Clamecy: Timber Rafting, Churches and Water

Clamecy combines the history of timber rafting with medieval lanes, church architecture and activities on the water. The Canal du Nivernais runs through the town. If you are looking for a hotel in Clamecy, you can plan your trip around your interests: heritage, guided tours, cycling routes or water activities each offer a different focus.

Timber Rafting and Architectural History

Explore the preserved medieval town through its half-timbered houses and narrow lanes. Timber rafting is also part of Clamecy’s history: the historic rafts could be up to 75 metres long. They travelled down the Yonne and then continued along the Seine. A look at the town thus leads from its lanes to an earlier transport tradition along two rivers.

At the Collégiale Saint-Martin, different forms of Gothic architecture meet. The nave, built from the 13th century onwards, is in the Burgundian Gothic style; the tower was built from 1497 to 1515 in the Flamboyant Gothic style. Since 1840, the church has been included on the first list of classified historic monuments.

Notre-Dame de Bethléem offers a different architectural accent: built in 1926 and 1927 in the Byzantine style, it was one of the first religious buildings made of reinforced concrete. Its nave has no central support. In 2005, the church received the “Patrimoine du XXe siècle” designation. As access may change during restoration work, it is best to check before planning a visit.

Activities on and by the Water

Canoë-Kayak Alain Colas offers canoe rentals as well as recreational canoeing and kayaking. Its offerings also include leisurely canoe trips on the Yonne through the Vaux d’Yonne. If you are planning an activity, check the current conditions and availability in advance.

The Base de loisirs de la Tambourinette rents canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards by the hour or by the day. The facility includes a gently sloping beach, bathing platforms and a diving board. Access and supervision may vary seasonally, and the available equipment may also change.

Those interested in rowing can join introductory sessions at the Aviron Club Nautique Clamecycois on Saturday and Sunday mornings. They are offered year-round in a Yolette, a boat for four rowers and a coxswain. Confirm the schedule and conditions in advance before planning your visit around a session.

Cycling Routes and Practical Information

Two moderately challenging routes differ in length and course: the 44-kilometre Circuit Mon oncle Benjamin starts at the port in the medieval town of Clamecy. The Circuit Clamecy Rix is 23.6 kilometres long, follows the Beuvron and passes near Château Vert. The stated distances and route descriptions can help you choose a ride to suit your planned distance. Check route conditions before setting off.

The Clamecy Tourist Office provides free secure boxes for storing bicycles. As availability may vary, it is advisable to enquire before using them.

Tours and Recurring Events

The 2026 programme of guided tours covers history, heritage, notable figures, architecture, nature and evening tours. Check the current schedule and tour content if you would like to include a guided tour in your trip.

The annual Tournoi de Joutes Nautiques takes place at Quai de Bethléem. It continues the tradition of nautical competitions and is connected with the town’s former timber rafting industry. Also held annually, on the first weekend of July, the Fête de l’andouillette pairs traditional andouillettes with concerts throughout the town centre. For both events, it is worth checking the latest dates and programmes before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Révérien, Blismes, Brassy, Anlezy, Fourchambault, Myennes, Colméry, Mars-Sur-Allier

For the broader travel overview: Nièvre.