River cruise rental Auxonne - 1 river cruise

Where the Saône Meets Napoleon's Footsteps

Nestled in the Côte-d'Or department of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, Auxonne sits at a fascinating crossroads where two historic French territories once converged. This fortified town on the left bank of the River Saône lies approximately 30 kilometres southeast of Dijon and 292 kilometres from Paris, making it an ideal gateway for barge river cruise enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of eastern France. With altitudes ranging between 181 and 211 metres, Auxonne enjoys a relatively stable position that has protected it from the major floods that occasionally sweep through the region.

The town's population of around 7,700 inhabitants maintains a vibrant community spirit, yet the pace of life remains delightfully unhurried. The Saône River, which borders the western edge of the commune, flows southward to eventually join the Rhône at Lyon, offering barge travellers a remarkable waterway that connects some of France's most treasured regions.

A Strategic Sentinel Through the Ages

Few towns can claim such a rich tapestry of military history as Auxonne. The settlement's origins trace back to around 870, when monks established a monastery nearby. Over centuries, fishermen's huts along the Saône grew into a prosperous town that became a prize for powerful rulers.

What makes Auxonne particularly compelling for history enthusiasts is its connection to Napoleon Bonaparte. The future emperor was stationed here as a young artillery lieutenant from 1788 to 1791, attending the Royal Artillery School and auditing classes that would later shape his military genius. During this formative period, he was tasked with suppressing a popular riot following news of the Storming of the Bastille on July 19, 1789. A bronze statue of the young Napoleon in his artillery uniform has graced the Place d'Armes since 1857, serving as a permanent reminder of this significant chapter in French history.

The town's fortifications tell another remarkable story. Built during the Thirty Years' War and later reworked by the famous military engineer Vauban in the 17th century, these defensive structures transformed Auxonne into an important stronghold. Vauban designed the impressive arsenal, consisting of vast wooden and brick hangars with colossal doors, and added barracks to the château in 1688. The original castle dates from the reign of Louis XI and remains the only one of the three great Burgundian châteaux (alongside those of Dijon and Beaune) still standing today.

Why Float Into Auxonne on Your Next Holiday

A barge river cruise to Auxonne offers an experience that simply cannot be replicated by other forms of travel. Here are compelling reasons to make this charming town your next river destination:

• Authentic Burgundian Atmosphere: Unlike the more tourist-heavy destinations, Auxonne maintains its genuine French character. Renaissance, Empire-style houses and half-timbered buildings illustrate how the town has evolved over centuries while preserving its soul.
• Strategic Location: Positioned at the boundary between historic Burgundy and Franche-Comté, Auxonne serves as an excellent base for exploring two distinct French regions with their unique culinary traditions, wines, and cultural heritage.
• Tranquil Waterways: The Saône River is one of the most attractive rivers in France. Wide, sleepy, and unhurried, it winds through countryside filled with wildlife, including herons and kites, while pale Charolais cattle come down to the waterside to drink.
• Rich Cultural Calendar: The town's annual carnival, with roots stretching back to medieval times, celebrates its 104th edition in 2026, offering visitors a chance to witness one of Burgundy's most colourful traditional festivities.

Planning Your Itinerary: Insider Knowledge

When embarking on a barge river cruise through Auxonne, timing and preparation can transform a good trip into an unforgettable one. The town sits along La Voie Bleue, a 700-kilometre national cycle route running from Luxembourg to Lyon. This means active travellers can easily combine their water-based adventure with cycling excursions along beautifully maintained towpaths.

The River Saône connects to the Burgundy Canal and the Rhine-Rhône Canal, offering cruisers remarkable flexibility in their route planning. From Auxonne, you can navigate toward Dijon, venture south toward Lyon, or explore the charming nearby town of Saint-Jean-de-Losne, which holds the distinction of being both the smallest town (36 hectares) and the largest inland port in France.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for barge cruising, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. March brings the famous Auxonne carnival, while summer months provide longer days for exploration. Keep in mind that the Wednesday morning market provides excellent opportunities to sample regional products and mingle with locals.

Architectural Treasures Worth Your Time

The Church of Notre-Dame stands as Auxonne's crowning architectural achievement. Built in the 13th and 14th centuries, this remarkable structure features a distinctive twisted bell tower with a spire culminating at 70 metres. For those willing to climb the 169 steps to the tower's summit, breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside await as reward.

The fortified gates offer another glimpse into Auxonne's strategic past. The town retains 23 towers, two small turrets, and four main gates oriented to the cardinal points. The 17th-century Porte Royale on the north side and the Porte de Comté on the east showcase different periods of construction, while the Tour du Signe along the Saône bears a salamander emblem symbolising King Francis I.

The City Hall, a former residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, adds yet another layer of historical significance to the town centre. Surrounding the beautiful Place d'Armes, charming picturesque houses create an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors back through centuries of French history.

Five Exclusive Experiences Beyond the Obvious

1. Trace Napoleon's Daily Life: Beyond the famous statue, seek out the barracks where the young lieutenant drew a sundial on the south façade that remains visible today. Visit the streets he walked, including the former home of François Laurent Pillon d'Arquebouville on what is now rue Carnot, where Napoleon was a regular dinner guest.
2. Visit Pesmes, A Hidden Gem: Just 16 kilometres away lies Pesmes, officially designated among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. This medieval settlement overlooking the River Ognon features fortified houses, a 12th-century Romanesque church, and old forges dating from 1660 that now host cultural events including theatre workshops and concerts.
3. Explore the Bargemen's Heritage at Saint-Jean-de-Losne: A short cruise away, this remarkable port town houses the Musée de la Batellerie (Bargemen's Museum) in one of the oldest houses in town, dating from the 15th century. The museum's three exhibition rooms reveal the fascinating history of inland navigation and the lives of French bargemen.
4. Cycle the Lesser-Known Section of La Voie Bleue: While many cyclists focus on the route's famous stretches, the section departing from Auxonne's fortifications takes you through quiet country roads and unspoilt natural landscapes. Stop at Vielverge or Soissons-sur-Nacey to discover local flora and fauna away from typical tourist circuits.
5. Attend the Carnival Queen's Ball: If your visit coincides with carnival season, seek out the traditional Saturday evening ball where the new Queen is elected to represent Auxonne at various regional events throughout the year, including festivals in Germany. This celebration has continued largely unchanged since 1937.

The Culinary and Wine Connection

Auxonne's position within Burgundy means travellers have access to some of France's most celebrated gastronomic traditions. The nearby vineyards of the Côte d'Or produce wines that have achieved legendary status worldwide. While cruising, you may encounter opportunities to sample local specialities that showcase the region's terroir.

The town's Wednesday market offers direct access to regional producers selling everything from aged cheeses to seasonal vegetables. This is where locals shop, making it an authentic window into daily Burgundian life that feels refreshingly unpretentious.

Practical Considerations for Your Journey

Auxonne is well-connected for those arriving to begin or end their barge cruise. The town has a train station on the Dijon-Vallorbe line, providing convenient access to the regional capital. Dijon itself offers connections to Paris via high-speed TGV trains.

For those driving, Auxonne sits approximately six hours from the channel ports of Calais or Dunkirk, making it accessible for UK travellers bringing their own vehicles. International visitors typically fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle or, for shorter transfers, Lyon Airport.

The town has been awarded one flower by the National Council of Towns and Villages in Bloom, reflecting its commitment to maintaining attractive public spaces and green areas. Large forests along the commune's western side provide pleasant walking opportunities, while the mix of urban heritage and surrounding farmland creates a varied landscape for exploration.

A Final Word for the Curious Traveller

Auxonne rewards those who take time to look beyond first impressions. This is not a polished tourist destination designed for quick visits. Instead, it offers the kind of authentic French experience that becomes increasingly rare in our connected world. The fortified walls that once defended against invading armies now shelter a community that maintains its traditions while welcoming visitors who appreciate genuine hospitality.

Book a barge river cruise now and let the gentle current of the Saône carry you toward an adventure where history comes alive at every mooring. Whether you spend your days exploring Napoleon's haunts, cycling along peaceful towpaths, or simply watching the world drift by from your deck, Auxonne promises a journey that lingers in memory long after you return home.