In Champforgeuil, cycling is a natural part of everyday life. A few turns of the pedal and you're on your way to the banks of the Saône or the towpath of the Canal du Centre: a flat, car-free ribbon, perfect for a leisurely family stroll. The lapping of the water to your left, a lock that comes to life, a heron that takes flight... Slow down, breathe.

Want to push things a little further? Head for Chalon-sur-Saône, then branch off onto the Voie Verte de la Côte Chalonnaise. The scenery changes gently: low stone walls, Givry and Rully vineyards, washhouses, small shady squares. A 25 to 35 km loop offers a complete, accessible day out: market break in Chalon, picnic under the plane trees, return along the water. The more inquisitive can follow EuroVelo 6 for a longer escape, still on reassuring, signposted routes.