Top 5 best canoe trips on the Loire

Looking for a Slow Village adventure along the river? Canoeing on the Loire is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover the natural and cultural riches of France's longest river. Wild and peaceful, lined with castles and charming villages, the Loire offers routes for all levels, from the curious beginner to the adrenalin-seeking adventurer. But with so many options, it can be difficult to choose the descent that suits you best.

Discover the 5 most beautiful canoe descents on the Loire, to be enjoyed solo, as a couple, with friends or family from our open-air hotel in Les Ponts-de-Cé.

The calm of the river alternates with a few faster sections, perfect for adding a little fun while remaining accessible to beginners. The highlight is the arrival at Amboise, where you gradually catch sight of the royal castle, perched high above the old town.

Why do we love it?

• An accessible descent perfect for a relaxing day out with family or friends.
• An immersion in heritage with two beautiful castles along the way.
• A varied landscape of cliffs, sandy islets, vineyards and forests.

Practical info :

• Distance: approx. 15 km - average duration: 3 hours (excluding breaks).
• Departure: rental base in Chaumont-sur-Loire, 185 kilometers from our slow village of Les Ponts-de-Cé.
• Level: easy - suitable for children aged 6-7 and over.

Guide price: €25 to €35 per person.

From Candes-Saint-Martin to Saumur

Nature & heritage - half to full day - 16 km

This is one of the most beautiful ways to immerse yourself in the wilderness, in an unspoilt, undiscovered setting. Departure is from Candes-Saint-Martin, one of France's most beautiful villages, located at the confluence of the Vienne and Loire rivers. This junction gives rise to a wide, delta-like river, where water zigzags between islets, beaches and wetlands teeming with life.

Arriving in Saumur adds a touch of nobility to this escapade. Its château watches over the town and the Loire, and it's also an excellent base for enjoying a glass of local wine or visiting a troglodytic cellar.

Why do we love it?

• A true interlude of nature, far from the crowds.
• Spectacular confluence and rich biodiversity.
• A grand finale in a historic gourmet town.

Practical info :

• Distance: 16 km - duration: 3 to 4 hours.
• Departure: Candes-Saint-Martin, 90 km from our outdoor hotel
• Level: intermediate, but accessible to accompanied beginners.
• Guide price: €30 to €40 per person.

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From Orléans to Meung-sur-Loire

Express itinerary - about 2 hours - 10 km

Perfect for those wishing to learn canoeing without over-committing themselves, this short trip between Orléans and Meung-sur-Loire is perfect for a half-day getaway. As soon as you leave Orléans, you'll leave the urban atmosphere behind and be carried away by a more tranquil Loire, between reedbeds and alluvial forests.

This easy route offers both a relaxing natural setting and a glimpse of the Loire's heritage. Along the banks, you'll occasionally spot the remains of mills, old river ports or discreet little hamlets. The current is gentle, the route wide and without surprises: an excellent option for families or those looking for their first experience in complete safety.

The arrival at Meung-sur-Loire is charming, with its medieval streets, its little-known but magnificent château, and its gardens ideal for relaxing after a hard day's work.

Why do we love it?

• A short but exhilarating descent.
• Easily accessible from the city, perfect for a last-minute getaway.
• An ideal activity for families or friends to discover the Loire without stress.

Practical info :

• Distance: 10 km - duration: 1h30 to 2h30.
• Departure: Île Charlemagne, Orléans, 253 km from our outdoor hotel
• Level: very easy.

Price: €20 to €25/person.