Explore the Loire Valley!

We encourage you to explore as much as possible around the medieval town of Sancerre and its neighboring vineyards of Pouilly-Fumé; to taste the locally famous Chavignol goat cheese; to see the historic castles and grand homes of the Loire Valley; to eat and drink to your hearts’ content!

We’ve provided some resources below to inspire your travel planning, in addition to the activities we have listed as part of the schedule of events. Please click on the regions below for some restaurant ideas, links, and more. If you need additional travel services, our friend Sarah Bray, a FORA travel advisor, has made herself available to help book your travels. You can reach out to her directly: sarah.bray@fora.travel.

  • ACTIVITIES ON THE LOIRE & IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

    For a unique experience on the water, book a canoe trip down the Loire River, with the option of an organized picnic (Loire Nature Découverte ou Canoë Évasion Sancerre).

    You can also enjoy a ride on a traditional wooden boat offering wine tastings and excursions on the Loire, just a 5-minute drive away in Saint-Satur. This boat takes you on an apéritif cruise along the wild stretches of the river, where you’ll sample local wines, cheese, and other delights. It can accommodate up to 12 guests. More info available here.

    For children, you can contact Chloé, an equine activity leader, at +33 7 86 73 58 74 to arrange pony rides through the vineyards surrounding the château.

    For a culinary activity, visit the La Bête Noire goat farm and creamery, where you can taste the traditional Crottins de Chavignol.

    Sports enthusiasts will also enjoy the Sancerre Golf Club, located along the Loire River. Just a 5-minute walk from the château, toward the church, you’ll also find a tennis court open to all.

    For running enthusiasts, the Sancerre region is full of marked trails ideal for trail running or mountain biking. The free app Sports Nature en Grand Sancerrois lets you explore hiking paths and permanent trail circuits. You’ll find interactive maps to help you make the most of the rolling landscapes and vineyards.

    Restaurants

    • Au Bon Laboreur in Bué

    • Momento in Bué

    • C'heu l'Zib in Menetou-Salon (can make a reservation for a large group)

    • Le Kilometre in La Borne – good, easy, country food

    • La Petite Maison in Sancerre (great wine list, simple food)

    • Le Panoramique Hotel — a great spot to grab a glass of wine and look at the vineyards.

    • Château de Sancerre (hotel)

    • La Tour — recommended by the Michelin guide

    • La Pomme d'Or —the former postal service reinvented as a Michelin-starred restaurant

    • Au P'tit goûter —recommended by Le Fooding guide, perfect for a lunch centered around Crottins de Chavignol

    • La Banque — A bar that blends the art of cocktails with the elegance of fine wines

    • L’Auberge du Vigneron —Recommended by Gault & Millau guide

    Wineries in town of Sancerre:

    • Vacheron

    • Alphonse Mellot

    Additional resources for you to book directly on your own schedule:

    Local Farmer’s Markets (fresh & regional produce):

    • Saint-Satur Market – Thursday mornings (5 minutes by car)

    • Pouilly-sur-Loire Market – Friday mornings (15 minutes by car)

    • La Charité-sur-Loire Market – Saturday mornings (25 minutes by car)

    • Cosne-sur-Loire Market – Sunday mornings (20 minutes by car)

  • Book directly on your own schedule: