Burgundy’s gastronomic reputation and impressive history makes its capital Beaune and nearby vineyards amongst France’s most-visited destinations. But there are plenty of smaller villages in Burgundy that are less visited but no less spectacular. From those that follow the Yonne river, and ancient stone buildings tucked into hillsides, the Nièvre region has some of the finest villages in Burgundy.
Here are our favorite ‘chocolate box’ villages in Burgundy – each a gem in their own right.
1. Auxerre
With the River Yonne winding through the city, Auxerre is characterized by its cobbled streets, impressive Burgundian-style monuments and timber-framed, colorful architecture. Make sure you visit the Église Saint-Eusèbe d’Auxerre, Clock Tower and the Quai de la République lined with boats.
2. Flavigny-sur-Ozerain
Named one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages and one of favorite villages in Burgundy, Flavigny is pure French charm.
Flavigny-sur-Ozerain is a medieval city famed for producing Anis de Flavigny, the region’s signature aniseed sweet. Its winding streets, cobble stones and verdant walls certainly make it picture perfect. Flavigny’s chocolate-box aesthetic saw it cast as the backdrop to the cult film Chocolat!
3. Clamency
The capital of the Yonne valleys, Clamency is set in one of France’s most scenic areas and a splendid village to visit in Burgundy. The town itself is protected with a wonderfully preserved 13th-16th century core. It has a distinct cultural activity, there’s a month-long festival during the summer which welcomes various musicians.
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4. Semur-en-Auxois
This sleepy town has been left to its own devices over recent years, but the medieval infrastructure and long bridge that leads up to it make it worth the visit.
5. Merry-sur-Yonne
On the banks of the river Yonne, Merry’s main feature is the impressive Saussois cliffs – a popular climbing site for nearby Parisians. Scale their heights and enjoy breathtaking panoramas above, or admire their beauty from below with a river walk.
6. Chevroches
The main attraction of Chevroches is the church – built in the early 800s! Not far from Clamency, this quiet village in Burgundy was constructed from the stone of its former quarry – the walls, buildings, and the church itself.
If these 6 villages in Burgundy have given you some wanderlust – start planning your next trip! We compiled a full guide to the area as part of the Sept.Oct issue.
This article originally appeared in the September/October 2019 issue of My French Country Home.
Photography © Teddy Verneuil, for more information visit teddy-bear-photos.com.