The Canal Renaissance

Post-war France saw canals decline as commercial routes but reborn for leisure. The transformation began slowly—a few British and Dutch tourists discovering the abandoned waterways, entrepreneurs converting cargo barges to floating hotels, villages recognizing tourism potential in their industrial heritage.

This renaissance attracted new communities to canal regions. British retirees bought lock-keepers' houses, bringing sterling and stubborn enthusiasm for restoration. Dutch barge operators introduced their leisure cruising culture. Americans fascinated by European history established barge tour companies.

"When I arrived from California in 1985, people thought I was crazy," laughs Susan Patterson, who pioneered luxury barge cruises on the Burgundy canal. "The canals were derelict, locals saw them as industrial relics. Now they're the region's pride. We employ local crew, buy from local suppliers, introduce thousands to French culture. The canals connect more than waters—they connect economies."