Bourg-le-Comte is situated at an elevated position above the canal and the Loire. The large drop-height lock is a defining feature: it was built when the canal was upgraded to the Freycinet gauge towards the end of the 19th century, replacing two successive locks. Construction took place in two phases, in 1898 and 1899. The lock is described as one of the highest in France; its waterfall height is 7.19 metres, while it overcomes a difference in elevation of 11 metres.
Those who choose Bourg-le-Comte as a travel destination may wish to rent a holiday apartment.
Culture and history
In the centre of Bourg-le-Comte stands the Romanesque Church of Saint-Gervais. Its Romanesque nave was extended in modern times, followed by a choir bay, an apse and a Romanesque bell tower. In 2026, Saint-Gervais is open year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except during religious services.
The history of the local brickworks can also be seen in the townscape. A brickworks was established in Bourg-le-Comte because of the presence of the canal. A large brick chimney is the last remaining relic of this former brickworks.
In the vicinity of Bourg-le-Comte is Sainte Trinité de Anzy-le-Duc, a church. In the wider regional area are Château Saint Hugues, a château, the ruins of Château du Crozet, and Abbaye de la Bénissons-Dieu, a historic site.
Landscape and surroundings
The wider regional area also includes several landscape features described as mountains: Grands Rocs, Montmeugne, Bois de Pilossière and Haut de Gaillefaut. Each of these four places is located in the wider regional area of Bourg-le-Comte.
Water
The Canal de Roanne à Digoin can be explored by péniche or electric boat, as well as on foot or by bicycle along its towpath. On the canal bank is the Point d'amarrage de Bourg-le-Comte, a nautical mooring facility with an anchorage point.
