The base of Briare is situated at the crossroads of a waterway route which is rich in historic and gastronomic towns and villages.The Canal de Briare is the oldest canal in the world since it was built under Henry IV. The spectacular locks at Rogny are no longer in use but they are worth having a look at. You cruise through wooded countryside punctuated by lakes; la Puisaye, dear to the heart of the author Colette.

To the North of Briare, the Canal du Loing will lead you to the centre of Montargis where the canal follows waterside streets lined with half-timbered houses. You cruise next towards Nemours, its waters well-stocked with fish, then Ferrières, Château-Landon and Moret-sur- Loing, town of Sisley, the artist, which brings you into the heart of the Gâtinais region.

Travelling south from Briare the Canal Latéral à la Loire and the impressive Canal bridge of Briare, work of the engineer Eiffel, will take you over the Loire and lead you towards Sancerre then Apremont-sur-Allier, where the Chateau gardens are very fine, La Charité-sur-Loire andNevers with its rich heritage of the Dukes of Nevers.

Between Nivernais and Berry the region prides itself on its famous produce, such as the white wines of Sancerre and Pouilly-fumé which you savour with a little goat’s cheese, “bouchon” or Crottin de Chavignol, another speciality goat’s cheese made nearby. River fish, poultry from Bresse, Charolais beef, all from nearby areas, have given birth to a sophisticated cuisine which you will have the chance to enjoy all over the region. In 2010, this base is reserved for one-way cruises with Dompierre, Joigny and Corbigny departing on Saturday.

GPS :
N 47°38'29.54 E 02°43'56.57

STARTING OUT FORMALITIES :
Departure Days between 2and 6pm. 

BOARDING :
as soon as the boat is ready

LOCKS :
The locks on the Canal du Loing and the Canal de Briare are daily open from 9 to 12 am and from 1 to 7 pm. Closed on 1st May, 14th July and 1st November.

ACCESS :
By Motorway :
- A77 exit 20 Briare, direction city center (centre ville), turn right at the Enamel museum, after 200 m turn left.

By Rail :
- Train station at Briare (500 m)

By Air :
Paris-Orly Airport (150 km)