Bourgogne tourisme

Bourgogne 

in the mood for Yonne 

and you 

© Créations Cadran Solaire Getty Images - photo © T. Gauché 

Press kit 2013

Yonne 

In the mood for a week-end break 

and you 

© Idéal Production 

a tributary of the Seine 

Yonne inhabitants are known as "Icaunais", a bizarre fact that can only be explained 

through the evolution of language. Over the centuries, the river Yonne has changed its 

name many times. In Gallic times it was called the Autura and the Romans named it after 

the water goddess Icauna. In the 2 nd century, the river was known as the Deae Icauni, in 

the 9 th century the Icauna, in the 12 th century the Yona and in the 13 th century the Yconioe. 

Find out about local delicacies and restaurant recommendations 

Renaissance and medieval castles, unusual collections and must see tourist sites 

Ambling around pretty towns and France's most beautiful villages and towns rich in art and history 

Find out how the natural resources of stones, earth and water have influenced human life 

Whether on foot, horseback or by bike, experience the natural side of the Yonne 

Family friendly label, way-marked itineraries, online reservations, self guide walks with your iPhone ® 

Unmissable dates in the Yonne 

Maps, access, ... 

This press kit includes information, ideas 

for reports and articles and suggestions for 

visits. 

Sites or events flagged with the TV-Radio 

sign would be particularly suitable for a 

radio or television report. 

The Yonne Tourism Development Agency 

can also provide many royalty free visuals 

on request. 

© S. Wahl 

Out of the ordinary- 

My Favourites 

"I would like to share my favourite places, 

events and artisans with you and I also have 

suggestions for something different. These are 

flagged throughout these pages with the signs 

above. I hope you enjoy finding out about them" 

Stéphanie 

1 - 2, quai de la République - BP 30217 - 89003 Auxerre Cedex 

Tel. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 

presse@tourisme-yonne.com - www.tourisme-yonne.com/pro

Low relief found in Escolives-Sainte-Camille © JC Liger 

Yonne 

In the mood for local gastronomy and wines 

In case you had doubt, Chablis is in Yonne ! It won’t be long 

before you can associate a handful of typical, unpretentious 

and well-priced Burgundy wines with the best-known white 

wines in the world. 

As a classified notable taste site, Chablis is seen as the golden 

gate of the Burgundy region, primarily because its vineyards produce 

world famous white wines that have been recognized since the 

early Middle Ages. 

Around the town of Chablis, on approximately 5000 ha of vineyards 

(divided between 20 districts or communes), the Chardonnay 

grape reigns supreme. This variety is used in all the top white 

Burgundy wines and produces a dry wine with a golden green 

colour and a refined, mineral bouquet. Chablis is the perfect 

accompaniment for cured meats, fish, poultry and cheese. 

The oldest traces of wine growing in the Auxerre 

region can be referenced to a low-relief carving 

of a bunch of grapes, dating from the 2 nd Century, 

which was uncovered at an archaeological dig 

at Escolives-Sainte-Camille. Vineyards were 

planted extensively in the Yonne area because of the waterways which facilitated 

the transport of wines to Paris. Before the phylloxera crisis which ravaged almost 

all of France's vineyards at the end of the 19 th Century, the Yonne area was the 

largest wine growing region in France with 40,000 ha of vines. Today, one tenth 

of the surface area comes under the appellation controlée system with approximately 

6 200 ha for the Yonne area as a whole. 

In February 2012, Chablis became the fourth wine 

growing area in Burgundy to display this national label 

and thus raise the status of "wine tourism" in the town 

and surrounding area. More than 40 service providers, 

whether winegrowers, hoteliers, restaurant owners, historic sites, 

tourist offices or leisure providers now display the label’s 

"famous" green vine leaf. Representing values such as the art of 

living and the exchange of specialist information, this distinction 

gives the vineyards of Chablis a major competitive edge. 

The vineyards are classified vertically 

with 4 levels of “cru” : 

Chablis and its vineyards © S. Wahl 

. On the right bank of the river Serein, the 7 Chablis Grands Crus 

set up: Grenouilles, Vaudesir, Les Clos, Les Preuses, Bougros, Blanchot and 

Valmur. The Premier Cru vineyards are divided between the right bank and the 

left bank of the river. 

No other French wine region has affirmed its faith in geology to the extent it has here. The specific attributes 

of Chablis wines owe much to the soil the vines are planted on. The chalky layer, known as Kimmeridgian, 

was formed almost 150 million years ago and is identifiable by the presence of tiny fossilized shellfish. The 

spirit of Chablis wines is also very much forged by a climate of warm summers and crisp winters. 

5 signposted circuits for exploring the vineyards of the Yonne, through 60 different 

municipalities, such as Chablis, Auxerre, Tonnerre, Joigny and Vezelay. 

The L’Yonne à Pied ® topo guide has details of 11 themed walks exploring the 

wine growing regions of the Yonne department. 

Protecting vines with aspersion irrigation © J. Kélagopian 

Saint-Vincent Tournante of the Grand Auxerrois : an every two years wine 

festival in one of the wine villages of the Grand Auxerrois 

Saint-Vincent Tournante of the Chablisien: a wine festival which takes 

place every year, on the 1 st weekend in February 

Fleurs de Vigne in Auxerre and discovery of the Yonne wine route tour, 

every 2 years in May (next event in May 2014) 

Vitirando, hiking in a vineyard, every 2 years in May (next event 2013) 

Chablis wine festival in October 

Piliers Chablisiens confraternity © S. Wahl 

The grape harvest, the paulée 

(end of harvest meal), pruning 

(December), frost control 

using heaters and water 

sprinklers (April and May). 

Out of ordinary - 

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Yonne 


The name Grand Auxerrois applies to all the winegrowing areas in Yonne outside of Chablis. It covers 

approximately 1600 ha divided into four territories - the Auxerrois, the Tonnerrois, Joigny and Vezelay 

surroundings. The red wines in these areas are produced with the Pinot Noir grape and the white wines with 

Chardonnay. Saint-Bris is an exception, with its Sauvignon grape. 

© J. Kélagopian 

a red wine, exclusively produced on 180 ha located in Irancy, 

Cravant and Vincelottes. Made using pinot noir and sometimes combined 

with the césar grape, an ancient variety still grown at a few vineyards. 

, a white wine made with the Sauvignon grape, grown exclusively 

on 120 ha in Saint-Bris-le-Vineux and the neighboring districts. This wine 

is the exception in Burgundy because it is produced with a grape variety 

primarily found in the west of France. 

Every summer, from mid-June to mid- 

September, Bourgogne Tourisme organises 

"De tables en caves" and "Caves en 

tables" events in partnership with the 

Bureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de 

Bourgogne (B.I.V.B), the regional wine 

board. This event is an opportunity to 

meet restaurant owners and winegrowers, 

sharing their knowledge of the dishes and 

wines that enhance each other best. 

Le Village vigneron d'Irancy © J. Kélagopian 

: red, rosé and white wines from 250 ha of vineyards 

in the municipalities of Augy, Auxerre, Champs-sur-Yonne, Quenne, Saint-Bris- le- 

Vineux, Vaux and Vincelottes. 

: a range of red, rosé and white wines grown on 90 ha in 

Chitry-le-Fort. 

: red, rosé and white wines grown on 130 ha 

in Coulanges-la-Vineuse, Escolives-Sainte-Camille, Mouffy, Jussy, Val-de-Mercy 

and Migé. 

: red and rosé wines from the town of the same name (90 ha) at a stone’s throw from 

Tonnerre. In the 2006 wine year, a new appellation was created in Yonne, the Bourgogne Tonnerre, a white 

wine grown in Dannemoine, Épineuil, Tonnerre, Junay, Molosmes and Vézinnes. 

: red, rosé and white wines produced from the vineyards of Joigny which 

partially cover the hills rising up over the town (15 ha). 

Tharoiseau. 

: a white wine grown on approximately 80 ha in Vézelay, Asquins, Saint-Père and 

: this effervescent wine (150 ha) was created at the beginning of the 19 th century and 

has been sparkling away ever since. In 1975, the introduction of the Crémant de Bourgogne appellation 

heralded strict conditions of production, traditional know-how, precision and a high-quality wine making 

process. 

: a temple of Crémant de Bourgogne in a former 

underground stone quarry (tours, tastings, sales). 4 ha and 5 million of 

bottles. 

At the winegrowers’ place who have signed the "de Vignes en Caves" 

charter. www.vins-bourgogne.fr 

Caves Bailly-Lapierre © O. Maynard - S. Perche 


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Yonne 


pulled into its casing with a string, in 

accordance with the tradition, and available at Marc Colin's place, a butcher and delicatessen in Chablis. 

www.marccolin.com 

: a tart made with fromage frais from Puisaye. 

an original recipe from Puisaye, in which the poultry is steamed in a clay shell. 

a delicious traditional recipe in which the ham is cooked with shallots, tarragon 

and Chablis wine. 

the salmon may not have been caught in the river Yonne, but 

it is prepared here and smoked over beech scented with natural flavours. The 

result is outstanding ! www.leborvo.fr 


Chablis with Soumaintrain cheese © J. Kélagopian 

crunchy almond biscuits from the Depardieu bakery. 

: excellent chocolates in Auxerre, with a ganache stuffed with 

raisins rolled in violet sugar . 

created by mistake, these little dry biscuits go perfectly with a 

wine tasting (in moderation !). Available in Chablis at Monsieur Body place. 

pale ale, lager and wheat beers are served quite everywhere in 

the cafés and bars of the Yonne department. www.brasserie-larche.fr 

an organic, pure malt beer, keen to create a link between the 

traditional and the modern. www.brasseriedevezelay.com 

Not forgetting Burgundy truffles, the gougère (bite-size savoury choux pastry with cheese) 

oeufs en meurette (poached eggs in a red wine sauce), jambon persillé (potted ham with 

parsley), snails, asparagus, cherries, vine peaches , Charolais beef, apple juice and cider 

from the pays d’Othe, trout, wine (Chablis, Irancy, Saint-Bris, and all the Bourgogne 

appellations), ratafia liqueur, Crémant de Bourgogne, fruit liqueurs and eaux de vie. 

• Saint-Vincent Tournante wine festival in January and February 

• Toucy traditional fair, the Saturday of Palm Sunday weekend 

• Fleurs de Vigne in Auxerre and the discovery of the Yonne wine 

route tour every 2 years in May, alternating with Vitirando 

• Cherry Fair in Escolives-Sainte-Camille at the end of June 

• Organic products market in Vézelay, 1 st weekend in September 

• Chestnut Fair at Diges, 3 rd Saturday of October 

• Chablis Wine Festival in October 

• Truffle markets of Noyers-sur-Serein, in November 

• Burgundian Christmas market in Sens, mid-December 

• Festive market at the Caves Bailly-Lapierre, over the 3 

days before Christmas 

28 « Produits de la Ferme » producers, 2 

educational farms, 6 tourist farms, 1 equestrian 

farm, 1 farm campsite, 1 bed & breakfast farm. 

Members of the network regularly hold markets on 

their farms. 

• Monday and Saturday - Sens 

• Friday - Auxerre and Villeneuve-sur-Yonne 

• Saturday - Avallon, Joigny and Toucy 

• Sunday - Chablis 

The famous gougères © J. Kélagopian 

Toucy traditional fair © J.P Huot 


My favourites 


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Yonne 


_ 

© La Cuisine au Vin 

at Daniel-Etienne Defaix’s Restaurant, La Cuisine au Vin, in Chablis. A 

delightful wine cellar fitted out in a firmly contemporary style ! www.lacuisineauvin.fr 

at Quarre-les-Tombes, or more specifically at the hamlet of Les Lavaults where THE 

mushroom expert of the Yonne area presides, Francis Salamolard, chef and proprietor of the Auberge de 

l'Atre. www.auberge-de-latre.com 

try a change of era at La Beursaudière. Here, the waiting 

staff wear traditional dress without veering into the kitsch and local produce from the Morvan is served in a 

thousant and one different ways to the delight of your taste buds. Rooms at the hotel pay homage to the crafts 

of the past and are very tastefully decorated ! www.beursaudiere.com 

at le Pot d'Etain in L'Isle-sur-Serein. Daniel PECHERY, a VERY 

knowledgeable connoisseur has a wine list with almost 2000 names at his restaurant. He enjoys nothing more 

than sharing it with his clients, since his prices are significantly lower than other places. This is THE place to 

taste some of the fantastic vintages (in moderation of course) he has found from all four corners of France. 

www.potdetain.com 

: at Miyabi in Sens. There are just 

12 place settings at Patrick GAUTHIER’s tiny restaurant where Japanese flavours combine perfectly with 

classic dishes from French cuisine. The subtle and original blends and exquisite finesse of the food guarantee 

a delicious experience. www.miyabi.fr 

Jean-Michel LORAIN, La Côte Saint-Jacques in Joigny *** 

Marc MENEAU, L’Espérance in Vézelay ** 

Patrick GAUTHIER, La Madeleine in Sens ** 

Served at the tables 

of the Kings of 

France until the 

Renaissance, the 

Tuber Uncinatum, 

or Burgundy Truffle 

is today regaining 

its prestige. T 


© Le Borvo 

© La Côte Saint-Jacques - Jean-Michel Lorain © L'Espérance - Marc Meneau 

www.leborvo.fr 

The Borvo’s story starts in the 1970s. At this time, it was a small restaurant in Paris run by Daniel 

Raymond, who came from the south of Burgundy. In less than five months - 

a record ! - the restaurant earned a Michelin star. The address very quickly 

gained loyal clients and smoked salmon became a firm feature on the menu. 

Then came the day when renowned chef Gaston Lenôtre asked Daniel 

Raymond where this delicious salmon came from. "I smoke it here at Le 

Borvo" he replied. From this moment onwards, the orders increased and 

smoked salmon from Le Borvo was sold in prestigious stores such as Lenôtre, 

Fauchon and Hédiard. At the beginning of 1980, Daniel Raymond left the 

restaurant, which had become too small and moved to Chemilly-sur-Yonne. 

The atlantic salmon are delivered whole and then filleted, salted with dry 

salt, smoked over beech, matured and sliced either mechanically or by hand as the client chooses. 

with 

discussions and exhibitions. A number of 

local experts regularly raise the profile of 

these truffles, especially Jean-Luc Barnabet, 

who has been a restaurant owner in Auxerre 

for almost 30 years. 


My favourites 


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Yonne 


3, 4 and 5 star hotels, charming bed and 

breakfasts and other romantic hideaways... here 

are a few recommendations for a delightful stay 

in magical surroundings ! 

_ 

Today, the factory 

has been dismantled but care has been taken to 

preserve and incorporate a few special 

architectural features into facilities such as the 

swimming pool. www.lacimentelle.com 

Kitchen opening onto the breakfast room © La Cimentelle 

Cistercian monks built the 

Abbaye de Reigny by the 

side of the little river 

Cure, a tributary of 

Yonne, at a stone's throw 

from Vermenton. Today, 

the refectory, Dovecote 

and lay brothers’ 

buildings remain and after converting the 

property a few years ago, Louis-Marie and 

Beatrice Mauvais opened a bed and breakfast 

here. The result is a cosy bedrooms including 

one where Coco Chanel stayed the night ! 

www.abbayedereigny.com 

The home 

of Michel 

and 

Gwenaelle 

Laroche is a 

centre of 

excellence if 

ever there was one. They do not just make wine 

here, they have created a very different hotel. 

Imagine a bed and breakfast with welcoming 

rooms and a view over the vineyards. You will 

feel at home here in resolutely modern 

surroundings. www.larochehotel.fr 

Nathalie and Stephane Oudot decided to 

restore their family home, la Cimentelle - a 

beautiful townhouse next to a former cement 

works. 

© Abbaye de Reigny, Vermenton 

Hôtel du Vieux Moulin © G. Puech 

At the Hotel Le Maxime, make sure you reserve 

a room with a view over 

the river. Enjoy one of the 

finest panoramic views in 

the area and with the 

historic district of la Marine 

nearby, you will not be 

able to resist taking a stroll 

www.lemaxime.com 

© Hôtel Le Maxime 

Olivia and Nicolas Peron’s pretty village house, 

Le Charme Merry, is near the cliffs of Les Rochers 

du Saussois. The art deco design rooms are a 

pleasure to stay in, combining classic with 

contemporary and creativity with attention to 

details. www.lecharmemerry.com 

If there is one place to stay, is in the Esperance 

at Saint-Père-sous-Vézelay. Firstly to experience 

Marc Meneau’s outstanding cuisine, and then to 

enjoy a night in a 

sumptuous room 

and the delightful 

grounds surrounding 

the hotel. An 

opportunity to 

spend a wonderful 

night at the palace ! 

www.marc-meneau-esperance.com 

© L'Espèrance - Marc Meneau 


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Yonne 

in the mood for cultural discovery 

Castel of Saint-Fargeau © J. Kélagopian 

Craftsmen at work © Guédelon 2010 

Castel of 'Ancy-le-Franc © Paris Investir SAS 

Whether under construction or built centuries 

ago, the castles of Yonne can be visited during 

the day and some can also be seen by night ! So, 

follow your guide, the gates are open... 

40 workers are building a chateau in the middle 

of the forest, using 

techniques 

from the 13 th 

century. This is a 

25 years project. 

As well as the 

construction site, 

visitors can learn 

about the skills 

of the different 

craftsmen working 

on the castle, such as wood cutters, quarrymen, 

stonecutters, carpenters, rope makers, 

blacksmiths, carters and potters. 

www.guedelon.fr 

One of Burgundy's Renaissance jewels, designed 

by the Italian architect 

Serlio, this majestic Italian 

inspired palace 

holds some extraordinary 

treasures: sumptuous 

wall paintings, 

coffered ceilings and 

some outstanding marquetry 

wood work. Outside, the 50 ha of parkland 

are ideal for a walk. Visits (daytime and 

night-time) and visits-concerts from March to 

November. www.chateau-ancy.com 

Standing in the middle of the village, this imposing 

pink brick building with belfry-topped corner 

towers was rebuilt, extended and enhanced by its 

successive owners. The most famous of these 

owners were Jacques Coeur and Mademoiselle 

de Montpensier, known as la Grande Mademoiselle, 

but the chateau was also the family home 

of Académie Française member Jean d' Ormesson. 

Every summer, 80 horse riders and 800 

extra volunteers take part in a spectacular reenactment 

portraying the history of the place. 

The attics and timber work are also accessible to 

visitors - a magical discovery. 

www.chateau-de-st-fargeau.com 

This mysterious pentagonal 

chateau, built on five levels 

around a central well and an 

imposing spiral staircase, remains 

a true enigma of the 

Renaissance. Commissioned 

on the impulse of Antoine de 

Crussol, Duke of Uzès and 

Count of Tonnerre, the chateau 

was built in an architectural style that uses 

rays of light to an astonishing effect. It would 

appear that it has never been lived in, but, 

according to the legend, the fairy Melusine 

named this her home. Research has helped 

explain the architecture of the building, but the 

mysteries have not yet been removed. 

www.maulnes.fr 

The well of light, Maulnes © S. Wahl 

Chateau des Condé in Vallery (Renaissance - Sénonais), chateau of Tanlay (16 th - 17 th 

century, Tonnerois), chateau of Ratilly (13 th century, Puisaye), chateau of Druyes-les-Belles- 

Fontaines (12 th century, Forterre), chateau of Chastellux (11 th -15 th century, Avallonnais), 

chateau of Bazoches (Vauban's residence 12 th - 17 th , Avallonnais), chateau of Bontin (Yonne 

Centre), chateau of Chevillon (11 th - 16 th century, Puisaye), chateau of Béru (Tonnerrois), 

chateau of Plessis-Saint-Jean (Sénonais), chateau of Nuits-sur-Armançon (Tonnerrois)… 


My favourites 


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Yonne 


©N. Clairaux 

The main attraction of 

this abey has to be the 

venerable Carolingian 

crypts built around the 

tomb of Saint-Germain, 

and their extremely 

rare 9 th century 

frescoes. However, the 

ambitious restoration 

works that have taken 

place on the monastic buildings have brought a 

number of other rooms of interest back to life 

too. The pre-Romanesque narthex, demolished 

in the 19 th century has been the focus of archaeological 

digs since 1989. Together, this group of 

buildings helps us to understand more about 

fifteen centuries of history in Auxerre, as well as 

about spiritual and intellectual life in the West. 

The museum and abbey offer a full archaeological 

journey through history with three floors of 

exhibits from prehistory to the end of the Middle 

Ages. www.auxerre.culture.gouv.fr 

Around 1135, at a time when Romanesque 

buildings were being created 

everywhere, a new architect 

designed an extensive cathedral for 

Sens comprising a single continuous 

space with a central nave and two 

aisles. The design of the vaulting 

was revolutionary with its crossed 

diagonal ribs. Sens cathedral has 

preserved a collection of stainedglass 

windows which enable visitors 

to retrace the history of stained-glass from the 

13 th to the 19 th century. Its treasury, the richest in 

France holds a number of famous pieces such as 

tapestries, ancient fabrics, pieces of gold and 

silverwork, enamels and ivory. 

www.office-de-tourisme-sens.com 

Cathedral of Saint-Etienne ©Service Communication Ville de Sens © Ville d'Auxerre - Abbaye Saint-Germain 

This cathedral, of relatively modest proportions 

but very elegant, is a gothic architecture masterpiece 

of the 13 th century. It is the fifth church to 

be built on this exceptional urban site overlooking 

the River Yonne. All that remains of the 

original stone 12 th century Romanesque church, 

which was demolished to make way for this 

Gothic building, is the crypt and its apsidal 

chapel. The chapel is decorated with frescoes, 

including a very rare depiction of Christ on 

horseback dating from the end of the 11 th Century. 

www.cathedrale-auxerre.com 

A U.N.E.S.CO. World Heritage Site. 

For more than 30 

years, Vézelay has been 

the top tourist attraction 

in Yonne. The town's 

prosperity only lasted 

from the 10 th to the 13 th 

century, when hundreds 

of thousands of 

Saint-Marie-Madeleine basilica, Vézelay © Idéal Productions 

pilgrims, princes, kings, popes and saints came 

to worship the relics of St Mary Magdalene 

before leaving for Compostela or the Crusades. 

This has been enough however for Vézelay to 

earn a permanent place in the history of the 

West, and with its Basilica, to live on as an 

exceptionally high-quality example of the rise of 

Romanesque architecture in Burgundy. The 

Magdalene of Vézelay, is a building of impressive 

proportions with a sumptuous sculpted decor, 

but what is most striking to visitors is the 

extraordinary lighting. To really appreciate your 

visit of the Basilica, allow plenty of time. July 22 

is the date of the Mary Magdalene pilgrimage 

and in the summer there is a season of popular 

concerts as part of the “Rencontres Musicales de 

Vézelay” festival. www.vezelay.cef.fr 


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Yonne 


Founded by Marguerite de Bourgogne, this Hôtel-Dieu or hospital has a superb ward with astonishing timber 

work. The museum is in a building adjoining the main hall and has several areas divided into themes, such 

as the church in the hospital from the 12 th to the 19 th century and the founding of the Hôtel-Dieu. The 

gnomom, an astronomy instrument carved into the ground, and a very beautiful entombment of Christ should 

not be missed. www.tonnerre.fr 

Founded by the monks of Citeaux, the Abbey is one of the most 

beautiful examples of a Cistercian building to be seen in 

France, and it is also the largest. Its style is at a transition 

between the Romanesque and Gothic. The Abbey hosted three 

English bishops including Thomas Becket and still attracts many 

English pilgrims. Concerts are held every season and the Abbey 

can be visited by day or by night. abbayedepontigny.eu 

Cistercian monks built a number of buildings 

in Yonne including the priory of Vausse, 

with its delightful cloister, the Abbeys of 

Vauluisant, Quincy and Reigny, and the 

barns in Crécy and Beauvais. 

vausseanimations.canalblog.com 

The priory of Vausse © G. Bourras 

La Danse Macabre, La Ferté Loupière © J. Kélagopian 

Ciistercian abbey of Pontigny © J. Kélagopian 

The best way to see these historic places is to 

follow the Route des Granges et Abbayes 

Cisterciennes online at www.tourisme-yonne.com. These sites have an exceptionally rich cultural 

programme with exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and a host of events offering a different way to find 

out about this glorious heritage. 

Stained-glass Sens, Saint-Julien-du-Sault, Saint-Florentin 

Statues 

Villeneuve-l’Archevêque, Saint-Florentin 

Wall paintings Moutiers, Ronchères, La Ferté-Loupière, Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, Lindry 

Sculptures Montréal, Saint-Père-sous-Vézelay 

Fine furnishings Courlon, Montréal 

Fortified churches Chitry, Toucy 

Romanesque churches Vermenton, Avallon, Châtel-Censoir, Pontaubert, 

Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, Laroche-Saint-Cydroine, 

Ligny-le-Châtel, Escolives-Sainte-Camille, 

Chassignelles 

Gothic churches Noyers, Saint-Léger-Vauban, Aillant-sur-Tholon, Sens 

Renaissance churches Ligny-le-Châtel, Villeneuve-sur-Yonne, Brienon-sur- 

Armançon, Saint-Florentin 

Several churches have magnificent ochre wall 

paintings. Of particular note is a very rare danse 

macabre in the Church of La Ferté-Loupière. 

A tourist trail across La Puisaye is available. 

© Copyright Eglise romane St-Jean Baptiste 


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Yonne 


Musée Zervos © S. Wahl 

: 

exceptional Gallo-Roman and mediaeval archaeological collections. villedesens.free.fr/musee.htm 

: museum of prehistoric, Gallo-Roman and mediaeval archaeology and fine 

arts from the 16th to 20th Century. www.auxerre.culture.gouv.fr 

: impressive collections of national and regional earthenware, ancient 

stoneware and furniture. www.auxerre.com/vie_culturelle_musee_l_d.html 

: fossil collections, archaeological discoveries, fine arts, gold and silverwork 

from Jean Desprès. www.avallon-tourisme.fr 

: an impressive collection of naive and 

popular artworks, the history of the village and exhibitions. www.noyers-et-tourisme.com 

: the creation and history of the Puisaye, an 

important collection of earthenware from the time of the Revolution. mahdepuisaye.wordpress.com 

: an exhibition of the bequest Zervos made to the town in the 

former home of Romain Rolland; an astonishing modern art collection including works 

by Léger, Giacometti, Calder, Miro, Picasso, Victor Brauner, Helion and others. 

www.musee-zervos.fr 

: 

contemporary art exhibitions, the M’man Jeanne Museum of naive art and the Espace 

Fernand Rolland, Art library. www.cracdutremblay.fr 

: temporary exhibitions in this art centre in the outbuildings of the 

chateau of Tanlay and an information centre in Auxerre. www.centreartyonne.net 

: documents and artefacts pay 

testimony to the people who gradually came together to form the Bayard resistance 

network. www.joigny-tourisme.com 

© J. Desprès - S. Communication Ville Avallon 

: a very different art brut museum. TV-Radio www.fabuloserie.com 

: traditional trades and crafts, tools and popular childhood 

toys TV laduz.com 

: an exhibition of period clothing. TV-Radio www.avallon-tourisme.fr 

in Chamoux near Vézelay : an imaginary prehistoric park created by the sculptor Cardo. 

www.cardoland.com 

: old winegrowing tools and a collection of almost 

1500 corkscrews on display at the home of this enthusiastic winemaker. www.chablis-geoffroy.com 

La Fabuloserie © F.Manojlovic 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


: a pottery workshop and living museum in Moutiers (Puisaye). 

TV-Radio poterie-batisse.com 

: quarry tours explaining the 

stone extraction process, stone cutting courses, exhibitions of stonework 

created by the Compagnons du devoirs. TV-Radio www.carriere-aubigny.com 

: a history of sound recording 

techniques and an impressive collection of phonographs and radios. Radio 

www.aventureduson.fr 

Massangis : the history of stone quarries in Yonne 

(Tonnerrois). www.massangis.com 

, : the remains of the 

telegraph tower that connected Paris to Marseille. 

, : lithography and 

engraving techniques. Contemporary art exhibitions.TV-Radio www.la-metairie.fr 

Museum of Sound Discovery © A. Jux 

This network was set up in 2003 by the Yonne 

Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in partnership 

with Yonne Tourisme and the Union Departementale 

des Offices de Tourisme et Syndicats d’Initiative de 

l’Yonne. The network currently comprises a good 30 

businesses, which regularly open their doors to the 

public, from a very broad range of sectors such as 

state-of-the-art electronics, mineral extraction, 

printing, stone cutting and winegrowing. 

For more information: coeurdentreprises-89.com 

the enchanting atmosphere of a farm suspended in the past with a large 

collection of animals to delight both younger and older visitors. ferme-du-chateau.com 

© J.-C. Liger 

a site of national archaeological interest with caves and rock 

paintings. The second oldest cave paintings in France after Chauvet in Ardeche 

(33,000 BC), and the only ones open to visitors in France. www.grottes-arcy.net 

a fortified outpost on the Via Agrippa with an 

impressive curtain wall flanked by two circular towers. 

a sanctuary of Celtic 

tradition and an important Gallo-Roman thermal spa with its salt and mineral rich 

springs. www.saint-pere.fr 

: Gallo-Roman sculptures from the 2 nd century, foundations from 

a 13 th century thermal baths and a wall painting from the 2 nd century. www.societe-archeologiqueescolives.com 

Colette museum, Saint-Sauveur (Puisaye). www.centre-colette.fr 

Morvan ecomuseum – the home of Vauban in Saint-Léger-Vauban. www.vaubanecomusee.org 

Chateau of Bazoches (Avallonnais). www.chateau-bazoches.com 

The home of Jules Roy in Vézelay (Avallonnais). www.lyonne.com 

Zervos museum in Vézelay (Avallonnais) : there is a room dedicated to the works of 

Romain Rolland who lived in the house where the museum was created www.musee-zervos.fr 


My favourites 

© Centre d'Etudes Colette 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

In the mood for typical villages and towns 

Jardins de l'Orangerie à Sens ©Service parcs, jardins et espaces verts de Sens 

You might not be able to resist the idea of 

ambling around our picturesque villages, pretty 

town centres and delightful country roads. As you 

look around, hundreds of childhood memories 

might come back. Take your time and make the 

most of these moments ; the spirit of Yonne has 

got to you. 

is a mediaeval 

town with a population 

of 37,100 on the banks 

of the River Yonne. It is 

a recognised Ville d’Art 

et d’Histoire and Ville 

Fleurie. The town's 

pedestrianised area is the second-largest in 

Burgundy after Dijon and a stroll in the centre 

will reveal 700 listed timbered houses, a clock 

tower with a remarkable sundial, and some 

impressive churches. Auxerre is also known for 

its football team (AJ Auxerre, managed by Guy 

Roux). The panoramic view from the banks of the 

Yonne river is superb. This is a very pleasant 

departure point for a boat trip. 

To see : Saint-Germain 

museum (archaeological 

museum and exhibitions), 

Leblanc-Duvernoy museum 

(earthenware, tapestries, 

stoneware), the Saint-Etienne 

cathedral (stained glass, 

treasury and Romanesque 

crypt), the Saint-Germain 

abbey (Carolingian frescoes), 

the gardens of the Parc de 

l’Arbre Sec. 

Events : Fleurs de Vigne wine 

festival every two years in 

May, Garcon la note music 

festival in July and August. www.ot-auxerre.fr 

Clock Tower in Auxerre © J. Kélagopian 

Timbered buildings in Auxerre © P. Larrouture 

a 

recognised Ville 

Fleurie **** also 

stands on the 

banks of the 

Yonne river, one 

hour away from 

Paris. In the centre of the town, the very beautiful 

covered market, the mediaeval houses and the 

Jardins de l’Orangerie should not be missed. 

To see : the Sens museum and the cathedral 

treasury (second-largest treasury in France, with 

an archaeological museum and exhibitions), the 

Saint-Etienne cathedral (the top Gothic 

cathedral in France), the Parc du Moulin à Tan 

with its tropical hothouses. 

Events : the Fêtes de l’Ane, art festival in January, 

Saint-Fiacre festival in September... 


is a recognised Ville d’Art et d’Histoire, 

marked by the Renaissance. Standing on the 

slopes of a hill 

overlooking the 

Yonne river, where 

the Côte Saint- 

Jacques vineyards 

were brought back 

to life, the town has 

some beautiful 

houses with carved 

timber panels and some delightful streets and 

alleyways. A stroll around the market on a 

Saturday morning is highly recommended ! 

To see: the Jean de Joigny contemporary art 

space, the Maison du Bailli, the museum of 

Groupe Jovinien de Resistance Bayard 

(resistance museum), the Church of Saint-Jean 

(impressive sculptures). 

Events : Nuits Maillotines shows, night time arts 

and living history events throughout the summer. 

www.joigny-tourisme.com 

Maison du Bailly © I.M - Ville de Joigny 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


At the gateway to the 

Morvan Regional Park 

stands Avallon, a 

fortified mediaeval 

town built on a spur of 

granite, overlooking 

the valley of the River 

Cousin. 

To see : Avallonnais museum (archaeological 

collection, fine arts, room dedicated to the 

famous goldsmith Jean Desprès), Centre 

d'Exposition du Costume (an outstanding private 

collection of period clothing), the Church of 

Saint-Lazare for the luxuriant decoration of its 

doors. www.avallon-tourisme.fr 

built on 

the slopes of a hill 

overlooking the 

River Armançon 

and the Canal of 

Bourgogne, is the 

hometown of the 

Chevalier d’Eon. 

To see : The superb Hôtel-Dieu, an hospital 

founded in 1295 by Marguerite de Bourgogne, 

the Hôtel d’Uzès, (Renaissance) and the Fosse 

Dionne, a mysterious Karst spring converted into 

a wash house in the 18 th century. 

www.tourisme-tonnerre.fr 

a small welcoming town in the heart of 

a large wine growing area producing Chablis, 

the white Burgundy 

wine renowned and 

enjoyed throughout 

the world. 

The Fosse Dionne © G .Bourras 

Ramparts of Avallon © G .Bourras 

To visit : The church of Saint-Martinet with its 

horseshoe covered door; the wine cellars and 

winegrowing areas 

Events : Wine festival (4 th weekend of October), 

Saint-Vincent Tournante (February). 

www.chablis.net 

an 

important 

centre for the 

Christian 

faith in the 

Middle Ages 

(and a 

UNESCO 

World 

Heritage Site 

for more than 

30 years) was 

first a rallying 

point for the 

Crusades and then a point of departure on the 

pilgrimage route to Compostela. It is a delightful 

mediaeval village with pretty stone houses and a 

number of art galleries. 

To see : Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, 

Lapidaire museum, telling the story of Viollet le 

Duc’s works to restore the Basilica, home of 

Jules-Roy, Zervos museum set in Romain 

Rolland’s former home with an extraordinary 

collection of modern art works (Picasso, 

Giacometti, Brauner, Miro, Léger, Helion and 

Calder) 

Events : The Auxerre - Vézelay trek in April, 

Mary Magdalene pilgrimage on the 22 th of 

July, The Vézelay s'enflamme 

light and sound shows and the 

Rencontres Musicales 

concerts in August. 

www.vezelaytourisme.com 

Aerial view of Vézelay © S. Wahl 

Noël gate of Chablis© S. Wahl 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


© Les Amis du Château de Druyes 

a fortified 

mediaeval town, is 

a holder of the Plus 

Beaux Villages de 

France award. 

Narrow street of Noyers-sur-Serein ©B. Nastorg 

To see : timbered 

houses, cobbled 

streets with 

picturesque names, 

the museum of 

naive and popular 

art, the site of the 

old castle and an 

attractive Gothic 

church. 

Events : Rencontres 

Musicales de Noyers, a festival of classical music 

and vocal arts (between July and November) 

Vallées et Veillées music festival in August, the 

Gargouillosium, a 3 day event in August where 

stonecutters come together to create gargoyles 

and truffle markets in November. 

www.noyers-et-tourisme.com 

is overlooked by 

the imposing ruins of a 

square shaped fortress 

built in the 12 th century 

as a castle for the Counts 

of Auxerre and Nevers. 

The town is the birthplace 

of the engineer Jean 

Bertin, who invented the aerotrain. 

To see : The very pretty wash house, the springs 

of la Druyes and the castle. 

www.chateau-de-druyes.com 

To see : La Tour 

Sarrazine, an 11 th 

century donjon next to the Colette museum. 

Events : pottery fair, every year on the third 

Sunday of July. www.saint-sauveur-en-puisaye.fr 

a delightful village in the Puisaye 

area, boasts an unusual 

museum of sound 

discovery and a superb 

pink brick chateau. At a 

stone's throw from the 

village, nature lovers 

will enjoy the Bourdon 

lake and the Boutissaint 

natural park. 

Events : historical reenactment shows around 

the chateau, every weekend in July and August. 

www.ot-saintfargeau89.fr 

is a perfectly 

preserved mediaeval 

village. The ramparts still 

partially enclose the village 

and its two gates are a 

reminder that Montréal 

was once fortified. There 

are many old houses to 

admire and a very 

beautiful Romanesque 

collegiate church from the 

12 th century with ornate 

furnishings. 

Events : Concerts, exhibitions and Montréal en 

Lumière, a living history festival in the summer 

www.montreal-en-bourgogne.com 

Colette Museum © E. Ledroit 

Saint-Fargeau Castle © J. Kélagopian 

Fortified gates of Montreal © Commune de Montréal 

is this typical village of 

the Puisaye area and birthplace of the writer 

Colette. A very fine museum has been dedicated 

to her in the rooms of the chateau. 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

In the mood for natural and handmade heritage 

In the past, the river Yonne was a main transport route, facilitating a thriving trade with 

Paris. Firewood, stones for construction, and wines were the main materials 

transported by water to the capital. Pure ochre from the Puisaye region also made its 

way across the borders of our country to Russia where it was used to colour isbas. 

Underground quarries of Aubigny© J. Kélagopian 

Building stones are one of the main products to have been exported from the Burgundy region via the area's 

inland waterways. Stone from the quarries of Bailly (now the Bailly-Lapierre caves) near Auxerre was used for 

almost eight centuries and can be found in a number of buildings in Paris, such as the Hôtel de Ville, the 

Pantheon and the square in front of Notre-Dame. Stone from the astonishing quarries of Aubigny in Taingy, 

was used for almost 2000 years. 

To see : 

TV-Radio 

TV-Radio www.carriere-aubigny.com 

museum of quarrying in Massangis (Tonnerrois). 

www.massangis.com 

: Tonnerre (the mysterious Fosse Dionne), Ancy-le- 

Libre, Argenteuil-sur-Armançon, Chassignelles, Noyers-sur-Serein, Dissangis... 

: Ancy-le-Franc, Tanlay, Nuits-sur- 

Armançon, Maulnes… 

: Vézelay, Pontigny, Montréal, Saint-Père-sous-Vézelay… 

Sculptor Yvan Baudoin at work © Y. Baudoin 

For centuries, the Puisaye region was a main mining centre for ochre, a natural colouring with many uses, 

such as architecture, interior decoration, ceramics and cosmetics. This powdered gold was extracted by large 

industrial companies and exported throughout the world. Some astounding wall paintings in churches built 

between the 13 th and 19 th centuries show just how ochre could be used. 

To see : 

: extraction of clay, pure natural ochre, haematite and Puisaye sand. Discovery of the geological 

phenomenon behind the existence of ochre. 

12 sites in the Puisaye boasting a moving heritage: the Church of La Ferté-Loupière with its 

rare danse macabre, and the churches of Moutiers, Ronchères and Saint-Fargeau. 


My favourites 

Red and yellow ochre © J. Kélagopian 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

in the mood for natural and handmade heritage 

The Puisaye region has been synonymous with pottery since the 16 th century. Functional 

stoneware production began in the 16t h century to meet domestic needs such as storing 

food, cooking and preparing dairy foods. 

From then on, traditions, techniques and forms were passed down and certain pottery 

lines can be traced through to the 20 th century. At the end of the 19 th century, production gained a new lease 

of life when Carriès, the sculptor turned potter, moved to Saint-Amand-en-Puisaye. Today's industrial and 

artisanal production has been further enhanced by the creativity of the contemporary potters who have come 

to live in the area. 

To see : 

TV-Radio 

: extraction, production line, clay preparation 

: living workshop, the only remaining large kiln from the 

18 th century still in perfect working order in France, pottery shop. 

poterie-batisse.com 

, in Treigny. www.chateauderatilly.fr 

: end of July in Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye. 

(Tonnerrois). 

in Villiers-St-Benoît : art and history museum with an extensive ceramics 

collection. mahdepuisaye.wordpress.com 

: Galerie de l’ancienne poste in Toucy, the Ratilly Castle ... 


"Puisaye blue" pottery © J. Kélagopian 

Many different artisanal crafts connected to the earth can be found in Yonne. 

Visitors can learn about this area's many facets and the skills of the past at a 

number of different places. 

To see: 

: traditional crafts, popular childhood toys, 

wooden carousel, wooden horse workshop, clog maker, pottery and stoneware. 

laduz.com 

: Art and history museum with furniture, sculptures, 

stonework, ceramics and earthenware from the time of the Revolution. mahdepuisaye.wordpress.com 

: a former farm and watermill with old farming implements, furniture, an inn 

and a programme of events 

: stoneware and earthenware exhibition. 

www.auxerre.com/vie_culturelle_musee_l_d.html 

old winegrowing tools and a 

collection of corkscrews. www.chablis-geoffroy.com 

© Collection Humbert - Musée de Laduz 


My favourites 




Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

In the mood for naturewalks 

Whether walking along age-old tracks, riding on horseback through the 

woods of the Morvan, cycling along canal tow paths, suspended from a rope 

up in the trees or on the cliff face of the Rochers du Saussois, an action 

packed holiday is guaranteed ! 

Yonne has always been a crossing place for walkers. 2000 years ago, the 

Gallo Romans would take the famous Via Agrippa to travel from Lyon to 

Boulogne-sur-Mer. 1000 years later, pilgrims from the north and east of 

France travelled across the department on their way to Vézelay, one of the 

stage of pilgrimage route to Santagio de Compostela. Over the course of the centuries, many roads were 

opened up to walkers, riders and carts and carriages. Although these tracks have gradually lost their 

usefulness, they have been given a new lease of life thanks to the commitment of dozens of volunteers who 

mark out and maintain them for the enjoyment of an ever increasing public. 

The Eternal Hill of Vezelay © S. Wahl 

Cherry blossom © J. Kélagopian 

In spring in the Auxerrois area, the Cherry Blossom and flowering colza 

will light up a walk. 

During summer, the tree cover in the forest of the Morvan is very pleasant 

and the rivers offer a wonderful excuse for a swim. 

In autumn, after the grape harvests, a delicious walk through the 

vineyards, gleaning grapes that have finished ripening, is a must. 

is a 17 to 56 km walk, following in the footsteps of St-James, every year at the end of 

April 

will take place on the 2 nd of June 2013 for the third consecutive year, with circuits of 

varying distance around the Renaissance buildings of the Tonnerrois, Maulnes, Tanlay and Ancy-le-Franc. 

A calendar of organised walks is available on the FFRandonnée - Comité de l'Yonne website 

http://yonne.ffrandonnee.fr 

- Joigny, a recognised Ville d’Art et d’Histoire, with a stunning panorama over the River Yonne 

- Irancy, a pretty village nestled in a natural hollow planted with vines and cherry trees 

- Châtel-Censoir, a charming little village by the Canal of Nivernais not far from the cliffs of the 

Rochers du Saussois 

- Tonnerre, with the mysterious fosse Dionne and its astonishing Hôtel-Dieu 

- Sens with its rich architectural heritage 

- Arcy-sur-Cure with its cave paintings 

- Avallon - Vézelay, a walk through nature, climbing the "Eternal Hill", 

a UNESCO World Heritage Site 

- Auxerre, a town walk through a recognised Ville d’Art et d’Histoire 

- From Villeneuve-sur-Yonne to Saint-Julien-du-Sault, from one 

station to the other 

- Saint-Florentin, a walk along the towpath of the Burgundy Canal 

Take advantage of reduced rates with the TER Bourgogne Liberté travel card 

(allow 18.89 euros per person for one return ticket from Paris - Bercy, using this card) 

© Anes en Othe 

Children will love sharing a walk through the 

countryside of the Othe or the Puisaye areas 

with such a gentle companion ! 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


In the Yonne, travelling through the countryside on bicycle or mountain bike 

is a real pleasure. There are so many shaded and quiet cycle tracks, the 

scenery varies in different natural areas, and different levels of difficulty are catered for as well. 

Cycling along the canal du Nivernais © S. Wahl 

: 

Listen – the only sounds to break the silence are the murmurs of the rivers, Franck Pineau cycle ride. Open to everyone, this event 

the birdsong or perhaps the whisper of a heron taking flight. Feel a gentle aims to be accessible and family friendly. A number 

of rides, from 12 to 200 km and of varying degrees 

breeze and the natural coolness of canal water taking the edge off the 

of difficulty, are offered, some on the road and some 

summer heat. Follow the winding route of level and shaded paths which 

on cycle tracks. The only problem will be choosing 

were once used to tow commercial narrow boats. Left behind by the 

which one ! This event takes place every year in June. 

combustion engine, at the same time as the heavy horse was, these havens 

of tranquillity almost fell into oblivion. Fortunately however, the "fendeurs de brise" perched on their bicycles 

realised some time ago that amateur cycling equals tourism in its purest form. From then on, the idea caught 

on throughout the region and a 600 km cycling circuit along the canals and rivers of Burgundy was created 

forming a loop between Sens and Macon, from both east and west. The "flat country" cutting through the 

curves of the landscape is kind on the calf muscles while also providing opportunities for more adventurous 

cycling with so many other tracks and paths all around. If it takes your fancy you can also stop to explore the 

area’s fascinating heritage or enjoy a delicious meal. And for those who have not brought their own 

equipment, many places offer bicycle hire. So, let's go ! 

© H. Monnier 

With a reputation for its natural and sporting assets, 

the Morvan is this natural regional park in the south of 

Yonne, sharing its borders with the other administrative 

departements of the Burgundy region. The park is well 

known for its forests and hills and is popular with 

cyclists with many way marked tracks for either a gentle 

ride or a mountain bike descent. The 330 km long 

Grande Traversée du Morvan route starts from Avallon. 

Whether you enjoy walking, horse 

riding, mountain biking or fishing, 

you can now plan your holidays to 

suit your interests ! The Etap’loisirs 

scheme lists accommodation with facilities for specific 

activities, e.g. equipment storage, livery and stabling 

or nearby activities.To guarantee you the best service, 

each host has also signed a special charter. 

2 free leaflets are available along the canal, at local tourist information centres, tourist offices and at the 

Yonne Tourist Development Agency : 

- "A vélo le long du canal de Bourgogne" (the Burgundy Canal by bike) 

- "Canal du Nivernais : guide d'accueil touristique" (tourist guide) 

Another guide available for sale (9.90 euros), along the Canal of Nivernais is the 

"Guide Michelin - Canal du Nivernais à Vélo" (the Canal of Nivernais by bike) 

© B. Bertand - Cyclorail 

In the heart of Puisaye country, here is an 

original activity that young and old can 

enjoy together - a pedal powered train that 

can take a maximum of 6 people for a jaunt 

in the open air along a disused railway line. 

http://cyclorail.com/velorail-puisaye/lecyclorail-de-puisaye 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


There have been horses on the plains, hills and valleys in Yonne since time immemorial. This animal is no 

fool as the grass here is tender ! Humans and horses are also best friends here and together have formed 

pony clubs, riding stables, high-level equestrian centres and competitive riding clubs where visitors can come 

for a week, a day, an hour or a lifetime. Whether you prefer riding, driving or travelling in a horse-drawn 

carriage, there are opportunities for hacks and treks or regular lessons. 


In Yonne, the main places for canoeing are the fast flowing rivers of the Cure, the Cousin 

and the Chalaux in the Morvan, with all the thrills white water has to offer. You can also 

try rafting or river boarding. There are also canoeing opportunities on the Yonne rivers 

and the Armançon, calmer waters offering a more peaceful nautical experience 

surrounded by nature. There are many clubs where you can try, practice or perfect your 

canoeing, hire canoes or join in seasonal events or an accompanied trip. 

Canoe stop-off in Pierre-Perthuis © J. Kélagopian 


The Yonne departement can offer anglers exceptionally abundant fishing. With calm 

rivers, deeply embanked streams, ponds, fishing lakes, mixed-use waterways and 

canals, the options are infinitely varied. 

With practice areas, putting greens and pitch and putt, golf will soon hold no secrets ! Give yourself over to 

golf on these lush green lawns ! 

A number of companies offer quad bike rides. After a brief introductory 

session it’s off for a thrilling "accompanied trip" through the woods and 

fields of the Morvan. 

All the addresses you need for an active holiday in 

Yonne ! Available from Yonne Tourisme and at all 

tourist offices and information centres in Yonne. 

You can download it on www.tourisme-yonne.com 

Young and old visitors might enjoy taking a little trip aboard one of the delightful narrow gauge 

trains that cross the copses of the Puisaye and the forests around Avallon. It is like in the old days, 

when these “choo-choo” trains took our forefathers on extraordinary journeys a short distance 

from where they lived ! 


My favourites 

Puisaye-Forterre tourist train© TTPPF - AATY 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


5 high-ropes courses for children and adults have been created since 

2003. At 4 of these parks, zip wires, rope bridges and other 

challenges have been set up in the trees. The fifth park was created in a former stone quarry in the Avallonnais 

area. In this stunning space, the course takes you to a height of 15 metres. Under a stone overhang, the sight 

is magical. 

Champ-Retard caves in Dissangis© CDO Loisirs 

Whether you are in a hot air balloon above Vézelay, spotting 

archaeological sites from an aeroplane, in a microlight above the 

Puisaye, parachuting or paragliding, in a glider or, for the less 

adventurous, operating a model aeroplane, the view over the department 

from the sky is magnificent and will give you a lasting memory. 

TV-Radio 

Without so much as a jolt or a gust of wind watch as the 

ground moves away. Fly over Vézelay and the surrounding 

countryside, as if in a dream, following the whims of the 

wind. And afterwards, in the middle of the field where you 

land, enjoy a glass of wine. An excellent idea for a romantic 

weekend, to celebrate a birthday or for any other special 

occasion. 

Hot air balloon flight over Vezelay © France Montgolfière 

The roof of the Basilica Saint-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay © S. Wahl 

High ropes course in the Bois de la Folie in Puisaye© Nature Adventure 

For the first time in the Yonne, a night-time race is organized, through the countryside in the north of the department 

crossing through our beautiful valleys. 

Leaving from Sens on the 

, get ready to welcome the trail runners who will be venturing along 

courses of between 35 and 110 km, as individuals or teams. 

This is also an opportunity to take part in the events organised in villages involved in the race throughout the night, to 

celebrate the occasion and make a stopover in Yonne. Not to be missed for any reason ! 

All information at www.thetrail.fr 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


In Yonne there is water everywhere ; and with three canals, rivers, streams, 

ponds and lakes, there are many opportunities to try a wide range of 

activities. For more than 20 years now, river tourism has been extensively 

developed on Burgundy's once abandoned inland waterways. Travelling on 

a narrow boat as a family or with friends is a very unusual way to see the Yonne’s different tourist attractions, 

gliding through the middle of the countryside, with only the lapping water and the odd heron for company. 

Activities such as cycling and walking, canoeing and fishing can be easily combined with this type of holiday. 

Going through a lock on the Canal du Nivernais © S. Wahl 

This canal passes the non-navigable parts in Yonne. Its main asset is its extensive 

and restful natural surroundings. Winding from Auxerre to Décize where it meets the 

lateral Canal of the Loire, the Nivernais is 174 km long (with 56 km in the Yonne) 

and has 110 locks. Today, this historic piece has moved into the digital age and 

navigation has become much easier thanks to a dedicated website www.canal-dunivernais.com, 

which is also available in a mobile phone version. With a digital device (phone or computer), 

visitors can quickly find out about points of interest in the area and current events via the Facebook page 

www.facebook.com/jaime.le.canal.du.nivernais or even find a bike to hire ! 

Auxerre and its quays © S. Wahl 

Connecting the Yonne river (at Migennes) to the river Saône (at Saint-Jean de Losne), the 

canal is 242 km long and has 189 locks. Prestigious sites such as the Renaissance 

chateaux of Ancy-le-Franc and Tanlay and even the Fontenay Abbey can be seen along 

the banks of the canal. 93 km in the Yonne 

© G. Bourras 

The section of the Yonne river open to tourism, runs for 108 km from 

Auxerre to Montereau-Fault-Yonne and has 26 locks. The view over the 

old quarter of Joigny and the town of Sens are highlights along the way. 

100 km into Yonne 

6 km approximately in Yonne, with the famous listed site of the "seven 

locks of Rogny", a staircase of seven locks and remarkable work of art recognised as an historic monument. 

Built in 1642 by King Henri IV, the work is being restored. 

By the river Yonne in Joigny © S. Wahl 

© S. Wahl 

-Pleasure boats : 

A number of companies rent out residential boats for between 2 and 

12 people, generally for a week or long weekend. 

- Luxury hotel barges : 

a number of luxury barges wind their way along the Yonne canals 

for cruises along the Canal of Nivernais and the Burgundy Canal. 

- Electric boats in Auxerre, for a different way to explore the town 

- Boat trip on the Hirondelle : Tour of Auxerre and the Canal of 

Nivernais on a passenger boat with the option of lunch on board. 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


Stop for a moment on the grass to watch the 

butterflies dancing. Take some time to admire all 

these flowers, and as other sounds fade away, 

listen to the birds singing in the trees. 

Just next to the 

Saint-Etienne 

Cathedral, in the 

inner courtyard 

marked out by 

the Chapelle de 

l'Archevêque and 

the Orangerie, 

the Henri II wing 

of the Palais des 

Archevêques and the library, the private gardens 

of the Archevêché - the bishop's garden and 

kitchen garden - have been restored from plans 

drawn up by the Cardinal de la Favre in the 19 th 

century. The gardens are a hybrid design of 

Renaissance and 18 th century styles with 

flowering borders and formal lawns. The 

changes in themes throughout the seasons - 

medicinal plants, ornamental vegetables, 

orangerie plants and old roses - set the pace of 

life in these new gardens. 


A vast 10 ha islet 

of greenery, this 

park prefigures 

the green belt 

surrounding the 

town of Sens. 

Originally 

designed as a 

natural rural and 

leisure space, 

the park boasts a succession of very different 

themed areas including an arboretum, animal 

© Service parcs, jardins et espaces verts - Ville de Sens 

Tropical plant collection in Sens © S. Wahl 

enclosures, a rose garden, undergrowth plants, 

a scented walkway, a play area and a fernery. In 

the 600 m² of glasshouses for tropical plant 

collections, visitors can see orchids, carnivorous 

plants, cacti, bromeliads and other plants from 

hot and faraway countries. The pond holding an 

astonishing Victoria Cruziana, a giant aquatic 

plant that should not be missed. 


Expert gardener, Jean Ravisé has reconstructed 

a delightful jardin de curé 

(curate’s garden) in the former 

garden of the priory. Flowers 

mix in with vegetables, and 

dozens of tiny and unusual 

spaces make for a very 

rewarding visit. Winner of the 

Prix Regional du Patrimoine 

(Parks and Gardens category) in 

2006. 

This top native French wildlife park, a rare place, 

is in the heart of the Puisaye 

area. In 400 ha of forest, 

beech and oak wood, fields, 

lakes and pure springs, 

dozens of fallow deer - does 

and stags - live freely in 

their natural environment. 

There are also enclosures 

with wild boar, bison and 

mouflons. Altogether there are almost 400 

animals. A forest festival, the Fête de la 

forêt sauvage, is held on the 15 th of 

August and in autumn, the rutting 

season, provides some unmissable 

sights. www.boutissaint.com 

Fête de la forêt sauvage © J. Kélagopian 

Church of St-Germain© J. Ravisé 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

In the mood for an easy break 

Are you visiting with the family Yonne Tourisme has come up with some suggestions that will please 

everyone ! Would you like to explore the wine routes We have put together an itinerary for you ! Would you 

like to set off right away, making reservations and paying online via Resa' Yonne You can do that ! In other 

words, we can help you with your holidays. 

Introduced by Yonne Tourisme in 2008, the 

promotes family friendly activities. These are 

based around three different themes, "let's explore", "let's make", and "let's get active". From farm visits and 

circus skills, to pottery workshops, go-karting, and not forgetting chocolate tasting, there is something for 

everyone ! 

In 2012, Yonne Tourisme specially designed the website www.decouvrelyonne.com, in partnership with 

Graines de Voyageurs, to help families find out about the treasures of the Yonne department. There are online 

quizzes and games for everyone - beat the score to try and win tickets to well-known sites ! Yonne Tourisme 

will also be adding a memory card game for younger children to this package and a fifteen page booklet for 

parents and children about the area’s history, legends, food, plants and animals. There are even suggestions 

for themed trips to try out as a family. 

At the same time, a Smartphone app " 

", which will be combined with the "l'Yonne en 

balades" app, is being developed. This joint project from Yonne Tourisme and Guidigo will encourage 

children aged 6 to 12 years, and their families, to explore and learn about the history of Yonne. Budding 

"Sherlock Holmes" can look for virtual objects hidden in the decor, answer questions based on their 

knowledge and observations of a place and even take augmented reality photos. At the end of the trail, all 

the information gathered can be used to solve a puzzle related to the place visited. What an innovative way 

to learn about the Yonne cultural history ! 

: this rural crafts museum with unique 

and original pieces of popular art boasts a fine collection of childhood toys from the past. 

There are also guided workshops, where children can let their imaginations run free creating 

a toy to take home, from moss, bark, roots, pine cones, wood shavings and pieces of wood. 

www.laduz.com 

as you follow the tour of this Renaissance 

chateau, children will have fun finding out about everyday life for the people who lived here and five 

centuries of history. The diversity of the rooms and objects left as a testimony to life in the past, will 

fascinate everyone ! www.chateaudenuits.fr 

Musée des Arts Populaires de Laduz © M.-J. Drogou 

Wood cutter, quarryman, stonecutter, carpenter, rope maker, blacksmith, carter and potter were 

just some of the trades practised in 13 th century ! At Guédelon, deep in the forest, 40 craftsmen are 

building a castle. Everyone of them will be happy to talk about their work and to explain you how 

the castle is being built. Budding craftsman can also try their hand ! www.guedelon.fr 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


The tourist trails in Yonne are perfect for exploring our region and will introduce 

you to the heritage of the area in a way that suits your interests. Details of these 

trails are available on our website www.tourisme-yonne.com in the "Je decouvre" 

section, where you will also find maps and descriptions. Have a good trip ! 

Cistercian abbeys and granges route © Carte Actual 

. Leading through 

quiet lanes and pretty villages and past magnificent viewpoints over the hills, 

these routes should be followed throughout the year for a full appreciation of 

the winegrower work. There is also a paper version of the map, published by 

the Association Route Touristique des Vignobles de l’Yonne, available from 

Yonne Tourisme, and at local tourist offices and information centres. 

The wine village of Irancy © J. Kélagopian 

A number of producers welcome visitors for delicious cider and apple juice tastings. 

The soil in the Puisaye region is rich in the powdered gold of ochre, a natural colouring with many uses. 

Reserves in the Puisaye stand out for the presence of pure ochre in its natural form. Red ochre is created from 

yellow ochre through the process of calcination. A number of religious buildings, we recommend for visits, 

have used ochre to decorate their walls. A paper version of the trail is published by the Maison de 

Puisaye-Forterre, "Eglises et peintures murales en Puisaye-Forterre" (churches and wall paintings in Puisaye- 

Forterre) 

The Talnlay Castle © D. Repérant 

From Maulnes to Ancy-le-Franc, not forgetting Tanlay and Nuits-sur-Armançon, 

here is a trail to celebrate the architectural heritage of the 

Renaissance. With wall frescoes, old furniture and typical details from the 

era, this picturesque trail will delight fans of old buildings. 

www.tourisme-yonne.com 

Yonne Reservation, the sales department of the Yonne 

Tourism Development Agency, can also arrange breaks or 

day trips for groups. Specific breaks for small-groups, at 

least eight people, are available from 2013. There are 

almost 40 trips to choose from but nothing is set in stone ! 

Everything is flexible and if there are specific activities you 

would like to include, we can create a programme with you. 

© S. Wahl 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 


Could technology help you with your holidays In Yonne, that goes without saying. 

A new app has been developed for exploring the Yonne from another angle. Since spring 2012 

a number of walks of between 1:30 and 2 hours have been available free of charge for 

download to iPhones and Smartphones. Yonne Tourisme has designed these trails in partnership 

with local tourist offices and experts on the ground. They are ideal for visitors who want to 

go at their own pace, stage by stage, enjoying historical content brought to life by photos and 

audio descriptions and following a carefully thought out route taking in narrow lanes and 

stunning views of the area. The first available trails are on the themes of Vézelay from past to 

present, hidden Vézelay and Chablis and its vineyards. In the spring of 2013 there will also be 

a Tonnerrois Renaissance trail. An up-to-date and innovative way to explore the Yonne ! 

In 2012, Yonne Tourisme, Nievre Tourisme, Bourgogne Tourisme and 

the Yonne and Nievre Syndicats Mixte d'Equipement Touristique of the 

Canal of Nivernais joined forces to create a dedicated website for the 

Canal of Nivernais www.canal-du-nivernais.com. Tourism service providers 

in the 2 departements can be found here. Restaurants, guesthouses, 

leisure and shopping activities have all been included. Visitors 

can search by themes, see the weather forecast for the day, follow 

Topo-guides and even reserve a break online. A mobile site 

mobile.canal-du-nivernais.com, is also available for Smartphone and 

has useful real-time information whether you are on the water, on foot or bike. The Facebook page, 

www.facebook.com/jaime.le.canal.du.nivernais, highlights events taking place in the area. One of the most 

beautiful canals in France has enjoyed a little technological revolution ! 

Site internet du Canal du Nivernais 

For Spring 2013, Yonne Tourisme has created a mobile Internet site to help you explore the area. Using 

geolocation technology, visitors can access different services in Yonne in real-time. Do you need 

last-minute accommodation or do you want to visit somewhere Then use your mobile to consult 

www.tourisme-yonne.mobi ! 

Yonne Tourisme, Yonne Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Yonne Tourist Board 

have joined forces to create the reservation platform Resa' Yonne accessible at www.tourismeyonne.com. 

With Resa' Yonne, visitors can choose accommodation, activities and visits - in 

other words put together their own trip and pay the bill. There is also FashYonne, with 

suggestions for all-inclusive packages for an exciting stay. 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

In the mood for events 


Fêtes de l’âne, an arts festival Sens January 

Saint-Vincent tournante du Grand Auxerrois, a wine festival Grand Auxerrois 

January TV-Radio 

Saint-Vincent tournante du Chablisien, a wine festival Chablisien February TV-Radio 

Les Vinées Tonnerroises, a wine festival Tonnerre March/April 

Musicancy, a classical music festival Ancy-le-Franc castle March to november 

Toucy traditional country fair Toucy April TV-Radio 

Auxerre-Vézelay walk 

April 

Pontigny musical saison Pontigny May to September 

"The Trail" Yonne 2013 leaving from Sens May TV-Radio 

"Ice Saints", gardening festival Vareilles May 

Vitirando, a wine festival in Joigny At a vineyard May 

Yonne wine tourist trail rally (next event in 2014) Chablis area May 

Fleurs de Vigne, a wine festival (next event in 2014) Auxerre May TV-Radio 

La Franck Pineau, a cycling trail Auxerre June 

Car boot sales and cherry fairs Escolives-Sainte-Camille June 

Festival Paroles et Musiques, a music festival Reigny abbey July 

"Les Nuits Maillotines", living history and arts shows Joigny July - August TV 

Cavalcade de Bleury, (flower covered tank procession) Bleury July 

Donkey festival and car boot sales Savigny-en-Terre-Plaine July TV-Radio 

Potters' market Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye July TV-Radio 

Living history events Saint-Fargeau Castle July - August TV 

Music fireworks display Rogny-les-7-écluses July 

Ste-Madeleine pilgrimage Vézelay July TV 

"Vézelay s'enflamme" light and sound shows Vézelay August TV 

Fête de la Moisson, country fair St-Père-sous-Vézelay August 

Gargouillosium, a gorgoyle competition Noyers-sur-Serein August TV-Radio 

Bric-a-brac fair Mézilles August TV 

Forest festival Boutissaint August TV-Radio 

Rencontres Musicales festival Vézelay August TV-Radio 

Fête de la Saint-Fiacre, a flower festival Sens September TV 

Grape harvest celebrations Joigny October 

Chablis wine festival Chablis October 

Truffle markets Noyers-sur-Serein October/November 

Festive market Bailly December TV 

Full details, descriptions and specific dates for these events are available on 

the Yonne Tourisme website : www.tourisme-yonne.com 

Concerts, festivals, musical events - updated calendar can be consulted on 

the Cité des Musiques website : www.citedesmusiques.org 


My favourites 


Tél. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

in the mood for practical information 

By road 

A5 Paris - Troyes, A6 Paris - Lyon, A77 Dordives - Cosne/Loire 

By train 

From Paris Gare de Lyon or Paris Bercy : stations in Auxerre, Laroche-Migennes, 

Sens, Tonnerre, Joigny and Avallon 

By TVG 

Paris - Montbard then a connection to the stations of the Yonne 

By air 

Auxerre-Branches aerodrome 

Aubigny quarries © J. Kélagopian 

Maulnes Castle © CG89 - X. Morize 


Pierre qui Vire Abbey cheese © J. Kélagopian 


Tel. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09 


Yonne 

in the mood for practical information 

353 611 inhabitants (INSEE 2011 source) 

7 427 km² or 1,36% of the national territoryl 

453 communes for 42 cantons 

(Source : INSEE 2011- total population) 

Auxerre : 39 456 inhabitants 

Sens : 26 735 inhabitants 

Joigny : 10 817 inhabitants 

Avallon : 7 692 inhabitants 

Migennes : 7 501 inhabitants 

Musée Zervos © CG89 - JR Tourneur 

The Vezelay village and the Sainte-Madeleine Basilica : 

963 525 visitors 

Guedelon - Medieval construction site : 308 000 visitors 

Pontigny Abbey : 40 000 visitors 

Musée de Laduz © J. Kélagopian 

265 km of waterways on the Yonne river and the Burgundy, Nivernais and Briare 

canals 

5 leisure ports and 24 moorings 

2 400 km of footpaths 

4 000 km of bridleways including 1 600 way-marked tracks 

approximately 87 listed churches and religious buildings 

17 castels open to visitors 

28 towns and villages of interest 

2 villages with the « Les Plus Beaux Villages de France » award 

2 towns with the « Villes d’Art et d’Histoire » award 

1 U.N.E.S.C.O. World Heritage Site 

48 museums, art centres exhibition spaces and galleries 

14 educational farms and eco-museums 

16 aother tourist sites (caves, wine cellars, archaeological sites) 

almost fifty leisure activites (horse riding, ballon rides, cycling, sailing, etc.) 

33 parks and gardens 

25 Tourist offices and information centre and 7 « Cafes de Pays » 

478 restaurants including 53 tables with awards from restaurant guides 

almost 200 car-boot sales and antique fairs 

almost 60 festivals every year 

some 1 500 events during the summer 

Maisons à pans de bois à Noyers-sur-Serein © S. Wahl 


Tel. 03 86 72 92 03 - Fax 03 86 72 92 09

Bourgogne tourisme

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