The term “experience” is often overused these days. Hardly a travel article or advertisement for a holiday destination goes by without using or even overusing it. Certainly, the Touraine region could legitimately claim this term, given the breadth of its diverse tourist offerings. But we would prefer words like “sensations,” “feelings,” “emotions,” or “memories”…
And to experience all of this, there are plenty of opportunities in Touraine. Here is just a small sample of the best ways to discover and appreciate our region.
On land
On foot
Several hiking trails pass by La Pénesais, such as the very pleasant Beaumont-en-Véron hiking trail (13 km loop), or nearby, the “Chinonnais Puys Trail” (9 km loop, marked in yellow), which winds through the vineyards and surrounding hills (known locally as “puys”).
Information on these hiking trails is available on the Val de Loire Tourist Office website: https://www.azay-chinon-valdeloire.com/randonnees/ , but in our cottages as well.
On 2 wheels
Touraine is brimming with cycling routes. There’s the “Loire à Vélo” route, of course, which is used by more than 80,000 cyclists each year. Some come from very far away, like the Australian couple from Brisbane who stopped with us last summer. But also, more locally, our region is crisscrossed by numerous cycle paths or “loops” accessible to both casual cyclists and seasoned touring cyclists. La Pénesais is located on one of these loops (number 38) between Candes-Saint-Martin and Chinon. Maps of these routes are available on the website https://www.azay-chinon-valdeloire.com and also in our cottages.
Beyond these routes, the region boasts countless remarkable sites easily accessible by bicycle from La Pénesais:
The Chinon Royal Fortress (4 km)
The Véron Eco-museum (4 km)
Fontevraud Abbey (18 km, via cycle route no. 43)
La Devinière, Rabelais’ birthplace (12 km, via cycle route no. 42)
The château de Rigny-Ussé (12 km)
The château du Rivau and its magnificent gardens (18 km)
The château d’Azay-le-Rideau (23 km)
…and many, many more.
On 3 wheels
…and why not explore our region by sidecar? It’s an original and unusual way to discover our châteaux, hillsides, and villages, with the wind in your hair, along the countless romantic little roads that crisscross our landscape. Our friend Frederic will be delighted to take you on a ride in his authentic Ural sidecar for this, in complete safety. All the information is available on the website https://www.retro-tour.com/
By sleigh
And why not try dog sledding ? (Actually it is a sleigh on wheels and not on skids). David and Sandrine, in Braslou near Richelieu (26 km from La Pénesais), will share their passion for their work and their pack of 18 Siberian Huskies with you. Two options are available: cani-karting (a wheeled sled for 2 or 4 people), or cani-hiking (a discovery hike in tandem with a Husky). Accessible to everyone, whether with family (from age 2) or friends. For more information: www.latitudenordique.fr.
On the water
Water is an essential and integral element of Touraine, its culture, history, and heritage. The Loire River immediately comes to mind, of course, but the Vienne, Cher, and Indre rivers also meander through our landscapes. Navigating these rivers is a wonderful way to discover our region.
On a traditional boat
Touraine has a long tradition of river navigation. Many vestiges of the “Loire River navy” and its old river ports (like Bréhémont) still remain today. So, embark on these gabares or toues, the traditional flat-bottomed boats of the Loire and Vienne rivers, departing from Chinon or Montsoreau. And to enhance the experience, some boats even offer the opportunity to discover the flavors of Chinon wines during the cruise. For more information,https://www.bateaux-promenades-chinon.com/.
In a canoë/Kayak
But if you prefer something more sporty, you can also navigate independently in smaller boats. You can canoe or kayak down the Loire, the Vienne, or the Cher rivers. It’s also possible to combine a cycling route with a canoe or kayak trip down the Vienne in a single day. For more information:https://chinon-canoe.fr/
In the air
Who hasn’t dreamed of flying? And what could be more beautiful than admiring the Touraine region from the sky? What could be more exciting than discovering all its details, like hidden castles and manor houses, invisible from the ground? You can enjoy an unforgettable experience flying over the Loire or Vienne rivers, slowly and silently, carried by the wind. To do so, take a seat in the basket of our partner’s hot air balloon, “Dis-moi si ça vole” (Tell me if it flies). Unlike the “tourist traps” that fly over the grand Loire châteaux (like Chenonceau or Chambord), you’ll board a small balloon, limited to 4 people, very maneuverable and perfectly safe, for a completely personalized flight, tailored to your preferences. We are available to organize a flight over the region (generally early in the morning or late in the afternoon).
Creating memories !
Whether on land, water, or in the air, discovering Touraine is always a source of emotion. La Pénesais is proud to contribute to promoting and celebrating this region. La Pénesais, creating memories.