River cruise for a one way trip from Branges to St Jean de Losne via Ray-sur-Saône

Day 1

Day 2

Cuisery

One of the four French 'cities of books', there are more than 10 bookshops, as well as a museum devoted to the history of the book.

Day 3

Tournus

The most remarkable historical builing in Tournus is the Church of Saint Philibert. This 10th century former abbey is one of the most prestigious sanctuaries of early Roman art.

the Natural Reserve of La Truchere

This wetland, located at the confluence of the Seille and Saône rivers, is the ideal location to spot the 153 species of birds local to the area, as well as something astonishing: a sand dune shaped by winds 5,000 years ago!

Day 4

Verdun-sur-le-Doubs

Established by the Romans in the 1st century, this river port has a glorious fluvial past. The most remarkable landmark is the Hotel Dieu hospital, which still receives a few long-stay patients.

Châlon-sur-Saône

This old Roman port (Caesar's winter headquarters) still retains a military appearance; it was also the birthplace of Nicéphore Niépce.

Le Vieux Verdun

Step back in time by following a guided tour through Old Verdun, discovering its towers, historic buildings, and remains of fortifications rich in history.

Saint Vincent Cathedral

Listed as a historic monument since 1903, this cathedral, built between the 11th and 16th centuries, showcases a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. During your visit, be sure not to miss the cloister.

La Tour du Doyenné

Dating back to the 15th century, this historic tower offers a panoramic view of the city from Saint-Laurent Island. Explore the surrounding garden, which houses a linden tree from Buffon’s nurseries, a notable figure of the Enlightenment.

the arboretum of Verdun-sur-le-Doubs

This small island, situated at the confluence of the Saône and Doubs rivers, has been set up so that tourists can discover the local fauna and flora.

L’étang de Pontoux

Immerse yourself in nature with a walk around the Pontoux pond, where a variety of birds await you for an immersive experience.

the Côtes Chalonnaise

the Pochouse (river fish mixture cooked in a wine sauce)

the swimming area of ??Chalon sur Saone

the Leisure Center of St Nicolas sur Saone

This large water sports center is an ideal location for tourists. Swimming, water sports, playground,..

Kayak

Soak up the serenity of the Doubs River by kayaking while observing European bee-eaters along the riverbanks.

Day 5

Seurre

This pleasant boat stop offers you all of its services. Here you must take the cance to visit the Hotel Dieu hospital, one of the most beautiful in Burgundy, dating back to 1688.

Verdun-sur-le-Doubs

Established by the Romans in the 1st century, this river port has a glorious fluvial past. The most remarkable landmark is the Hotel Dieu hospital, which still receives a few long-stay patients.

Le Vieux Verdun

Step back in time by following a guided tour through Old Verdun, discovering its towers, historic buildings, and remains of fortifications rich in history.

Hôtel Dieu

Travel back in time by exploring the Hôtel Dieu, founded in 1688. Discover hospital life in the 17th and 18th centuries through the large sick ward, the Saint-Louis chapel, and the apothecary.

the arboretum of Verdun-sur-le-Doubs

This small island, situated at the confluence of the Saône and Doubs rivers, has been set up so that tourists can discover the local fauna and flora.

L’étang de Pontoux

Immerse yourself in nature with a walk around the Pontoux pond, where a variety of birds await you for an immersive experience.

The English Garden

Escape to the English-style garden, where tranquility reigns. Stroll among majestic trees, including a giant sequoia, and enjoy the playground area.

the Pochouse (river fish mixture cooked in a wine sauce)

the Leisure center of Seurre

Kayak

Soak up the serenity of the Doubs River by kayaking while observing European bee-eaters along the riverbanks.

Day 6

Saint Jean de Losne

Saint Jean de Losne is the waterway capital of Burgundy. Situated at the intersection of the Saône river, the Burgundy Canal and the Rhône-Rhine Canal, this town is dedicated entirely to waterway cruising.

Seurre

This pleasant boat stop offers you all of its services. Here you must take the cance to visit the Hotel Dieu hospital, one of the most beautiful in Burgundy, dating back to 1688.

Hôtel Dieu

Travel back in time by exploring the Hôtel Dieu, founded in 1688. Discover hospital life in the 17th and 18th centuries through the large sick ward, the Saint-Louis chapel, and the apothecary.

The English Garden

Escape to the English-style garden, where tranquility reigns. Stroll among majestic trees, including a giant sequoia, and enjoy the playground area.

the Leisure center of Seurre

Day 7

Saint Jean de Losne

Saint Jean de Losne is the waterway capital of Burgundy. Situated at the intersection of the Saône river, the Burgundy Canal and the Rhône-Rhine Canal, this town is dedicated entirely to waterway cruising.

Auxonnne

It was in this town than Napoleon was educated; a museum and statue are dedicated to him. Auxonne is also home to an old fortified castle and a former dwelling of the Dukes of Burgundy (which has since become the town hall), as well as the Royal Gate.

the dam needle of Auxonne

This former dam, not in use since 2011, was designed in 1848; it allowed the flow of the Saône to be regulated, especially during heavy flooding,

Fortifications de Vauban

Walk along the ramparts designed by Vauban and appreciate the ingenuity of his military architecture. This structure has been so well preserved that it is still possible today to admire almost all of the fortifications surrounding the town, as well as the bastions and towers. Climb the ramparts for a panoramic view of the Auxonne landscape.

Forêt des Crochères

Enjoy a natural getaway in the Forêt des Crochères. With its 1,432 hectares, it is the largest forest in Burgundy.

Day 8

Auxonnne

It was in this town than Napoleon was educated; a museum and statue are dedicated to him. Auxonne is also home to an old fortified castle and a former dwelling of the Dukes of Burgundy (which has since become the town hall), as well as the Royal Gate.

the dam needle of Auxonne

This former dam, not in use since 2011, was designed in 1848; it allowed the flow of the Saône to be regulated, especially during heavy flooding,

Pontailler-sur-Saône

Pontailler-sur-Saône has a medieval historic heart. The village’s history is intertwined with that of the Saône River and its tributaries. Once equipped with fords and a port for barges, the town was able to prosper economically. Today, the village is a "green resort" with a marina and a recreational area along the Saône.

Saint Maurice Church

Explore Saint Maurice Church, known for its Neo-Classical architecture. The monumental porch and the murals adorning the interior of the church are definitely worth a visit.

Fortifications de Vauban

Walk along the ramparts designed by Vauban and appreciate the ingenuity of his military architecture. This structure has been so well preserved that it is still possible today to admire almost all of the fortifications surrounding the town, as well as the bastions and towers. Climb the ramparts for a panoramic view of the Auxonne landscape.

Mont Ardoux

Climb up to Mount Ardoux to enjoy a panoramic view of the Saône plain and the Jura mountains.

Forêt des Crochères

Enjoy a natural getaway in the Forêt des Crochères. With its 1,432 hectares, it is the largest forest in Burgundy.

the Beach of Pontailler

the Nautic Club of Pontailler

This sailing club offers introductory water-skiing sessions on weekends (by appointment only); more information at the tourist office in Pontailer.

Day 9

Gray

A break from your barge in this important river part will allow you to discover the Baron-Martin Museum, the small natural history museum, and the marvelous roof of the town hall.

Mantoche

The most noteworthy landmark in Mantoche is its church. Dedicated to Saint Nicolas, it has 4 bells, with the heaviest weighing 1664kg.

Phare de la Méditerranée

The Phare de la Méditerranée is a former water tower converted into a restaurant with panoramic views. You can relax in Parc Saint-Pierre, located at the foot of the lighthouse.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Gray

Admire the splendid architecture of this basilica, a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this majestic structure houses two precious relics, earning it the prestigious status of a minor basilica. It is also listed as a historical heritage site.

Pontailler-sur-Saône

Pontailler-sur-Saône has a medieval historic heart. The village’s history is intertwined with that of the Saône River and its tributaries. Once equipped with fords and a port for barges, the town was able to prosper economically. Today, the village is a "green resort" with a marina and a recreational area along the Saône.

Saint Maurice Church

Explore Saint Maurice Church, known for its Neo-Classical architecture. The monumental porch and the murals adorning the interior of the church are definitely worth a visit.

Mont Ardoux

Climb up to Mount Ardoux to enjoy a panoramic view of the Saône plain and the Jura mountains.

the Beach of Pontailler

the Nautic Club of Pontailler

This sailing club offers introductory water-skiing sessions on weekends (by appointment only); more information at the tourist office in Pontailer.

Day 10

Gray

A break from your barge in this important river part will allow you to discover the Baron-Martin Museum, the small natural history museum, and the marvelous roof of the town hall.

Phare de la Méditerranée

The Phare de la Méditerranée is a former water tower converted into a restaurant with panoramic views. You can relax in Parc Saint-Pierre, located at the foot of the lighthouse.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Gray

Admire the splendid architecture of this basilica, a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this majestic structure houses two precious relics, earning it the prestigious status of a minor basilica. It is also listed as a historical heritage site.

Day 11

Ray-sur-Saône

The castle of Ray-sur-Saône was built in the year 800. In the Middle Ages it was the most significant fortified castle in Franche-Comté. Today only 2 towers remain of the original 14.

the tunnel of Savoyeux

This 643m long tunnel allows 9km of the Saône to be circumvented.

Day 12

Gray

A break from your barge in this important river part will allow you to discover the Baron-Martin Museum, the small natural history museum, and the marvelous roof of the town hall.

Phare de la Méditerranée

The Phare de la Méditerranée is a former water tower converted into a restaurant with panoramic views. You can relax in Parc Saint-Pierre, located at the foot of the lighthouse.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Gray

Admire the splendid architecture of this basilica, a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this majestic structure houses two precious relics, earning it the prestigious status of a minor basilica. It is also listed as a historical heritage site.

Day 13

Gray

A break from your barge in this important river part will allow you to discover the Baron-Martin Museum, the small natural history museum, and the marvelous roof of the town hall.

Mantoche

The most noteworthy landmark in Mantoche is its church. Dedicated to Saint Nicolas, it has 4 bells, with the heaviest weighing 1664kg.

Phare de la Méditerranée

The Phare de la Méditerranée is a former water tower converted into a restaurant with panoramic views. You can relax in Parc Saint-Pierre, located at the foot of the lighthouse.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Gray

Admire the splendid architecture of this basilica, a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this majestic structure houses two precious relics, earning it the prestigious status of a minor basilica. It is also listed as a historical heritage site.

Pontailler-sur-Saône

Pontailler-sur-Saône has a medieval historic heart. The village’s history is intertwined with that of the Saône River and its tributaries. Once equipped with fords and a port for barges, the town was able to prosper economically. Today, the village is a "green resort" with a marina and a recreational area along the Saône.

Saint Maurice Church

Explore Saint Maurice Church, known for its Neo-Classical architecture. The monumental porch and the murals adorning the interior of the church are definitely worth a visit.

Mont Ardoux

Climb up to Mount Ardoux to enjoy a panoramic view of the Saône plain and the Jura mountains.

the Beach of Pontailler

the Nautic Club of Pontailler

This sailing club offers introductory water-skiing sessions on weekends (by appointment only); more information at the tourist office in Pontailer.

Day 14

Saint Jean de Losne

Saint Jean de Losne is the waterway capital of Burgundy. Situated at the intersection of the Saône river, the Burgundy Canal and the Rhône-Rhine Canal, this town is dedicated entirely to waterway cruising.

Auxonnne

It was in this town than Napoleon was educated; a museum and statue are dedicated to him. Auxonne is also home to an old fortified castle and a former dwelling of the Dukes of Burgundy (which has since become the town hall), as well as the Royal Gate.

the dam needle of Auxonne

This former dam, not in use since 2011, was designed in 1848; it allowed the flow of the Saône to be regulated, especially during heavy flooding,

Pontailler-sur-Saône

Pontailler-sur-Saône has a medieval historic heart. The village’s history is intertwined with that of the Saône River and its tributaries. Once equipped with fords and a port for barges, the town was able to prosper economically. Today, the village is a "green resort" with a marina and a recreational area along the Saône.

Saint Maurice Church

Explore Saint Maurice Church, known for its Neo-Classical architecture. The monumental porch and the murals adorning the interior of the church are definitely worth a visit.

Fortifications de Vauban

Walk along the ramparts designed by Vauban and appreciate the ingenuity of his military architecture. This structure has been so well preserved that it is still possible today to admire almost all of the fortifications surrounding the town, as well as the bastions and towers. Climb the ramparts for a panoramic view of the Auxonne landscape.

Mont Ardoux

Climb up to Mount Ardoux to enjoy a panoramic view of the Saône plain and the Jura mountains.

Forêt des Crochères

Enjoy a natural getaway in the Forêt des Crochères. With its 1,432 hectares, it is the largest forest in Burgundy.

the Beach of Pontailler

the Nautic Club of Pontailler

This sailing club offers introductory water-skiing sessions on weekends (by appointment only); more information at the tourist office in Pontailer.

River Cruise Branges / Ray-sur-Saône / St Jean de Losne

Branges - Ray-sur-Saône - St Jean de Losne

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