Luciole Blog

30th April – 6th May 2023

It was a different start to the week because in France, the 1st May is ‘May Day’ in France, when work is celebrated... by having the day off, so (nearly) everyone enjoys a bank holiday. Therefore, we cruised on Sunday evening on to the River Yonne and then on Monday afternoon, down to the lock of Garonne.

The tradition on May Day is to be presented with bouquets of Lily of the Valley, Vincent our Tour Guide honoured the tradition, before strolling with passengers round the Medieval town of Clamecy. We went up to the church and then watched a demonstration march of workers as they made their way through the town, many are (understandably) upset that the French pension age is to rise from 62 to 64 years, among other political reforms.

Hats off to passengers, Penny and Max, who took to bikes and despite slightly unfortunate situations, brushed themselves off and gallantly peddled on. Cycling the smooth towpath along the canal, is a lovely way to explore the Nivernais.