With its medieval town square and Romanesque church, Avallon is a sleepy picture book version of France. Unearth its fairy tale magic as you explore its compact center, before heading out into the Burgundy countryside to discover the French countryside of your dreams.
Exploring the old town
Begin your adventure in the atmospheric old town and marvel at the beauty of the architecture. Meander along the cobbled passageways, head beneath the 15th century clock tower and spot parts of the medieval ramparts which still stand today.
Duck into Musée de l'Avallonnais, a tiny museum along Rue du Collège which has been entertaining visitors to Avallon since the mid-19th century. You’ll see watercolor paintings from Georges Rouault and a striking art-deco jewellery collection from jeweller Jean Després.
Visit here at the weekend and the town comes alive for the Saturday food market in Place Géneral-de-Gaulle. Here you can buy Morvan honey, delicious cheeses such as Abbaye de la Pierre-qui-Vire, and sausages from the local butcher-charcuterie Viandes et Terroirs.
Road trips from Avallon
Avallon is a beautiful base for a road trip around Burgundy. There are plenty of medieval villages and cities to visit, but nearby Vézelay is one of the finest. Start from the lower part of the village and work your way up to the top, wandering past local boulangerie, delicious freshly-baked aromas wafting out, and charming, tiny houses. Once you reach the top of the hill you’ll be rewarded with the Basilique Ste-Madeleine. Inspect the Romanesque carvings etched into the porch before heading into the soaring nave to see its magnificent arches.
Another gem to see is Auxerre, just 45 minutes north of Avallon. A goldmine of history is waiting to be discovered in this riverside city. In the center, timber houses, cobbled passageways and a 15th century clock tower all add to the magic. Abbaye St-Germain is one of the top sights in the city and the perfect place to learn more about Auxerre’s history, having stood in the city for more than 1,500 years.
Natural wonders
Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan offers beautiful hiking options for vacationers who want to head off the beaten track. Trails here lead you through lush forests and pretty meadows – near Goloux, you’ll even spot a waterfall. Among the greenery, several freshwater lakes can be found too, perfect for water sports. Take the opportunity to kayak, canoe or even swim through the sparkling waters.
Castles, churches and historic ruins can be found in the national park, with Le Château de Bazoches in close proximity to Avallon. This 12th century mansion looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairy tale – tour the lavish rooms yourself, filled with antiques and paintings.
Book a hire car in Avallon and discover the gems of the Burgundy region at your own pace.