burgundy barge tour

The Burgundy Canal, France

The Burgundy Canal is perfect for hotel barge cruises and boat rentals. Located in central eastern France, Burgundy has a varied and dramatic landscape and with hundreds of miles or waterways, a perfect adventure and pleasure to explore.

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Special Cruise Offers

Discounts on hotel barge cruises, canal boat hire and other getaways.

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Places to visit

Castles, abbeys, monasteries... ...there is so much to discover in Burgundy.

• What to visit

Canal cruises on barges and boats in Burgundy, France

Hotel barge cruises

Discover Burgundy's finest hotel barge cruises, from 2 to 12 passengers. Short or 7 days and up to 15-day cruises for charters, individuals, and groups. An exclusive and luxurious experience in one of France's most interesting regions..

Self-drive boat rentals

The best choice for canal boat hire, from luxurious modern cruisers to traditional canal boats, fully equipped and ready to go. Enjoy a one-way or return trip on the canals and rivers. We provide impartial advice from our experienced team based near Dijon in Burgundy.

About the Burgundy Canal

Historical and monumental, the construction of the Burgundy Canal spanned more than 100 years and changed the surrounding landscape along a path of more than 250 kilometres. It includes over 150 locks, a 3-kilometre tunnel, aqueducts, and reservoirs holding millions of tonnes of water. The canals flow through the capital city of Dijon . Nearby the canal, you have the wines and the vineyards of "The Climats, terroirs of Burgundy" , a UNESCO World Heritage.

Discover the best hotel barge cruises and self-drive boat trips on France’s magnificent Burgundy Canal. The calm inland waterways climb from the rivers Saône and Yonne, heading high into rolling hills covered in dense oak and elm forests .

As you cruise along the canal, you’ll pass through villages and small towns with typical bistros to appreciate and markets and shops to delve into. Medieval castles, ancient abbeys and fortified walls remain standing and waiting. Noble vineyards with some of the world's greatest red and white crus, the wine cellars are close by and offer you fascinating opportunities for wine tasting.

There are miles of towpaths, lanes and country roads perfect for walking and cycling! Scenic villages and magnificent UNESCO sites to visit such as Fontenay Abbey , the Hospices de Beaune and much more. This peaceful and calm destination is perfect for family and friend holidays.

PAPILLON, a 6-passenger deluxe barge, cruises in Southern Burgundy, France

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PAPILLON Cruise Stops

Cruise highlights.

• Drive the ‘Route des Grandes Crus’ and through the vineyards of the Côte du Nuits
• Visit of Clos de Vougeot and private wine tasting at a favorite vineyard
• Walking tour of Dijon and the morning market
• Visit Beaune and the famous hospice Hôtel-Dieu
• Choose between a visit to the Château of Commarin with its fine tapestries or the magnificent hilltop village and basilica of Vézelay
• Stroll the Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay, a UNESCO world heritage site
• Bike and/or walk the towpaths along the canal in the beautiful Ouche Valley
• A selection of excursions is available suited to your interests

Cruise Features

Cruise Rates 2016 - last year of cruising for ​Papillon

Included in cruise price.

• Transportation between Paris hotel (or airport, ​depending on circumstances) and the barge. (Dijon pickups only for charters)
• Six nights accommodation in private stateroom with ensuite bath
• All meals, wine and drinks on board
• Daily escorted excursions by air-conditioned van
• All barge amenities including bicycles, music system, library, etc.
• Barge and Biking Special Includes light weight hybrid bikes, guide, support van, picnics and snacks while biking

Not Included in Cruise Price

• Air or other transportation to the meeting location
• Trip cancellation or medical insurance (available when booking)
• Personal expenses
• A discretionary gratuity for the crew suggested at 5% of the cruise price

PAPILLON Features

 cruising on papillon, burgundy canal, southern burgundy   pont de pany to pont royal (or reverse).

Sunday - Transfer from Paris to Pont de Pany You will be met by a Papillon crew member at your hotel in Paris at 1:00 pm and driven to the Papillon moored near Dijon in the village of Pont de Pany. On the way we can visit the fabulous château and gardens of Vaux-le-Vicomte – a mini rival to Versailles. Alternatively you can take the fast TGV train from Paris and a Papillon crew member will meet you at the railway station in Dijon. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed aboard Le Papillon with a Champagne reception and introduced to the crew of four – time to settle in before dinner. Monday - Pont de Pany to Gissey-sur-Ouche During breakfast we start cruising along the canal de Bourgogne. Enjoy a morning coffee on the front deck and perhaps take a walk along the canal towpath. By early afternoon Papillon will be moored in the quiet village Gissey-sur-Ouche. After a delicious buffet lunch, we will drive along the ‘Route des Grandes Crus’ and through the vineyards of the Côte du Nuits; we’ll stop at the Château of Clos de Vougeot, the perfect setting to learn about the importance that wine played in Burgundy’s history. And then on to one of our favorite vineyards for a private tasting before heading back to Papillon’s dining room. Tuesday - Gissey-sur-Ouche to Veuvey-sur-Ouche Food lovers can make an early start and accompany Papillon’s chef to the busy morning food market in Dijon; this is an opportunity to meet our cheese, fish, meat and vegetable suppliers, of whom we are very proud, face to face. Maybe take a coffee with the chef and discuss some of your favorite dishes. A short walking tour and orientation of Dijon’s centre and you’ll soon be free to explore on your own – the Rue Verrerie with its famous antique shops is nearby; so too is the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Lunch back aboard and then cruise to the village of Veuvey-sur-Ouche. Recline on the front deck with a book and as the sun sets over the ‘yardarm’ enjoy Dijon’s world famous apéritif, Kir Royal. Wednesday - Veuvey-sur-Ouche to Pont d’Ouche This morning’s cruise will take us to the tiny port of Pont d’Ouche where we cruise over the Ouche river. Before midday we will drive through the rolling Burgundian hills and descend into the Côte d’Or vineyards and visit Beaune – a thriving little town and proud capital of the wine trade. After lunch in town we’ll hit the sights; by far the most famous is the hospice with its multicolored roof tiles which was built in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, chancellor to the dukes of Burgundy. Next door in the spectacular cellars of the Marché aux Vins we can taste some of Burgundy’s finest wines. After the drive back to Papillon, there will be time to take a stroll before dinner. Thursday - Pont d’Ouche to Pouilly-en-Auxois After a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a morning bike ride we will take a ten minute drive to the hilltop village of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois, rated as one of ‘Les plus beaux villages de France’. Restored and picturesque, the village offers a fine aerial view of the canal and surrounding countryside. Back on board we will climb the remaining locks before reaching the summit level, the highest point on this waterway connecting the Mediterranean to the English Channel. After lunch we can visit the château of Commarin with its fine tapestries. Alternatively take a longer drive and visit the magnificent basilica of Vézelay. And then to Papillon for a cruise through one of the wonders of the canal system – a two mile tunnel leading to the town of Pouilly-en-Auxois. Nearby the château of Chailly has a fine golf course. Friday - Pouilly-en-Auxois to Pont Royal Today’s cruise will take us through tranquil countryside to the sleepy village of Pont Royal. Enjoy a relaxing lunch on deck accompanied by some carefully selected wines. During the afternoon, a circular trip in the minibus could include visits to Flavigny where ‘Chocolat’ was filmed, the magnificent Cistercian abbey of Fontenay (a UNESCO world heritage site) and the undiscovered medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois. Return to Papillon in time for apéritifs with the crew and one last magnificent meal. Saturday - Transfer to Paris After a continental breakfast of fruits, cereals and pastries our private minibus will take you to either Dijon train station or your hotel in Paris.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The itinerary is in reverse direction on alternate weeks.

Barge and Biking Itinerary on PAPILLON

All of the bike rides will be in the department of the Côte dʼOr of Burgundy, to the west of Dijon and north of Beaune. During the tour, your hotel-barge ʻPapillonʼ will cruise from Pont de Pany near Dijon to Marigny-le- Cahouet near Montbard. This really is a rare opportunity to combine a serious bike tour with an authentic barge cruise, making you feel like you’re in the lap of luxury. Each day, when the pedaling is over, what better way to relax than with a book, on deck, sipping a glass of Burgundy wine as you cruise the waterways of France? Sunday - Transfer from Paris to Pont de Pany A member of the crew will meet you at your hotel in Paris at 1:00 pm for the drive to Burgundy. On the way, we will visit the magnificent château of Vaux-le-Vicomte – a mini rival to Versailles. Le Papillon will be moored in the village of Pont-de-Pany to the west of Dijon and upon arrival your crew will welcome you aboard with a champagne reception. Time to take a stroll and settle into your cabin before dinner. Monday - 22 miles with one category 3 climb (2 1/2 miles) After breakfast, Papillon will start cruising along the Canal de Bourgogne. Tim will join us this morning for a chat about our biking program. Lunch will be on the early side, so that we can be in Beaune when shops re-open to get fitted out with our bikes. Pedaling out of town, we will head straight into the vineyards of Savigny-les- Beaune before steadily climbing up the delightful valley of the river Rhoin with its dramatic limestone cliffs, and on to the quiet village of Bouilland. You might want to take a drink in the café prior to attacking our main climb of the day, the meandering ʻCombe de Naltʼ. Having conquered this hill, we can relax as the countryside opens out to some magnificent views. We will pass through St Jean de Boeuf and then head down into the Ouche valley before rejoining Papillon moored near the village of Gissey-sur-Ouche. Tuesday - 27 miles with one category 5 climb (1 mile) & one category 3 climb (2 1/2 miles) We’ll take an early morning breakfast cruise before we step ashore at one of the locks and bike along the canal towpath to the village of La Bussière. We’ll now leave the canal and climb towards the village of Commarin, where we can refuel with the locals in the bar beside the château. Our next stop will be the lake at Panthier, one of several reservoirs completed in the early 1840s to supply the canal with sufficient water for the then heavy commercial barge traffic; today, it is an oasis for sailing and anglers. Then, the time will come to pull out all the stops and tackle our most challenging climb of the day! We’ll head up to the imposing hilltop village of Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, rated as one of the most beautiful villages in France. From here, the views of the Auxois are splendid, and there is the perfect spot to enjoy a gourmet picnic, delivered and served by Papillonʼs chef. After lunch ,we will descend to another château, St Sabine and continue through several villages before rejoining the barge for a stretch of cruising. Cocktails and dinner will be served on deck. Wednesday AM - 29 miles with three category 5 climbs (each about 1 mile) Wednesday PM - 33 miles with one category 4 climb (3 miles) & two category 5 climbs (each 1 mile) Today we’ll offer ʻle Crunchʼ, a 100-kilometre monster! Itʼs your chance to cycle through virtually the entire wine cellar of the Côte de Beaune and the Côte de Nuits with all the famous names along the way. This morning’s ride will start in the charming riverside village of Lusigny-sur-Ouche. We will follow the route taken by the 2007 tour de France (Wiggins break away) to Ivry-en-Montagne, then onto Nolay and the fabulous views from the ʻmontagne des trois croixʼ before dropping down through the Maranges appellation vineyards of the Côte de Beaune. The rest of this ride reads like a wine list from one of the finest cellars in the world….Santenay, Chassagne Montrachet, Puligny Montrachet, Auxey-Duresses, Monthélie, Volnay; and in case thatʼs not enough to work up an appetite, we’ll have a bistro lunch waiting for us in Pommard! After lunch, we’ll circumvent Beaune by biking a scenic route through Bouze-lès-Beaune in the Haute Côte. There will be two significant hills to negotiate; after the first, we’ll drop down through Ladoix-Serrigny and then to Pernand- Vergelesses before approaching the gentle four-mile category 5 climb up to Echevrone and Meuilly. The following descent to Nuits-St-Georges will put us en route for the very best of the Côtes de Nuits vineyards: Vosne-Romanée, Chambolle-Musigny, Morey-St Denis, Gevrey-Chambertin, Fixin and Marsannay. Weʼll complete our ride on the outskirts of Dijon and celebrate an achievement to be remembered! The minibus will transport us back to Papillon and civilized living. There is the option of biking just in the morning, or in the afternoon, or not at all if you prefer to use this middle day as a rest day. Le Papillon will be covering some interesting ground, climbing to the summit level of the canal and then passing through a 2-mile tunnel. Thursday - 28 miles with one category 4 climb (2 miles) This morning you can either take it easy and enjoy cruising along the canal, or head out in the minibus to visit the châteaux of Châteauneuf and Commarin. There is also the option of playing a round of golf at the 18-hole course at the château de Chailly. After lunch onboard and following the heroic exploits of yesterday, we’ll embark on a gentle ride towards the Morvan National Park. We’ll start with some delightful villages, Chaillysur- Armançon, Mont St Jean and La Motte Ternant. The landscape then changes to the extensive conifer forests so typical of the Morvan; this is a slightly wild agricultural area, which during the last couple of centuries provided Paris with all of its firewood and a convenient supply of wet nurses! As we head back to Papillon, weʼll pass through Thorey-sous-Charny where a small but vivid revival of traditional wine making is underway. There are currently only 3 vineyards in the Auxois, and whilst the one at Thorey is the smallest, itʼs also the best – and not many people know about it! Weʼll walk amongst the vines, help with the picking if itʼs harvest time and then enjoy a sample back in the village amongst the barrels. Papillon will be moored nearby and dinner will be in the oven. Friday - 35 miles with two category 5 climbs (each 11/4 miles), one category 4 climb (2 miles), one category 3 climb (2 miles) Soon after breakfast, Le Papillon will approach Pont Royal where we will begin our final ride. Our first hill will take us to the picturesque village of Saint Colombe before we descend to Marigny-le-Cahouet. It’ll be time to skip valleys from the Armancon to the Brenne and then ride up to Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, another one of ʻles plus beaux villages de Franceʼ. Chocolat was filmed here and the village still produces the little oval tins of ʻAnis de Flavignyʼ now found the world over. One shouldnʼt leave without visiting the 8th-century crypt. Outside and if weʼre lucky, weʼll catch a glimpse of the current monks in their black cassocks playing football! Weʼll pedal on to our picnic spot below the statue of Vercingetorix, the leader of the Gauls who was defeated here in 52BC by Caesar. After lunch and another climb, there will be time to pause and visit the ʻpotagerʼ/vegetable garden at the château of Lantilly. And then we’ll take a wonderful ride down to an undiscovered gem – the walled medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois – experience the cobbled streets as did the French road cycling championships in 2008. Weʼll leave town in style riding the same route that the horses take each year for the ʻFête de la Bagueʼ, the second oldest horse race in Europe! The last few kilometres are along the canal towpath – just far enough to find Papillon and celebrate. Saturday - Transfer to Paris After breakfast, you’ll receive a transfer by minibus to your Paris hotel, train station or airport arriving during the traditional French lunch hour of 12 to 2pm.

Barge Cruise Reviews for Papillon

"One word: PERFECT! Would go again tomorrow! Will certainly fill in the review form shortly. but we had an absolutely blast. Could not have asked for a better trip! Thank you!" Ann J 2015

"Loved Burgundy! The barge, crew, excursions and canal were great! We loved the ambiance and the food." Nick G 2013

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Luxury French Barge Canal Cruise With a Difference

Cruise through the beautiful French countryside. Luxury barge cruises in France are a perfect vacation. The Grand Victoria feels like your own private yacht.

Food and Wine

Discover the authentic Burgundy experience with expert food and wine pairings from our professional chefs.

Accommodations

Our luxury en-suite staterooms will have you feeling like you’re floating on air.

Itineraries

From wine to jazz, we offer a range of memorable itineraries to cater to your every interest.

Luxury French Barge Canal Cruise | Cruises in France

Luxury Cruise in France

Whether you want an active adventure out in the picturesque French countryside, a relaxed cruise down the scenic waterways, or something in between, we’re ready to help you make the lasting memories of a lifetime on a luxury French barge cruise in France. This is the stuff of travel tales. We personalize every detail so your luxury cruise in France cruising down the canals and rivers a meditative calm descends. And the great thing is you’ll find it all when you hit the waterways of France. Any luxury French barge cruise on the canals of France has a certain allure but when heading out on the canals there's an additional dose of anticipation. Fill your days with endless options: Walk on canal paths. Borrow a bike. Make yourself at home. Explore boutique shops and bustling local markets, lunch at a local bistro while pampered by the owners themselves, tour the legendary Burgundian vineyards, and wineries dotting the countryside, and walk the ramparts of historic château in private tours, all possible to do during one of our French canal cruises. The Grand Victoria itineraries are designed to provide a cultural adventure, which our guide can adapt to meet individual interests because the most exciting places can fall flat without spontaneity. It is exceptional moments that make long-lasting memories.

An Inclusive Experience

We want the Grand Victoria to become your second home. We tailor our services to your personal wishes, and we attend to the details in the background, so the entire luxury yacht feels like it’s yours. Our all-inclusive luxury French barge cruise in France is packed with adventure and excitement; the result is a pure French fantasy! Discover the rich flavors and zest for local life barging on the canals and rivers of France. Stays are inclusive of all meals, fine wines, and spirits, as well as all activities and equipment. Join us, and we’ll help you create your own retreat. Bring a few friends or your family along on this French canal cruise for the adventure of a lifetime because a French barge vacation with us makes an impact with authentic experiences, new profound relationships, and cultural experiences. This unique journey offers exclusive and unforgettable interactions with locals. Life as you know it seems very far away!

The Setting

The Grand Victoria cruises the countryside of France. Explore boutique shops and bustling local markets, lunch at a local bistro while pampered by the owners themselves, tour the legendary Burgundian vineyards, and wineries dotting the countryside, and walk the ramparts of historic château in private tours, all possible to do during one of our French canal cruises. Burgundy is even more beautiful than the imagination. There’s a special flavor with a blend of culture and tradition. It’s in the Burgundy wine but it transcends everything. It’s in the graciousness of the people. It’s in the quaint villages speckled among the Burgundy vineyards. And you quickly learn that fine French wine is only where Burgundy’s story starts. On our river and canal cruise itineraries, you’ll take in some of the best destinations in France for wine lovers.

Explore Medieval France

There are hundreds of châteaux in France, many dating back to the Middle Ages. A region rich in history and culture, with beautiful architectural wonders, perfectly viewed from your own luxury French barge cruise. Burgundy was once home to the Dukes of Burgundy, rulers of a territory stretching across eastern France. The historic and modern capital of Burgundy is Dijon. Dijon has a historic city center, with old narrow streets, and houses built in the local pale honey-colored stone; of particular interest to visitors are the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, and the gothic Cathedral of Saint Bénigne. The region possesses a rich architecture including a religious heritage noted in the thousand-year-old Abbeys. Wine is the pride of Burgundy, which some of the most famous wines in the world. The Romans introduced grapes and the production of wine was mastered by local monks. Vineyards stretch from Dijon, along a narrow slope for some hundred kilometers, in the Côtes de Nuits and the Côtes de Beaune vineyard areas.

Barge Cruising

There are few things more luxurious and relaxing than embarking on a cruise through the beautiful waterways of France on a barge vacation. Whether you choose a river or barge cruise , you are in for a truly unforgettable experience. But what exactly is the difference between the two?

Alsace-Lorraine Rich History

Alsace-Lorraine is a region located in northeastern France that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Traveling to this unique region offers visitors a chance to experience a blend of German and French influences, stunning landscapes, and charming towns and villages.

Fragrance Brighten Moods and Mindfulness

Peacefulness Through Scent We’re often asked what skin care products we use on board the Grand Victoria. Awaken your senses with the fragrance found in our staterooms, which elevates the path to serenity. Grand Victoria cruises supports a local retailer in Dijon, France who specializes in selling Durance Provence France products.  We believe in supporting local businesses and building relationships that benefit our guests; not to mention our own business philosophy. Your French barge vacation is enhanced with every little detail.

Exploring France's Waterways on Luxury River & Canal Cruises

Embark on a luxurious journey through French River and Canal cruises, indulging in the finest French wines and cuisine without the crowds. When it comes to experiencing the beauty of France uniquely and luxuriously, nothing quite compares to the indulgence of a luxury river cruise.

Enjoy luxury accommodations

The Grand Victoria is the perfect barge to cruise through France in style

Shari and I can’t tell you how much we enjoyed our time with you, Cindy and with the other members of the crew. It seemed like the week flew by. We really enjoyed the pace of the whole week.

Dan & Shari

We really enjoyed the dual barging routes of cruising on the canals and then the amazingly beautiful Soane River. It was a delightful surprise for us, having only done canals before on our previous barge vacations.

Joan L - Virginia

Over the top...spectacular trip of a lifetime experience. The cabin accommodations were thoughtfully designed and well decorated. Exceptionally clean in all aspects. The very best part was the wine and food...

John & Deborah G

This was our first barge experience. Edward and Cindy were incredible hosts and their staff is exceptional. The accomdations on the barge are first class. The decor is beautiful. It is very obvious that attention was given to every detail and far exceeded our expectations.

Theresa H - New York

Classic burgundy wine cruise.

Explore quintessential Burgundy onboard the luxury hotel barge Grand Victoria. A relaxing river and canal cruise, that brings you intimately closer to the best of Burgundy, France. Tour the historic city of Dijon or the charming village of Beaune. Enjoy driving through the vineyards, and discover the true taste of Burgundy’s appellations, viticulture, and winemaking from the heart of the Côte d'Or. Onboard our gourmet meals and incredible wines await you at every meal.

Wine and Dine in Alsace-Lorraine

Nestled in the northeastern corner of France, the picturesque region of Alsace is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. A barge vacation stands out as an immersive and enchanting way to explore canals, vineyards, and charming villages. At the heart of this experience lies the captivating city of Strasbourg, where history, culture, and modernity seamlessly blend.

Culinary Cruise in France

Taste your way around France. A culinary tour in France is the perfect retreat to experience new recipes and cuisines. Grand Victoria Cruises is here to give you the best experience of classic French cuisine, visiting many of the most famous places to sample high-quality food and drink.  Get in touch with Grand Victoria Cruises for a culinary vacation in France today.

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DISCOVER the BEAUTY of FRANCE

As it was meant to be experienced....

Spend a week cruising centuries-old canals through the verdant fields and picturesque villages of provincial France. Savor the velvet texture of Camembert on a crusty baguette and the exquisite bouquet of a glass of vintage burgundy. Slowly and fully immerse yourself in a truly unique experience.

Sophisticated European travelers have long known the pleasures of touring France’s charming waterways by barge cruise. Now is your time to delight in this unequaled way of viewing the beauty of rural France.

BARGE TRAVEL IN BURGUNDY

Time seems to stand still as your barge slowly motors by quaint stone churches and well-kept houses,  periodically pausing at moss-covered locks, as it makes its leisurely way from one town to the next.  Catch up on your reading on deck, partake in a delicious gourmet meal from your private chef  or simply relax to the gentle sounds of water lapping against the hull. Delight in the peaceful  sensation that comes with unplugging yourself from the 24/7 world on your luxury barge cruise.

CRUISING the CANAL de BOURGOGNE

The Canal de Bourgogne connects the Yonne at Migennes with the Saône at Saint-Jean-de-Losne. The canal is 242 km (150 mi) long, with 189 locks. Construction began on the canal in 1775 and wasn’t fully completed until 1832. Its peak level is at Pouilly-en-Auxois, which lies 378 meters above sea level, where the canal passes through a tunnel 3.3 km long.

The canal is a quiet and narrow tree-lined route that gently winds through rolling wooded hills, scenic rural countryside, and fields full of chickpeas, wheat and mustard seed. The occasional cow or horse is easy to see while cruising along.

The canal’s 189 locks are run by the French Canal Authority, the VNF, and its lock keepers in much the same way as they have for the past 250 years. The locks are manually opened and closed and the time spent in the lock is a wonderful opportunity to jump off the barge to take a leisurely bike or stroll along the canal. Not to worry, if you walk ahead of the barge, you will find that it will catch up with you at the next lock. Once the lock keepers have finished closing the lock they will hop on their moped or scooter and buzz past you on their way to the next lock a mile or so ahead and the whole process will be repeated.

Each lock has a charming lock keeper’s house and perhaps a friendly dog or duck. In times past these buildings would be home to each lock’s keeper. Today they are privately occupied and some appear as works of art with delightful gardens, painted gnomes and the occasional quirky sculpture.

Come join us and step back in time along the Burgundy canal.