France Boating Holidays and Barge Vacations in Burgundy Nivernais

Burgundy West - France's Secret Hideaway

Burgundy is considered to be France’s richest region, not just in terms of wealth, but also culturally and historically. Gastronomically, Burgundy offers its famous wines, superb restaurants, and rich ingredients such as Charolais beef and escargots.

The region of Burgundy Nivernais Loire in the true heart of France is renowned for an altogether quieter way of life. It is rich in wildlife and bird life seen in their natural habitat as you cruise the waterways.

The canals that connect the rivers and allow you to explore this region are proof of the engineering skills of 19th century France.

Gently cruise through the wooded hills of the Morvan to the rich plains of the Loire Valley, and see riverside vineyards, opulent chateaux, imposing abbeys, unspoilt villages and bustling towns.

From the Loire the Canal du Nivernais passes through meadows grazed by Charolais cattle to its summit and then down through wine country to the River Yonne.

On this route are superb chateau at Chatillon-en-Bazois and Chitry-les-Mines.

If you opt for a cruise in the Loire Valley you will appreciate the gentle slope of the Canal Lateral a la Loire with very few locks and a famous viaduct at Briare.