The enchanting Way of St. James in Burgundy

Before taking to the GR213 hiking trail, a visit to Fontenay Abbey is a must. Founded by St. Bernard in 1119, it is the oldest Cistercian abbey in the world.

The trail leads first into the Fontenay valley before crossing Montbard, the town of Buffon, a famous 18th-century naturalist. There’s a beautiful park you can visit, where you’ll see the remains of a feudal castle once owned by the Dukes of Burgundy. 

Another must-see is the Buffon museum where you can see the naturalist’s works, including his crowning achievement, a book entitled “L’Histoire Naturelle”.

Where to stay? Le Prieuré de Buffon. A Renaissance-style building of exposed stone, located near the Burgundy canal. This charming hotel set in beautiful grounds offers high standards, comfortable rooms and a swimming pool.

Today you’ll follow the banks of the river Armançon. In addition to the beautiful wooded countryside, you’ll admire a wealth of heritage in the village of Quincy-le-Vicomte. This stage of your trek ends in the village of Moutiers-Saint-Jean, which overlooks the small Réole valley. Here, you can relax in the Coeurderoy Gardens and visit the apothecary of the old hospital, as well as the abbey palace of Moutiers. Established circa 450 AD, this is the oldest abbey in the region.

Where to stay? At La Buffonnerie, a guesthouse decorated in 19th-century style. Set in unspoilt, bucolic surroundings, this is a choice spot for a restful night. 

This short section of the trek takes you across the wooded countryside and pastures of the Auxois region, revealing along the way a rich heritage of washhouses, fountains and bridges. It winds through the woods and lush green meadows of the Serein valley, to reach the village of Corsaint.

Don’t miss this chance to visit the castle of Époisses, protected within two fortification walls surrounding the 15th-century houses, as well as the medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois which offers a magical panoramic view over the district where the keep stands.

Where to stay? At the Mamy Cocotte guestrooms which occupy a typical Burgundy-style house with walls of exposed stone. You’ll feel at home here, and enjoy views across the fields extending as far as the eye can see!

Leave Côte-d’Or and enter Yonne by crossing the river Serein, which marks the boundary between these two French departments. Walk along the banks of Epoisses lake and visit Toutry, Guillon and other medieval villages where you'll notice the Romanesque architecture. 

After a few more kilometres you'll arrive at the charming village of Montréal, listed as one of the most beautiful in France.  

Where to stay? At the Maison Crème Anglaise, a Bed & Breakfast occupying a beautiful mansion with a British-style interior and all the modern comforts, as well as a swimming pool and terrace where you can unwind.

From Montréal, the footpath gently climbs towards Avallon. The Terre-Plaine region yields to the Morvan, which is more hilly. 

You’ll cross Montjalin and Sauvigny-le-Bois, then head towards Avallon, a small town surrounded by ramparts. Perched on a granite overhang, Avallon and its terraced gardens dominate the Cousin valley. There’s no shortage of footpaths from which to admire a multitude of different views over the valley and the Morvan region. 

Where to stay? At the Logis Hôtel Les Capucins, built in 1900 and oozing with rustic charm. The superb hotel gardens deserve a special mention.

Visit les Chemins de Compostelle et la Bourgogne 

Further reading

Saint-Jacques de Compostelle : les paysages français, le décor idéal pour se ressourcer

5 minutes pour tout savoir sur les Chemins de Compostelle