We’ll be here in mid-April and I’ve heard that canoeing under the bridge is a possibility in summer. I found one company that should open in March for the season so perhaps it happens a little earlier too. We have a 8 year old so aren’t looking for a half day on the Cher but just a little paddle since it sounds like it’s a fun way to get a different perspective on the chateau. Thanks for any thoughts or advice on this.
Posted by
Florida
498 posts
We rented a rowboat right at the Chateau several years ago but I can't say they are still doing that. I didn't see any indication on their website that they are.
If you rent from somewhere else, keep in mind that you'll be paddling against the current either on the way to the Chateau or on the way back. It's not a raging torrent but it was swift enough to be noticeable. You'll probably enjoy it more if you're floating with the current at the end.
That said, it is a very worthwhile experience. Hard to imagine anything making Chenonceau even more romantic, but seeing it from the river might be one that does. At sometimes in the past, food was delivered by boat to a loading dock under the Chateau. It's interesting to see that and viewing the Chateau from the water offers a very different perspective in general.
It's definitely worth doing in my opinion.
Posted by
Corvallis OR
7168 posts
Apparently they were still renting row boats at Chenonceau in 2019, but that could have changed with COVID and they might not do it now. Doesn't hurt to email the chateau (there should be a 'contact us' place somewhere on their website) and ask. I did notice though that even in 2019 they were only available from June to Sept so probably not in April.
Posted by
Massachusetts, USA
422 posts
Looks like there is a company you can rent from that does not seem to be associated with Chenonceau, but they have a rental site next to it, Canoe Adventures https://canoesurlecher.jimdofree.com/english-version/.
Sorry, I don't know how to add it as a link here.
Posted by
PA, USA
85 posts
We saw a small tourist boat going up and down the Cher one September morning, in case you can't kayak. Not sure about April.
Another fallback is the walk on the other side of the river. It brings you right where the chateau meets the south bank of the Cher. and gives a good view of the chateau. It's a short drive from the Chenonceau entrance to the D80 where there's a bridge crossing the Cher. Take the first right off the bridge. Google map shows it better than I can explain. It was a nice escape from the crowds for us.