The Burgundy canal by bike: an ideal route for a family adventure
Looking for an outdoor vacation with your children, combining nature, heritage and safety? The Burgundy Canal by bike is one of the most beautiful cycling routes in France, perfect for a family holiday. Accessible, flat, lined with charming villages and châteaux, it takes you to the heart of peaceful, gourmet Burgundy.
Why choose the Burgundy canal for a family cycling trip?
A safe cycle route suitable for all
From Migennes to Dijon, there are 215 km of towpaths laid out as greenways or very quiet shared roads. The route is with virtually no change in altitude, making it ideal for children, even young ones, and for parents who want to pedal without stress.
Immerse yourself in authentic Burgundy
Castles, medieval villages, abbeys, gastronomy... Burgundy is a unique cultural playground. At every stop, you'll learn, marvel and taste. And in between visits, children can watch locks in action, wave at pleasure boats or take a dip in a river.
Itinerary identity card
- Total distance: 215 km (Migennes → Dijon)
- Recommended duration: 4 to 6 days
- Level: very easy
- Surfacing: greenway, towpath, small roads
- Access: TER trains with bike not dismantled from Paris or Lyon
Ideal stages for a family trip
Stage 1: Migennes → Tonnerre (via Saint-Florentin) (~45 km)
A gentle start from Migennes, 1h30 from Paris. First stop: Saint-Florentin, a pretty Burgundy town, before reaching Tonnerre, famous for its mysterious Fosse Dionne. Take this opportunity to explain to the kids what a karstic spring is!
Stage 2: Tonnerre → Montbard (~60 km)
A bucolic stage with several possible stops, including Ancy-le-Franc (its Renaissance château is a family favorite) and Buffon, known for its ancient forges. Arrive at Montbard, an ideal base with all services.
Stage 3: Montbard → Pouilly-en-Auxois (~60 km)
This section is a jewel! You can stop off at l'abbaye de Fontenay (UNESCO), cross Alésia, and visit the interactive museum that will fascinate young and old alike. Further on, the mysterious vault of Pouilly, the canal's long underground passage, will impress children.
Stage 4: Pouilly-en-Auxois → Dijon (~50 km)
Final stretch. We recommend stopping at Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, one of France's most beautiful villages. A beautiful climb on foot for a breathtaking view. Then a leisurely descent to Dijon, capital of the Dukes, accessible and lively.
Family activities along the canal
- 👀 Watch the locks: fascinating for all ages
- 🏰 Visit the castles: Ancy-le-Franc, Commarin, Châteauneuf
- 🎨 Interactive museums: Alésia, Maison Buffon
- 🍇 Gourmet break: cheese and gingerbread tasting
- 🚣♀️ Boat or canoe trip: on certain stretches of the canal
Family-friendly accommodation
Where to sleep?
- 🏕️ Family campsites: Saint-Florentin, Montbard, Pouilly
- 🛏️ Gîtes and B&Bs "Accueil Vélo"
- 🛶 Equipped lock houses (unique experience!)
Where to eat?
- Small village restaurants: simple, good menus
- Picnics by the canal or in the gardens of Fontenay
- Local markets to discover regional products
Practical tips to make your stay a success
- Download the "Balades en Bourgogne" app: ideal for following the route and finding good spots.
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially in summer.
- Prefer bikes with trailers or baby seats for the little ones.
- Alternate pedaling and visiting, to avoid children getting bored.
- Take binoculars with you: the canal is teeming with birds and wildlife.
In case of trouble: services and logistics
- 🔧 Bike repairs: several workshops along the canal
- 🚄 Return by train: direct line Dijon → Migennes (1h25, bikes accepted)
A family adventure that leaves its mark
The Burgundy Canal by bike is much more than a cycling itinerary. It's a rare opportunity to spend time together, away from screens, at nature's pace, between wonder and discovery. Your children will remember it for a long time.
