Towards the sources of the timber-floating route

A three-day hike starting from Bibracte, with no major difficulties apart from the length of the first stage. By observing the landscape and the place names, you’ll be transported back to the days of the timber raftsmen who used streams and then rivers to transport timber to Paris, via the Yonne and the Seine. A thriving industry that provided work for thousands of people in the Morvan from^{the 16th} century until 1926.

Photos

Stages of the route

This route needs several days, find the details below:

1. S
   

   Bibracte - Athez

   24.79 km 643 m 795 m

   First part of a three-day hike exploring the landscapes of the Southern Morvan. This first stage is long and difficult; it is possible to split it into two by staying overnight at “La Rivière” near Crot Morin. The Gorges de la Canche are a sensitive site classified as a Natura 2000 area; it is essential to preserve it and to be discreet. This magnificent site can only be accessed in good weather, never after a storm, snow or ice. A track allows you to bypass it if necessary.

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2. 2

   Athez - Châtelet

   18.03 km 385 m 349 m

   The second stage of this three-day hike, which is shorter and less steep. It leads from Athez to the Étang du Châtelet via the old Voie du Tacot railway line. The hike passes through Arleuf and the Théâtre des Bardiaux. From pond to pond, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the timber rafters.

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3. E

   Le Châtelet - Bibracte

   21.06 km 703 m 582 m

   Third stage of the hike Towards the sources of the timber-floating trade, this fairly challenging section takes you upstream along the rivers, to where the timber was stored at the ‘ports’ of the timber-floating trade, so far from the sea... While waiting for the great flood (caused by the release of water from the ponds), the timber was then set adrift and continued its journey, not without difficulties, to Clamecy where it was tied together into rafts. It then continued its journey unhurriedly towards Paris where it was sold.

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