The Burgundy Canal by Bike

MONTBARD

Arrive at your leisure in Montbard. This charming little town nestled on the banks of the Burgundy Canal welcomes you for a delightful cultural stopover. Upon arrival, take the time to explore the Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Cistercian gem, surrounded by greenery, immerses you in a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. The serenity of the place contrasts with the excitement of the journey ahead. As you wander beneath the majestic vaults, you can feel the power of silence and the history that lingers within these centuries-old walls.

From MONTBARD to SEMUR-EN-AUXOIS 28km 150m

From the very first pedal strokes, you are carried away by the tranquility of the canal and the gentle lapping of the water against the banks. The greenway unfurls its ribbon through lush meadows, where only the lock keepers and a few passing barges disturb the peaceful atmosphere. Your pace settles in, smooth and natural.

Along the way, the Château de Lantilly invites you to take a well-deserved break in its idyllic 18th-century setting, allowing you to admire the elegance of this historic site. Once refreshed, your journey continues to Semur-en-Auxois. Explore this town on foot and immerse yourself in its medieval heart. The cobbled streets and half-timbered houses are a testament to its rich past. Take the time to lose yourself in this historic maze, uncovering its architectural treasures.

• For a few more km 50km 450m

  Continue along the Burgundy Canal to Alise-Sainte-Reine to visit the MuséoParc Alésia. In front of the imposing statue of Vercingetorix, you can immerse yourself in the history of the famous battle against Julius Caesar. After this historical immersion, the route climbs slightly towards Semur-en-Auxois. The terrain is more demanding, but the effort is amply rewarded by the spectacular view of the medieval town perched on its rocky promontory.

From SEMUR-EN-AUXOIS to VANDENESSE-EN-AUXOIS 45km 200m

The day begins under a clear sky, perfect for a cycling stage where the landscapes alternate between shaded forests and golden fields. After a few kilometers of pedaling, you reconnect with the Burgundy Canal. As you follow the peaceful flow of the water, the scenery unfolds around you, dotted with charming lock-keepers’ houses guiding your way toward Vandenesse-en-Auxois.

Riding along the canal, you reach the Château de Bussy-Rabutin, where its frescoes and historical anecdotes captivate you. After this cultural break, you get back on the road, enjoying the long, tree-lined stretches that provide welcome shade. As you approach Vandenesse-en-Auxois, the imposing silhouette of Châteauneuf Castle emerges on the horizon. The final climb to this hilltop village requires one last effort, but the reward is well worth it: a breathtaking panorama over the valley and the canal below. You relish the sunset, a soothing spectacle before a restful night.

• For a few more km 58km 600m

  via Commarin (with its stone palace on a mirror of water) and Chateauneuf en Auxois (listed village and fortified castle)

From VANDENESSE-EN-AUXOIS to DIJON 52km 150m

Lock after lock, the valley opens up towards Dijon. You pass through villages such as Plombières-lès-Dijon and Fleurey-sur-Ouche, where you can take breaks to explore their winding streets, visit historic churches, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature. A stop in Pont de Pany offers a final moment of rest before reaching the Burgundian capital.

Arriving in the “City of a Hundred Bell Towers” marks a transition—from the peaceful landscapes of the canal to Lake Kir and finally to the lively streets of Dijon. You wander between Place de la Libération and the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne before indulging in local specialties, from gingerbread to the famous Dijon mustard.

DIJON 45km 150m

Leaving Dijon, hop on your bike and follow the canal, where the calm, peaceful waters gently guide your journey. Moored barges add to the charming atmosphere along the way.

You then change direction and scenery, heading toward the great vineyards of Burgundy and the “Voie des Vignes,” which leads through the wine-producing villages of the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits. Along today’s route, take the time to visit the Clos de Vougeot, the historic heart of the Climats, as well as renowned Burgundy wine estates such as Chambolle-Musigny and Gevrey-Chambertin. This final stretch offers an immersive oenological experience, winding along small roads through villages bearing prestigious appellations.

• For a few more km 60km 400m

  This variant takes you as far as Nuits-Saint-Georges, the Mecca of Burgundy oenology. The ideal place for a gourmet break.

DIJON

End of your stay after breakfast. You can take advantage of the morning to stroll through the streets of Dijon. After several days in the saddle, enjoy the city’s morning ambiance with a coffee on a terrace, watching the lively activity of the covered market, where stalls overflow with local delicacies. A final walk through the historic alleys allows you to admire the elegant mansions and the city’s distinctive façades.