THE BRIONNAIS IN 6 DAYS : EXPLORE THE BRIONNAIS BOCAGE

Hiking in Burgundy

Thematic

Hiking in Burgundy

Location

Brionnais in Burgundy

Duration

6 days / 5 nights

Level

Medium

Accomodation

B&B or unusual accomodation

Participants

From 1 person

From 545€ / Person

Description

Welcome to an unforgettable hike on the edge of the Brionnais, where every step brings you closer to the hidden treasures of this region. In six days of wonder, follow the winding paths of this magnificent bocage, and let yourself be guided towards the architectural jewels of the Romanesque churches, true witnesses to the history and splendour of Burgundy.

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Program

Day 1

  • FROM MELAY TO SAINT EDMOND :

    Start your journey along the towpath of the Roanne-Digoin canal, where you'll be enveloped in peace and quiet from the moment you set foot on it. From there, take to the steep paths that lead to the country of the 7 hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding bocage. Then cross the picturesque valley of the Bézo, following the meandering of this charming river between the green hills, until you reach the enchanting confines of the Brionnais, at Saint-Maurice-les-Châteauneuf, where every street exudes history and the charm of antique shops.

Day 2

  • FROM SAINT EDMOND TO AMANZE :

    Today, let yourself be charmed by the miles of winding paths, where each landscape seems to be lifted from a painting, with its harmonious geometric shapes, emblematic pollarded trees and peaceful Charolais cows dotting the lush green meadows. It's a bucolic setting that invites you to reconnect with the surrounding nature in all its simplicity.

Day 3

  • LOOP CIRCUIT AROUND AMANZE

    Immerse yourself in a day of adventure, where hiking and cultural discovery go hand in hand. Your route will take you to the sumptuous Drée castle, nicknamed the "little Versailles of the Brionnais". Plan to take a long break, as there are many treasures to be found on this estate: from the richly ornate interiors, where a guided tour will immerse you in the history and luxury of a bygone era, to the sumptuous gardens that invite you to contemplate and stroll. Every corner of this estate is full of wonders to discover, making this stopover an unforgettable experience.

Day 4

  • FROM AMANZE TO ANZY LE DUC :

    Head off on an adventure through the enchanting landscapes of the little switzerland of the Brionnaise! The winding paths take you on exhilarating climbs and dizzying descents, offering a real natural spectacle with every step. But it's when you reach the edge of the Arconce valley that the magic happens. This crystal-clear river meanders gracefully through lush green meadows, adding a touch of softness and tranquillity to your walk. Let yourself be enchanted by the soothing music of its waters and the glow of the sun playing through the foliage. Today, let yourself be enveloped 100% by nature, for a revitalising and unforgettable experience.

Day 5

  • FROM ANZY LE DUC TO SAINT JULIEN DE JONZY :

    The day begins with a visit to the church of Anzy-le-Duc, a veritable jewel of Romanesque art. Dating back to the 11th century, this church is renowned for its remarkable architecture and exquisite carvings. Admire the capitals adorned with floral and animal motifs, as well as the famous tympanum depicting Christ in majesty surrounded by the symbols of the evangelists. The church at Anzy-le-Duc is an exceptional example of the region's religious heritage, so don't miss it (guided tour recommended as an optional extra).

    The paths of the Charmays forest will then guide you to the charming village of Semur-en-Brionnais, nestling in the heart of the green hills. Here, time seems to stand still, and every cobbled street invites you to explore. At the heart of this enchanting setting stands the majestic collegiate church of Saint-Hilaire, a poignant testimony to the region's religious and architectural history. Built in the 12th century, this remarkable church is listed as a historic monument and represents the last example of Romanesque architecture to be erected in the Brionnais region. Its unique style, a blend of Cluniac influences and Gothic prefigurations, makes it a place of great artistic and spiritual richness.

    This village steeped in history also boasts a medieval castle, a fascinating vestige of Semur-en-Brionnais' glorious past. Perched on a hill, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and its walls tell the story of centuries gone by. As you explore its towers and ramparts, you'll be immersed in the region's medieval epic, when knights and lords competed for land and power.

    After this stopover steeped in history and beauty, your journey will continue with a pleasant walk in the heart of the surrounding forest. Soak up the tranquillity of these woods, where every step is an invitation to contemplation and serenity. This final stage will round off your day of adventure, offering you a moment of relaxation and communion with nature.

Day 6

  • FROM SAINT JULIEN DE JONZY TO IGUERANDE :

    Take the enchanted path through the Bois des Prêtres forest, where the peace and serenity of the deciduous trees will enchant you, almost magically transporting you to the banks of the Loire. But before you leave this mysterious region, take a diversion to the charming village of Iguerande, where history and beauty come together in harmony.

    Perched on a hill, like a guardian of time, the Romanesque church of Saint-Marcel of Iguerande majestically dominates the valley and its river, offering breathtaking views. This thousand-year-old church, dating from the late 11th century, is one of the purest and most complete examples of Romanesque architecture in Burgundy. Its solid, squat appearance bears witness to its glorious past, while its interior is home to some real artistic treasures.

    As an option, take a guided tour of this emblematic building, where every stone seems to tell a story. You'll discover the secrets of this former Benedictine abbey, once attached to Marcigny and before that to Cluny, whose spiritual imprint remains palpable despite the vicissitudes of time.

    And if you're lucky, push open the door of the Reflet Brionnais museum, just opposite the church, where you might meet Lili, a passionate guardian of local history. This museum, one of the region's cultural gems, invites you on a captivating journey through time, to meet the men and women who have shaped the landscape and identity of the Brionnais region. Let yourself be immersed in the stories and artefacts that bear witness to the rich heritage of this generous land, and leave enriched with unforgettable memories.

Useful information

Explore the hidden treasures of the Brionnais region on an unforgettable walking tour, designed to provide a rewarding natural getaway for couples, friends or family. Reconnect with what's essential during this interlude away from screens and daily stress, where every step brings you closer to the simplicity and beauty of Southern Burgundy.

Céline, our local enthusiast, has been criss-crossing the paths of the sumptuous Brionnais bocage for two decades, and her intimate knowledge of the region guarantees tours perfectly suited to all levels of walker. Whether you're looking for a sporty hike or a leisurely stroll, Céline will be able to put together a tailor-made itinerary for you, enabling you to discover the natural gems of this unspoilt land.

Along the way, you'll explore the Brionnais, Burgundy's Romanesque garden, where Charolais cows have grazed peacefully for centuries. The paths wind through lush green landscapes, bordered by preserved hedgerows, offering a real treat for the senses.

But there's more to the Brionnais than its lush countryside. It is also a mecca for Romanesque art, with over thirty 11th-century churches and Cluniac monuments dotted around the region. As an option, immerse yourself in the history and architecture of these sacred buildings on guided tours organised throughout your hike.

After a busy day, relax in the warm intimacy of a homestay, where the welcome is sincere and the meals lovingly concocted from local produce. Let yourself be pampered by attentive hosts, true ambassadors of the conviviality of the Brionnais.

To make your experience even more enjoyable, we'll take care of transporting your luggage, so you can concentrate fully on the pleasure of walking and exploring. Opt for half-board and be surprised by the picnics prepared with care by your hosts, an invitation to savour the delights of local gastronomy in the heart of nature.

Level of walking required for this tour: Medium - Advanced

DAY 1 : Approximately 18 km, 5 hour walk / D+: 360 m and D-: 265 m
DAY 2 : Approximately 19 km, 5 hour walk / D+: 307 m and D-: 319 m
DAY 3 : Approximately 18 km, 5 hour walk / D+: 322 m and D-: 318 m
DAY 4 : Approximately 25 km or 7 hours walk (with possible short cuts) / D+: 348 m and D-: 423 m
DAY 5 : Approximately 19 km or 6 hours' walk (with possible short cuts) / D+: 413 m and D-: 195 m
DAY 6 : Approximately 18km, 5 hour walk / D+: 286 m and D-: 519 m

Please note that this programme is given as an indication only and may be modified according to weather conditions, the level of the group and/or the availability of accommodation.

Walking times are given as a guide, without breaks, and depend on your walking ability.

NB: D+: ascent, D-: descent.

The difficulty of the hike has been calculated according to the rating criteria of the Fédération Française de Randonnée Pédestre:

https://www.ffrandonnee.fr/data/CMS/files/randonnee/Guide-cotation-ffrandonnee-2020.pdf


According to these criteria, we can define this hike as follows:

TECHNICITY: Level 3: Not very difficult

RISK: Level 2: Fairly low

EFFORT: LEVEL 3: Not very difficult

If you would like more information on each day's hike, you can analyse each one in detail on the IGN website by downloading the .gpx tracks that we will provide you with three weeks before the hike at this address:
https://www.ibpindex.com/ibpindex/analyser.php

DAY 1 : Overnight in guest rooms or dormitory (shared sanitary facilities)
DAY 2 : Overnight in guest rooms (private bathroom)
DAY 3 : Overnight in guest rooms (private bathroom)
DAY 4 : Overnight in guest rooms (private bathroom)
DAY 5 : Overnight at hotel (private bathroom)


On site, you will eat at the table d'hôtes or at the hotel restaurant.

Your luggage will be transported by vehicle. However, we ask you to be reasonable: please keep your luggage to a minimum (preferably in a single bag), and weigh no more than 13 kilos per person.

Shampoo and shower gel are not provided in the accommodation.

We recommend a 40-liter backpack (an isothermal backpack is a plus for carrying your picnic lunch).

To avoid consuming plastic bottles, remember to bring at least one 1.5-liter water bottle per person, to be filled each morning before you leave.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

This hike is a free hike, which means that it takes place without a guide and under your own responsibility. We provide you with a hiking file which will be sent to you by post or e-mail, three weeks before your arrival date, with :

  • Accommodation contact details.
  • Detailed route sheets for each day's hiking.
  • A4 IGN maps of each day's hike, with routes highlighted. On site, the day before your hike, you'll be given an easy-to-use, laminated A4 version of these maps. Lodgings are precisely located and shortcuts are clearly highlighted.
  • The itinerary in .gpx format for GPS.
  • No reimbursement will be made in the event of abandonment en route, skipped stages or other services not taken up by hikers.
  • We may occasionally have to make slight changes to the itinerary indicated, either for organizational reasons (problem of availability of accommodation, changes in terrain conditions, etc.). We always inform you of such changes when you book.
  • You are the sole judge of your own strength and ability to handle unexpected situations (fatigue, weather, presence of animals, changes in terrain, etc.).
  • We decline all responsibility for any error on your part concerning orientation (error or change of itinerary) or time management (departure too late in the morning, picnic break too long...).

From Paris, book your train with Marcigny as the arrival station, and from Paris gare de Lyon, you'll stop at the TGV station Le Creusot Montchanin, where you'll take a bus to Marcigny. You can then book a cab to take you from Marcigny to your evening stop.

From Lyon, similarly book a train with Pouilly sous Charlieu as the arrival station, so you'll arrive at Charlieu station, where you'll take a bus to Pouilly sous Charlieu. You can then contact a cab for the journey between Pouilly sous Charlieu and your evening stopover.

By car, we'll give you the address of your accommodation the day before your hike, and explain how to get there easily by car.

Luggage is transported by carrier (13 kilos per person maximum)

710 € / person for 2 persons

630 € / person for 3 people

570 € / person for 4 people or more

DON'T HESITATE TO ASK FOR A QUOTE: we adapt our prices to suit your wishes (shorter or longer tours, simpler or higher-quality accommodation...), but also your budget! It costs nothing to ask.

These rates are given as an indication only, and a quote will be drawn up prior to booking according to your requirements: in particular for groups of more than 4 people, for people with children under 12, for people wishing separate rooms, for single people...

These prices include :

  • Complete organization of your tour.
  • Transport of your luggage at each stage.
  • Full-board accommodation during the hike, from picnic on day 1 to picnic on day 6 EXCEPT dinner on day 5 at the hotel restaurant, to be paid for on site.
  • Tracks on IGN maps in A4 format for each day of hiking, plus a detailed route sheet.
  • GPX tracks for each day of hiking, downloadable before your arrival.

These rates do not include :

  • Drinks and personal expenses.
  • Dinner on day 5 at the hotel restaurant.
  • Train shuttle service (optional).
  • Cancellation insurance (optional extra).
  • Guided tour of a Romanesque church (optional extra).
  • An extra night in a bed & breakfast on a half-board basis, the day before and the last day of the hike.
  • 2 IGN 1/25000 maps of the circuit, which you keep after the hike: €30

This hike is accessible all year round.

Options disponibles

  • An additional night, in a half-board guest room, on the day before and the last day of hiking
  • picnic : 10 € per person and per day
  • Cancellation and interruption insurance
  • Guided tour of roman churches
  • 2 IGN 1/25000 maps of the circuit that you keep after the hike