What Activities Can You Enjoy During an Autumn River Cruise?

Looking for ideas to make the most of your autumn river cruise?

Autumn is a magical time for a licence-free river cruise: golden landscapes, crisp air, and peaceful waterways make it the ideal season for a scenic break. But what can you actually do on board? Here are 4 activities perfect for the autumn season, to enjoy nature, slow living, and relaxation at your own pace.

1. Cycling Through the Golden Vineyards on a Licence-Free Boat Holiday

Autumn is the perfect time to cycle along peaceful towpaths and through golden vineyards. Many regions offer dedicated cycling routes along the canals, directly accessible from your boat.

Where to go?

• In Burgundy, between Auxerre and Mailly-le-Château, ride along ochre-coloured vineyards.
• Cruise along the Canal du Midi, where shaded paths lead to charming Occitan villages.

2. Mushroom Picking Along the Canal

Canal banks and nearby woods are perfect for mushroom foraging in autumn. Girolles, porcini mushrooms or black trumpets hide under the fallen leaves… if you know where to look!

Where to go?

• Choose an autumn river cruise in Alsace, near Lutzelbourg, where the Vosges forests are known for their mushroom diversity.
• Cruise a licence-free boat in Brittany, where the wild banks of the Vilaine are full of hidden foraging spots.

⚠️ Always double-check before eating mushrooms: use a reliable guide or ask a local pharmacist.

3. Tasting Local Delicacies Along Your River Cruise

Goat cheese, organic wines, honey, jams or artisan charcuterie… Each stop is a chance to taste regional specialities. Autumn is a gourmet season for discovering France’s culinary treasures.

Where to go?

• Cruise the Charente, and visit distilleries and farmers’ markets in Cognac or Jarnac.
• Hire a boat in Burgundy, where wineries open their doors for harvest tastings and local markets are in full swing.

4. Birdwatching Along Canals and Rivers

Autumn is bird migration season, and canals often follow their flight paths. Bring your binoculars and enjoy spotting storks, herons, wild geese or kingfishers.

Where to go?

• Hire a houseboat on the Canal du Rhône à Sète, in Camargue, where flamingos and waders offer a breathtaking natural show.
• Explore a river cruise in Mayenne, where quiet canals and nearby wetlands make it a dream spot for bird lovers.

FAQ – Autumn Activities on a River Cruise

Q1. Can we rent bikes with the houseboat?

Yes! Most CrisBoat bases offer bike rental for adults and children. Bikes can be easily stored at the rear of the boat.

Q2. Where can we find local products during the cruise?

Weekly markets are often within walking or cycling distance from your mooring points. Local tourist offices usually provide maps of nearby producers and farms.

Q3. What gear should we bring for birdwatching?

Binoculars, a bird guidebook or an app like Merlin Bird ID. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually the best times to spot birds.