Caves & Canals of Burgundy
CAVES & CANALS OF BURGUNDY CYCLING HOLIDAY
Make Burgundy your playground during this self-guided 7-day cycling holiday with our partner, Saddle Skedaddle . This gentle to moderate route takes you through historical town centres, past UNESCO world heritage sites and down stunning French waterways.All of your accommodation is included, as well as maps and a route plan for you to follow. Your luggage will be transported for you, too, so all you need to do is show up and check-in at each hotel along the route. Plus, your breakfast is included each morning, meaning you can carb up with delicious local delicacies for a day of cycling ahead, stopping for lunch and dinner as you choose.
Day 1 & 2
Day 1 – Arrival into Montbard: Arrive at your first hotel where you will be given your route notes and map. You will also have a welcome meeting which is likely to be held the following morning, depending on your arrival time.This gives you the chance to explore Montbard and the River Brenne which is sits upon.
Day 2 – Montbard to Tonnerre – 37 miles: Your local representative will meet you on the morning of the second day and will provide you with your bikes if you are hiring. You’ll be briefed on your itinerary and you can ask any last minute questions.From Montbard you’ll cycle along the Canal de Bourgogne, passing Ancy-le-Franc, a Renaissance castle built in the 17th century, as well as the Renaissance castle Tanlay. Your end destination is Tonnere. Explore the canals, as well as the Hotel Dieu, 13th century hospital and Church of Saint-Pierre.
Day 3,4 and 5
Day 3 – Tonnerre to Joigny – 34 miles: Rejoining the Canal de Bourgogne, cycle through attractive vineyards and countryside. You’ll reach Joigny, a quiant town on the banks of the River Yonne. This will be your stop for the night. Note the half-timbered establishments and pretty churches.
Day 4 – Joigny to Auxerre – 22 miles: You’ll cycle the 22 mile journey to Auxerre today, through more exquisite French landscapes. Auxerre is renowned for its beautiful setting, also on the River Yonne. It is a protected site with tall, high-timbered and gabled houses, a clock tower and cathedral.
Day 5 – Auxerre to Clamency – 40 miles: Follow the Canal Du Nivernais through stunning scenery to Clamecy. The canal was once an important transport system used to move wood from the Morvan Forest into Paris. Stop at the Caves de Bailly and take a look around, making sure to try some chilled Crémant de Bourgogne while you’re in the area.
Day 6 and 7
Day 6 – Clamency to Vézelay – 19 miles: Spend your last day cycling through charming villages on your route to the medieval town of Vézelay. This fortified commune was a major pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. It is home to the Sainte-Madeleine Basilica, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Day 7 – Transfer to Montbard and Depature: Your transfer to Montbard will be arranged for after breakfast, so you could even go for an early morning walk or cycle round the local area. The transfer can take you back to your car in Montbard or to the nearest train station.
