More than just castles: get away from it all (for real) around Chenonceaux!

Calling all fans of slow tourism and city dwellers in search of fresh air: the Cher Valley is THE place to go for a stroll when you’re in Tours. Whether you’re staying for a quick weekend break or a full week, the plan is simple: just go with the flow of the Cher. In other words, it’s peaceful, rejuvenating and inspiring!

The ‘Heart of France by Bike’ route, or cycling through the Cher
Cycling through the valley: no hills, maximum fun
Hop on your bike (or hire one there and then – there are plenty of hire shops) and join the ‘Cœur de France à Vélo’ route, or the ‘Cher à vélo’, as we call it here. Here, you can forget about cars and hills that make your calves burn. The towpath is completely flat, extremely safe and winds through varied landscapes. It’s the ideal option for families or those who haven’t done any exercise since 2012.
The route: you can set off from Tours and cycle gently up to Chenonceaux, staying close to the river the whole way.
Le Bistrot Quai in Civray-de-Touraine
Our recommendations along the way
- “A Summer in Nitray” at the Nitray lock-keeper’s house in Athée-sur-Cher. A full programme of summer events is on offer.
- On the Coeur de France route, a stop at La Boulaye restaurant is a must to sample fresh, delicious and original cuisine.
- Bléré beach, to cool off: lifeguards are on duty in July and August
- Le Bistrot Quai in Civray-de-Touraine, a bar set in the garden of the lock-keeper’s house, for an aperitif with a view
- In Chenonceaux, you’re bound to pass by the magnificent and unmissable Château des Dames. To find out all about its history, don’t hesitate to book a guided tour!
When you stop off at Bléré or Chenonceaux, don’t forget to pop into the Tourist Office. They organise great events all summer long!
Save the date
Looking for an experience that’ll make your mates jealous on Insta? We’ve got just the thing. The Tourist Office has put together some outings that are (truly) out of the ordinary.
The Vino-Croisière: a chic aperitif on the water
The Vino-Cruise: a chic aperitif on the water
It’s the unmissable event of the summer! Every Friday evening (from mid-July to the end of August), hop aboard the barge for a Vino-Croisière. The concept? You’ll sample the finest wines of the Touraine Chenonceaux AOC alongside local produce, all whilst enjoying breathtaking views of the Château. It’s refreshing, it’s delicious, and it’s the best way to kick off your weekend. Cheers!
Canoeing trip to Chenonceau Castle
Canoe trip: switch to VIP mode (Very Important Paddler)
If you want to experience Chenonceau Castle like no one else, the “Chenonceau by Water” experience is made for you.
- The plan: grab your paddle and we’ll head up the River Cher for an exclusive landing… right on the estate!
- A cultural interlude: a guide from the Tourist Office will reveal all the secrets and juicy anecdotes about the history of the Château des Dames.
- The perfect finale: you’ll round off the day in style with a drink, relaxing under the castle’s arches, before letting the current carry you back to the base.
Please note: places are going fast, so don’t delay in booking!
And to liven up your Monday evenings this August, the Tourist Office is organising free concerts in Chenonceaux Municipal Park. Come and enjoy performances by local bands and a refreshment stand from 6 pm!
Article written in collaboration with the Chenonceaux Tourist Office
Les Scouts