Autumn transforms the canals of France into living paintings. Golden colours, milder temperatures, and peace restored after summer create ideal conditions for a licence‑free boat cruise. But knowing where to go is key… And between Alsace and Burgundy, the choice can be tough!
River cruising in Burgundy: The weather stays pleasant until late October. Mornings are cool, but the days often bring sunshine — perfect for enjoying the deck of your houseboat.
Houseboat cruising in Alsace: More continental, Alsace can be a bit cooler, but often dry. Autumn there is bright and colourful, especially along the Canal de la Marne au Rhin.
Boat hire in Burgundy: Endless golden vineyards, gentle hills, stone villages, and the warm ambience of the harvest season — autumn enhances Burgundy’s wine‑region beauty.
Licence‑free houseboat in Alsace: Forests in full colour, half‑timbered houses, canals edged with poplars and flowery villages. A picture‑perfect setting that combines tradition and nature.
Rent a licence‑free boat in Burgundy:
• Wine tastings at local domaines near your stops
• Cycling along towpaths beside the canals
• Visiting caves, markets & villages such as in Burgundy Nivernais
River cruise in Alsace:
• Visit Saverne and its Rohan Palace, Strasbourg
• Explore Lutzelbourg, Hesse, or other charming villages
• Hike in the Vosges forests, taste bretzels, tarte flambée and local beers
Navigating licence‑free in Burgundy: Easy navigation, manual locks accessible, well‑marked routes. Very suitable for first‑time river boaters.
Boat hire in Alsace: Navigation can be slightly more technical on some stretches (automatic locks), but very enjoyable. The canal is bordered by many cycle paths.
If you love vineyards, good wine, gentle and contemplative atmospheres, then Burgundy is for you.
👉 See the Burgundy destination page : Briare – Decize – Châtillon
If you’re after a more typical, perhaps more unusual setting, with flowery villages and strong culture, Alsace will charm you.
👉 Explore the Alsace region page : Lutzelbourg – Strasbourg – Lutlzelbourg
Yes. Both regions remain navigable until the end of October. However, it’s recommended to book in advance as some boat bases may close after All Saints’ Day.
Between late September and mid‑October. The forests of Alsace and the vineyards of Burgundy are particularly spectacular during this period.
Both regions are very suitable. Burgundy is slightly more accessible for beginners, with less traffic and simpler locks.
Absolutely! In Burgundy, many cellars are reachable by foot or bike from the stops. In Alsace, some breweries and wine producers also offer tasting visits.