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Île Charlemagne Recreation Area

Discover Île Charlemagne: Orléans' premier recreation destination offering sandy beaches, water sports, adventure activities, and scenic nature trails for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

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Île Charlemagne is a sprawling 70-hectare recreation area located in Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, near Orléans, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and leisure facilities. This island paradise on the Loire River features sandy beaches, swimming areas, and numerous sports facilities, including beach volleyball, basketball, and mini-football fields. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, sailing, and canoeing, or explore the area's walking and cycling paths. With dedicated playgrounds, picnic spots, and the Léo Parc Aventure offering treetop adventures, paintball, and laser tag, Île Charlemagne provides a perfect destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers seeking relaxation and recreation in the Loire Valley. The park's commitment to environmental management is recognized by the Blue Flag label, ensuring a clean and safe environment for all.

A brief summary to Base de loisirs de l'Île Charlemagne

  • Monday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic picnic spots around the lake.
  • Take advantage of the BatOloire river shuttle during the summer months for a unique and convenient way to reach the park from Orléans city center.
  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and sporting events happening throughout the year.
  • Bring your own sports equipment to take full advantage of the park's many sports facilities, such as beach volleyball, basketball, and table tennis.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Orléans city center, take bus line IC or NC towards Saint-Jean-le-Blanc. The bus stops directly at Île Charlemagne. A single ticket costs approximately €1.60. Alternatively, during the summer (May to August), consider the BatOloire river shuttle from Quai du Châtelet or Cabinet Vert in Orléans to Île Charlemagne. The BatOloire costs around €1.60 per adult.

  • Driving

    From Orléans, follow signs for Saint-Jean-le-Blanc. Cross the Loire River via the Pont René Thinat, then take the first right towards Saint-Jean-le-Blanc. Turn left onto Route de Sandillon, then left again onto Avenue Jacques Douffiagues, which becomes Levée de la Chevauchée. The entrance and free parking for Île Charlemagne will be on your left. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    From Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, follow Levée de la Chevauchée. The recreation area is located on this road. The walk is straightforward and well-signed.

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Discover more about Base de loisirs de l'Île Charlemagne

Île Charlemagne, a 70-hectare recreation area in Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, near Orléans, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a blend of relaxation and activity. This expansive park, nestled along the Loire River, offers a diverse range of leisure and sporting facilities, making it a popular destination year-round. Originally a collection of separate islands, including Île Saint-Aignan, Île-aux-Bœufs, and Île-aux-Toiles, the area was unified by the Loire River over time. In 1979, the city of Orléans transformed the site into a recreation area, officially opening on June 15, 1987. This conversion involved significant landscaping, including the creation of a 33-hectare lake for swimming and water sports. The park boasts two sandy beaches with supervised swimming during the summer months (May to September), providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families. The clear waters and well-maintained shores have earned Île Charlemagne the Blue Flag label since 2009, recognizing its commitment to environmental management and water quality. For sports enthusiasts, Île Charlemagne offers a wide array of options. Beach volleyball, basketball, handball, mini-football, baseball, and volleyball courts are available for casual games and organized events. Table tennis tables and pétanque courts provide additional opportunities for friendly competition. The park also features dedicated areas for skateboarding and BMX biking. Water sports are a major draw, with opportunities for windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. Several local clubs offer lessons and equipment rentals, catering to both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own equipment and enjoy the open waters of the lake. Nature lovers can explore the park's numerous walking and cycling paths, which wind through wooded areas and along the banks of the Loire River. These trails offer scenic views and a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the Loire Valley. The park is also part of the Loire à Vélo cycling route, making it a popular stop for cyclists touring the region. Families with children will find plenty to keep them entertained. The park features several playgrounds with modern equipment, including climbing structures, slides, and swings. Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, providing ideal spots for lunch or a relaxing afternoon snack. Île Charlemagne also hosts the Léo Parc Aventure, an adventure park offering treetop courses, paintball, and laser tag. This park provides thrilling activities for all ages and skill levels, adding an extra dimension of excitement to the recreation area. Throughout the year, Île Charlemagne hosts various events, including sporting competitions, festivals, and cultural performances. These events draw large crowds and contribute to the park's vibrant atmosphere. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Public transportation options include bus lines IC and NC, which stop near the park entrance. During the summer months, a river shuttle service, BatOloire, connects Île Charlemagne with the city center of Orléans. Île Charlemagne is more than just a recreation area; it's a community hub where people come together to enjoy the outdoors, participate in sports, and connect with nature. Its diverse range of activities, well-maintained facilities, and commitment to environmental sustainability make it a valuable asset to the Orléans region. The park's history is intertwined with the natural evolution of the Loire River. Over centuries, the river shaped the landscape, creating a network of islands and waterways. The transformation of these islands into a recreation area in the late 20th century marked a new chapter in the area's history, providing a space for leisure and recreation for generations to come. Île Charlemagne stands as a testament to the power of community planning and environmental stewardship. Its success as a recreation area is a result of careful design, ongoing maintenance, and a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day at the beach, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or a peaceful walk in nature, Île Charlemagne offers something for everyone. As the park continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community, it remains a vital part of the Orléans landscape, providing a space for recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature. Its legacy as a premier recreation destination in the Loire Valley is secure, ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy its many benefits.

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