The banks of the Loire in Orleans
Five ideas for things to do
Orleans has been inextricably linked with the Loire since time immemorial.
Unsurprisingly, there are many ways to get better acquainted with the city’s unique and ever-changing landscapes along the longest river in France.
To save you time, we have picked out five must-do activities on the banks of the Loire to complete your visit to Orleans.
Activity n°1
A quayside stroll and guinguette experience
From the lock at Fort Alleaume just before the harbour office to the east all the way to Pont Georges V to the west, the newly redeveloped quays are now a fantastic place to come for a stroll. Or why not come during the daytime to lounge in one of the deckchairs looking out across the Loire?
As soon as warm weather arrives and all through summer, make the most of the endless evenings over a drink with friends at one of Orleans’ guinguettes, the riverside bars known for their fun and lively atmosphere.
Activity n°2
ATTEND THE LOIRE FESTIVAL
Orleans organised the largest gathering of river-going vessels with over 200 traditional boats in the city’s former port. This year the festival took place from 22 to 26 September 2021.
River cruises, fireworks, parades, regattas on the Loire and more! Come and take part in five days of celebrating the Loire and its skippering culture in a fun and family-friendly ambience!
Activity n°3
SAILING ON THE LOIRE
Come explore Orleans on the water! What could be more pleasant than spending time on the river surrounded by the stunning Loire Valley?
Sportier visitors can choose to descend the Loire on a stand-up paddleboard or alternatively in a canoe or kayak. If you are visiting with family or friends, then a river cruise might be just the thing to experience the Loire. From Orleans, choose between a toue sablière or a toue cabanée, different types of flat-bottomed barges typical of the region.
A trip on the royal river is a delightful way to discover and observe the flora and fauna that inhabit the banks of the Loire.
Activity n°4
A day in the great outdoors at île Charlemagne
Located in Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, on the banks of the Loire, île Charlemagne is a 70-hectare leisure park offering sports, swimming and fun activities.
The island has a host of facilities promising a fun, relaxing day out for family and friends by the waterside.
Beach volleyball, running, cycling, sailing, canoeing, surfing, games for children and its own beach, the centre offers activities year-round thanks to the Loire Valley’s pleasant climate. Your kids will love it!
Activity n°5
The Loire by bike cycle route
A vast cycle trail stretching over 900 kilometres, the Loire by bike route passes through Orleans!
After a tour of our fair city, hop on your saddle and follow the purpose-built bike paths of the Loire by bike trail. Head east to see Combleux or west for Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Mesmin, or even further afield!
For anyone yet to discover the joys of a cycling holiday, please note that Orleans is very bike-friendly!
Listed as a World Heritage Site since 2000, the Loire Valley provides a picture-perfect backdrop to Orleans.
Once a thriving sugar and vinegar trading hub in bygone days, today the Loire is the ideal destination for leisure and recreation.