In the surroundings

Welcome to Pouilly-sur-Loire: a discreet town but full of charm!

There are no crowds or hustle and bustle here, just the traditional village atmosphere we all love. You can stroll through the narrow streets lined with stone houses, come across a few quiet cats on the low walls and probably be tempted by a local cheese… The weekly market is an ode to local produce: the perfect opportunity to chat with the local traders! A bit of a local star: the Loire in Pouilly is an invitation to unwind. Stroll or cycle along the paths that run alongside it, watch for rare birds (with a special mention for the European bee-eater with its tropical look) and enjoy a picnic in a bucolic setting: ideal for rejuvenating with the family.For the more adventurous, canoeing or paddling offers a unique perspective. Glide between the islets, gaze at the undulating reeds and keep your camera close at hand (you never know, herons are quite photogenic!). Between the bridge, the quiet quays that follow the Loire and heritage sites such as the church of Saint-Pierre, straight from the Middle Ages, it’s a little jaunt full of discoveries! And if you’re feeling a little (or a lot) hungry, don’t forget to stop off at one of the many restaurants and try some of the local specialities, such as Pôchouse or a glass of Pouilly Fumé (in moderation)!

The Pavillon du Milieu de Loire: nature, the real one!

Just a stone’s throw from the campsite is a place where the Loire can be told, felt and experienced to the full: the Pavillon du Milieu de Loire. This interpretation centre is like no other, offering you the chance to discover the wild river in all its forms… but without getting too wet. Pretty cool, isn’t it? Housed in a former winegrowing building, it’s a kind of HQ for lovers of the Loire, nature and its secrets. Here, the emphasis is on interactivity, fun and wonder: ideal for our young adventurers in search of knowledge. Videos, animated models, soundscapes… everything is done to ensure that young and old leave having learned something (and with the desire to join an ornithology club, who knows?). A real living museum, right in the heart of nature.

The Pavillon opens your eyes to the unique biodiversity of the river: you can see terns repeating their ballet, beaver burrows and the migration of fish, as if we were sharing their environment. Did you think that the sandbanks were just pretty spots for ricocheting? Well, they’re home to a whole host of unsuspected wildlife!

The Pavillon also offers guided nature outings: birdwatching walks, themed hikes, observations at dusk… accompanied by enthusiastic guides who know how to make every pebble exciting (yes, it is possible). There are also fun workshops for the little ones.

A break on the banks of the Loire: walk at your own pace!

Do you enjoy walking, breathing deeply and marvelling at postcard-perfect scenery? Welcome to the area around Pouilly-sur-Loire, a little paradise for ramblers. Here, the paths wind along the wild Loire and smell of neatly lined vineyards and undergrowth. We’ve put together a small selection of possible walks to guide you!

On this first 7.5km adventure, suitable for all levels, This is THE not-to-be-missed hike in the area, perfect for a family nature walk or a contemplative stroll (departure from the Pavillon du Milieu de Loire). You’ll run alongside the Loire, cross wet meadows, come across a few herons and even a beaver for the lucky (and patient…) ones. Bonus: observatories to spot the birds without disturbing them! For the second itinerary, how about a little jaunt through the vineyards? This moderate 8km walk starts in the centre of Pouilly. This route winds its way through vineyards and wine estates. You climb gently up the hillsides, with magnificent views over the Loire Valley – a truly photogenic backdrop! Bonus: little signs telling all the secrets of the vineyards and local traditions! If you’re a cyclo-tourist coming to discover the area, the Loire à Vélo offers spectacular views of the Loire from Pouilly! Finally, more experienced walkers can set off on a 15km route from Pouilly to Sancerre (yes, this is a wine theme), through vineyards and typical hamlets.

River cruises in Pouilly-sur-Loire: let yourself be seduced by the tranquillity of the waves...

Fancy taking to the open seas without leaving terra firma? Embark on a river cruise on the Loire or the Canal Latéral. You’ll enjoy a bucolic atmosphere, beautiful natural scenery and the gentle lapping of the water. The Loire is one of the last wild rivers in Europe! Embark on a toue cabanée (a traditional flat-bottomed boat) or a small electric boat from Pouilly or the surrounding area and discover the natural panoramas, golden sandbanks, wooded islands and wildlife that live a quiet life. A number of service providers offer guided tours lasting between 1 and 2 hours, departing from nearby locations such as the harbour of Saint-Satur, the harbour of La Charité-sur-Loire, or the immediate vicinity of Pouilly. Some tours include a gourmet stopover or wine tasting (rather nice on the water, don’t you think?). And don’t forget to keep your ears open: the guides always have a nice little anecdote to tell!

The Pouilly-Fumé Tower: the temple of wine... with a view!

The Tour du Pouilly-Fumé is a must-see when you visit Pouilly, whether you’re a lover of fine wines, curious about the vineyards or simply enjoy a glass of sparkling wine. It’s like entering a museum, and you’ll come away with a wealth of knowledge (and a good bottle, in general…). Everything here is modern, interactive and surprisingly fun! The tour begins in a building steeped in history (the former customs house) and takes you on a journey through the senses.

Discover the history of the Pouilly vineyards (not a very young one), the local grape varieties (in particular the Sauvignon Blanc which is the star of Pouilly Fumé). A sensory cellar where you are invited to smell, touch, listen… and above all, taste (in moderation, of course).

A visit that’s sure to delight all ages! The uninitiated may say something similar to: ‘Ah yes, that slightly mineral nose with a hint of fruit…’ (who knows). (who knows). So get your ears and taste buds ready!

High on its hill, another local jewel: welcome to Sancerre!

Perched on its rocky promontory, Sancerre is another local gem. Pretty, lively, gourmet and renowned for its wine (and not just any wine…), this small medieval town ticks all the boxes of the perfect spot to visit during your camping holiday. You’ll love it! Right from the start, the road leading to it winds through the vineyards, and once you’re at the top… the perfect shot! The view over the Loire Valley and the surrounding wine-growing hills is breathtaking (and not because of the climb, I promise). Climb to the top of the belfry for an even more spectacular view. Next, let yourself be carried away by the cobbled streets, winding between ancient houses, small squares, craft workshops and shops selling local produce. Here, time seems to stand still… but not your appetite!Of course, it’s impossible to talk about Sancerre without mentioning the wine: white Sancerre, that little gem made from Sauvignon grapes that has conquered the world. But did you know that there’s also red and rosé Sancerre? When you open the door to the cellars, you can enjoy tastings, walks through the vines and discussions with passionate producers. The Maison des Sancerre, an interactive, fun museum on the history of wine, from vine to glass, is ideal for learning more! Feeling a little hungry and don’t know how to accompany your glass of wine? The famous Crottin de Chavignol will wake up your taste buds!

Guédelon: a fortress... but in the process of being built!: un château fort… mais en cours de fabrication !

What if we told you that in the middle of the Burgundy forest, a team of passionate people were building a medieval castle… using 13th century techniques, tools and materials? Yes, yes, it’s possible! Welcome to Guédelon, a site as crazy as fascinating, about an hour’s drive from the campsite (in Treigny). The whole family will fall under its spell! At Guédelon, there’s no concrete, no cranes, no helmets… The stone is cut by hand, the carts are pulled by horse and the nails are forged on a real anvil (well, let’s avoid the ‘plague’ box). For more than 25 years, masons, stonemasons, carpenters, blacksmiths, potters and even tailors have been taking it in turns to build a veritable fortified castle, inspired by the year 1229. It’s a real leap in authenticity and a visit out of time. Even the youngest (and not so young) can try their hand at forging.

Between demonstrations and workshops, there’s no room for boredom. It’s all captivating! Take a stroll around the site and you’ll discover the stone quarry, the tilery, the forge, the goose pond, and all the techniques of the time explained in simple terms! Self-guided or guided tour. Period outfit is not required unless you want to play along!

Heading for Nevers: heritage, walks and Sèvres blue

Just 40 minutes from the campsite, Nevers awaits you for a day full of discoveries! A city of art and history perched on the banks of the Loire, it’s the perfect spot to combine culture, city walks and gourmet delights. Start by strolling through the narrow streets of the town centre, where timber-framed houses stand side by side with town houses and flower-filled squares. You’ll spot stone sculptures, turrets and bright blue facades. Yes, Nevers is no dull town… For the must-sees, take a look at the Palais Ducal, one of the first châteaux on the Loire, with its majestic façade and enchanting turrets. Further on, the Cathédrale Saint-Cyr-et-Sainte-Julitte, with its two choirs and breathtaking contemporary stained-glass windows. Finally, the Porte du Croux, a medieval vestige and former prison, will catch your eye. Another must-see is the sanctuary of Saint Bernadette Soubirous: the famous visionary of Lourdes ended her days here, and her body rests in a glass shrine.

But Nevers is also the capital of earthenware. The Musée de la Faïence et des Beaux-Arts, housed in a former convent, offers an immersive experience. And if you’d like to take home a unique souvenir, stop off at a small local workshop…

Château de Ratilly: medieval, artistic and alive!

Less than an hour’s drive from the campsite, nestling in the heart of the Puisaye region, is the Château de Ratilly. And we’re not talking about a postcard castle frozen in time, but a real place that’s alive with creativity and a touch of magic, where old stones rub shoulders with paintbrushes, pottery and shows of all kinds.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be struck by its fortress-like appearance: square keep, moat, drawbridge and thick walls. Built in the 13th century and admirably preserved, Ratilly has that ‘Game of Thrones’-style castle feel, but with a much gentler touch. For the record, the castle is private and inhabited, but the owners are passionate about opening it to the public. It’s as if you were visiting friends… or almost. Since the 1950s, Ratilly has been a haven for artists. Throughout the year, it hosts contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, courses, shows and even artistic residencies. Painters, ceramists, musicians, photographers… in the old halls, attics and workshops, giving the place a unique atmosphere: medieval but very much alive! Don’t be surprised to hear a harp recital in the guards’ room, or to come across a modern sculpture in an old stable… Even if the star here is ceramics! You’ll be able to take home a unique piece, after watching it being carefully crafted by the ceramist – nice, isn’t it?