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Belvedere over Sancerre and the hillsides

Belvedere over Sancerre

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 viaduct that connects Saint-Germain-du-Puy and Cosne is quite impressive. When you pass underneath it along the greenway, you'll realize the scale of the construction.

Ideal for a short detour during a trip along the Loire. A friendly little village, especially if you want to taste wine: the choice is very wide and the quality is there.

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