Drift down the Saône between flood meadows and the Mâconnais hills, or follow the meanders of the Seille: a canoe gives you a different view of the region, right at water level.
The Saône, a peaceful river
Julius Caesar described the Saône as so incredibly slow that the eye cannot tell which way its waters flow. Wide, shallow and steady, it lends itself well to canoe trips, with the vast flood meadow of the Saône valley on one side and the Mâconnais hillsides on the other. It is also a navigable waterway used by pleasure boats, so always keep an eye out for passing traffic.
Hiring a canoe in Tournus
On the Saône, the Tournus Canoë base on Quai Georges Bardin in Tournus is about twenty minutes’ drive from the campsite. It offers:
- canoe hire, with buoyancy aids and waterproof barrels provided, to paddle freely or on routes of 5 to 14 km, returning by bus or by bike along the Voie Bleue;
- half-day trips on the Saône from Tournus;
- a two-day trip with an overnight bivouac on the Seille (33 km);
- paddleboard, bike and rosalie (four-wheel pedal car) hire.
Options and availability change from season to season, so check directly with the base before you go.
The Seille, a more secret river
A tributary of the Saône, the Seille joins it at La Truchère, just north of Sermoyer. It winds between fields and copses where the famous Bresse chickens are raised, and its calm waters make for a lovely discovery. At Sermoyer, the Vieille Seille, a former meander cut off in 1814, adds to the charm. If you prefer dry land, the ‘Rendez-vous avec la Seille’ trail follows the river from the village.
Tips for a great trip
Being able to swim is strongly recommended, and buoyancy aids should stay fastened from start to finish. Take water, a hat, sun cream and a dry bag for your belongings. A picnic on the bank, a few herons in the distance, and the outing becomes a little adventure for the whole family.