Cycling from Ste. Sabine, France to Dijon, France
Getting
from Ste. Sabine to Dijon was a no brainer, following the Canal
de Bourgogne all the way, first on the D18,
then turning east on the
D33
joining the Ouche at Pont d'Ouche
up to the Pont-de-Pany, then continuing on the D905
and D101 for the final cruise into town. All
along the canal, vacationers were enjoying the warm, sunny weather and their slow progress
on the canal. As is often the case after a busted day, this was a short, easy ride
arriving with plenty of time to locate the hostel.
Approaching Dijon from the west along the canal, you pass a huge waterfront park with
many opportunities for the Dijonnais to recreate outdoors, and it's easy to get a sense of
their elevated civic pride. Coming into a larger town where you're going to spend the
night it's a good idea to be on the lookout for the first local bus stop. These often have
maps that will help you locate the hostel and generally get oriented. Or, on entering a
town, look for a large steel lit sign with plastic inserts with the words "Plan au Dos" (map on the other
side). It's rarely necessary to buy city maps if you can spot and use the public ones.
To find the hostel, follow the signs for Gray (it's a town to the east). You will soon
see signs for C.R.I., the Centre Recontres International, about 3 km from the center. It's
not just a hostel, but a meeting place for visitors from all over. Here you will find the
most excellent hospitality and cuisine, along with a lively bar after dark, and be at
liberty to experience wonderful Dijon.
28 miles today.