Attractions and Places To See in Morvan - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Morvan, often called the "green lung of Burgundy," is a natural park in France known for its diverse range of attractions. The region features historical landmarks, cultural sites, and notable natural features. It is home to six man-made lakes, popular for water sports, fishing, hiking, and cycling, and includes Haut-Folin, the highest peak in the Morvan. The Morvan Regional Natural Park covers a vast area dedicated to preserving the natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see in Morvan
- The most popular attractions is Settons Lake Dam, an other_man_made structure completed in 1858. This dam is notable for its pyramid shape, designed to withstand water pressure through its own weight, and was historically used to facilitate log transport.
- Another must-see spot is Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père, a religious_building. Visitors can expect to see a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture in Burgundy Flamboyant style, featuring a 50-meter-high bell tower and an impressive narthex.
- Visitors also love Haut-Folin Pass, a mountain_pass. This pass is the highest point in the Morvan regional natural park at 873 meters, offering a climb through dense forest with varying gradients and scenic views.
- Morvan is known for its historical sites, natural features like lakes and peaks, and cultural points of interest. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient archaeological sites to picturesque waterfalls and charming villages.
- The attractions in Morvan are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 280 upvotes and 70 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in Vézelay
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Settons Lake Dam
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Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père
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The Église Notre-Dame de Saint-Père church is built in Burgundy Flamboyant style and is considered a masterpiece of this Late Gothic style. The three-nave church with its 50-meter-high bell tower was built in the 13th century and has been listed as a monument historique since 1840. The two chapels were in the 14./15. and the narthex added in the 15th century. The iconography of the church is not very enlightening, but inside you can find the rather worn-out portrait of a Geizkragens, which keeps his purse hanging around his neck. He is flanked on both sides by a dragon that seems to bite his ears off. This symbol can be seen quite ambiguously: The man turns deaf, although he certainly had the means to help (egoism) or the man is so fixated on his belongings that he forgets to protect himself - himself something good to do (greed as obsessive-compulsive disorder). The richest is the open narthex. For more than two centuries, sculptors were able to realize their ideas and stonemasons could prove their skill in craftsmanship. Upon entering the covered narthex you can see on the right two statuettes in half relief, which are to represent Girart de Roussillon and his wife Berthe or his daughter Eve. They are considered the founders of the former abbey of Saint-Père.
Probably the church (former abbey) had a function as the last stop in the pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Mary Magdalene in Vézelay.
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Cordelle Chapel
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The 17th-century southern porch is what remains of a Franciscan church.
The site of La Cordelle, at the foot of the Eternal Hill towards Asquins, marks the place where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade in 1146. The Romanesque chapel was built in the mid-12th century by the Abbot of Vézelay in memory of this great historical event. It is also the site of the first Franciscan monastery in France, founded around the chapel in 1217. Long forgotten, the chapel is once again inhabited by the Franciscans and is open to visitors.
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Haut-Folin Pass
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Popular around Morvan
The Grande traversée du Massif Central by gravel bike
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The Great Crossing of France's Massif Central by mountain bike
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Other adventures in Morvan
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This church, dedicated to the Holy Cross (Latin: "Santa Croce"), derives its patronage from the cross on which Jesus Christ died. The veneration of the Holy Cross is largely based on Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who, after his victory at the Milvian Bridge in Rome, recognized Christianity as a religion and ended the long period of persecution with the Edict of Toleration of Milan in 312). She made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel/Palestine) in the early fourth century and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross," on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Helena is therefore often depicted with a cross as an attribute. The Church celebrates the Feast of the Discovery, public presentation, and veneration of the Holy Cross—called the "Exaltation of the Holy Cross"—on September 14th.
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It looks great to do it this round but right now I can't REALLY SORRY !!!
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The climb is easy to do, as there are always easy passages in between
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Even for poor climbers, it is quite doable from Arleuf. Haut Folin from Arleuf via Col du Haut Folin is a climb in the Morvan region. The route is 8.3 kilometers long and covers 295 meters of altitude with an average gradient of 3.6%. At the end of Arleuf, you first lose a few meters of altitude before the D500 leads from Arleuf to Fosse with an initially relatively low gradient; at the end of this modest hamlet, the road then climbs in a few bends to the right along a ridge at 6-8% and opens up the view to spectacular views of the Yonne valley. The road then climbs extremely irregularly through dense forest, sometimes at 2%, sometimes at up to 7%, and it is not easy to find a rhythm. After a total of 6 km, you reach a plateau where, apart from a few ramps, the progress is somewhat flatter and faster. After the D179/D500 junction, continue to follow the D500 towards the summit, and here the route becomes a little more ambitious with a gradient of 5-7%, before finally reaching the summit in the middle of a dense mixed forest and thus a mountain classification of the 2nd category.
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Very worthwhile visit to this beautiful church
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Very small chapel with a Franciscan monastery. The monastery was only returned a few years ago. The monks are trying to rebuild the monastery through a project
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Old style dam. You can cycle well over it
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Morvan?
Morvan, often called the "green lung of Burgundy," offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit the six man-made lakes, such as Lac de Pannecière and Lac des Settons, which are popular for water sports, fishing, hiking, and cycling. Don't miss Haut-Folin Pass, the highest point in the Morvan at 873 meters, offering scenic views through dense forest. Other notable natural sites include the picturesque Le Saut de Gouloux Waterfall, Mont Beuvray with its panoramic views, and the dramatic Signal d'Uchon and Rochers du Carnaval rock formations.
Are there historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit in Morvan?
Yes, Morvan is rich in history and culture. Vézelay is a significant pilgrimage site with the UNESCO-listed Basilica Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. Explore Bibracte, a major Celtic archaeological site on Mont Beuvray, or visit the historic Cordelle Chapel near Vézelay, marking where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade. The city of Autun boasts Roman remains and a medieval center, while Avallon is a charming gateway town with historical architecture.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in Morvan?
Morvan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and mountain biking on numerous trails. The region's lakes are perfect for water sports. For specific routes, consider exploring the hiking trails around Lac des Settons or Lac de Saint-Agnan. Cyclists can find challenging road cycling routes like the Tour des deux lacs, Setons & Panneciére, or explore MTB trails around Lake Crescent.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Morvan?
Absolutely. Many attractions in Morvan are suitable for families. The lakes, such as Lac des Settons, offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and lakeside walks. The Settons Lake Dam itself is an interesting historical structure. Exploring charming towns like Avallon or visiting the Ecomuseums that showcase local traditions can also be engaging for all ages.
Where can I find the best panoramic views in Morvan?
For breathtaking views, head to Mont Beuvray, which offers remarkable panoramas, including Mont-Blanc on clear days. The Signal d'Uchon and Rochers du Carnaval near Uchon also provide excellent viewpoints over the Arroux valley. Additionally, the Haut-Folin Pass, the highest point in the Morvan, provides scenic vistas during your climb through the forest. Château-Chinon, the capital of Morvan, also offers a fantastic panorama from the Panorama du Calvaire.
What are the main lakes in Morvan and what can I do there?
The Morvan is home to six man-made lakes, with Lac de Pannecière and Lac des Settons being the largest and most popular. Other notable lakes include Lac de Saint-Agnan, Lac de Chaumeçon, Lac de Chamboux, and Lac du Crescent. These lakes are ideal for various activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The surrounding areas also offer numerous trails for hiking and cycling, including a popular loop around Lac des Settons.
When is the best time to visit Morvan for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Morvan for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder and more conducive to exploring the natural landscapes. Summer offers the warmest temperatures for water sports on the lakes. For specific weather conditions and seasonal considerations, you might find additional information on regional tourism sites like Burgundy Tourism.
Are there any significant religious sites in Morvan?
Yes, Morvan features several significant religious sites. The most prominent is the Basilica Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major pilgrimage destination. Another notable site is the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. The small Cordelle Chapel near Vézelay also holds historical religious significance as the site where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade.
What is the Morvan Regional Natural Park, and what does it offer?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park (Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan) was established in 1970 to preserve the natural environment while promoting sustainable tourism. It covers a vast area across four departments of Burgundy. The park is a haven for nature lovers, offering extensive opportunities for hiking, cycling, water sports, and horseback riding. The Maison du Parc in Saint-Brisson serves as the park's administrative center and houses an ecomuseum, a museum about the Resistance, a botanical garden, and an arboretum.
What unique historical mysteries can be found in Morvan?
One of Morvan's most intriguing historical mysteries can be found in Quarré-les-Tombes. This unique village is known for the over 100 ancient limestone sarcophagi, dating from the 7th-10th century, that surround its church. The origin and exact purpose of these sarcophagi remain a subject of historical debate and fascination, adding a mysterious allure to the village.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Morvan's attractions?
Visitors frequently praise the Morvan for its stunning natural beauty and the sense of tranquility it offers. The diverse landscapes, from dense forests to serene lakes, are highly appreciated. Historical sites like the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père are often described as impressive and amazing, showcasing magnificent architecture. The region's cycling routes, such as those around Haut-Folin Pass, are enjoyed for their varying gradients and scenic views, making them accessible for different skill levels.
Most popular routes in Morvan
Most popular attractions in Morvan
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