With your family or friends, follow the meandering Canal du Centre through stunning countryside, past quaint towns and picturesque villages to explore our beautiful region of Saône-et-Loire.
Life slows to a walking pace when cruising this navigable inland waterway that once thronged with commercial boats. Today, it is a perfect place to relax, gently stroll along miles of tranquil towpaths, enjoy the rural views ,the industrial-era heritage, observe a diverse natural wildlife or exert yourself with operating locks and old bridges.
Walking is one of the nicest ways to explore the canal du Centre, whether you fancy a ten-minute stroll or an ambitious all-day hike. Along the towpaths of this 200 years old waterway, you are guaranteed stunning canal-side scenery, luscious nature, traffic-free routes and inspiring views of the water.
Enjoy the sweetness of life along the canal du Centre and pass our regards to the fishermen, lock keepers and boat captains you’ll meet along the way !
The canal du centre provides endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, wildlife spotting, fishing, canoeing or boat holidays. For cycling enthusiasts, the EuroVelo 6 offers a lovely peaceful cycle route from St-Leger-sur-Dheune to Montchanin, often along the towpath, beside this tranquil stretch of waterway. A flat, easy, mainly off-route, ideal for families and children, it is one of France’s most enjoyable cycle route, with open views of superb landscape varying between rolling hills, sheltered woodland and farmland.
For boat lovers, there is no calmer and more relaxing way to unwind than cruising the canal du Centre on your own rented boat. A unique way to appreciate the flow of life on the water between Chalon and Digoin and embark on a journey of wonder.
In the heart of Montceau
You can tie up at local marinas such as the lovely harbour of Montceau-les-Mines or find quiet mooring spots in tiny villages as you meander along the canal.
Enjoy a walk in Génelard
To find out more about the crucial role of the canal in the development of Creusot-Montceau and explore centuries of history, stop at the interpretation trail of the Génelard trench.
