The Loire castles by canoe, 

a royal discovery!

Explore the gems of the Loire Valley by kayak or canoe

The Loire castles, splendid witnesses of the royal past of the Loire Valley, are a must-see during your stay in the Loire Valley. Imagine discovering them from a unique and privileged angle, by navigating in your canoe on the Loire. An unforgettable experience that allows you to admire these monuments in the tranquility of the river.

The Loire castles not to be missed during your canoe trip

Several Loire castles are accessible by kayak or canoe. Here are some examples:

  • Blois Castle: Located on the heights of the city, to enjoy this breathtaking view of the Loire and admire its remarkable architecture, you only need to disembark on the quays and reach the castle by the steps at the end of the Place Louis XII.
  • Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Loire, this castle offers you an exceptional panorama of the river and surrounding gardens. To do this, stop at the village on the left bank, and you will only have to walk a few hundred meters to reach the castle.
  • Amboise Castle: Stop at the foot of this royal city, where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life. You’ll only have a few steps to climb to access the castle that overlooks the Loire and offers a panoramic view of the valley.
  • Langeais Castle: This medieval castle, set back a few hundred meters from the Loire, is a true testament to French history. You need to land at the foot of the Langeais bridge to admire the imposing fortress and imagine life in the Middle Ages.
  • Saumur Castle: If you embark on the adventure of the 150 km of trails we offer, you can see this castle perched on a rocky spur. It offers you a breathtaking view of the Loire and the city of Saumur.

Anecdotes and stories around the Loire castles

The Loire castles are naturally steeped in history but also in anecdotes. We often hear about Chambord and Chenonceau, but did you know that Chambord was built on marshes by Francis I, who wanted to make it a hunting lodge? Or that Chenonceau Castle was successively inhabited by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici? Did you also know that your kayak trip does not pass by these two giants? If you wish to visit them, you will need to swap your canoe for a bike and pedal a few kilometers to reach them!

Tips for discovering the Loire castles by canoe-kayak

Here are some tips to fully enjoy your discovery of the Loire castles by canoe-kayak:

  • Choose your route: take into account the duration (3, 4, or 8 days) and the distance you want to cover, as well as the castles you wish to see.
  • Plan your equipment: Don’t forget your kayak, hat, sunglasses, and phone or camera to capture these magical moments.
  • Check the schedules: If you wish to visit the castles, check their opening hours and think about booking your tickets in advance.

We are your partner for a royal adventure on the Loire!

Loire Kayak offers you a wide range of kayaks and canoes for rent, suitable for everyone and for all our trails. We advise you from the project to the realization, on itineraries, equipment, and preparations. Don’t hesitate to contact us to organize your next royal adventure on the Loire!

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Lac de Loire
D951- 41350 Vineuil
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