Along the Loire
in the Ancenis region
The Loire, Europe's last wild river and France's longest. Its name alone is evocative. In spring and autumn, it's an explosion of changing colours along its banks. In winter, its landscapes melt into a misty, almost mysterious atmosphere. In summer, it glows and brings a welcome coolness to hot days.
Take a deep breath and we'll take you on a trip along the water, the best way to recharge your batteries and get back to basics!
Journey along the Loire
It's greaton foot !
Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer one, whether you're a Sunday stroller or a keen walker, the Loire has something for everyone!
Walking along the Loire is like walking along paths that are sometimes sunken in the vegetation, and sometimes open onto wide, green, peaceful stretches.
With short steps or long strides, in a sporting or contemplative way, it's a lovely interlude in the soothing and inspiring rhythm of nature.
Cycling is even more fun!
When we set off on the trails, when we set off early in the morning... Discovering the Loire by bike is without doubt one of the best options you'll take! Our itineraries are signposted, flat and safe, so you'll have plenty of room to explore. Our landscapes change as you pedal along. Once you've had a taste of it, you'll definitely want to get back in the saddle!
Boat ahoy!
What if the best way to appreciate the Loire was to sail it aboard a boat typical of the Ancenis region? That's the experience we're offering from Le Cellier, aboard a toue cabanée, a floating fishing hut with a flat bottom. Intriguing, isn't it?
The concept? A trip down the river, in contemplative or gourmet mode, you choose, alongside an experienced guide. As the water flows by and the sun shines, you'll enjoy a moment out of time! A variety of tailor-made escapades are available.
If you prefer to paddle on your own, kayakers of all levels will have a field day.
Panoramas of the Loire
A golden rule: never leave the banks of the Loire without your camera! Why would you do that? Because you'll find plenty of spots to immortalise, and just as many breathtaking views!
Artists of the Loire
Aaaaah, the Loire... It has always inspired artists. Like you, the comedian Louis de Funès, the painter William Turner and the poet Joachim du Bellay were all captivated and seduced by its gentle yet wild atmosphere, its sparkling lights changing with the hours and the seasons.
The gentle banks of the Loire inspired Joachim du Bellay to write his famous sonnet " Heureux qui comme Ulysse" ("Happy who like Ulysses "). His statue, installed at the foot of the bridge crossing the Loire at Ancenis, looks towards Liré, his native village, just across the river.
To recall the poems of your childhood and immerse yourself in the Renaissance atmosphere, visit the Musée du Bellay in Liré.
Joachim du Bellay, the poet born on the banks of the Loire