A 9.35-kilometre stretch of the Canal du Nivernais runs through the territory of Biches. The canal is an unmistakable landmark, but local themes extend further: cycling, the history of water engineering, nature watching and a festival in September offer different perspectives. If you are looking for a holiday rental in Biches, your personal interests can guide your choice: would you like to connect your stay more with the canal, cultural sites or nature?
By the canal: cycling and engineering history
The Schleusenwärterweg route runs alongside the Canal du Nivernais. It is flat, free of other motorised traffic and serves as a cycle path. Check local conditions before setting off. Another cycling option is the 26-kilometre circular route from Châtillon-en-Bazois to the Fleury lock. The 26 kilometres refer to the circular route; the 9.35 kilometres, by contrast, refer to the section of canal within the territory of Biches. The two figures help answer different questions: they indicate either the length of a cycling route or the extent of the canal within the commune.
The Fleury needle weir was built in 1837. It is one of the last twelve needle weirs on the Canal du Nivernais and one of 124 surviving needle weirs in France. The figures place the same structure in two contexts: within the canal and in comparison with the number of such structures in France. The weir is appreciated as a leisure spot by local residents and summer visitors. Its history and recreational use describe two different sides of the same structure.
The Église Saint-Victor is also a local cultural attraction: the church contains statues of Saint Victor and Saint Mauritius. Whereas the weir’s construction date and place within a particular type of structure are the main focus, the statues draw attention to two named saints.
A festival in September
The Fête de la Montouse combines a second-hand and flea market with producers, music, entertainment, light refreshments and drinks. It is scheduled for the second Sunday in September. If the festival is an important part of your plans, check the date and programme for the relevant edition before travelling.
Nature along the Aron and at Étang du Buron
The Fontaine de Chamont is located on the banks of the Aron. The spring feeds a washhouse, bringing together a natural source and a specific built feature. The Buxaie de la fontaine Chamont is listed in the ZNIEFF inventory because of its boxwood grove. A route of about 800 metres and a duration of 45 minutes are indicated for this boxwood grove. The combination of an approximate distance and a time estimate helps you gauge how long to allow for this nature spot.
Étang du Buron offers opportunities to observe a diverse range of wildlife and plant life at any time of year. It is also considered a fishing spot. These are two distinct reasons to visit: nature watching at any time of year and the fishing opportunities at Étang du Buron.
There is a clear difference when it comes to timing your trip: nature watching at Étang du Buron is possible at any time of year, while the Fête de la Montouse is scheduled for the second Sunday in September. If you are travelling specifically for the festival, check the details of the relevant edition in advance; nature watching is a more flexible, year-round option.
Discover more destinations: Corvol-D'embernard, Crux-La-Ville, Saint-Malo-En-Donziois, Colméry, Pouques-Lormes, Ruages, Pougues-Les-Eaux, Anlezy.
For the overview of the wider area: Nièvre.
