BiosphèreÉcotourismeFontainebleau · Gâtinais · Loing

Walks and useful local stops around Fontainebleau

Paddle at the pace of the Loing

Apikopa: canoeing on the Loing

Villages and riverbanks look different from the water. A good day on the river starts with a route that suits you and a clear plan for getting back.

Old stone wash house beside the Loing at Grez-sur-Loing
The wash house at Grez-sur-Loing. Photo: Daniel VILLAFRUELA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.

A family business shaped by the river

Apikopa rents canoes and bicycles around the Loing, between Grez-sur-Loing and Moret-sur-Loing. It continues the story of Ikopa Aventure, an outdoor company founded in 2008 that now focuses on canoeing and cycling. The Apikopa website lists routes and bookings for the current season.

Routes and departure times depend on water levels, safety rules and transfer arrangements. Check the option actually offered for your date before planning the rest of the day.

Which route should you choose?

Ask how long you will spend on the water and how much time to allow from check-in until you are back. Those two figures are not always the same. Mention the children’s ages, everyone’s swimming ability, the group’s experience and whether you are comfortable paddling for a long stretch.

A short route leaves time to explore Moret-sur-Loing. A longer outing deserves to be the day’s main activity. Avoid booking a timed visit straight afterwards unless you have plenty of leeway.

Meeting point and return

Get written confirmation of where to meet, where you leave the water and how the shuttle works. The meeting point depends on the route you book. If you are arriving by train, tell the provider and check how far you will need to walk from the station.

Bring shoes that will stay firmly on your feet, sun protection, water and a waterproof container for essentials. Follow Apikopa’s packing list, since the equipment provided and any restrictions depend on the activity.

Treat the Loing with care

Stay on the agreed route, do not land on private property and give wildlife space. Take every bit of rubbish back with you. There are no lifeguards on the river, and not every stretch of bank is open for landing.

Continue the day nearby

After your paddle, consider spending the rest of the day in Moret rather than travelling far again. A walk through the old centre and a meal make an easy finish before you return to the station. For tomorrow, explore the walk near Thomery or see where to stay.