Local Area Information
Nearby Towns
Flavigny-sur-Ozerain – one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Visit the beautiful walled town and its aniseed factory. Try La Grange for lunch —a cooperative farmhouse inn run by local women farmers. The 2001 film Chocolat was filmed on location here.
Semur-en-Auxois – medieval town on the river Armançon with ramparts, towers and cobbled streets. Every corner reveals stunning views—don't miss the lookout point above the town at sunset! For dining: Entr'Act (casual pizza), or Les Minimes, Restaurant Le Refuge and La Cuisine de la Fontaignotte (upmarket).
Beaune – one hour away. Charming old town with cobbled streets, city walls and Burgundy wine country all around. Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu hospital or enjoy some wine tasting.
Dijon – 1 hour 15 mins drive or train from Venarey-les-Laumes. Visit Les Halles market (open Tues, Thurs indoor only, Fri, Sat), wander the streets, or explore the shops and museums (check opening times first).
Vézelay – UNESCO World Heritage site on a hilltop with a magnificent Abbey.
Paris – use Montbard’s regular TGV service to Paris. It’s just over an hour away, with free parking at the station.
There's much more! For example, Auxerre, Époisses, Avallon, Noyers-sur-Serein, Château de Bussy-Rabutin, Château d'Ancy-le-Franc...
Attractions and Activities
Abbaye de Fontenay – UNESCO World Heritage site, just 10 miles away. This stunning 12th century abbey, set in landscaped gardens and surrounded by woods, is a Burgundy highlight.
Alésia Muséo-Parc – near Venarey. One ticket covers the museum, Gallo-Roman ruins and Vercingetorix statue. Daily battle re-enactments in the reconstructed village—fun for all ages!
Beaune Côté Plage – outdoor freshwater pools next to a pretty lake with diving boards, climbing wall and lawned picnic area. Café on site.
Cycling – miles of paths along the Canal de Bourgogne. Bike hire available in Venarey (on your left before the canal bridge).
Guédelon Castle – watch master-builders construct a medieval castle using only period technology and materials. The castle and village are fascinating—worth the drive (near Auxerre)!
Lac du Pont – just beyond Semur-en-Auxois. Swimming, climbing, walk along the dam or tackle the 14km lake loop if you're feeling energetic!
Parc l'Auxois – zoo with animals, excellent play area and train ride—a full day out for children.
Montbard swimming pool – excellent facility with indoor/outdoor pool, lazy river, slide and picnic areas. Visit nearby Parc Buffon too—you can see its tower from the pool. It now houses a museum.
Walking – explore nearby towns or countryside trails. See leaflets in the La Paillotte bookcase.
Wine tasting – drive the Routes de Vin de Bourgogne between Beaune and Dijon, stopping at Côtes de Nuits, Aloxe-Corton, Pommard, Volnay, Santenay and more. Or head north to Chablis or the Route de Champagne. In Beaune, try visiting Patriarch Père & Fils or Cave des Hospices.
Further details can be found in the multi-language leaflets in the La Paillotte bookcase drawers.
