Cycling, nature and hiking
– Destination –
It is in the heart of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park that not only our historical but also natural heritage is to be found.
Azay-le-Rideau is located on the banks of the Indre, surrounded by forests and orchards, with many roads and paths ideal for gentle traffic, cycling, hiking, and even on the water.
Cycling Indre
It is from the Loire banks at Bréhémont that the Indre route by bike takes you to the village of Artannes, crossing our rich heritage. Along the river you will discover mansions, mills, museums and castles, as well as the town of Azay-le-Rideau.
Don't miss the Dufresne Museum, the Château de l'Islette, the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau and its 15th century houses, the Goupillères troglodyte farm, the Balzac museum in Saché, the Vonnes manor and the rue du bol de lait in Artannes that inspired Balzac.
In the heart of Azay-le-Rideau you can also take the direction to Vallères on the Cycling Loire itinerary.
On the water
The toue, or toue cabanée is the flat-bottomed boat used in the past for fishing, transporting goods or passengers on the Loire. Enthusiasts have revived these traditional boats or you can embark with a guide for navigation. These timeless walks depart from Bréhémont, Langeais or Villandry.
On the Indre river at Azay-le-Rideau, in the heart of summer, you can hire or take paddle lessons upstream of the castle. On the island you can also rent canoes.
