Clémont offers a variety of themes for a stay: the architectural history of Château de Lauroy, the Chanteloup lock complex, trails along the Canal de la Sauldre, rural routes, and fishing waters. There are specific differences to consider when planning: the Sente Bleue is 30 kilometers long, while the Chemin de Brinon is 6.6 kilometers; the fishing waters are assigned to different categories. This lets you weigh cultural and historical sites, trails, and fishing, and tailor the focus of your stay to your interests.

The architectural history of the château and locks

Château de Lauroy was probably built of brick in place of an older building in the late 17th century. Since July 23, 1981, its northeast façade and roof have been listed as historic monuments by decree. For the château, the focus is therefore on a probable date of construction and a precisely dated protected status for two explicitly named parts of the building.

The Site d'écluse de Chanteloup is located on the Canal de la Sauldre in Clémont. It comprises a lock, a bridge, a house, and a bread oven. Unlike the château, the historical focus described here is on several components of a lock complex.

Another phase of construction concerns Lauroy: entrepreneur Gariel built the Lauroy lock and lock keeper’s house in the municipality of Clémont in 1854–1855. These structures from the mid-19th century add another historical point of interest alongside the château, which probably dates from the late 17th century.

Trails and nature

The Sente Bleue is a 30-kilometer walking trail along the Canal de la Sauldre. At 6.6 kilometers, the Chemin de Brinon is significantly shorter; it is a rural trail in Clémont suitable for walking and cycling. This gives you a choice between a longer route along the canal and a shorter trail through the countryside. If cycling is part of your plans, the Chemin de Brinon is the suitable option of the two routes mentioned; the Sente Bleue is a walking trail.

Deer, wild boar, and wild birds can be observed along Clémont’s rural trails. The possibility of spotting wildlife adds another nature-related theme to the choice between walking and cycling, though no particular sighting can be guaranteed.

Fishing and events

When fishing, it is useful to distinguish between rivers and canals. Fishing is possible on the Sauldre and the Nère, both of which are classed as first-category rivers. The Canal de la Sauldre and the Étang du Puits also offer fishing opportunities; the Étang du Puits is classified as a second-category body of water. This distinguishes the two rivers in the same category from the other fishing waters mentioned.

The Maison de la Pêche has hosted events throughout the year since 2000. Check the current program before your trip if you would like to combine your visit with an event.

Discover more destinations: Méry-Sur-Cher, Léré, Saint-Doulchard, Nohant-En-Graçay, Sancerre, Saint-Bouize, Thaumiers, Saint-Loup-des-Chaumes

For the regional travel overview: Cher.