodyte villages, architectural nuggets nestling in the hollows of the hillsides, elegantly integrated into an unspoilt natural setting. Trôo is certainly one of the most beautiful in the Loir valley. Dive into the heart of these places steeped in history and charm, where heritage and nature are in perfect harmony.
Explore a troglodyte site
The Goupillières troglodyte valley in Azay-le-Rideau is a must-see. Imagine three farmhouses carved out of the rock, bread ovens, stables, tools, an underground passageway… the daily lives of the farmers who lived there from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. If you follow the route of the walk, you’ll come across a fortified castle, a children’s hut and the witch’s house at the end of the path! And don’t forget to drop in on Fripette the goat, Caline the donkey or Léonard the pig… The troglodyte valley of Les Goupillières has everything you could wish for, and it’s definitely a family activity!
Ideas for romantic spring activities
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy some special time together, with nature at its best and the first warm rays of sunshine. Whether you’re a fan of romantic walks, gourmet escapes or unusual experiences, here are a few ideas to help you make the most of the season.
Treat yourself to a lakeside getaway, a village in bloom, a château or explore the gardens of the Loire Valley. You can sample seasonal produce, or why not take part in an oenological escape game.
For those who prefer a gentler pace, a bike ride through the countryside or along a river is a great way to share a moment together. And why not take to the skies in a hot-air balloon at sunrise, to admire the colourful landscapes together?
Finally, spring is also the ideal season to indulge in a moment of well-being: a spa in the heart of nature, a duo massage or just a relaxing break on the terrace with a drink… all precious moments to get together and enjoy the mildness of the season.
Thematics
