A family holiday along Nivernais Canal
Set off on a family holiday along Nivernais Canal, to discover the treasures, made so much more spectacular thanks to the autumn colours. From where the waters meet in Decize, via Vaux and Baye lakes where you'll have a magical time with your children, all the way to the quaint little medieval town of Clamecy, we're going to take you on an exploration of the must-sees along Nivernais Canal, for a great holiday guaranteed.
It all begins where the waters meet
Begin your holiday in Decize, known as "the little Venice", where the Loire and Nivernais Canal meet, and admire the numerous bridges. Then go and explore the Ile de Caqueret, a lush-green area on the banks of the Loire. Go along the sensory trail where your children will be able to enjoy various activities (skate park, fitness trail, etc.). At lunchtime, stop off at the restaurant Le Petit Agité, with a great atmosphere and delicious dishes (especially for those who particularly like their food ;))!
After a great lunch, it's time to go on an adventure! Hire your electric bikes and set off along the Greenway cycle path, towards La Machine, 15 minutes away, for a surprising tour at the Musée de la Mine and Glénons Well. Equipped with your helmets and headlamps, you'll be venturing underground into the galleries of the mine. Your children will be delighted! When you get back to Decize, go along Nivernais Canal until you reach Châtillon-en-Bazois for a peaceful night's sleep at the Foudre du Bazois.
Exploring the treasures of Nivernais Canal
On the 2nd day, come and explore the treasures along Nivernais Canal. When you wake up in Châtillon-en-Bazois, make sure you go and visit the château and magnificent gardens overlooking Nivernais Canal. The owners open the doors of their château upon request so don't hesitate to ask them! After your visit, take to the road and head towards Vaux and Baye lakes where you'll be able to choose from the relaxing peace-and-quiet of Vaux lake, or the fun activities at the more lively Baye lake! You'll also be able to enjoy a superb meal at La Marine, with inventive cuisine and seaside decoration.
The best way to see the canal and its treasures is by bicycle, and if you want to ride in style, hire a Californian bike from Activital! Take your children to see the unmissable sights of Nivernais Canal. Pass under the Collancelle arches: 3 works of art sculpted into the mountain. Surprising! Then go and see Sardy staircase: 16 locks in a row in Sardy valley, 3.6 km-long, and stop off at lock n°6. La Planche du Belin, a lock-keeper's house, a hidden place full of greenery, sculptures, works of art and other fantastic objects. Memorable! After this great afternoon out, relax at the La Perrière bed & breakfast, in Corbigny.
Vines and half-timbered houses: the other faces of the canal
For your last day along Nivernais Canal, you will see a very different side to the area. First, head to Tannay, land of the vines. Tannay vineyard with 35 ha of preserved vines that have been cultivated since 1207, is a great place to explore, especially in autumn thanks to the ochre and golden shades. Come and meet the winegrowers and visit their wine cellar, the Tannaysiennes wine cellar, to see their superb production in bottles and select some vials to take home with you!
Your trip will come to a close in Clamecy. Have a mouth-watering lunch at Angélus, opposite the Gothic-style collegiate church of Saint-Martin, in a magnificent half-timbered house. Then go and explore the wonderful medieval town of Clamecy. Finally, to end your holiday on a high note, we have a breathtaking place for you to watch the sunset: the Roches de Basseville, overlooking Nivernais Canal.
