In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationFrance / Burgundy-Franche-Comté
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AgeFrom 12 - 80 years
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CO₂-Emissions81.18 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover the wonders of the Brionnais, nicknamed Burgundy's "secret garden"! Hike along its magnificent trails , where Charolais cows have grazed peacefully for centuries. The paths wind through verdant landscapes , bordered by hedgerows, offering a true delight for the senses. Your hike will immerse you in the rich and ancient history of this region. A major center of Romanesque art , with over thirty 11th-century churches and Cluniac monuments, the Brionnais holds many surprises in store! You will have the option of exploring the history and architecture of these sacred buildings on a guided tour . After a day full of discoveries, relax in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a bed and breakfast. Savor meals prepared with local produce and let yourself be pampered by attentive hosts!
The highlights
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An exceptionally well-preserved bocage landscape
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The highest concentration of Romanesque churches in France
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A region with few tourists where you are guaranteed peace and quiet.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 5h
- Average distance/day: 21 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 315 m
- Average daily descent: 311 m
Management
The folder contains:
- The exact coordinates of the accommodations
- Detailed itineraries for each day of hiking
- IGN maps, in A4 format, for each day of hiking, with the routes highlighted.
- The route is in .gpx format so you can import it into a hiking app that you have previously downloaded.
- A Google Maps link that will allow you to download the GPX tracks directly to Google Maps if you do not wish to use hiking apps.
Program
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Arrival the day before your hike
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
You arrive the day before your hike in Melay, for a gentle stop along the Roanne to Digoin canal.
Your vehicle can remain on site during your hike.
Day 1 -
From the Loire plain to the first hills of the Brionnais
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 360 m
- Negative elevation 265 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Begin your journey by walking along the towpath of the Roanne to Digoin Canal. The tranquility of this place envelops you from your very first steps. Then, head towards the steep paths that lead you to the summits of the Land of Seven Hills. Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding bocage countryside. Continue by crossing the picturesque Bézo Valley, following the meanders of this charming river between the verdant hills. Finally, reach the enchanting edge of the Brionnais region, in Saint-Maurice-les-Châteauneuf, where every street exudes history and the charm of antique shops.
Day 2 -
To the west of the Brionnais region, the bocage landscape and its dry stone walls
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 19 km
- Positive elevation gain 307 m
- Negative elevation 319 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, let yourself be charmed by the miles of winding paths. Each landscape seems like a painting, with harmonious geometric shapes, iconic pollarded trees, and peaceful Charolais cows dotting the verdant meadows. This bucolic setting invites you to reconnect with nature in all its simplicity.
Day 3 -
Discovering the Little Versailles of Burgundy
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 322 m
- Negative elevation 318 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Immerse yourself in a day of adventure where hiking and cultural discovery blend seamlessly. Your route leads you to the magnificent Château de Drée, nicknamed the "Little Versailles of the Brionnais." Plan an extended break to explore the many treasures of this estate. A guided tour will transport you back to the history and luxury of a bygone era. The sumptuous gardens invite contemplation and leisurely strolls. Every corner of this estate is brimming with wonders to discover, making this stop an unforgettable experience.
Loop day (evening at the same accommodation as day 3)
Day 4 -
A walk in the Arconce valley
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Distance 25 km
- Positive elevation gain 348 m
- Negative elevation 423 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Embark on an adventure through the enchanting landscapes of the Brionnaise region. Winding trails lead you through exhilarating climbs and breathtaking descents, offering a natural spectacle at every turn. As you reach the edge of the Arconce Valley, the magic begins. This crystal-clear river meanders gracefully between verdant meadows, adding gentleness and tranquility to your hike. Let yourself be captivated by the soothing music of its waters and the sunlight filtering through the leaves. Today, allow yourself to be enveloped by nature for a revitalizing and unforgettable experience.
Day 5 -
Romanesque Day
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 133 m
- Negative elevation 132 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We suggest a quieter day today which will allow you to take the time to visit the most beautiful Romanesque church in the region (guided tour optional).
Then you will take a magnificent little path that runs alongside the Arconce to the village of Montceau l'étoile, where there is another very beautiful Romanesque church, then you will join the greenway which will take you to the marsh of Montceau l'étoile and then to the Romanesque church of Baugy on its small promontory facing the Loire.
Loop day (evening at the same accommodation as day 5)
Day 6 -
On the lands of Saint Hugh, great Abbot of Cluny
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 21 km
- Positive elevation gain 417 m
- Negative elevation 406 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Begin your day with a visit to the church of Anzy-le-Duc, a jewel of Romanesque art dating back to the 11th century. Admire its remarkable architecture and exquisite sculptures, including the capitals adorned with floral and animal motifs, as well as the famous tympanum depicting Christ in Majesty surrounded by the symbols of the Evangelists. A guided tour (optional) is recommended to fully appreciate this exceptional religious heritage.
The trails of the Charmays forest will then lead you to the charming village of Semur-en-Brionnais, nestled in the heart of the verdant hills. Here, time seems to stand still, and every cobbled street invites you to explore. At the heart of this village stands the majestic Collegiate Church of Saint-Hilaire, built in the 12th century and listed as a historical monument. This building, the last example of Romanesque architecture in the Brionnais region, blends Cluniac influences with foreshadowings of Gothic style, offering a wealth of artistic and spiritual treasures.
Also explore the medieval castle of Semur-en-Brionnais, a fascinating vestige of the region's glorious past. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, and its walls tell the story of centuries gone by. Exploring its towers and ramparts will immerse you in the region's medieval epic, where knights and lords vied for land and power.
After this historic and picturesque stopover, your journey continues with a pleasant walk in the heart of the surrounding forest.
Day 7
Note
We strive to adhere as closely as possible to the program as detailed. However, circumstances beyond our control may lead us to modify its content or itinerary (weather conditions, fully booked accommodations, etc.). In practice, depending on availability at the time of your booking, we may simply offer you alternative routes or accommodations that do not correspond to the daily program described. These adjustments, which may include occasional changes to the itinerary without altering its direction, will not constitute a valid reason for cancellation and will not entitle you to any compensation from us. We simply ensure that your trip can be carried out under the best possible conditions, taking into account the constraints of the terrain and accommodations, and respecting the specifications you provided at the time of your booking.
Accommodation
Two guest rooms (one with a double bed and the other with a double bed and a sofa bed) with a shared bathroom and a 10-person dormitory.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Bed and breakfast accommodation (6 nights)
- Full board, from dinner on Day 1 to the picnic on Day 7
- Transporting your luggage at every stage
- Assistance during your stay
- The routes on IGN maps in A4 format for each day of hiking, as well as a detailed route sheet
- The GPX tracks for each day of hiking can be downloaded before your arrival.
The price does not include
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Transportation to and from the departure point
Options
- Guided tour of a Romanesque church : CHF137.22 / reservation
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (
For example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return date. Consider visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to take into account any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Hiking boots with good foot and ankle support and waterproofing
- Light shoes (tennis shoes or sandals) to wear in the evening in towns and villages
- Shampoo and shower gel are not provided in all accommodations.
- One 1.5L water bottle per person, minimum, which will be filled each morning before your departure.
- Dirty laundry bag
- Earplugs
- Walking sticks (optional)
- A spray bottle that you can refill regularly with water in case of intense heat
- Backpack of approximately 40 L
Clothing to bring
- Short-sleeved or long-sleeved T-shirts
- Waterproof and windproof jackets
- Hiking shorts and pants
- Hiking socks
- Cap or hat
- Swimsuit
