France Nivernais River boat holiday with Le Boat
Save 25% - 7 Nights From R 10,110 per person sharing
Navigate one of France’s most beautiful waterways, gliding through the serene heart of Burgundy from historic Auxerre to Tannay. Your days will be filled with explorations of medieval villages, wine tasting in prestigious cellars, and cycling along peaceful towpaths through deep forests and lush pastures.
The Canal du Nivernais is a masterpiece of 18th-century design, originally built to transport firewood from the Morvan forests to Paris. The canal stretches for 174 kilometres, connecting the Loire and Seine river basins through a remarkable series of 110 locks, three tunnels, and elegant aqueducts. The waterway meanders through some of France's most picturesque countryside, offering a journey back in time.
Wine & Cuisine: The Nivernais route is a gateway to Burgundy's superb vineyards. Moor up near Tannay to sample its crisp white wines, or venture into the cellars of the famous Chablis and Irancy appellations for a private tasting. The region is a haven for food lovers, with riverside restaurants and village bistros serving Burgundian classics like boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin. Don't miss the local markets in towns like Clamecy for fresh produce and regional cheeses.
History & Heritage: This waterway is rich in cultural heritage. Begin in Auxerre, with its magnificent cathedral and half-timbered houses, before cruising towards the medieval hilltop town of Clamecy, once the centre of the region's timber-rafting industry. Further south, you will find ancient châteaux and Romanesque churches dotted along the banks, each with a story to tell.
Leisure & Relaxation: The gentle pace of a boating holiday on the Nivernais is an activity in itself. The canal's towpaths are perfect for cycling and walking, offering a different perspective on the landscape. The waterway winds through the Morvan Regional Natural Park, providing opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with nature. For a truly unique experience, navigate the impressive 16 vaulted archways of the La Collancelle tunnels.
Terms and Conditions
INCLUDES: Fully equipped comfort boat (Caprice), damage liability reduction, one-way fee (for one-way cruises only), towels & linens, technical support, on board cruising information.
Save 25% - 7 Nights From R 10,110 per person sharing
The Small Print
These offers are brought to you by Travel Counsellors (Pty) Ltd. Offer is per person sharing based on 4 people sharing. Rates for other periods are available on request. Price based on 19 September 2026 departure date. Must be booked by 12 March 2026. Deposit of 50% required to confirm. Balance due 90 days prior to departure. Offer is subject to availability, seasonal surcharges and currency fluctuations. Supplier's terms and conditions are available on request. Package excludes taxi transfers and other transport to and from the bases, optional holiday extras (i.e bicycles, cleaning pack, BBQ, end of cruise boat cleaning etc, meals/groceries, marina fees, fuel deposit (payable on arrival), security deposit (payable on arrival). Additional information available on request. Terms and conditions apply. Valid for South African Residents only. Prices and information are correct at time of publishing. E&OE.
