Rhone–Rhine Canal, Navigation canal between Saône and Rhine rivers, France
The Rhone-Rhine Canal is a waterway in eastern France that links the Saône River near Saint-Symphorien with the Rhine River at Mulhouse. The system operates 112 locks to manage water levels and allows passage of vessels measuring up to about 39 meters long and 5 meters wide.
Construction began in 1784 under Napoleon's direction and the first section opened in 1833 to establish a north-south water route. Completing the entire system took decades because the work was technically demanding and required managing difficult terrain and water flow challenges.
The waterway shaped how local communities built their towns around trade and industry, influencing where factories and ports developed along its route.
The waterway is accessible for various activities, so choose appropriate gear and clothing based on the conditions you will encounter. Spring through early autumn offers the most stable weather and water levels for exploring the route.
After the A36 motorway was built, commercial shipping declined significantly and sections of the northern branch were converted into cycling paths. Today visitors can explore the abandoned infrastructure along these routes while understanding how transportation priorities shifted over time.
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