Attractions and Places To See around Gouloux - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gouloux, a commune nestled within the Morvan Regional Natural Park in France, offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The region is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including lakes and forests, alongside significant historical and cultural sites. It provides opportunities to explore both natural features and points of interest related to local heritage and history.
Best attractions and places to see around Gouloux
- The most popular attractions is Settons Lake Dam, a man-made landmark that was completed in 1858. This dam was built in a pyramidal shape, designed to withstand water pressure through its own weight.
- Another must-see spot is Chamboux Lake, an artificial lake created in 1984. Visitors can enjoy the water, trees, and wildlife along its 8 km trail.
- Visitors also love Couezon Franco-British Cemetery, a memorial site located in the heart of the forest. It commemorates those who fought against Nazism during the summer of 1944, highlighting the Morvan region's strategic role for the Resistance.
- Gouloux is known for its natural features like lakes and historical landmarks such as dams and memorial sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient megalithic sites to visitor centers.
- The attractions around Gouloux are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 280 upvotes and 70 photos shared.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Settons Lake Dam
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Couezon Franco-British Cemetery
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Morvan Regional Park Visitor Centre
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Chevresse Dolmen
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Chamboux Lake
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Tips from the Community
The Franco-British cemetery of Couezon, sometimes called the "cathedral of greenery," lies in the heart of the forest. It holds the remains of those who fought against Nazism during the summer of 1944, a time when the Morvan region played a strategic role for the Resistance. In some areas, the maquis groups benefited from the support of the SAS, British special forces parachuted into the massif. The Bernard maquis group chose to bury here the men and women, French and foreign, who fell during these battles.
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The Maison du Parc offers a preserved setting. Located near the Étang Taureau (Taureau Pond), it's a true playground for exploration for young and old alike. Discovery trails, a heritage orchard, a botanical garden... It's an ideal stop for discovering the treasures of the Morvan region. A bistro-tea room is also available for refreshments.
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This cemetery commemorates the men and women of the Morvan resistance movement. In the summer of 1944, the Morvan region became a strategic location in the liberation of the territory and was home to important sites for the organization of the French Resistance. These units were supported by British special forces parachuted into the Morvan region.
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The Bernard maquis, stationed in this forest, established this military cemetery to bury the bodies of the combatants who died during the fighting for liberation. This cemetery, in the heart of the forest, is often called the "Cathedral of Greenery." It's a beautiful forest perfect for a stroll.
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The Maison du Parc in Saint-Brisson is a complex that includes the administrative center of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, a documentation center, two museums, various educational facilities, a bistro, and the Morvan Regional Natural Park Tourist Office. This site is immersed in resplendent nature and a relaxing setting. This group of buildings was built in an original style imported by an English architect. The structure of the house consists of a rectangular block with thick walls and small windows to protect it from the harsh and contrasting climate of the Morvan. In addition to the central block, this complex consists of two symmetrical buildings for storing grain and hay and housing animals. Finally, opposite the end of each wing, there is a chapel and a hunting lodge. The complex is completed by a sheepfold and the last farmer's house, which currently serves as the administrative center of the Park. An agricultural and landscaped park, created in 1858 by the Count of Choulot, completes this group of buildings. Taureau Pond, a fishing pond located below an English-style garden, was once a reservoir for floating logs on the Vignan River, a complementary economic activity for the Morvan people of the 19th century. https://www.parcdumorvan.org/le-parc/la-maison-du-parc/un-peu-dhistoire/
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The circular trails are very rustic and natural, simply wonderful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Gouloux?
Gouloux is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the picturesque Cascade du Saut de Gouloux, a 10-meter high waterfall with walking loops. The area is also home to several lakes, including Chamboux Lake, an artificial lake with an 8 km trail perfect for enjoying water, trees, and wildlife, and Lac des Settons, a popular spot for recreation. Don't miss the unique Settons Lake Dam, an engineering marvel built in a pyramidal shape.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in the Gouloux area?
Yes, the region offers several significant historical and cultural sites. The Couezon Franco-British Cemetery is a poignant memorial in the forest, commemorating those who fought against Nazism during WWII. You can also find the ancient Notre-Dame Chapel, dating back to the 16th century, and the traditional Saboterie Alain Marchand, where you can see the ancestral craft of clog-making. For a glimpse into ancient history, the Chevresse Dolmen, a natural granite formation, is also nearby.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Gouloux?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park, where Gouloux is located, is ideal for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various cycling routes, including mountain biking, road cycling, and touring. For example, there are routes like the 'Tour des deux lacs, Setons & Panneciére' for road cycling or the 'Settons Lake – Settons Lake Dam loop' for touring. Explore these and more on the dedicated guides for MTB Trails around Gouloux, Road Cycling Routes around Gouloux, and Cycling around Gouloux.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Gouloux?
Absolutely! Many attractions around Gouloux are suitable for families. The Settons Lake Dam and Chamboux Lake offer scenic walks and recreational opportunities. The Morvan Regional Park Visitor Centre is also a great stop, offering discovery trails, a heritage orchard, and a botanical garden, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
Can I go swimming in the lakes near Gouloux?
Yes, you can. Lac des Settons is a popular spot for recreation, and Chamboux Lake also allows swimming, though it is unsupervised. Always exercise caution and check local regulations before entering the water.
What is the best time of year to visit Gouloux for outdoor activities?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park is beautiful throughout the year, but for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, the spring, summer, and early autumn months (roughly April to October) offer the most pleasant weather. During these seasons, the landscapes are vibrant, and conditions are generally ideal for exploring the trails and natural sites.
Where can I learn more about the Morvan Regional Natural Park?
You can find extensive information and explore the treasures of the Morvan region at the Morvan Regional Park Visitor Centre. It features discovery trails, a heritage orchard, and a botanical garden, providing a comprehensive overview of the park's natural and cultural heritage. There's also a bistro-tea room for refreshments.
Are there any unique engineering marvels in the Gouloux area?
Yes, the Settons Lake Dam is a notable engineering marvel. Completed in 1858, it was built in a unique pyramidal shape, designed to withstand immense water pressure through its own weight, making it one of the most formidable dams of its time.
What is the significance of the Couezon Franco-British Cemetery?
The Couezon Franco-British Cemetery is a deeply significant memorial site. Located in the heart of the forest, it commemorates the men and women, both French and foreign, who fought against Nazism during the summer of 1944. It highlights the Morvan region's strategic role for the Resistance and the support received from British special forces during World War II.
Are there any easy walking trails around Gouloux?
Yes, there are several options for easy walks. The Cascade du Saut de Gouloux offers two short walking loops (800m and 1km) that guide you along the 'trout jump' path. Additionally, the 8 km trail around Chamboux Lake provides a pleasant and relatively flat opportunity to enjoy the natural surroundings.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Morvan Regional Natural Park?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park is known for its rich biodiversity. While specific sightings vary, the diverse landscapes of forests, lakes, and wetlands provide habitats for various species. Along trails like those around Chamboux Lake, you can often spot local birds and other small wildlife, especially during quieter times of the day.
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