20의 수리앙보가지 명소 & 주요 장소

Cycle path on old railway line

Rivers and canals crisscross the country, the latter in particular being a crucial part of the transport infrastructure in earlier times. Later, first rail, and later again trucks, took over the task of transporting goods. In the competition between different modes of transport, they were faster and cheaper than barges – and thus more efficient. When building the artificial waterways, however, it had to be taken into account that differences in elevation always had to be overcome, and so locks are often lined up along the canals – at varying intervals, depending on the local situation. Only with their help was shipping possible.

It is presumably a former "chemin de halage" (in German "treidelpfad" or "leinpfad"), which runs alongside the canal's bed. In earlier times, such a path was an essential part of the transport infrastructure. Before ships could be powered by motors, horses walked along the bank, pulling the boat against the current. This was called "treideln" (pulling), and this is how the towpaths got their name, which has been passed down to this day. Where these paths, which run close to the bank, have been preserved, they are popular with hikers, walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

The trip along the canal is a meditation - at least as relaxing as one.

Beautiful place. Well maintained.

A must see...

If the Loire is a must for cycle tourism, we must not forget its lateral canal, which offers a more isolated setting. 196 kilometers long, it is perfectly equipped for bicycles on this section.

Former railway viaduct dating from 1893, on the line which linked Saint-Germain-du-Puy to Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire. The line was closed in 1966 and a road was built there instead. The view of Saint-Satur, Sancerre and the vineyards is worth a look.