The best walks and hikes around Bessy-Sur-Cure
4.3
(156)
610
hikers
89
hikes
Hiking around Bessy-Sur-Cure offers diverse natural landscapes, centered around the Cure River valley. The region features extensive forests, wooded limestone hillsides, and a mix of alluvial wet meadows and dry calcareous meadows on hilltops. Several distinct valleys, including the Reigny Valley and Grillote Valley, contribute to the varied terrain, providing options for different hiking experiences. The long-distance GR13 trail also passes through the commune, following the Cure valley.
Best hiking trails around Bessy-Sur-Cure
- The most popular hiking route is Cravant…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
29.8km
08:23
580m
580m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
9
hikers
23.7km
06:28
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
10
hikers
27.9km
07:42
470m
470m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
10.4km
02:50
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
8.71km
02:26
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The woman who lives next door in the keep even washes her laundry here.
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This small sacred monument, which the hiker encounters here at a crossroads on the historic Way of St. James, is in need of renovation, as the body of the crucified Christ is unfortunately damaged. The stone base from which the cross extends is covered with some stones that were obviously left there. This custom comes from the well-known "Crux de ferro" on the "Camino Frances" in northern Spain. According to tradition, the pilgrims also lay aside their worries and troubles with the stones that they carry there, sometimes over many days and weeks.
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How I love bathing my feet in a washhouse!
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Next to the Manor, there is the miniature village.
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The extremely impressive church in Cravant was dedicated to the two SAINTS "PIERRE et PAUL". They are also known as the "Princes of the Apostles" and their common feast day in the calendar of saints is June 29th. * Simon, nicknamed Peter (Rock), was a fisherman on Lake Genesareth when he - together with his brother Andrew - was called by Jesus Christ to be a "fisher of men". According to Catholic understanding, he is the highest apostle and the two thousand year long line of popes - currently Francis - are his successors. In statues and paintings, Peter is almost always depicted with two keys in his hand; this attribute refers to the Bible verse in Matthew: "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." (Chapter 16, Verse 19). * Paul was initially an opponent of the Christian movement and was not called to the apostleship of Jesus Christ during his lifetime like the other apostles, but was only converted later with the famous "Damascus experience". His attribute is the sword with which he was executed. According to the Roman law of the time, such a sentence was a "privilege" (quick death and not, like other types of execution, associated with a long, painful death struggle) that was available to the citizens of Rome.
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Pilgrims' hostel on a donation basis. Petra Beerens +33637518382 Tel. and Whatsapp. Petra speaks F NL GB D. Advance registration is requested.
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The Saint Pierre Saint Paul church is a remarkable building. It has a unique architecture in Burgundy. Its impressive dimensions remind us that Cravant was a city of more than 3000 inhabitants. The church then belonged to the bishops of Auxerre who came there regularly and did everything to make it beautiful and imposing. The interior of the church, with its nave, its Renaissance choir, its chapels, its keystones and its vaulted ceilings, bears witness to its prestigious past. It was built in the 9th century, enlarged in the 12th century then rebuilt at the end of the 16th century. https://www.bourgogne-tourisme.com/abbayes-et-autre-edifices-religieux/eglise-de-saint-pierre-et-saint-paul-de-cravant-3
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The Cravant property is a fortified building built in the 14th century to protect the property of the Bishop of Auxerre. The rest of the mighty outer wall is reminiscent of a castle. The building is now privately owned. The old public washhouse is right next to it. A monument is erected facing the street. The 4,500 soldiers who fell here in a historic battle defending France in 1423 are remembered there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Bessy-Sur-Cure?
There are over 90 hiking trails in the Bessy-Sur-Cure area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find 31 easy routes, 53 moderate routes, and 8 difficult trails to explore.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes near Bessy-Sur-Cure?
The terrain around Bessy-Sur-Cure is quite varied, centered around the picturesque Cure River valley. You can expect to hike through extensive forests and wooded limestone hillsides, as well as across alluvial wet meadows and dry calcareous grasslands on hilltops. The region also features steep hills and several distinct valleys, providing diverse landscapes for your adventures.
Are there any easy hiking options suitable for beginners in Bessy-Sur-Cure?
Yes, Bessy-Sur-Cure offers a good selection of easier trails. With 31 routes classified as easy, beginners can enjoy the natural beauty of the region without overly challenging terrain. These trails often follow the gentler paths along the Cure River or through less strenuous wooded areas.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the Bessy-Sur-Cure area?
Yes, many of the trails around Bessy-Sur-Cure are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Arcy-sur-Cure Bridge loop from Bessy-sur-Cure is a moderate 10.3 km circular path that offers a great experience.
What natural features or landmarks can I discover while hiking near Bessy-Sur-Cure?
Hiking around Bessy-Sur-Cure offers access to several notable natural features and landmarks. You can explore the dramatic The Saussois Rocks, or visit the prehistoric Great Cave of Arcy (Grottes d'Arcy-sur-Cure), a significant archaeological site. The Cure River itself is a central feature, offering picturesque banks and views. You'll also encounter diverse ecosystems like dry limestone grasslands, home to rare plant species including wild orchids in spring.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails that pass through Bessy-Sur-Cure?
Yes, the significant GR13 long-distance hiking trail traverses through the commune of Bessy-Sur-Cure. This allows hikers to follow the Cure valley towards Vézelay and even further along the historic Way of St. James, offering opportunities for extended multi-day adventures.
Is Bessy-Sur-Cure a good destination for family-friendly hikes?
With 31 easy routes available, Bessy-Sur-Cure can be a good destination for family-friendly hikes. Many trails offer gentle gradients and scenic views suitable for all ages. The diverse natural environments, from forests to riverbanks, provide engaging experiences for children and adults alike.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Bessy-Sur-Cure?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Bessy-Sur-Cure area, especially in the natural outdoor environments. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in forested areas where wildlife is present, and to check for any specific local regulations, particularly near protected natural reserves or private lands.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Bessy-Sur-Cure?
The best time to go hiking in Bessy-Sur-Cure is typically during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). Spring brings blooming wildflowers, including wild orchids on the dry limestone grasslands, and pleasant temperatures. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage and comfortable hiking conditions. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Bessy-Sur-Cure?
The hiking trails in Bessy-Sur-Cure are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, the beauty of the Cure River valley, and the variety of routes available for different fitness levels. Many appreciate the mix of wooded areas, open meadows, and historical points of interest.
Are there any historical or cultural sites accessible via hiking near Bessy-Sur-Cure?
Yes, Bessy-Sur-Cure is rich in history and culture. The region is situated on the Way of St. James, meaning you might encounter small sacred monuments along historic paths. Nearby, you can hike to the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, Cravant, or explore the charming village of Châtel-Censoir. The Château du Chastenay is also a notable historical landmark in the vicinity.
What are some notable valleys or river features to explore on hikes?
The Cure River is a central feature of the region, offering many scenic hiking opportunities along its banks. Beyond the main river, you can explore distinct valleys such as the Reigny valley, known for its lily of the valley in season, and the Grillotte valley, a future protected area where trails wind through the woods. These valleys provide varied ecosystems and beautiful views.
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