Attractions and Places To See around Lucy-Sur-Yonne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lucy-Sur-Yonne include a blend of historical sites and natural beauty in the Yonne department of Burgundy-Franche-Comté, France. The commune is situated along the Canal du Nivernais, offering scenic waterways and cycling routes. Nearby, the Saussois Rocks provide a notable natural landmark. This region serves as a base for exploring the wider Yonne department.
Best attractions and places to see around Lucy-Sur-Yonne
- The most popular attractions is The Saussois Rocks, a cliff that…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
The Saussois Rocks
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Historic centre of Clamecy
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Fortified Gate of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines
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This gate is part of the enclosure of the lower courtyard of the castle which crowned the rock overlooking the valley and …
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Château de Druyes
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Entrance costs 5 euros (as of 2021).
Out of season the castle is only open on weekends.
There is even a circular hiking trail where the castle is almost always visible.
chateau-de-druyes.com
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Bridge Over the Druyes
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Beautiful little town with many medieval buildings. Definitely worth a visit
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City of character which deserves to be among the most beautiful villages in France with a little more development. To have : 1 - the castle and the small surrounding village after a beautiful climb from the village. 2 - the pond hidden behind the houses in the center. A quiet corner with a beautiful overview of the village. There you will understand where the name Belles Fontaines comes from.
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It was only at the end of the 12th century that the current castle of Druyes appears in the texts. Previously, during the 11th century, a first wooden castle would have been built on the site of the said castle. Druyes is part of the first generation of castles from the time of King Philippe Auguste. It is built on a square plan of 52.3 meters per side. It is an imposing building which is one of the most important specimens of military architecture from the Romanesque period in Burgundy. Private property, the castle is open to visitors. It is reached by crossing the postern which is the gateway to the fortified village, where absolute calm seems to reign. The castle dominates the town of character of Druyes Les Belles Fontaines, which deserves to be listed among the most beautiful villages in France, if it were a little better highlighted. Note a beautiful climb to climb from the village to the castle
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The rocks of Saussois located in the town of Merry-sur-Yonne are very popular with climbing enthusiasts who do not hesitate to come from Paris (located only 200 kilometers) to climb these limestone walls some fifty meters high. .
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Fortified Gate - classified as a historic monument. This gate is part of the enclosure of the lower courtyard of the castle which crowned the rock overlooking the valley and dominating the only possible crossing of the river. A second gate existed on the current rue de la Rampe. The enclosure dates from the 12th century. It was protected, to the east, by four still visible towers, one of which has just been restored. On the west coast, the enclosure appears as a very large wall, 2 m thick and 4 m high. It is incorporated into gardens and houses, but still visible. It was lined with a dry ditch. The postern did not include a drawbridge. It was closed by a heavy double door, the stone pivot cups of which can still be seen in the lower part. The machicolations made it possible to throw stones at the attackers. They probably date from the 14th century. This door has been classified as a historic monument since May 9, 1888.
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Beautiful 12th century castle visible from afar. Entrance costs 5 euros (as of 2021). Out of season the castle is only open on weekends. There is even a circular hiking trail where the castle is almost always visible. www.chateau-de-druyes.com
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Bridge built at the time of the fortified castle and the church (12th century). It replaced a wooden bridge established over a ford by Saint Romain in the 6th century. In the Middle Ages, bridge and castle went hand in hand because any river crossing gave rise to a toll. In 1859, the bridge, which was 5.50 m wide, was widened by 2.50 m to adapt it to the transformation of the main roads into secondary roads. During 2004, it was completely renovated.
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Pleasant trip along the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural landmarks can I explore near Lucy-sur-Yonne?
The most prominent natural landmark is The Saussois Rocks, located nearby in Merry-sur-Yonne. These impressive limestone cliffs, some fifty meters high, are popular for their scenic beauty and climbing opportunities. Additionally, the Canal du Nivernais passes through Lucy-sur-Yonne, offering picturesque waterways and towpaths.
Are there opportunities for climbing in the area?
Yes, The Saussois Rocks are a very popular destination for climbing enthusiasts. These limestone walls, reaching up to fifty meters, attract climbers from the wider region.
What historical sites can I visit in Lucy-sur-Yonne itself?
Within Lucy-sur-Yonne, you can visit the historic Église de la Nativité de Notre Dame, an edifice of primitive Romanesque art dating back to the 11th century, known for its architectural details and sculptures. The Château de Faulin, a 15th-century manor with a rectangular enclosure and towers, is also located just east of the village and can be visited during special events like Heritage Days.
What cycling routes are available around Lucy-sur-Yonne?
The towpath of the Canal du Nivernais, which runs through Lucy-sur-Yonne, has been converted into a 170-kilometer cycling route, offering scenic rides along the waterways. For more specific routes, you can explore options like the 'Historic centre of Clamecy – La Chartreuse de Basseville loop' or 'The Saussois Rocks – The Saussois Rocks loop' which are easy cycling tours. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Lucy-Sur-Yonne guide.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, the area offers various hiking trails. For an easy walk, consider 'The Saussois Rocks – The Saussois Rocks loop from Merry-sur-Yonne'. Moderate options include 'Les rochers du Saussois — loop from Châtel-Censoir' or 'Le Saussois – Saussois Rock loop from Châtel-Censoir'. These trails allow you to explore the natural beauty of the region. Discover more hiking options in the Hiking around Lucy-Sur-Yonne guide.
What historical towns or villages are worth a day trip from Lucy-sur-Yonne?
Several historical towns are within easy reach. Clamecy, about 9 km southwest, features medieval buildings and walks along the Yonne river. Vézelay, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its stunning Basilica, is about 14 km east-south-east. Noyers-sur-Serein, recognized as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages,' is about 36 km northeast, offering half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. Auxerre, the department capital, is also nearby with its cathedral and extensive historic center.
Can I visit any castles near Lucy-sur-Yonne?
Beyond the Château de Faulin in Lucy-sur-Yonne, you can visit the Château de Druyes, a beautiful 12th-century castle visible from afar. It's part of the charming village of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, which also features a classified historic monument, the Fortified Gate of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Lucy-sur-Yonne area?
Families can enjoy cycling or walking along the Canal du Nivernais. The Historic centre of Clamecy offers pleasant walks and a museum. The Bridge Over the Druyes is a historical spot that can be part of a family outing to the Château de Druyes. A unique family experience is also a day trip to Guédelon, where a medieval castle is being reconstructed using period techniques.
What is the best time of year to visit Lucy-sur-Yonne for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months are ideal for outdoor activities in Lucy-sur-Yonne and the surrounding region. The weather is generally pleasant for cycling along the Canal du Nivernais, hiking the trails, or exploring the historical sites.
What do visitors enjoy most about Lucy-sur-Yonne and its surroundings?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural beauty. Many enjoy observing climbers at The Saussois Rocks and the pleasant trips along the river. The old medieval buildings and walks along the Yonne in Clamecy are also highly rated, as is the charm of the Château de Druyes and its surrounding village.
Where can I find places to eat or drink in Lucy-sur-Yonne?
While Lucy-sur-Yonne is a small commune, you can find local cafes and restaurants in the village itself. For a wider selection, the nearby town of Clamecy offers nice restaurants, especially at the foot of its collegiate church and in the city center.
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