dossier

Abbeys and Vineyards Cycling

ABBEYS & VINEYARDS CYCLING | WHERE YOU STAY

Hotel Normandie  **
Auxerre  Days 1+6

This hotel was originally a maison bourgeoise until it was converted into a hotel by an ex-pâtissier! It has now been in Mme Ramise’s family for over 45 years. The hotel only provides breakfast, although à la carte room service is possible (very reasonably priced and a good selection of hot and cold dishes). However, it’s fun to explore the lovely town of Auxerre and there are plenty of good restaurants in all price ranges within 5-15 minutes walk. There’s a public swimming pool in the town and a sauna at the hotel (approx 7€). There is a secure closed garage behind the hotel (6.50€ per day) or free parking in front (ask at reception).

Further details on the hotel website.

Day 1 Arrive at Auxerre

One of France’s prettiest mediaeval cities, on the banks of the Yonne. Two Gothic churches: the Cathedral of St Etienne (13C and 16C with magnificent stained glass windows) and the Abbey of St Germain (13C and 14C with 19C crypt).

Day 2 Auxerre/Ligny-le-Châtel 33km/20mi or 43km/27mi

Leaving Auxerre, it’s flat gentle cycling along the river Yonne and through the forest of St Germain to Seignelay (scene of the 8C defeat of the Saracens; castle remains; fine market hall; pretty views over the Serein). Perhaps via the magnificent Abbey at Pontigny (which gave sanctuary to Thomas à Beckett) to Ligny-le-Châtel.

Relais St Vincent  **
Ligny-le-Chatel  Days 2+3

The Relais St Vincent offers 15 stylish, comfortable rooms, with en suite bathrooms, television and telephone. Meals are a real treat; the dining room has thick wooden beams and chandeliers

Day 3 At Ligny-le-Châtel

Originally this was the Roman Lanniacum Castrum. Later Marguerite de Bourgogne lived here. See the Church of St Peter and St Paul (Romanesque on the inside, Renaissance outside). It’s just a 10km/6mi cycle to the small village of Chablis, almost entirely given over to the production of the world’s most celebrated white wine - masses of tasting opportunities - and don’t forget, we can pick up any purchases for you. Or visit Pontigny, reputed to be home of the greatest Cistercian abbey in the country.

Day 4 Ligny/Vermenton    43km/27mi or 48km/30mi

A longer cycling day today as you pedal from one little wine village to another - but we’ve planned your route to ensure lots of time for stopping along the way! After a gentle climb to Courgis - lovely picnic spot, stunning views - it’s downhill through Chitry and St Bris-le-Vineux to the River Yonne and along the towpath to Vermenton.

15 Place Volatire AAA

Vermenton Days 4+5

Further details on the hotel website.

Day 5    At Vermenton

Perhaps walk (or take your bike on the train) to Arcy-sur-Cure (10km/6mi) and visit the celebrated caves, and intriguing Manoir de Chastenay. Then cycle perhaps to Vézelay, fortified mediaeval town, from where St Bernard of Clairvaux launched the second crusade. Or take the gentle towpath to Mailly la Ville where you can swim at the riverside “beach” or watch the canal boats coming in and out of the adjacent port.

Day 6    Vermenton/Auxerre 32km/20mi

Today’s undemanding route takes you along the towpath towards Auxerre. Picnic on the banks of the Yonne, or go via Irancy - the views are absolutely stunning - and visit the amazing underground Bailly caves where Crémant sparkling wines are made. Lots of time to explore historic Auxerre; abbey, cathedral, shops, etc. as well as superb indoor and outdoor swimming complexes.

Day 7 Leave Auxerre

For extra nights we recommend Auxerre or Paris.