La Chapelle-aux-Naux between the Loire and Vieux Cher

La Chapelle-aux-Naux lies between the Loire and the bed of the Vieux Cher, formerly known as the Rivière de Boudre. When searching for hotels in La Chapelle-aux-Naux, it is worth exploring the different sides of the area: its landscape, birdlife and architectural heritage each have their own character. Along the Loire, a vast natural area and the landscape of the levees shape your stay; in the village, the church, hemp-drying kiln and former Protestant temple tell of different periods in local history. This gives you a way to choose what interests you most about the destination: river landscapes, observing nature or local history.

Loire Landscapes and Birdlife

The Bords de Loire is a vast natural area along the river between the châteaux of Villandry and Rigny-Ussé. The area is open to visitors and is notable for its diverse, characteristic flora and fauna. Check access locally before your visit. Along the Loire, four kilometres of levees also offer opportunities to take in the river landscape. An ornithological Natura 2000 protected area can also be observed from the levees.

Information panels describe various birds: the common tern, with a red beak and red feet; the little tern, with a yellow beak and yellow feet; as well as the common sandpiper, gull and plover. The different features of the two terns give you specific details to look out for when birdwatching.

Routes Along the Loire and Vieux Cher

The Sentiers des Varennes circular trail starts at the port, follows the Loire, passes through the Varennes and runs along the Vieux Cher. Another route option is the “De port en port” cycling loop: it is 16 kilometres long, takes an estimated 1 hour 30 minutes and offers the opportunity to observe birds in the Bords de Loire area. The routes differ in their course and format: the Sentiers des Varennes focuses on the landscape, while the cycling loop includes a stated distance, an estimated duration and birdwatching opportunities. Cycling route conditions may change; check them before setting out.

The Church and Other Local History

The Église Saint Clément was built in 1855 in the neo-Gothic style, based on plans by the architect Gustave Guérin. The church also houses a Saint Clément figure made of Nevers faience, dating from 1713. The construction date and the figure point to two different periods: the church was built in the 19th century, while the sacred object it depicts is much older.

A hemp-drying kiln still stands opposite the village school. It recalls hemp cultivation, which was widespread in the region until the 20th century. Another historical landmark is the former Protestant temple, built as a result of a dispute among the residents. These three features each tell a different story: a church building and figure, a remnant of regional agriculture, and an architectural history linked to a local conflict.

A Special Feature of the Clémence II

Since May 2023, the Clémence II, operated by the Association des Bateliers, has had a gangway that allows people with reduced mobility to board. If you are considering a trip, check in advance whether one is available on your chosen date.

Discover more destinations: Assay, La Tour-Saint-Gelin, Veigné, Saint-Règle, Rouziers-de-Touraine, Preuilly-Sur-Claise, Ligré, Huismes.

For the broader travel overview: Indre-Et-Loire.