Attractions and places to see around Blismes, a commune in the Nièvre department of France, offer a blend of historical sites, cultural points of interest, and natural beauty. The region is situated within or very close to the Morvan Regional Natural Park, known for its quiet, unspoiled countryside. This area provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and exploring local heritage.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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Highlight • Settlement
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Highlight • Lake
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The fountain needs restoration. The motors that animate the sculptures have been turned off. See the sign I put in the photo. Report by France 3 https://youtu.be/HkVVdOejMuE?is=JncWYY_OfiAfk1MS It is still very beautiful. Small clarification: François Mitterrand placed a state commission with the artists. So it was the state that paid for this monument.
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In the middle of rural France, there is this beautiful fountain. So not just in Paris
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The Pannecière reservoir was commissioned in 1949. This artificial lake's purpose is to increase the flow of the Yonne and Seine rivers and to mitigate the risk of flooding. It is the largest lake in the Morvan region.
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Electricity production and tourism
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The Town Hall Square is named after former President François Mitterrand, who was mayor of Château-Chinon from 1959 to 1981. An imposing "Niki de Saint Phalle Fountain" faces the Town Hall. It is a monumental work composed of sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle and an articulated base created by Jean Tinguely. It was created between 1987 and 1988, commissioned by President François Mitterrand.
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At the beginning of the route the path is very overgrown, much overhanging greenery. At the hermit's chapel the road is closed. Attempts to cross the bridge are at your own risk. Caution is advised.
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Hello, Update of my comment posted on May 2, 2024: This is now the 4th photo that does not correspond to Château-Chinon but to the castle in Chinon in Indre-et-Loire, see my first comment ;-)
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Fountain in Château-Chinon
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Blismes is located within or very close to the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering quiet, unspoiled countryside. A prominent natural feature is the Pannecière reservoir lake, the largest artificial lake in the Morvan region, which is great for scenic views and walks. The Nivernais canal also provides a pleasant natural setting, particularly around the Collancelle Locks.
The region boasts several historical and cultural sites. You can visit the local Blismes Church, which features a 12th-century Romanesque choir and a 16th-century lateral chapel. Other notable landmarks include the registered historical monument Château-Chinon Town Center, and the charming La Chapelle St Elymon, a small chapel on the banks of the Yonne with a rich history.
Yes, the area around Blismes is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes, including the challenging Settons-Pannecière Cycle Loop or the Canal de Nivernais – Collancelle Locks loop. For more options, explore the cycling routes around Blismes.
The Morvan Regional Natural Park offers numerous hiking opportunities. Popular trails include the Pannecière Dam – Lake Chaumard-Pannecière loop or the Montreuillon Aqueduct – La Chapelle St Elymon loop. Discover more options on the hiking guide for Blismes.
Absolutely! The Collancelle Locks are a great spot for families to watch boats navigate the canal, with a pleasant greenway alongside for walking. The Château-Chinon Town Center also offers interesting sights like the Niki de Saint Phalle Fountain, which can be engaging for all ages.
The Château-Chinon Town Center is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to explore its main attractions, including the panorama of Calvary, the Notre-Dame gate, and the central fountain.
The best time to visit Blismes for outdoor activities is generally from spring to early autumn (April to October) when the weather is mild and conducive for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural park. The unspoiled countryside is particularly beautiful during these seasons.
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting La Chapelle St Elymon, a beautiful small chapel with a historical fresco. The Collancelle Locks also offer a unique experience, allowing you to observe the intricate workings of 16 locks along a 3 km stretch of the Nivernais canal.
Yes, the Pannecière reservoir lake is the largest lake in the Morvan region and is suitable for various water-based activities, though specific details on swimming or boating should be checked locally. The Nivernais canal, particularly around the Collancelle Locks, is also a great place for waterside walks and observing canal boats.
As the capital of Morvan, Château-Chinon Town Center offers several attractions. You can enjoy the panorama of Calvary, see the Notre-Dame gate, and admire the central fountain. The Town Hall Square features the monumental Niki de Saint Phalle Fountain, a vibrant and unique artwork.
Yes, the varied terrain around Blismes is well-suited for gravel biking. Routes like the Lake Chaumard-Pannecière loop from Chaumard or the Settons Lake (south) loop from Château-Chinon offer exciting rides. Explore more options in the gravel biking guide for Blismes.


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