From Charnay-les-Mâcon heading to the old train station in Cluny, the Greenway snakes its way for nearly 23 km through the homeland of the famous poet and statesman Lamartine.
Graced by natural backdrops dominated by the Solutré and Vergisson peaks and Mont-Pouilly, which have been nationally distinguished for their splendour, this section criss-crosses the vineyards and villages of the Mâconnais country where Lamartine evoked so many touching memories. The route features more pronounced elevation differences along with the unique opportunity to traverse the "Bois Clair" Tunnel.

The "Bois Clair" Tunnel:
Built at the end of the 19th century for the railroad, the "Bois Clair" Tunnel spans a linear distance of 1.6 km in the shape of a lancet arch; the structure is located in the middle of a hill bearing the same name that serves to separate the Clunisois country from the Mâconnais. The tunnel was used for mushroom storage following the cessation of rail service between Cluny and Mâcon. Its disuse over a long period of time provided a nesting ground for seven different species of bats, including the extremely rare "Grand Rinolphe".
Today, the tunnel has been upgraded and fitted with security features, all the while preserving the habitat of the bats, as a means of offering a complete link between Givry and Charnay-Les-Mâcon for all "Voie Verte" users.
"Bois Clair" holds the distinction of being the longest tunnel in Europe to accommodate a Greenway-type facility! Between 6 and 8 minutes of cycling time are required for its crossing, 6-10 minutes for roller skaters and 15-20 minutes for walkers. Horseback riders are advised against attempting a tunnel crossing. Warm clothing should be worn since midway through, the temperature inside the tunnel drops to 11°C.


The Bois Clair Tunnel has been the focus of a biotope protection measure for the purpose of saving the habitat of bats (information panels placed at the Tunnel entrances), which stipulates:
- tunnel closure during the winter months, between October 15 and March 31;
- interdiction to make any noise capable of disturbing the peace and quiet these animals require.


3 touring loops for the cyclist,
with various grades of difficulty, are all well-marked and associated with both the Greenway.


Awaiting discovery ...
From Cluny to Chalon-sur-Saône - 51 km
 From Chalon-sur-Saône to Digoin - 127 km
 From Digoin to Cronat - 59 km
 From Montchanin to Saint-Boil - 35 km
 From Santenay to Nolay - 9 km
 The Bleu Pathway ("Voie Bleue") - 33 km

 

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