Nature outings in Touraine

Take a traditional boat trip
Aboard a gabarre or a toue cabanée, traditional Loire boats, treat yourself to a moment of total disconnection in the heart of nature, just a stone's throw from the city. For a sightseeing tour, an aperitif on the river or a guided discovery of biodiversity, come aboard for an unforgettable experience!
Find out more about our river trips HERE.
Aperitif trip with Boutavant: bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance (the day before the ride by 11:00 a.m.).
Apéro on the Loire river
Duration: 1h - Price: €30
Take advantage of fine weather to treat yourself to an aperitif cruise on the Loire departing from Tours with the BOUTAVANT association. Take a seat aboard a traditional boat for a one-hour cruise and enjoy the late afternoon light on the river.
A basket of Touraine specialities and a glass of wine will accompany this timeless moment of discovery.
Boat stroll on the Loire « at the twilight »
Duration: 2h30 - Price: €36
Enjoy an exceptional moment on the Loire at sunset aboard a traditional boat with La Rabouilleuse.
A little upstream from Tours, along the hillsides of Rochecorbon and Vouvray, La Rabouilleuse invites you to discover the Loire through a very special atmosphere and colors. Our booty: the light of the Loire, the observation of its fauna, the charm of its islands, the contemplation of its landscapes... Come and take your share!

When the winds are favorable, we set sail, otherwise we use the motor, the oar or the mizzen. In all circumstances, we plan to use soft mobility (without a motor) for part of the tour, to get a better taste of the river's rhythm.

You can bring your own aperitif basket to share with other participants.
A moment of conviviality guaranteed!
Experience the Loire for a whole day
Cycling, canoeing and terroir, take a day for a 100% Loire experience, along the banks or on the water, through the villages and in the heart of the vineyards... Departing from Tours, take a trip on the Loire à Vélo to the troglodytic village of Montlouis-sur-Loire for a tasting of this appellation which is on the rise.
Return by canoe to the guinguette at Tours sur Loire, an ideal spot for birdwatching and enjoying the evening lights on the river.
Stand-up paddle at the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
Try your hand at stand-up paddling on the Indre River around the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau! Stand-up paddles and canoes are available for hire at renowned tourist sites such as Azay-le-Rideau and Candes Saint-Martin.
A memorable experience that can be extended with a tasting of local specialities for those with a sweet tooth...
Get away from it all with "Little walk in nature"
Take a stroll along the banks of the Loire to discover the wild flora and fauna of the famous river, through fun and educational activities designed to help you reconnect with nature. Take a trip up the river, and with it the passage of time, to understand the activities of the people who lived along the Loire. A walk to share with the whole family.
A little walk in Tours
Duration : 2h - Price : 12 €
A few kilometers are enough to discover the biodiversity of the Loire and perhaps escape for a moment. Man has shaped and organized the landscape according to his needs over the centuries, and the Loire is no exception.

During this "little walk", your eco-guide will propose sensory and playful activities, punctuated with explanations on the fauna and flora of the Loire banks. A friendly and educational outing for the whole family.
But also...
Discover the environment and have fun at Parc de la Gloriette
Located south of Tours, the Parc de la Gloriette invites you to take part in a wide range of events and activities all year round, focusing on nature, recycling and gardening, as well as a number of fun and musical festivals. Learn how to discover and use aromatic plants, take cuttings, make natural decorations and objects, and compost.
The park's 40 hectares of landscaped grounds also feature areas for walking and cycling, sensory trails, children's play areas, educational beehives and communal gardens.
Find out more about La Gloriette's full program HERE.
Hiking around Tours
A breath of nature awaits you! Guided hikes to discover the built heritage of the Petites Cités de Caractère or hikes in complete freedom, there's a wide choice of ways to get some fresh air and get away from it all, just a stone's throw from the city.
Discover our hiking trails HERE.
Pedal with your nose to the wind
From Tours, on the Loire à Vélo or in the heart of the Loire Valley, pedal freely or with a guide to discover the natural and cultural riches of the surrounding area.
See our articles Pedaling on the Loire à Vélo® and Cycling Escapades for a wealth of ideas for outings on two wheels.