Attractions and Places To See around Bellechaume - Top 6
Attractions and places to see around Bellechaume, a commune in France's Yonne department, include historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. Situated on a hillside, the area is historically connected to its "chaumes" (fallow lands) and borders the Othe Forest. Visitors can explore the village's heritage and the surrounding natural landscapes. The region provides opportunities to discover local history and enjoy the outdoors.
Best attractions and places to see around Bellechaume
- The most popular attractions is Canal de Bourgogne at…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Canal de Bourgogne at Brienon-sur-Armançon
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L'Enfourchure Priory
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Saint-Florentin
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New route on towpath
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Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Church of Dixmont
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Beautiful church in the village of Dixant, dating from the 9th century. Two additional bays were built in the 13th century with heads of figures on the capitals.
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Founded in 1209 on the edge of the forest of Othe by the Order of Gramont, a religious community which had an important influence in the region, this priory was ruined by the Hundred Years War, but rebuilt at the beginning of the 16th century. The order was abolished in 1772 and the building sold for its stones during the French Revolution. Of the priory, all that remains today is the arcature of the facade as well as the ruins of the chapel and the priory dwelling. In the 19th century, there were still ribbed vaults, but they collapsed. The apse which had walls rising up to 4 m also collapsed during the winter of 1996-1997. It is a private property open to the public only on certain occasions such as heritage days. Difficult to see anything other than the facade visible from the road. For other points of view, a short film is available here: https://www.dixmont-yonne.fr/decouvrir/videos/prieure-lenfourchure/
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Good news: the Migennes Esnon section of the Burgundy canal, stony and not very passable, has just been completed on the other bank by a magnificent section of perfectly asphalted cycle route! Much easier to go from Migennes (SNCF station) to BRIENON
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Finally, the veloroute section of the Burgundy Canal has been completed by this well-paved section between Migennes and Esnon… it is on the other side of the canal from the old stony path. Well marked!
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The Burgundy Canal, which begins at Migennes, linked the Seine basin to that of the Rhône via the Saône. The section between Migennes and Tonnerre is quite pleasant and allows you to visit many small towns. Be careful of the poor surfacing at the beginning of the route... Brienon is an interesting stopover: old port, mills, Renaissance church, castle, very beautiful 18th century wash house. Swimming, camping...
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Nice for a break.
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Saint Florentin is a pleasant little town that has been very well restored. The two fun and informative anecdotes to take away from the city are as follows: during the Revolution, Saint-Florentin was one of the most dynamic places of Theophilanthropy, a religion which succeeded the cult of reason and the supreme being between 1798 and 1801. During the convention, the anticlerical republicans renamed Saint-Florentin and called it Mont-Armance between 8 Germinal of Year Two (March 28, 1794) and 6 Ventôse of Year Three (February 24, 1795). The city is located on the edge of the Armance and the Burgundy Canal, but also the N77. Some ingenious minds wanted to take inspiration from the legendary American route 66 in the hope of attracting tourists, and now call it route 77.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit directly in Bellechaume?
In Bellechaume itself, you can explore the Église de la Sainte Trinité, a Renaissance church from 1567 featuring a bas-relief of Saint Hubert and 19th-century stained-glass windows. Another notable site is the Lavoir, a remarkable washhouse built in 1830 with a distinctive glass roof. You can also find the Borne Saint-Loup, a stone marker historically believed to have healing powers, and the burial site of renowned scientist Professor Gaston Ramon in the communal cemetery.
Are there other significant historical or cultural sites near Bellechaume?
Yes, nearby you can visit Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Church of Dixmont, a religious building dating from the 9th century with 13th-century additions. The ruins of L'Enfourchure Priory, founded in 1209 on the edge of the Othe Forest, are also visible from the road. Further afield, towns like Joigny (17 km) offer traditional town centers, Pontigny (17 km) has a substantial Cistercian abbey, and Auxerre (27 km) boasts a cathedral and historic center.
What natural features are prominent around Bellechaume?
Bellechaume is situated at the doorstep of the expansive Othe Forest, an ecologically important area. While not directly in Bellechaume, a well-maintained section of the Canal de Bourgogne at Brienon-sur-Armançon (approximately 6 km north) offers beautiful waterside scenery and recreational opportunities.
Where can I go cycling near Bellechaume?
The Canal de Bourgogne at Brienon-sur-Armançon features a perfectly asphalted cycle path, making it ideal for cycling. This section of the canal is highly recommended by visitors for its smooth surface and pleasant route. You can find various road cycling routes around Bellechaume, including a 49 km loop from Bellechaume that passes by L'Enfourchure Priory and through the Othe Forest. For more options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Bellechaume guide.
Are there hiking opportunities in the Bellechaume area?
Yes, the proximity to the Othe Forest provides excellent hiking opportunities. There are several trails available, such as an easy 6.4 km 'Wild water loop from Avrolles' or a moderate 12.5 km 'Saint-Florentin – Burgundy canal lock loop'. You can find more detailed hiking routes and options in the Hiking around Bellechaume guide.
What kind of outdoor activities are available besides cycling and hiking?
Beyond cycling and hiking, the area around Bellechaume is suitable for running. There are several running trails, including an easy 4.8 km 'Running loop from Champlost' and moderate routes like the 11.4 km 'The Great Washhouse of Brienon loop'. For more running options, check out the Running Trails around Bellechaume guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions suitable for children?
Absolutely. The Canal de Bourgogne at Brienon-sur-Armançon is considered family-friendly, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for cycling or walking with children along its asphalted path. The Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Church of Dixmont is also listed as family-friendly, providing an interesting historical visit for all ages.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Bellechaume?
Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained cycle path along the Canal de Bourgogne at Brienon-sur-Armançon, noting its suitability for easy travel between towns. The historical significance and architectural details of sites like the Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Church of Dixmont are also highly appreciated. The overall charm of the region and its blend of history and natural beauty are often highlighted.
Is Bellechaume well-connected to other towns for further exploration?
Yes, Bellechaume serves as a good base for exploring the wider region. It is approximately 17 km from Joigny, known for its traditional town center, and also 17 km from Pontigny, home to a significant Cistercian abbey. The larger city of Auxerre, with its cathedral and historic sites, is about 27 km to the south, offering more extensive cultural experiences.
What is the best time of year to visit Bellechaume for outdoor activities?
While specific data isn't provided, the region's outdoor attractions, particularly cycling along the Canal de Bourgogne and hiking in the Othe Forest, are generally best enjoyed during the milder months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer can also be ideal, though it might be warmer. Winter might be less suitable for extensive outdoor activities due to colder weather.
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