Touring Routes

Semur-en-Auxois to Fontenay

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l'Abbaye de Fontenay

In the nearby vicinity of Semur-en-Auxois there is a lot to see - too much in fact for one day. Two of the gems of Burgundy are here, l'Abbaye de Fontenay and Château de Bussy-Rabutin, both of which are open all year round, so this route is particularly good if you are travelling between November and the end of March.

Heading north from Semur, l'Abbaye de Fontenay lies north-east of Montbard. You can wander around at your leisure, soaking up the uncluttered architecture and surrounding grounds. One of the few places which doesn't shut at 'curfew', 12 noon lunch-time, it means that you can take a relaxed approach.

Château de Bussy-Rabutin

The Château de Bussy Rabutin is an easy drive through undulating countryside.
Here you will be transported back to the days of the court of Louis XIV, scandal and intrigue. This is one of the finest châteaux in Burgundy for sure.

The archaeological site of Alésia where supposedly Caesar overthrew Vercingetorix is within a stone's throw at Alise-Ste-Reine. From Mount Auxois, where the giant statue of the Gallic warrior stands, there are panoramic views over the valleys and the excavation site and museum can be visited.

Flavigny-sur-Ozerain is a charming medieval village for a quiet wander. Cobbled streets, geraniums and delightful architectural details catch the eye with some arts and crafts thrown in. You can take a stroll along the Canal de Bourgogne on the way back to Semur.

PLACES TO STAY

Relais Bernard Loiseau **** Saulieu

Hostellerie De La Tour d'Auxois *** Saulieu

Logis de France Le Relais Fleuri *** Avallon

Campanile ** Avallon