Clamecy brings together a history of timber rafting, medieval lanes, distinctive church architecture and activities on the water. The Canal du Nivernais runs through the town. The historic timber rafts from Clamecy could be up to 75 metres long and travelled down the Yonne and then the Seine. This history is also reflected in recurring events: the annual Tournoi de Joutes Nautiques at Quai de Bethléem continues the tradition of nautical competitions and is linked to the town’s former timber rafting.
A different focus is provided by the Fête de l’andouillette, held annually on the first weekend in July. It brings together traditional andouillettes and concerts throughout the town centre. The two events therefore differ in location and occasion: one centres on nautical competitions at the quay, the other on food and music. If you are planning a trip to attend an event, check the latest dates and programme.
Medieval lanes and two churches
The surviving medieval town can be explored through its half-timbered houses and narrow lanes. For a stroll around Clamecy, these streets offer a different perspective on the town from its grand religious buildings. The Collégiale Saint-Martin brings together several building phases: its nave was built from the 13th century onwards in Burgundian Gothic style, while its tower followed between 1497 and 1515 in Flamboyant Gothic style. The church has been listed among France’s classified monuments since 1840.
Notre-Dame de Bethléem offers a distinctly 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 designation “Patrimoine du XXe siècle”. Access may change during restoration work, so check before planning a visit.
Canoeing, kayaking and rowing
There are various options for activities on the water. Canoë-Kayak Alain Colas offers canoe hire as well as recreational canoeing and kayaking. These include leisurely canoe trips on the Yonne through the Vaux d’Yonne. The Base de loisirs de la Tambourinette rents canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards by the hour or by the day. It also has a gently sloping beach with bathing jetties and a diving board. Access and supervision may vary by season; you should also check equipment availability in advance.
Another option is the introductory sessions run by the Aviron Club Nautique Clamecycois. They take place all year round on Saturday and Sunday mornings and introduce participants to rowing in a Yolette, crewed by four rowers and a coxswain. This makes the activity different from a canoe trip or hiring a board. It is advisable to enquire in advance about current times and conditions.
Cycling routes and guided tours
The cycling routes also differ in length and course. The moderately difficult 44-kilometre Circuit Mon oncle Benjamin starts at the harbour in the medieval town of Clamecy. The moderately difficult Circuit Clamecy Rix is shorter at 23.6 kilometres, follows the Beuvron and passes near Château Vert. Check the conditions on each route before setting off. The Clamecy Tourist Office provides free secure bicycle boxes; enquire about current availability.
For those who prefer to explore the town with some thematic context, the 2026 programme of guided tours includes topics such as history, heritage, famous figures, architecture and nature, as well as evening tours. The specific date matters for planning: check the current tour schedule before arranging a visit.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Moussy, Lanty, Montaron, Toury-sur-Jour, Corbigny, Château-Chinon, Achun, Ouroux.
Back to the main travel overview: Nièvre.
