By the water
The capital of Anjou revolves around water.
Whether you are looking for waterside drinks or trails to hike, the rivers of Angers have fabulous experiences to offer, whatever the season or time of day.
Want some inspiration ? Read on…
Angers waterfront bike rideAngers waterfront bike ride|
Fun Things to Do On and Along the Rivers, in Angers
Sunset on the banks of the LoireSunset on the banks of the Loire|
1. Festoon lights and cocktails your thing ?
Guinguette de Port Thibault, Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire|
Get into the “guinguette” spirit at a riverside café !
When the sun starts to set behind the castle, it’s time to throw on some sandals, jump on your bike and pedal along the Maine to meet with friends on one of the city’s terraces. For a festive atmosphere on the water’s edge, head to a “guinguette”. When the warm days arrive, there’s no better place to get your evening off to a pleasant start.
What’s on the menu ? Expect a great stress-free night out with a vast choice of local delicacies to savour and the chance to improvise a few dance moves between the tables. Pure Angevin good living guaranteed.
Although most guinguettes are only open in spring and summer, some, like Port Thibault, Le Kiviv and Port Albert, are open all year round.
2. Prefer a picnic blanket and a bottle of rosé ?
Lunch at the water’s edge
With the Mayenne, Maine, Sarthe and Loir, you’ll have no difficulty finding a cool spot for a picnic alongside a river in Angers. As soon as spring returns, the riverbanks offer a real moment of tranquillity and are easily accessible by bike or on foot. Add a bit of sunshine, a glass of rosé and a few treats picked up from the market and you have yourself the perfect picnic.
Not sure where to spread your picnic blanket ? Ready to take notes ? Here we reveal you our favourite spots.
Picnic illustrationPicnic illustration|
Toue trip on the LoireToue trip on the Loire|
Treat yourself to a restaurant cruise !
When sightseeing meets gastronomy on the rivers of Angers, you have a fabulous restaurant cruise. Enjoy a wonderful sensory journey for both the eyes and the taste buds while sailing along the Loire, Mayenne or the Maine.
All this can be yours when you book a meal aboard Bateau l’Hirondelle. The cruise boat company offers refined meal cruises showcasing local produce.
Want some festive holiday fun ? The traditional flat-bottomed boat company Vogue en Maine sets sail from Cale de La Savatte every Tuesday at 7.30 pm for a party cruise on the river. With tapas and mojitos on the water, you have a winning cocktail !
Angers City Pass, I reserve!
Would you also like to enjoy Angers’ heritage?
With the Angers City pass 24h, 48h or 72h, make the most of Angers and its surroundings and discover the must-see sites of our destination in complete freedom and at a great price! .
Angers CityPass 24hAngers CityPass 24h|
3. Want some active riverside fun ?
Ideas for hiking or cycling beside the water
Get to know Angers’ rivers with one of our four suggested hikes or bike rides.
An original kitesurfing spot
If you’re a watersports fan, did you know that you can kitesurf on the river Loire ? If you’ve never seen kitesurfing before, imagine an enormous kite pulling a surfboard along. Add the rush that you get from the wind and the speed, the stunning light of the “Royal river” for backdrop and you have a magical experience.
For a session that’s not short of air, contact Loire Authion.
Paddle along together
Angers’ rivers are a great source of things to do and sensations to experience, as a couple, with friends or with all the family. For more information on activities like canoeing or paddleboarding, contact the Club Nautique d’Écouflant or Bouchemaine.
4. Prefer to take things nice and slow ?
An alternative way to see the Loire
What better way to travel back in time (and with the current) than on a traditional boat? Lulled by the passing scenery, let us tell you all about the history of the region… For a great escape on a gabare on the Loire, count on our acolytes Alex and Théo from Terre et Loire. Specialists in the region, they’ve got plenty of anecdotes in store for you. If you prefer to explore the local heritage, opt for Vogue en Maine.
What better than going back in time on a traditional “gabarre” river boat ? As the passing scenery lulls you, let Alex and Théo of Terre et Loire tell you the history of the area. They are real experts and have many anecdotes to share. Or if you prefer seeing historical sites while you sail, opt for a river cruise with Vogue en Maine.
Gabarre trip around AngersGabarre trip around Angers|
Cruise boat Loire OdysséeCruise boat Loire Odyssée|
Like to take your time ? Got nowhere to be in a hurry ?
Then electric boats and barges are definitely for you. These extremely comfortable, quiet and relaxing vessels will ensure you a tranquil trip in the natural surroundings of the river. You’ll experience the laid-back Angers lifestyle at its purest ! To find out more, contact La Halte Nautique du Bac or Anjou Navigation.
Do you enjoy this river experience?
You’ve lived it and want to share it with your friends?
