rides in flat-bottomed "futreau" barges

The Loire, its fauna and its flora may be discovered through an original activity: rides in flat-bottom barges. These traditional boats provide navigation around Blois and will enable you to fully enjoy its natural as well as its cultural heritage.

Shepherded by experienced guides, you will embark on one of these boats and be transported not far from the stately buildings of Blois. With the binoculars placed at your disposal, you will scrutinize the local fauna as you move along: terns, plovers, egrets and other birds sojourning on the royal river. You can also briefly stop near an island to detect the traces of beavers, the largest rodents in Europe.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Loire proposes that you spend an hour or two for a casual stroll, which should be an unusual adventure.