Decize between the Loire, canals and history

Decize lies at the confluence of the Loire, the Aron, the Canal du Nivernais and the Canal latéral à la Loire. The town developed on an island in the Loire. This gives you two clearly defined themes to consider when planning your trip: the river and canal landscape, and the town’s history. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Decize, these themes can help you decide which aspects of the destination interest you most.

Waterways and the townscape

The four waterways shape Decize’s geographical setting. The Promenade des Halles offers a tangible link to the town’s history: planting began there in 1771, and since 1932 it has been listed in the Inventaire des Monuments Historiques. The promenade stretches for 985 metres. Its length and these two historical dates give the place a clear sense of time and scale.

The town’s position on an island in the Loire adds another perspective on the confluence. In Decize, the river landscape and the town’s history sit side by side: the waterways form the geographical setting, while buildings and named places bring individual chapters of the town’s history to life. A visit can therefore focus on both the distinctive location and the historic heritage.

Buildings and traces of history

Decize has preserved buildings dating from the 11th and 12th centuries, including the Couvent des Minimes and the Church of Saint-Aré. The church was built in the 11th century. Only the choir of the Romanesque building remains; it houses the crypt, built in the 7th century in honour of Saint-Aré. Here, a single building brings together different layers of history.

The Church of Saint-Aré is open to the public daily. The crypt is closed, but can be seen through an ironwork door. Guided tours of the church and crypt are available in summer and year-round for groups. Check the latest information on access and tours before your visit.

Another historical feature is the Échauguette. It crowns the corner of the western ravelin, built between 1593 and 1605. The Échauguette is accessible year-round and forms part of Decize’s historic walking tour. Here, too, it is advisable to check the latest access information before your visit.

Walking and cycling routes

The Greffier Barbicho historic walking tour takes in the town’s main monuments. The Escale Loire begins at the Decize Tourist Office and follows the Loire past the Promenade des Halles, Île de Caqueret and Port de Decize. This route can also be completed by bicycle. Another separate option for walkers is the interpretive trail along the Loire, with quiz questions and mini-games.

The routes differ mainly in their focus: the Greffier Barbicho is a historic tour devoted to the monuments, while the Escale Loire links named stops along the Loire and can also be explored by bicycle. The interpretive trail centres on quiz questions and mini-games. These differences can help you choose the right focus for exploring Decize.

Trips on the water

There are also different time options for exploring the waterways. From Port de la Jonction in Decize, Le Boat offers multi-day cruises on the Canal du Nivernais or the Canal latéral à la Loire. No prior experience or boating licence is required for these cruises. Bélisama offers a one-day nature outing on the canals around Decize, passing through locks and observing wildlife. Options range from a one-day outing to multi-day cruises. Availability and operating conditions may change, so check the latest information from the relevant provider before booking.

In summer, Stade nautique de Decize offers opportunities for swimming and canoeing. This adds seasonal activities to the boat trips. Check the latest operating information before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Lavault-De-Frétoy, Marigny-l'Église, Ternant, Saint-Hilaire-En-Morvan, Brassy, Colméry, Château-Chinon, Montambert.

For the overview of the wider area: Nièvre.