The rivers and canals of Burgundy make some of the best-known and most beautiful cruising in France, so consider working a trip into your schedule.

There are several possibilities: along the River Yonne between Auxerre and Montereau; along the Canal de Bourgogne between Joigny and Dijon; or along the exceptionally pretty (but popular) Canal du Nivernais between Auxerre and Décize. Boats are usually hired for one or two weeks, but it may be possible to arrange a shorter trip, especially out of high season. Locaboat Plaisance are recommendable: they operate excellent pénichettes out of Joigny (www.locaboat.com). If self-hire is out of the question, then a pleasure cruise lasting anything from an hour to a day may be the answer. For details of self-hire and excursion cruises see www.burgundy-tourisme.com.