|
French canal holidays through the Burgundy region will allow you discover one of the most interesting, but paradoxically least well-known, parts of France. Defining Burgundy: A Political History This area of France sits to the south-east of Paris. Historically, it can be very difficult to define Burgundy, as the name was used to describe very different political entities at different times in history. The domains of the Dukes of Burgundy once stretched from Holland almost to the Mediterranean, and politically they were centred on a court in Dijon. Until the late 15th century, Burgundy’s position vis-à-vis the rest of France was complex and the Duchy was to all intents and purposes independent. By the end of the 1400s, though, the last Duke’s disastrous foreign policy and futile wars led to much of it being finally annexed by the rising power of France, and the Duchy itself was abolished. Burgundy’s Canals Throughout History Given the political history and the determination of the French court to establish real, as opposed to notional, control over its far-flung provinces, it’s not too surprising that both economics and politics played a part in the 17th century when the first plans for major canals in Burgundy were proposed. French canal holidays along the Canal de Bourgogne are traversing a route that, in parts, was first seriously proposed as early as 1605. The technology and a lack of funds didn’t permit the work to progress, but it was finally constructed between 1775 and 1832. Highlights Along the Canals Leisurely canal holidays here pass through some of the most tranquil countryside in France. The canal is roughly 150 miles long and its many nearby delights include the Chateau de Tanlay, said by many to be one of the prettiest in France. Other sightseeing from this canal on French canal holidays must include the Abbey de Fontenay, which was built in the 12th century and is one of the most complete and untouched in Europe. French canal holidays in Burgundy can also explore the Canal du Nivernais, which runs for just over 100 miles from Saint-Léger-des-Vignes to the town of Auxerre and which links the Seine and Loire basins. It was instrumental in the transport systems of the early to mid-19th century and today is another very popular route for pleasure cruising. If choosing this canal to explore Burgundy, Auxerre itself is well worth a visit due partly to its old town and partly to it being a major centre of Burgundian wine production! Other sights that can be gently taken in on a luxury canal cruise include the magnificent steep cliffs “Les Rochers du Saussois”, located at the charmingly-named Merry-sur-Yonne. The town of Clamecy is also well worth a visit for its quiet mediaeval charm, good wines and leisure facilities. Burgundy’s Canals in Modern Times As was the case elsewhere in Europe, from the mid-19th century, the economic and social unification functions of the canals became increasingly replaced by the growing railway networks. Their decline was further exacerbated in the 20th century by the developing road network and internal combustion engine. By the mid-20th century they had declined to picturesque irrelevance, but from then on their fortunes revived through their development as tourism arteries. Today, this region’s canals are used for French canal holidays on luxury barges. It’s an ideal way to see the countryside and relax while you’re doing so. Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury French canal holidays. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
Related Articles -
French, Canal, Holidays,
| 
