Wild Loire: Animals & Nature
Animal Lovers in the Loire Valley: The Best Wildlife & Animal Experiences Near Maison de Chabris
When people think of the Loire Valley, they imagine fairy-tale châteaux, vineyards, and historic villages. But for guests who love animals, this region is quietly one of the most wonderful places in France to explore wildlife, birds, nature parks, and gentle farm experiences.
From one of Europe’s most famous zoos to bird reserves, safari parks, and traditional farms, there are unforgettable animal encounters within easy reach of Maison de Chabris.
Here are our favourite experiences for animal lovers of all ages.
🐼 ZooParc de Beauval — One of the Best Zoos in the World (35 minutes)
Often ranked among the top zoos in the world, ZooParc de Beauval is an absolute must-visit. It is home to over 35,000 animals, including the only giant pandas in France.
You’ll see:
Giant pandas
White tigers
Manatees
Koalas
African savannah animals
Extraordinary bird shows
The park is beautifully designed, incredibly spacious, and a full day experience. Even guests who “aren’t zoo people” are usually amazed.
Perfect for: families, photographers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone who loves wildlife conservation.
🦌 Réserve de la Haute-Touche Safari Park (45 minutes)
This is a very different experience from Beauval. Haute-Touche is a vast wildlife reserve where you drive or walk through large natural enclosures.
You’ll encounter:
Deer, elk, and bison roaming freely
Wolves and wild boar
Rare and endangered species
Quiet forest walking trails
It feels more like a safari through the French countryside than a traditional zoo.
Perfect for: nature lovers, walkers, and those who prefer animals in natural environments.
🦢 Parc Naturel Régional de la Brenne — The Land of a Thousand Ponds (1 hour)
A paradise for bird lovers.
The Brenne Natural Park is one of France’s most important wetland reserves and is home to:
Herons
Egrets
Storks
Rare migratory birds
Turtles and amphibians
There are observation huts, peaceful walking trails, and guided nature walks.
Perfect for: bird watchers, photographers, and guests seeking a peaceful day in nature.
🐐 Visiting a Traditional French Farm
Around Chabris and the surrounding countryside, many small farms produce goat cheese, honey, and farm products. Some welcome visitors and children to see:
Goats being milked
Chickens, donkeys, and sheep
Traditional farming practices
This is a charming, very authentic rural French experience that children adore.
Ask us — we’re happy to recommend local farms that welcome visitors.
🐎 Horseback Riding in the Loire Countryside
Several local centres offer horseback riding through forests, fields, and riverside paths. You don’t need to be an experienced rider — guided beginner rides are common.
Seeing the Loire countryside from horseback is peaceful, quiet, and unforgettable.
Perfect for: couples, teens, and anyone who loves horses and nature.
🦉 Maison de la Nature (Local Nature Houses & Trails)
Throughout the region, small “Maisons de la Nature” offer educational exhibits about local wildlife, forest trails, and family-friendly nature walks where you can learn about:
Local birds and mammals
Forest ecosystems
River life
These are wonderful half-day outings that many tourists never discover.
🐝 Honey Producers & Beekeeping Visits
Local honey producers sometimes offer visits where guests can learn about:
Beekeeping
Pollination
Traditional honey production
A fascinating stop for both adults and children.
A Different Way to Experience the Loire Valley
For animal lovers, the Loire Valley offers something very special: wildlife, nature, and gentle countryside experiences alongside its famous châteaux.
Many of our guests love balancing castle visits with days spent in forests, parks, farms, and wildlife reserves. It creates a richer, more memorable stay — especially for families and nature enthusiasts.
If you’re planning your stay at Maison de Chabris and would like help organizing an animal-themed itinerary, we’re always happy to share our favourite local recommendations.
Suggested Pairings
Beauval Zoo + Château de Chenonceau
Brenne Bird Reserve + Picnic by a Loire riverbank
Farm visit + local market day in Chabris
Horseback riding + evening wine tasting
