Autunois-Morvan
Autunois-Morvan: Nature in its purest form and cultural marvels
For lovers of unspoilt and uncompromising nature and all those seeking an authenticity in its most pristine form, the Morvan region welcomes you with open arms in offering what is sure to please the purists admirative of vast spaces and a culture that's unaltered, deeply rooted and ferociously proud.
The Autunois-Morvan (south of the Morvan Regional Park) has what it takes to successfully blend nature in its purest form and cultural marvels, harmoniously juxtaposed between lush forests and magical spots, including Uchon's bewildering granite formations and the Bibracte woods, mythical sites of Gallo-Roman history, sweeping green valleys and summits inviting to hikers and mountain bikers alike, plus a plethora of rivers and streams (paradise on Earth for fishing trout).
Suited for both action and contemplation, Autunois-Morvan is a place to see, breathe and experience.
Mont Beuvray and Haut-Folin: two summits to conquer
Listed as one of France's Grand Sites with its archaeological digs and Celtic Civilisation Museum, the Mont Beuvray symbolises the Morvan's relief. Its peak climbs over 800 m and is situated at the former Bibracte fortified oppidum, which recalls the historical glory of the venue during Gallo-Roman times.
This site merits a visit for its raw beauty and panorama, as well for the opportunity to breathe in such a pure air loaded with history and legends.
The Haut-Folin reaches all the way to 901 m and stands above the Saône-&-Loire's tall forests of oak, beech and evergreens widely appreciated under the appellation of Morvan's Christmas trees.
Autun's Gallo-Roman riches
The Autunois naturally revolves around Autun. Considered as Rome's little sister by the Roman Emperor Auguste (the city's founder), this city is renowned for its art and history, given that the old town of this former Roman Christian capital is laid out around its 12th-century cathedral. Autun still boasts a number of monumental vestiges from this period of Antiquity, among which its impressive Gallo-Roman theatre (with seating capacity for 20,000), Janus Temple, Couhard stone, ancient ramparts and the imposing Saint-André and Arroux Gates.
More information: https://www.autun-tourisme.com/en/home
The Sully Castle
Located between Autun and Beaune, the Sully Castle appears to be straight out of a fairy tale. Nicknamed the "Fontainebleau of Burgundy" by Marquise de Sévigné, it is without a doubt one of Burgundy's most beautiful chateaux.
Built as the 16th century gave way to the 17th, this massive quadrilateral stretching around 4 square towers, surrounded by moats and four lodging buildings, makes up a truly remarkable architectural composition with at its centre a most handsome Renaissance-style interior courtyard.
More information: https://www.chateaudesully.com/welcome
