Nivernais & River Yonne

The scenery of the Nivernais and Yonne region is exquisite. Located in the centre of France, it is characterised by peaceful waterways, lush meadows, charming villages, and beautiful châteaux. Connecting the River Loire near Decize to the River Yonne at Auxerre, there is a total of 116 locks on the 174 kilometres of waterway.

The northern reaches of navigation alternate between canal and river, passing through forests, medieval towns, delightful sleepy villages, such as Cravant, seemingly untouched by the 21st century, and then the waters reach the city of Auxerre, where the river becomes wide and majestic.

The river Yonne flows northwards and is one of the main tributaries of the River Seine. The source of the Yonne is near Chateau Chinon in the Morvan hills on the "Mont Préneley", 738 metres above sea level. The once-busy river was a vital supply route for the forest trees, which were logged and floated downstream to the mills and then onwards to Paris and other destinations.

The river has a slackwater lock system that provides access to the Canal du Nivernais, the Canal du Bourgogne, and the Seine.

Places to visit and things to do while you're in the area

Monuments

• Basilique de Vézelay (UNESCO)
• Château de Bazoches
• Château de Vaux
• Château Saint-Fargeau
• La Cathédrale Saint-Cyr Sainte-Julitte in Nevers
• The sanctuary of Sainte Bernadette Soubirous de Nevers

Places to go

• The historic city of Auxerre
• Clamecy and the Collegiale Saint-Martin
• Bibracte archaeological site near Autun
• The town of Mailly-le-Château
• Château de Guedelon
• The vineyards of Chablis
• The wine Caves of Bailly Lapierre
• The town of Nevers
• The path at Roches de Basseville
• Wood floaters demonstration
• Settons lakes for water sports and relaxing