If scenic, unique and offbeat are your keywords for sourcing new travel destinations, then your search ends at Auxerre in Burgundy. At a 90-minute train ride from Paris, this charming Burgundian gem will tempt you to spend a weekend or more discovering and soaking in its distinct ambience. What’s on the agenda, you ask? Heady encounters with its delectable wine and flavoursome cuisine, picturesque landscapes and unique experiences aplenty!
Active in Auxerre:
Tick off on your checklist, a discovery of the L’Abbaye Saint-Germain for a deep delve into the history of the city. Include a visit of its crypts to marvel at some of the oldest and well-preserved murals in France.
Insider tip: Earn some brownie points with the locals by pronouncing Auxerre as they do- Osair- and thank us later!
The Clock Tower and its astronomical dial are sure to catch your eye. This recently revamped monument tells you both the solar (the 24hr clock) and the lunar time as well as the phases of the moon. Didn’t we say this would be worth your while… oops time?
History buffs are surely going to enjoy the Cadet Roussel route; known in local parlance as the Traces de Cadet Roussel. This pedestrian circuit marked by bronzes on the streets will lead you to an interesting discovery of the historical center of the city at your own pace.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss Auxerre’s charming half-timbered houses that dot the historical city center.
© Michel Joly
Ready for some intoxicating experiences of the wine kind? Interact with local winegrowers, visit cellars, and learn more about the secrets of wine making and santé to Burgundy’s finest at the end of the visit!
Pro Tip: We recommend the local AOC Cremant de Bourgogne a local sparkling wine that serves as the perfect base for your Kir Royal.
On your Plate:
© Atout France Ooshot @WorldElse
The hero of all regional delicacies here is the “gougère” that is made up of choux pastry and cheese, and perfectly complements your aperitifs. If you happen to visit Auxerre in October, do not miss the “Fête de la Gougère” replete with demonstrations by bakers in the quest for creating the best gougère!
Amongst the other regional delicacies that vie for your attention are the Burgundy truffle, eggs meurette, parsleyed ham, an assortment of varied cheeses, cherries and the honeyed spiced bread. For the adventurous, there is Burgundy’s emblematic snail that deserves a mention and a sampling!
Wondering what wine pairs best with your food? Take your pick from : Irancy, Saint-Bris, Bourgogne Côtes d’Auxerre, Bourgogne Chitry, Bourgogne Coulanges-la-Vineuse, Crémant de Bourgogne or the Chablis.
The Great Outdoors:
Ramblers and hikers will find their paradise in Auxerre’s environs as they offer many circuits and trails. There is also the path of Saint Jacques de Compostela (The Pilgrims’ Way) which passes through here.
Nurture your inner explorer and set off on a discovery of the famous Nivernais Canal that winds its way from Auxerre to Decize. With 116 locks, your discovery mode options include cycling, walking or even boating, all at your own pace. Flanked by wine villages, you will be tempted to stop by at one or more to raise a toast to the good life in Auxerre.
Cruise Control
© Alain Doire
Discover the true joys of slow tourism as you navigate the canals of the picturesque Yonne and Burgundy on a luxury houseboat. For those pressed for time, choose for electric boats perfect for day excursions.
For more information, visit: https://www.ot-auxerre.com/
By Pusha KOTHI
Books, music and a travelling soul! Head- Communications, Atout France
