Waterways are a key focal point for travelers, whether it is just a way to get from A to B or to take in the scenery along a river or around a lake or to enjoy activities such as boating and sailing.
Inland waterways can be a good theme to base a holiday around. For example visiting castles in the Loire Valley, the Rhine valley or taking a cruise to interesting cities on the Danube or boating along the Erie Canal. They also define routes for popular hiking and cycling trails.
Lakes, as well as often offering beautiful scenery, provide opportunities for sailing and other water sport.
The seas offer possibilities for the more adventurous sailors and for diving and surfing or to relax on a cruise ship. While the coastline can be the focal point for coastal hiking trails or other beach activities.
The Loire Valley, between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes, is listed World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. The Loire, the longest and the last wild river in France, goes through 2 French regions and is one of the main tourist destinations in France. Three villages are listed as "most beautiful villages of France".
See also: Inland waterways in the United Kingdom
Hiring a narrow boat and travelling part of the extensive canals of England, Scotland and Wales is a great way to see the British country side and discover hidden gems in the towns and cities.
Over 500 miles of waterways, the Hudson river and the Erie Canal allowing you to travel from New York City to the Great Lakes .
North South connection with canals connecting the Mississippi River with the Great Lakes as well as the Missouri and Ohio Rivers.