Canal de l'Est, canal in France

The Canal de l'Est is a canal in eastern France that links the Meuse and Moselle river valleys. It runs through wooded hills and open farmland, with a series of locks and small bridges along its course.

The Canal de l'Est was built in the 19th century to connect the north and south of France by water. It was later divided into two branches and remains an important link for inland navigation.

Along the canal, you can see old lock houses and small gardens tended by local residents. The waterway is still used by pleasure boats, and its banks are a favorite spot for walking and fishing.

The canal is best explored on foot or by bike along the towpath, which is mostly flat and easy to follow. Some sections are remote, so plan your route and carry water, especially in summer.

The canal has a tunnel at Saint-Maurice that is over 500 meters long, one of the longest on the French canal network. Boats pass through it, and walkers can follow a path over the hill above.