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Autonomous Rowing Tour
40 km
AVIRON TOURS METROPOLE
River
CHER
Du 05/09/2026 au 06/09/2026

Come and experience an unforgettable rowing weekend in the heart of the Cher Valley, combining outstanding heritage, lush green landscapes, and convivial moments shared among rowing enthusiasts.

Departing from Bléré, rowers set off on the peaceful waters of the River Cher, surrounded by verdant scenery. After passing through the Civray lock, the route reveals its highlight: the majestic passage beneath the arches of the Château de Chenonceau. Rowing under this Renaissance masterpiece, whose elegant silhouette is reflected in the river, is a truly unique experience, filled with emotion and history.

After this unforgettable stretch, the crews continue on to Chisseaux, where a countryside picnic awaits them, accompanied by the sounds of a banda. This convivial moment in the heart of nature offers the opportunity to share local specialities, before heading back towards Bléré, once again passing beneath Château de Chenonceau.

The evening promises a festive atmosphere at the Lorin de La Croix Centre in La Croix-en-Touraine, with live music that will make participants forget the physical effort of the day.

The following day, the route heads downstream towards Nitray. From Bléré, the Cher winds through a more untouched landscape, lined with forests, vineyards, and old mills. Rowers will enjoy the tranquillity of the river as they glide through a soothing setting punctuated by charming bridges and flower-lined banks.

The arrival at the Nitray watermill and its needle dam, nestled in a lush green setting, will be the highlight of this second day, before beginning the return journey.

The locks passed over the weekend will offer the opportunity to admire 19th-century needle weirs. A gentle itinerary showcasing the natural beauty of the Cher Valley and the richness of its heritage.

Accompanying guests will be able to follow the rowing route by bicycle along the “Cher à vélo” cycle path.

Provisional programme

05/09 Saturday - 22 km round trip Bléré–Chissay – passing beneath Château de Chenonceau.
9 am - 5 pm Rowing tour – four lock passages – picnic in Chisseaux with local specialities and festive banda music – dinner with live music – accommodation available at the Bléré campsite on the banks of the Cher (rental accommodation or camping).
06/09 Sunday - 18 km round trip Bléré- Nitray
7.30 am - 2 pm Rowing tour – four lock passages, charming houses along the Cher, the magnificent Nitray mill – end-of-tour lunch at the Bléré Val de Cher Rowing Club.

Rowers :
135€ without accommodation, 3 meals

Companions :
135€ without accommodation, 3 meals

Seat rental :
52€, 90 available seats

Boats :
Recreational four-person sculling boats

AVIRON TOURS METROPOLE

Daniele ROUSSELLE
06 12 53 91 04
rando.atm@gmail.com

OFFICE DE TOURISME « AUTOUR DE CHENONCEAUX » VALLÉE DU CHER

contact@autourdechenonceaux.fr
02 47 23 94 45
www.autourdechenonceaux.fr