Pouilly-en-Auxois is a small and picturesque town located in the heart of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, in the Côte-d'Or department. It is most famous for its strategic location on the Canal de Bourgogne (Burgundy Canal), representing a pivotal point for French inland navigation. Its most distinctive feature is the Pouilly Tunnel, an impressive masterpiece of hydraulic engineering. Our local experts describe it as an oasis of tranquility, perfect for a romantic stopover or a slow-paced boating experience among the vineyards and history.

What Our Local Guides Recommend Seeing: Canals and Historic Architecture

• Pouilly Tunnel (Tunnel de Pouilly) – The 3.3 km long canal tunnel, which can be crossed by boat, a memorable experience.
• Pouilly Port (Port de Pouilly) – The town's nerve center, ideal for admiring barges and renting a boat.
• La Ferme de la Chassagne – A place that offers a fascinating view of the surrounding countryside and typical Burgundian landscapes.
• La Grande Échelle Lock (Écluse de la Grande Échelle) – The imposing system of locks regulating the water level.

Gastronomy and What to Taste: Burgundian Tradition

• Bœuf Bourguignon – The classic beef stew cooked with Burgundy red wine, carrots, mushrooms, and onions.
• Escargots de Bourgogne – Snails prepared with butter, garlic, and parsley, a regional must-try.
• Burgundy Cheeses – You cannot leave the region without tasting Époisses or Cîteaux.
• Burgundy Wine (Bourgogne) – Although not a Premier Cru production area itself, it is a short distance from the famous Côte de Beaune.

Real Experience: Boating on the Canal

We highly recommend dedicating a day to renting a pénichette (small barge) to navigate a stretch of the Burgundy Canal. The crossing of the Pouilly Tunnel, guided by an electric tugboat (the only way to do it!), is a moment of pure engineering and historical wonder. Afterwards, have lunch at an authentic auberge (inn) along the canal to savor real Burgundian cuisine.

Top 3 Recommended Charme Accommodations

• Château de Chailly – Not far, a magnificent luxury castle-hotel with a golf course.
• Hostellerie du Val d'Or – Traditional charme hotel in the center of Pouilly, known for its hospitality.
• Auberge du Lac – A more rural property offering a quiet stay near the canal.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Hostellerie du Val d'Or – Boasts high-quality traditional Burgundian cuisine.
• Le Relais de Pouilly – Offers homemade cuisine and a convivial atmosphere.
• Le Port de Plaisance – Excellent for a light meal or an aperitif with a view of the canal.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Pouilly-en-Auxois
• Official Burgundy-Franche-Comté Tourism Website