The Nivernais Canal

Between Achun and Panneçot, take the cycle path for a flat route. Take a break at the canal's most rejuvenating stop: the "Nature" stop. Throughout your journey, let yourself be captivated by the bucolic charm of the resplendent countryside and the numerous engineering marvels that dot your path. Near the port of Châtillon-en-Bazois, discover the 16th and 17th-century château that rises between the Aron River and the canal. From the cycle path, you'll see its beautiful English-style park and the Orangerie gardens . Other sites to explore include the Mingot lock , the Alluy crypt , the Chamont fountain , and the Fleury needle dam in Biches.

To add variety and create lasting memories, take the greenway along the towpath for total immersion in nature. Along the route, you'll discover a diverse landscape: hedgerows, meadows, and forests. The Canal du Nivernais cycle route is a cyclist's paradise , whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider. Its gentle gradient and perfectly smooth surface make it an ideal cycle path for families: you'll mostly cycle away from motorized traffic in complete tranquility.

Want to explore more of the region's hidden gems? Take our secondary routes starting from the canal. These connections offer some lovely detours inland on safe, circular paths. There, more rolling landscapes await, along with other tourist attractions, such as the spa town of Saint-Honoré-les-Bains or Moulins-Engilbert , the "Little Venice of the Morvan." Take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy all the services and shops in the town centers you pass through.

From the South coming from Decize, you will arrive at Cercy-la-Tour, located on a promontory placed under the protection of Notre-Dame du Nivernais, there are numerous shops and services. Along your path, a magnificent view opens up over the Loire Valley. As you progress, the environment becomes bucolic: Charolais cows, horse breeding, castles...

You then arrive in Châtillon-en-Bazois (+16 km) via the Rue du Moulin, overlooked by the magnificent castle with its medieval fortress-like lines . Châtillon-en-Bazois is a convenient stopover town with all the shops and services you might need, as well as a rest area on the cycle route where you can spend the night and use the restrooms. You reach the end of our stage in the commune of Achun (+12 km), where Stéphane and Delphine welcome you to the Chavance Lock in a former lock keeper's house. It's time for a refreshing break while watching the pleasure boats go by…

To extend the trip, know that the Canal du Nivernais is one of the routes that make up the Tour de Bourgogne à Vélo…

At the helm of your boat , far from the hustle and bustle of roads and traffic, the Canal du Nivernais immerses you in a verdant setting, a blend of wild landscapes and picturesque villages. Each stop will be an opportunity to enjoy the rich heritage, local cuisine, and chat with the lock keepers who will be delighted to share their favorite spots. For here, there are no automatic locks: passionate professionals will give you a warm, personalized welcome!

For a river cruise lasting from 2 days to 3 weeks, with family or friends, enjoy the freedom to stop wherever you like! Rent a fully equipped boat without a license : just one hour of instruction is all it takes to become your "captain"! To prepare for your river cruise, Les Canalous has a boat rental base in Châtillon-en-Bazois, at the foot of the castle.