The best walks and hikes around Vézelay

There are over 30 hiking trails around Vézelay, offering a variety of experiences from easy riverside strolls to more challenging forest paths. The komoot community has recorded 35 routes in the area.

The trails around Vézelay cater to various fitness levels. You'll find 19 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed walk, and 16 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. There are no difficult routes recorded in the immediate area, making it accessible for most hikers.

Yes, many of the trails around Vézelay are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike in the same location. For example, the Vézelay Hill Loop offers panoramic views and brings you back to your starting point. Another option is the La Cure – View of Vézelay loop from Vézelay, which follows the Cure River.

Hiking around Vézelay offers diverse terrain, from the rolling hills and valleys surrounding the village to the mystical forests of the Morvan Regional Natural Park. You'll encounter paths along the Cure and Yonne rivers, through picturesque Burgundian vineyards, and across meadows. Some routes, like the Vézelay town gate – Cordelle Chapel loop from Vézelay, lead through dense woodlands.

The region is rich in scenic beauty. Many trails offer rewarding views of the iconic Vézelay hill and its Basilica from a distance. You can also enjoy views of the Cure River, the Yonne river, and the Canal du Nivernais. The Morvan Regional Natural Park provides tranquil forest scenery, and the Vézelay vineyard offers unique perspectives of the winemaking landscape.

Yes, Vézelay offers several easy routes suitable for families. The Vézelay – Vézelay town gate loop from Vézelay is a shorter, easy option. Many of the riverside paths are also gentle and enjoyable for all ages, providing a pleasant outdoor experience without significant elevation changes.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Vézelay region, especially those in natural areas like the Morvan Regional Natural Park. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, particularly near livestock, in protected areas, or when passing through villages. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

Beyond the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay, you can discover several historical elements. The Cordelle Chapel, where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade, is accessible via trails like the Vézelay town gate – Cordelle Chapel loop from Vézelay. Other notable sites include the ancient bridge of St-Père and the Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the rewarding views of the iconic Vézelay Basilica, and the blend of cultural heritage with unspoiled natural beauty.

Vézelay is a village, and while local bus services might connect to nearby towns, direct public transport to specific trailheads can be limited. Many routes start directly from the village of Vézelay itself, making them accessible on foot if you are staying in the area. For routes further afield, a car is often the most convenient option.

Vézelay has several designated parking areas, particularly at the base of the hill leading up to the Basilica. These parking lots are generally well-placed for accessing trails that start from the village. Always check local signage for parking regulations and fees.

The village of Vézelay itself offers a selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel before or after your hike. For routes that venture further into the countryside, options might be more limited, so it's advisable to carry snacks and water. Some smaller villages along longer routes might have local establishments.