Northern Burgundy and the Nivernais Canal

Only 2 to 3 hours from Paris, the waterways of Northern Burgundy are not only beautiful but accessible too! Burgundy is the land of world class wines, historic chateaux, rolling green hills and pretty medieval villages. Surrounding the entire region is a ribbon of canals and rivers winding through unspoiled pastures and vineyards, quiet hamlets and bustling market towns. With natural beauty, gourmet food and wines, this region is one of the most popular and accessible areas for the ultimate barge cruise.

There are two canals for barge cruising in Northern Burgundy connected by the Yonne River:

The Nivernais Canal

Bisecting the countryside between Auxerre and Clamecy, the Nivernais Canal is one of our favorites for beauty, lovely stone villages, green pastures and unspoiled rural life.

• Sightseeing can include convenient and interesting excursions such as the riverside market town of Auxerre, hilltop Vezelay with its artisan boutiques, the wine town of Chablis, medieval Noyers, and the Chateau de Bazoches (home of the famous military architect Vauban).

The Northern Burgundy Canal

Meandering through rural farmland and rustic villages between Saint-Florentin and Venarey-les-Laumes, the Canal de Bourgogne or Northern Burgundy canal is a tranquil journey back to times of old. Walking and biking to savor the countryside is a favorite activity while the barge floats along at a peaceful pace.

• Sightseeing can include a private wine tasting in Chablis, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Abbey de Fontenay, the renaissance chateau of Ancy le Franc and other historic sites.

Browse Northern Burgundy Barges

The barges cruising the Nivernais Canal:

• L'Art de Vivre - 8 passengers - $$
• Luciole - 12 passengers (2 single cabins) - $$
• Randle - 4 passengers - charter only - $

The barges cruising the Northern Burgundy Canal:

• La Belle Epoque - 12 passengers - $$$

Please see the individual barge's itineraries for the diverse routes and excursions they include.

For more information, call ​1-800-880-0071 or

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