Boating Holidays in Burgundy Franche-Comté

Holidays in Bourgogne Franché-Comte

A network of rivers and canals criss-cross the Burgundy countryside - one of France's richest and most gastronomically developed regions. A generous natural richness with lush orchards and grazing Charolais cattle alternate with ancient cities where beautiful rooftops of glazed tiles reflect the region's historical heritage.

The river Saône winds from the north - in these parts its called Petit Saone - past villages of Gallic origin to St. Jean de Losne, a focal point for riverboating history. Further south, the river runs through a broad valley to Châlon-sur-Saône with beautiful architecture. The river Doubs is partially channelled and runs east to the beautifully situated Dôle and the fortress-city of Besancon.

Famous wineries and endless slopes with grapevines cover the wine-route between Dijon and Macon. Only half an hours drive from the inland areas, and you're in the middle of the goodies. The pearl of all - the city of Beaune with the mosaic-plated roofs, the pompous poor peoples' hospital Hôtel Dieu and the wine museum - should be visited.

The region annually produces more than 150 million bottles of the precious wines from areas of Côte de Nuit, Côte de Beaune and Côte Chalonnaise. Visit Château de Meursault and its more than 2,000 barrels, stored in underground cellars from the 14th-16th century. Many wineries have an open house with sample tastings and sales.

Cruising Advice

• Sail from one of our 7 bases - round trip or one-way voyage.
• Saône river invites placid sailing.
• The river Doubs (Canal du Rhône au Rhin) between Dôle and Montbéliard, is not recommended for first-time sailors.