Vermenton – The highlights of Burgundy

There are countless places along the way where we can stop off and visit the attractions. We shouldn't miss out on the chance to visit the Vézelay Abbey, which is 19 km from the mooring in Châtel-Censoir. The church of the monastery is a masterpiece of Burgundy and Romanesque art and architecture and is a listed UNESCO world heritage site. We call at the medieval town of Clamecy and visit the river travel museum. The Chablis vineyards are located a few kilometres west of the canal. We take home a bottle of one of the finest wines, for example a Chablis Grand Cru.

Excursions

Insider tip - Vézelay monastery

The monastery is located 19 km away from your landing stage in Châtel-Censoir. The church of the monastery is a masterpiece of Burgundy and Romanesque art and architecture and is a listed UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Waterways

The River Yonne

Your route northwards takes you from the Canal du Nivernais to the Yonne. The sources of this majestic river can be found in the Morvan regional nature park. The river is navigable from Auxerre to the confluence with the Seine at Montereau south-east of Paris.

Canal de Bourgogne

The Canal de Bourgogne is a historical waterway from the 18th century and connects the Yonne with the Saône near Dijon. Those seeking peace and quiet and seclusion should come here and see the unique Renaissance châteaux of Tanlay and Ancy-le-Franc.

Route suggestions for 1 week

	Navigation hours	Kilometres	Locks
Vermenton – Auxerre - Clamecy – Vermenton	35	128	66
Vermenton- Auxerre- Joigny -Vermenton	26	112	48
Vermenton- Clamecy- Tannay -Vermenton	32	124	60

Route suggestions for 2 weeks

	Navigation hours	Kilometres	Locks
Vermenton-Clamecy –Tannay- Baye and back	59	182	132
Vermenton-Auxerre-Migennes-St. Florentin, Ancy le Franc and back	63	742	110
Vermenton-Auxerre-Sens and back	36	180	60

Route suggestions for 3 or 4 weeks

3 or 4 weeks looping around the following waterways:	Navigation hours	Kilometres	Locks
Yonne, Canal du Loing, Briare, Loire, Nivernais	133	546	219
Vermenton, Clamecy, Corbigny, Baye, Châtillon, Decize, Nevers, Sancerre, Briare, Montargis, Montereau, Sens , Joigny, Auxerre-Vermenton

Attractions in southerly direction
- In amongst the water wheels, the old town of Clamecy juts out from a rocky promontory. In the narrow and winding alleyways, you will discover the charm of the Burgundian architecture and the specialities of the local cuisine.
- Surrounded by vineyards, the town of Tannay sits on top of a hill, overlooking the course of the Yonne. Due to the excellent location of the vineyards, a dry white wine with a magnificent flavour is produced here.
Attractions in northerly direction
- In the underground cellars (4 hectares) in Bailly, the renowned sparkling wine "Crémant de Bourgogne" is served. The cellars were created by quarrying stone blocks for the construction of the many castles.
- In Auxerre, enjoy the unique scenery from the boat with two impressive Gothic cathedrals. Directly from the port, the old town can be reached on foot, as well as the clock tower, which is well worth seeing.
- In Joigny, take a stroll through the narrow and winding alleyways and visit the Church of Saint-Jean.
- In Sens, Burgundy's most northerly town, is Saint-Etienne, one of the most notable early gothic cathedrals.
Nature

While heading south experience a picture-perfect landscape with gentle pastures and marvel at the cliffs of Saussois and the steep valley of Sardy. Whoever fancies a swim can gladly do so in the Yonne, which follows Nivernais canal at every turn. Experience bathing fun also in Etang de Baye (approx. 1 week's journey from Vermenton). Here you pass through the regional nature park of Morvan.
Culinary activities

Experience haute cuisine in well-known star-rated restaurants in Joigny and Sens. Or enjoy good regional cuisine in the restaurants along the canal.