An itinerary along the Loire: from Chalonnes to Saint-Florent, embark on a 22km descent into the heart of Anjou, a journey of around 4h30 that lets you discover the river at your own pace.
This stretch of the Loire, part of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an immersive mix of sailing and cultural stopovers.
The heritage of the Loire within paddling distance
You set off from Chalonnes-sur-Loire, a town marked by its river activity and its proximity to the island of Chalonnes, the largest inhabited island in the Loire.
As you glide along the water, you'll catch sight of : Montjean-sur-Loire: This typical village reveals its industrial past with the headframe of the puits de la Tranchée, a remnant of former coal mines towering 32 metres above the river.
Saint-Florent-le-Vieil: Your arrival is marked by the abbey overlooking the Montglonne, offering a view of the valley and housing the tomb of General Bonchamps.
A protected ecosystem to be respected
The Loire is a natural area where the fauna and flora benefit from specific protection, in particular through the Biotope Protection Areas.
Protection of birds:
- To avoid disturbing nesting species such as terns, access, bivouacking and disembarking on sandbanks that are not accessible by dry foot are prohibited from 1 April to 15 August.
Responsible navigation:
- We advise you not to disembark on private islands and to take your rubbish with you to keep the banks clean.
Practical advice:
- You must wear a lifejacket and be able to swim 25 metres.
- Bring closed shoes for safe navigation.