Chalon-sur-Saône / Louhans

This first stage of the Voie Bressane runs not far from the Saône River, first directing you along an urban greenway much loved by young locals on bikes and push-scooters, up to Ouroux-sur-Saône. Then, a bit after Saint Germain du Plain, where Saint Germain Tower draws your attention, the route leads you gently southeastwards, through woods and hedge-divided fields. A lovely stretch takes you on through the heart of the Bresse Bourguignonne via quiet country roads to just after Montret. Lastly, you join a greenway again, up to Louhans-Châteaurenaud, a town with a medieval heart to explore.

The route

Leaving Chalon-sur-Saône, follow signs for Saint-Marcel voie verte “La Bressane” to arrive at the start of the greenway, where you’ll find a car park with a picnic area and a marker indicating Kilometre O. 
You’ll see how small kilometre-markers have been put in place along the whole route.
Important: note that along the Voie Bressane, certain stretches of the greenway can be used by agricultural machinery; bear this in mind, noting that the portions concerned are signalled.

Don’t miss

Ouroux-sur-Saône: a discovery trail (sentier découverte), put in place to help you appreciate the natural riches of the area
St-Germain-du-Plain: Saint Germain Tower
Branges: the river port
Louhans-Châteaurenaud: the historic hospital (or Hôtel-Dieu) with its 17th-century apothecary, the arcaded Grande Rue, the Musée Histoire et Culture des Sourds (dedicated to the deaf), the medieval towers, St-Pierre Church with its colourful varnished roof tiles