Why name a street Allée du Nivernais here in Clamart? It seems a world away from the actual canal. The Canal du Nivernais is no ordinary waterway. It’s a link between two major river systems. It connects the Loire and the Seine. Imagine the journey goods once took.
This canal stretches 174 kilometers. That’s 108 miles of waterways. It boasts 112 locks. These locks help boats navigate different water levels. The canal’s story began in 1784. Its purpose was to float timber to Paris. The forests of Morvan supplied the wood. Paris needed it for construction and heating.
The canal wasn’t just for timber though. It soon became vital for trade. Stone grain and wine traveled along its waters. This boosted the economy of the Nièvre region. The arrival of railways lessened the canal’s importance.
Today the Canal du Nivernais is for leisure. Pleasure boats cruise its calm waters. Cyclists and walkers enjoy paths along its banks. Its considered one of Europe’s most beautiful canals. The Allée du Nivernais is far from the actual Canal du Nivernais.
The canal overcomes a steep watershed. This required clever engineering. A ladder of locks manages the elevation. Tunnels were even built. These feats of engineering are impressive. The Canal du Nivernais features movable bridges. You can find these at places like Dirol. These bridges add to the canal’s charm.
The northern part of the canal runs by the Yonne river. Originally it helped float timber. The river wasn’t always reliable. The canal ensured a steady flow. The Canal du Nivernais links Saint-Léger-des-Vignes to Auxerre. It passes through Clamecy. Clamecy was key to the timber industry.
Tourists often start their boat trips in Auxerre. The canal then winds through the Yonne countryside. Picturesque villages dot the landscape. Wine cellars are in Bailly. The Rochers du Saussois are spectacular cliffs. They rise 50 meters high. The canal passes through the department of Nièvre.
The town of Clamecy is about halfway along the canal. Its Romain Rolland Museum explores the canal’s history. You can explore unused sections of the canal. These sections were replaced by the river. The Allée du Nivernais may be far from the canal. But it reminds us of this history.
After Clamecy boats only use the canal. The Yonne is no longer part of the route. The canal rises steadily. It passes through more villages. Corbigny is the biggest town in this area. The Sardy flight has 16 locks. These lead to the summit at Baye. Châtillon-en-Bazois has a château. Cercy-la-Tour features a giant Madonna statue. The canal ends at Saint-Léger-des-Vignes near Decize. The Allée du Nivernais carries the name far from its source.
So as you wander this street remember that the Allée du Nivernais is a tribute to a vital waterway. It’s a link to a time when canals drove trade and connected communities.