Things to do during your houseboat cruise on the Canal du Nivernais
Would you like to rent a houseboat in Burgundy with your friends and family? What a great idea! Imagine cruising peacefully on the waters of the Canal du Nivernais. Whether you're a wine-lover, history buff or just looking for some peace and quiet, Burgundy offers an endless range of activities. We've put together a small selection just for you!
Shall we? Let's get started with the things to do during your cruise on the Canal du Nivernais.
Discover the region by walking along the Canal du Nivernais
Burgundy is the ideal destination for lovers of outdoor activities. Leave your houseboat behind, lace up your shoes and set off on an adventure along the Canal du Nivernais. We've selected 2 family-friendly walks for you to discover the panoramic views and natural beauty of the region.
Here's a hike to do during your cruise on the Canal du Nivernais
- Mont-et-Marré walk - 7km / Pedestrian / Easy
This walk has very little difference in altitude and is not particularly difficult, making it ideal for families with children. You'll enjoy a quiet walk to discover the castles, wash-houses and fountains nestling along the Canal du Nivernais.
- La Coulée Verte - Discover Auxerre differently - 12 km / On foot or by bike / Easy
Auxerre not only boasts a wealth of buildings, but also some exceptional landscapes. This walk takes you along the banks of the Canal du Nivernais and along paths laid out to help you discover the town in a different way.
Cultural and historical activities along the Canal du Nivernais
Take advantage of your houseboat rental in Burgundy to explore the region's cultural treasures. Here are our recommendations!
Clamecy, nicknamed the "Little Venice of Burgundy", is a fascinating town to visit. Explore its history and architecture as you stroll along its canals.
- Discover the timber-framed houses
- Visit the collegiate church of Saint-Martin in the heart of the town
- Admire the Notre-Dame-de-Bethléem church
- Visit the Romain Rolland Museum of Art and History, dedicated to the writer
Décize is an ancient fortified town offering visitors an enriching stop-off for heritage discoveries.
- Take advantage of the guided tours to discover the ruins of the castle of the Counts of Nevers,
- Discover the underground galleries
- Visit the Convent of the Minimes and the church of Saint-Aré.
- Take a walk along the sensory trail on the Ile de Caqueret
Your cruise on the Canal du Nivernais will be a real cultural exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich and varied heritage of this beautiful French region.
Combine a cruise on the Canal du Nivernais with a gourmet break
Burgundy is renowned for its exceptional gastronomy. A cruise on the Canal du Nivernais gives you the chance to savour the region's culinary delights at your own pace and in the towns of your choice. Among the specialities not to be missed are “coq au vin” (wine and chicken stew), Burgundy snails, “jambon persillé” (parseley ham) and, of course, famous cheeses such as Epoisses. And let's not forget the famous Burgundy wines, notably Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which are the perfect accompaniment to your meals on board or your visits to the local vineyards.
Here are some addresses of vineyards for a tasting along the Canal du Nivernais:
- Domaine Ferrari - 03.86.42.33.43
- Domaine de Sarmentole - 06.87.48.27.56
- Domaine J.M. Perdikouris - 03.86.29.37.73
- Domaine Cantin Benoit - 03.86.42.21.96
- Domaine Savary - 03.86.47.42.09
Activities near the canal for the little ones
Don't worry, the Canal du Nivernais offers activities for all tastes and above all for the whole family, making for a great family holiday! Here are our 2 suggestions for activities that the little ones will love:
Thureau Adventure Park - La Tour Coulon - 89000 Auxerre
The park's 9 courses and 63 workshops (tree adventure, archery, orienteering, treasure hunt, etc.) will delight young and old alike. Leave your houseboat behind and enjoy an authentic adventure in the heart of nature. There's a snack bar and picnic area on site. We advise you to book your time on the website: www.abloisirs.com
Labymaïs du Bazois - 27 Rue de la Picherotte, 58110 Châtillon-en-Bazois
Your children will have a great time in this corn maze covering more than three hectares. On the programme: a fun trail on the theme of farmyard animals, solving the hidden riddle, an inflatable structure and a chance to meet some of the farm's animals. The maze is open every day from 11am to 6pm from 3 July to 30 August.
We hope these activities have inspired you to rent a houseboat in Burgundy. If you fancy some more houseboat cruising inspiration, you can choose to head for the Canal du Centre, the Canal de Bourgogne or the Canal Latéral à la Loire.
