A 5-day boat trip along Nivernais Canal

From Châtillon-en-Bazois to Baye

Just a few hours' drive from Paris and you've arrived at Nivernais Canal, in the paradise for fishermen that is Châtillon-en-Bazois to pick up your rental boat.

Don't worry, you don't need any special skills to be able to drive these boats.  There are only two controls to manage! After a brief introduction, you'll be ready to take to the helm! Don't forget to take your bike on board so you can stop off and explore the area around the canal.

On the deck, breathe in the pure air, enjoy the peace-and-quiet and the rural landscapes all around you. When you arrive at Vaux and Baye Ponds, take the time to look around you, admire the unspoilt natural environment and the birds. If it's a hot day, you can even go for a dip in Baye pond or hire a pedalo boat.

From Baye to Chaumot/Chitry

This is an unmissable section of your trip along Nivernais Canal, where you'll be passing under the impressive arches of La Collancelle, a tunnel that is 760 metres long and where time seems to stand still.

Did you know that Nivernais Canal is a man-made creation? It was originally dug out to transport wood from Morvan to Paris, to be used as firewood for the capital.

You will then be crossing through Sardy Valley and the exceptional 26 locks in a row, known as the “Sardy Lock Staircase”. This is also an opportunity to meet the passionate lock keepers who always have some great tales to tell.

From Chaumot/Chitry to Tannay

Today, you'll be passing by Chitry-les-Mines, the hometown of Jules Renard, author of the famous Carrot Top. Stop here to explore this charming village and 14th-century château by bike.

When you carry on towards Tannay, we suggest you stop off in Corbigny to discover the magnificent abbey, a historic monument and incredible place for artistic discoveries.

From Tannay to Clamecy

You're almost at the end of your adventure and we are sure that you have become quite fond of life on Nivernais Canal. A life where you slow down the pace, enjoy the peaceful natural environment and where you can finally finish that book you started months ago...

On this penultimate stopover, the landscapes are slightly different, with the Tannay vineyards and quaint stone houses in the village of Chevroches.

From Clamecy to Coulanges-sur-Yonne

On your last day, you'll be exploring Clamecy, a magnificent medieval town and timber floating capital. After 5 days on this beautiful canal, it is now time to learn a bit more about how it was created, at the timber floating ecomuseum. Before sailing your boat for the very last time, come and explore the picturesque streets of this town and the impressive collegiate church.

Then it's time to head towards Coulanges-sur-Yonne, your last port of call, where the impressive Basseville Rocks will appear over you. Whether you are at the top or on the canal, the view is magnificent. Why not climb to the top? The view is worth the effort!

After 5 days, 72 kilometres and 62 locks, your journey along Nivernais Canal and across the Nièvre department comes to a close here.