The birthplace of Charolais cows with a donkey
Discover the very essence of the Brionnais region in southern Burgundy on your donkey trek: tranquility! An intense journey filled with encounters and emotions awaits you as you traverse the rolling landscapes, mysterious forests, and charming villages of this region. Let yourself be captivated by the simple and enchanting beauty of the Brionnais on this magnificent donkey trek.
Embark on an exceptional six-day adventure with a donkey trek , a getaway that combines the simple and authentic pleasures of a family holiday . The donkey will be the link that brings you closer together, far from screens and stress. A nature retreat for a complete disconnect from everyday life.
Reconnect with the simple things, share precious moments, and experience an adventure that will remain etched among your most beautiful holiday memories.
Before setting off, benefit from comprehensive training with a professional donkey trekker . Learn how to care for this gentle and patient animal – brushing, cleaning its hooves, putting on the pack saddle – and receive all the necessary instructions to easily guide your donkey . With your new trekking companion , set off with peace of mind to discover the Brionnais region.
The donkey , a faithful carrier of your luggage and young children, becomes a valuable ally for parents. It motivates the little ones, revealing their incredible ability to walk.
During these six days, explore the Romanesque garden of Burgundy , the Brionnais , an authentic bocage landscape where the breeding of Charolais cows , the most famous in the world, has been perpetuated for centuries. Travel hundreds of kilometers of paths bordered by preserved hedgerows, a delight for nature lovers.
Each evening, the family, tired but relaxed, will find refuge with local residents, welcomed like friends. At the generous table, savor meals prepared with local Burgundian products.
A walk with a donkey is the ultimate in slow tourism : a steady pace of 3 km per hour, enough time to savor the scenery, take a nap in the shade of an oak tree, and meet chatty farmers.
Time seems to stand still, offering a peaceful and memorable experience.
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Destination
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Start time
melay -
Departure time
9:00 -
Arriving time
17:00 -
Equipment
Helmets are mandatory for children
Picture gallery
Day 1
From Melay to Saint-Bonnet-de-Cray:
Meet at 9 a.m. in the town of Melay , at the Bougres d'ânes farm for two hours of training in donkey hiking (if you are coming from quite far away, we advise you to arrive the day before, the training will then take place at 17 p.m.).
Your adventure begins gently along the towpath of the Roanne to Digoin Canal , offering a perfect introduction to this unique experience. Cross the majestic Loire River and venture onto the narrow paths, bordered by the hedgerows typical of the Brionnais bocage . There, begin your ascent, slowly but surely, following a picturesque route that will lead you to exceptional viewpoints overlooking the bocage countryside.
The descent eventually leads you to the charming village of Saint-Bonnet-de-Cray , where you will receive a warm welcome from Marie Christine. A day full of discoveries and breathtaking scenery awaits you.
Get ready for a memorable experience from the very first day of your donkey trek in Burgundy!
Accommodation in guest rooms and meals at the host's table on site.
13 km or about 4h30 of walking / D+: 271 m and D-: 167 m.
Day 2
From Saint-Bonnet-de-Cray to Vauban:
Immerse yourself in a day that lives up to all its promises: time for yourself, the gentle beauty of the landscape, and a connection with unspoiled nature... All this awaits you in the Bézo Valley , where a charming river meanders through meadows where Charolais cows graze peacefully. A perfect day for a family donkey trek , offering an unusual holiday experience and an off-the-beaten-path hike.
Let yourself be carried away by the soothing rhythm of the current, offering a tranquil interlude where only the murmur of the water accompanies you. Your evening destination awaits you on the other side, through the small forest of Foumoux.
A day full of discoveries and serenity awaits you during this stage of your hike with a donkey in Burgundy.
Accommodation in a tipi (private showers and toilets in a shared sanitary block) or in a trapper's cabin (private bathroom) and meals at the communal table on site (free swimming pool and sauna: €20 per person to be paid on site).
16 km or approximately 5 hours of walking (shortcut of 30 and 3 km possible) / D+: 6 m and D -: 327 m
Day 3
From Vauban to Vareilles:
Prepare for a getaway to the eastern reaches of the Brionnais region , where every path reveals unexpected treasures: dry stone walls, secluded chapels, and charming Romanesque churches . Explore this haven of tranquility, where calm blends seamlessly with the beauty of the landscape. Take time to daydream beneath the canopy of a majestic oak, synchronize your rhythm with that of the peacefully grazing Charolais cattle , observe the aerial ballet of buzzards and falcons, and close your eyes to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
This hike is much more than a simple walk; it's an experience full of pleasure and sensory discoveries at every step!
Accommodation in a treehouse or trapper's cabin in the middle of a mini farm (dwarf pigs, dwarf donkey, ponies, poultry and dwarf goats) (private showers and toilets in a shared sanitary block) and meals served in your accommodation.
14 km or approximately 5 hours of walking / D+: 252 m and D-: 258 m (2 km shortcut possible)
Day 4
From Vareilles to Saint-Christophe-en-Brionnais:
Today, discover once again an enchanting route that will lead you through the picturesque village of Oyé . This haven of peace shelters the majestic remains of a 15th-16th century manor house, once much more imposing (visits to the formal French garden are possible from mid-July to the end of August in the afternoon). Formerly under the rule of the lords of Semur-en-Brionnais , Oyé saw a junior branch inherit the estate in the 13th century.
The region you are traveling through is steeped in a rich farming tradition, and the splendid farms that line your route bear witness to the prosperity of this land, nicknamed the " land of green gold ." Along the way, explore the historical heritage, breathe the fresh air, and feel the vibrant energy of this land brimming with history and abundance.
Accommodation in a hostel in a former school. Dormitory or private rooms with shared bathrooms.
14 km or approximately 5 hours of walking / D+: 243 m and D-: 391 m
Day 5
From Saint-Christophe-en-Brionnais to Saint-Julien-de-Jonzy:
Get ready to explore one of the most beautiful routes in the Brionnais region today! Cross the splendid deciduous forest that stretches between Saint-Christophe-en-Brionnais and Semur-en-Brionnais , offering an immersive experience in the heart of unspoiled nature. Midway through your ride, the more adventurous will have the opportunity to discover the magnificent medieval village of Semur-en-Brionnais.
Don't miss a visit to the Collegiate Church of Saint Hilaire , a listed historical monument built in the 12th century. A testament to the last Romanesque church erected in the Brionnais region, it subtly blends Cluniac Romanesque style with early Gothic elements. Near the church, the Château de Semur-en-Brionnais invites you to a fascinating exploration, with its mysterious corners that particularly captivate children.
This day promises a perfect harmony between nature, history and adventure in the heart of the Brionnais.
Hotel accommodation
16,5 km or approximately 5 hours of walking / D+: 30 m and D-: 338 m (shortcuts of 334 and 2 km possible)
Day 6
From Saint-Julien-de-Jonzy to Melay:
After the climb, it's time to descend with gusto! Let's get back on the trails, but this time through a beautiful deciduous forest whose peace and quiet will gently guide you towards the Loire Valley. Don't miss the pleasure of a short detour to the magnificent Romanesque church of Iguerande , a thousand-year-old sentinel perched atop a hill offering a splendid view of the valley and its majestic Loire River.
And if fate smiles upon you, an exceptional encounter awaits you at the museum opposite the church: Lili. He will tell you the fascinating story of the inhabitants of this country, adding a personal touch to your experience.
Descend through the wooded paths, discover the history and nature that surround you, and let yourself be surprised by the wonders that will punctuate this memorable day of your unusual hike in Burgundy.
12,5 km or approximately 4 hours of walking / D+: 30 m and D-: 174 m
Preparing luggage
Don't overload yourself: the donkey carries a maximum of 30 to 35 kilos depending on the donkey's size (which corresponds to 10% of their weight: donkeys are not overloaded!) including the weight of luggage and children: only take essentials! Two saddlebags in which you must distribute your luggage evenly (a scale for weighing luggage will be provided for the duration of the hike) will be given to you the day before or the morning of the hike.
What you need:
- Your clothes (don't forget practical, lightweight rain gear and caps).
- A good pair of hiking shoes and possibly a second pair to rest your feet in the evening BUT LIGHT (sandal type).
- Shower gel and shampoo not provided in guest rooms.
- One water bottle per person of at least 1,5 liters which will be filled every morning before your departure.
- A small emergency pharmacy (antiseptic, bandages, aspirin, mosquito and tick repellent, tick remover, sunscreen).
- A mountain bike helmet for children riding the donkey (MANDATORY, not provided).
- One or more small backpacks that allow you to unload the donkey when the children are tired or to carry the excess that the donkey cannot carry.
- Garbage bags for storing your clothes: garbage bags are very lightweight, waterproof, strong, and compact: much better than a backpack or gym bag. Suitcases should be avoided at all costs.
- A water spray bottle (usually used for plants), very useful for cooling you down during hot weather.
What you don't need:
- You don't need towels, sheets or sleeping bags.
- You do not need any picnic equipment, everything will be provided with the picnic on the first day.
- Games for children (there is everything you need in the accommodation).
- Extra food (including for the donkey), meals, breakfasts and picnics are very hearty, don't worry.
Hike preparation
How many donkeys?
Given the maximum weight a donkey can carry (30 to 35 kilos maximum per donkey depending on the size of the donkey, including the weight of luggage and children), we advise taking one donkey for a maximum of 3 to 4 people; this rule varies depending on the age of the children and their ability to walk the whole hike or not: we therefore advise you to carefully assess the weight that the donkey will have to carry during the hike and possibly take an additional donkey as an option if necessary.
The donkeys You can carry young children (under your supervision) for short distances several times a day when they are tired or when it is necessary to move faster. If you wish to do this hike with very young children under 3 years old, it is perfectly possible, but they must be carried by an adult (baby carrier, hiking baby carrier).
Can we bring our dog?
Some accommodations do not accept dogs, so it is essential to inform us if you wish to travel with a dog so that we can suggest a suitable itinerary. Your dog must be well-behaved and accept other animals such as donkeys, cats, dogs, rabbits, and pigs that it will encounter at the various accommodations where you will be staying. Your dog must be kept on a leash upon arrival at the accommodations, and if the owner requests it, you must allow it to remain on the leash.
Is your dog sufficiently trained for hiking? (consult your veterinarian for advice).
Various problems during the hike?
In case of any problem with your donkey during the hike: health problem, hoof or lameness not detected at the start of the hike, the donkey will be replaced very quickly.
If you decide to stop the hike on your own without a valid reason, you can be repatriated on the basis of €1 per km (with a maximum of €50).
In the month before your departure, you will receive:
• The list of accommodations.
• The hiking logbook and all useful information (variations, distances, walking time...).
• Hiking maps in PDF format (but no need to print them, they will be provided to you in A4 format laminated upon your arrival).
• The route in .gpx format for GPS (sent on simple request via the internet).
It seems obvious to us that a minimum knowledge of reading IGN maps is important.
Here are some links to help you:
http://education.ign.fr/dossiers/lire-une-carte-et-sorienter
https://www.altituderando.NotAllowedScriptcom/Comment-lire-une-carte-IGN-de-randonnee
From €480 to €500 per adult in a double room with full board
From €360 to €380 per child aged 12 and over, full board
From €300 to €320 per child under 12 years old, full board
From €155 to €175 per child under 3 years old, full board
€50 per child sleeping in a baby bed.
€390 per donkey rented (one donkey for 3 to 4 people)
These prices are for a minimum of 2 participating adults staying in the same room.
For families of more than 5 people, and for those wishing to have separate rooms, a supplement will be indicated in the quote.
For people travelling alone or for single-parent families with children under 12 years old, a supplement will be indicated in the quote.
In all cases, these prices are given as an indication only; depending on your requests, a quote will be drawn up before booking.
These prices include:
- A single donkey, its hiking equipment (pack and saddlebags) and its food.
- The complete organization of your hike.
- Accommodation during the hike with full board from picnic lunch on day 1 to picnic lunch on day 6 (EXCEPT for dinner on day 5 which must be paid for directly at the restaurant).
- The departure briefing: advice on leading a donkey, itinerary.
- The routes on the IGN map for each day of hiking, as well as a detailed route map.
- GPX tracks for each day of hiking can be downloaded before your arrival.
These prices do not include:
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Dinner on day 5 must be paid for directly at the hotel restaurant.
- Accommodation the day before and the last day of hiking.
- From €71 per adult in a double room with full board.
- From €48 per child aged 12 and over, full board.
- From €32 per child under 12 years old with full board.
- From €20 per child under 4 years old with full board.
- From €10 per child sleeping in a cot.
- Transportation to the starting point of the hike and back.
- The repatriation of the donkey and hikers to the starting point in the event of abandonment on your part.
- Multi-risk epidemic insurance