Attractions and Places To See around La Collancelle - Top 16
Best attractions and places to see around La Collancelle include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and man-made structures. The region features the Nivernais canal with its notable lock system and the Yonne river. Visitors can explore a mix of natural areas and historical monuments.
Best attractions and places to see around La Collancelle
- The most popular attractions is Collancelle Locks, a lock water transport system. Here, 16 locks are found on a 3 km stretch of the…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
La Chapelle St Elymon
Highlight • Historical Site
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The beautiful little chapel on the banks of the Yonne in Chandelier, a hamlet of Epiry, was built for a hermit. It …
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Collancelle Locks
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Canal du Nivernais
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During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois.
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The Nivernais Canal
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During the harsh winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. Wood had to be transported from other forests, particularly from the Bazois.
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Town of Corbigny
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The Canal du Nivernais During the harsh winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. Wood had to be transported from other forests, particularly from the Bazois. To solve this problem, the construction of a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne was considered. Work began in 1784 with the boring of "La Montagne" at La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigable canal was planned. After 56 years of construction, the three tunnels were completed in 1840, and on March 15, 1841, the Nivernais Canal was officially opened. In the first four decades, the canal saw an increase in traffic, as it served as a means of transport for heavy loads such as stone, wood, and coal. With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the advent of the railway, the decline of navigation on the canal began. In the 1970s, political will and financial support were needed to promote river tourism, ecotourism, and cycling tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France, thanks to its gentle cruising.
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The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to build a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the drilling of "La Montagne" from La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official commissioning of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (especially stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France due to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
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At the beginning of the route the path is very overgrown, much overhanging greenery. At the hermit's chapel the road is closed. Attempts to cross the bridge are at your own risk. Caution is advised.
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Delicious food and extremely friendly staff!
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Nice brasserie, good prices and centrally located
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Nice little town, with some shops and restaurants
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Corbigny was once one of the first stops for pilgrims leaving Vézelay bound for Santiago de Compostela. The city center is full of shops and cafes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around La Collancelle?
Yes, La Collancelle offers several family-friendly options. The Collancelle Locks are a great place to watch boats and see the lock system in action, with a pleasant Voie Verte along the canal for walks. Baye Pond also features an interpretation trail around its perimeter, suitable for families to explore nature. The Town of Corbigny offers shops and cafes that are welcoming for families.
What kind of historical sites can I visit near La Collancelle?
The region is rich in history. You can visit La Chapelle St Elymon, a beautiful little chapel on the banks of the Yonne, known for its legends and historical significance. The Montreuillon Aqueduct is another impressive man-made monument, showcasing historical engineering.
What outdoor activities are popular around La Collancelle?
La Collancelle is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the "Baye Pond Loop" or explore the area on a mountain bike with routes such as "Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop". Cycling is also popular, with routes like "Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from La Collancelle". For more detailed routes, check out the guides for running, MTB, and cycling around La Collancelle.
Are there easy walking or hiking trails available?
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The Voie Verte along the Nivernais canal, near the Collancelle Locks, offers a pleasant and flat path. The interpretation trail around Baye Pond is also an easy and scenic walk. For running, the "Baye Pond Loop" is an easy route at just over 4.8 km.
Where can I find cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
The Town of Corbigny is a good option, offering cafes and restaurants. It's a small town with various shops and centrally located, making it convenient for a break or a meal after exploring nearby attractions.
What natural features can I explore in the area?
The region is characterized by its natural waterways. The Nivernais canal and the Yonne river are prominent features. Baye Pond is a significant natural monument, classified as a "Sensitive natural area," offering an interpretation trail to observe its ecology. The area around La Chapelle St Elymon also provides scenic views along the Yonne.
What is the best time of year to visit La Collancelle for outdoor activities?
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with milder temperatures ideal for walking, cycling, and exploring the historical sites. Summer is also popular, especially for activities along the canal and pond, though it can be warmer. Winter can be suitable for walks, but some routes might be less accessible depending on conditions.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth visiting?
While not widely advertised, the area around La Chapelle St Elymon, with its historical legends and tranquil setting on the Yonne, offers a unique and peaceful experience away from more frequented spots. The path at the base of the Montreuillon Aqueduct also provides a different perspective of this impressive structure.
Can I find circular walking routes around La Collancelle?
Yes, for those looking for circular routes, the interpretation trail around Baye Pond offers a complete loop. Additionally, many of the running and cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, such as the "Baye Pond Loop" for running, which can also be enjoyed as a walk.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in La Collancelle?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique engineering of the Collancelle Locks and the opportunity to watch boats navigate the canal. The natural beauty and tranquility of Baye Pond, with its interpretation trail, are also highly rated. The impressive scale of the Montreuillon Aqueduct and the charm of the Town of Corbigny are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Is there parking available for the main attractions?
Parking is generally available near the main attractions. For instance, you can access the Montreuillon Aqueduct from the village of Montreuil, where parking options exist. Areas around the Collancelle Locks and Baye Pond also typically have designated parking for visitors.
Are there any specific wildlife viewing opportunities?
Baye Pond, classified as a "Sensitive natural area," is an excellent spot for observing local wildlife, particularly birds and aquatic species. The interpretation trail around the pond is designed to help visitors appreciate the natural environment and its inhabitants. The Nivernais canal and Yonne river also support diverse ecosystems.
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