Attractions and Places To See around Marmagne - Top 19
Attractions and places to see around Marmagne offer a diverse range of experiences across two distinct regions in France. One Marmagne, located in Saône-et-Loire, is known for its historical and religious sites, including a UNESCO World Heritage site. The other, in Cher, benefits from its proximity to the city of Bourges, featuring impressive architecture. This region presents 19 hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Best attractions and places to see around Marmagne
- The most popular attractions is Fontenay Abbey,…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Buffon's Big Forge
Highlight • Historical Site
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Montbard
Highlight • Settlement
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Fontenay Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
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Parc Buffon
Highlight • Historical Site
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Port of the Burgundy Canal in Venarey-les-Laumes
Highlight • River
There are barges converted into homes,
and license-free pleasure boats which allow you to take …
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The Abbey of Fontenay, like all monasteries and places of worship, was, of course, founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding significance, it has also been honored with the title of "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The German-language television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites around the world in quarter-hour segments. One episode also deals with this abbey, and the website reads: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monastic ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls its followers to return to early Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks establish their first monastery, "Citeaux," after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The order grows rapidly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread throughout France, even to Germany. The Fontenay Abbey is also founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The Abbey of Fontenay was, like all monasteries and places of worship, of course founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding importance, it has also been "ennobled" by UNESCO with the title of "World Cultural Heritage". The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites all over the world in quarter-hour contributions. One episode also deals with this abbey, on the website you can read: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monks' ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls on its followers to return to original Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks found their first monastery "Citeaux", after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The religious order grows quickly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread across France and into Germany. The Fontenay monastery was founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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If you like parks, views and old buildings, you shouldn't miss this park.
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The world heritage monastery is worth a visit. However, there is an entrance fee.
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A world heritage abbey from the 12th century. Its territory extends over 1200 ha. The Abbey is decorated with a landscaped park classified in 2004 as a “Remarkable Garden” by the National Council of Parks and Gardens. You can book tickets in advance to visit this place on this site: https://www.abbayedefontenay.com the price starts from 9 euros.
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La Grande Forge was built in 1786 by Count Buffon. The forge was used for processing iron and was located at a place where it could use the river and later the canals to transport goods and raw materials. Count Buffon built his castle nearby.
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It is the tourist port of the Burgundy canal located in VENAREY LES LAUMES (21150). There are barges converted into homes, and license-free pleasure boats which allow you to take relaxing excursions with family or friends over several days. You can combine cycling as well as the discovery of sites and monuments that line the pretty shaded route. The passage of the locks is also a curiosity of the canal. The Burgundy Canal connects the Yonne and Saône rivers: https://www.canal-de-bourgogne.fr/ License-free boat excursions in Venarey les Laumes: https://www.nicols.com/croisiere-fluviale/france/location-bateau-bourgogne?q=bases-Venarey
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The old iron forge "Forges de Buffon" has been a "monument historique" since 1943 and is privately owned. In the 1920s it was used as a cement factory.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and religious sites can I visit around Marmagne?
Marmagne (Saône-et-Loire) is rich in history. The most prominent site is Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site founded in 1118, showcasing remarkable Romanesque architecture. You can also explore Buffon's Big Forge, an 18th-century industrial heritage site, and the historic town of Montbard with its castle hill and gothic church. Nearby, the Église Saint-Martin in Marmagne (Saône-et-Loire) is another notable religious building.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Marmagne area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Fontenay Abbey and Buffon's Big Forge are both listed as family-friendly. The Parc Buffon in Montbard offers landscaped terraces and historical remains, perfect for a family stroll. Additionally, the Port of the Burgundy Canal in Venarey-les-Laumes provides opportunities for boat excursions and cycling along the canal, which can be a fun activity for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near Marmagne?
The area around Marmagne is excellent for outdoor activities, especially cycling and gravel biking. You can find numerous routes, such as the 'Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard' for gravel biking or the 'Fontenay Abbey – Fontenay Abbey loop from Marmagne' for cycling. These routes often follow the scenic Canal de Bourgogne. For more options, explore the Gravel biking around Marmagne, Cycling around Marmagne, and Road Cycling Routes around Marmagne guides.
Where can I experience the natural beauty of the region?
For natural beauty, the Parc Buffon in Montbard offers stunning views over Montbard and the Brenne valley from its terraced gardens. The Canal de Bourgogne, which runs through the region, provides picturesque waterways and towpaths for walking and cycling. The remote valley setting of Fontenay Abbey also highlights the Cistercian tradition of building monasteries in serene natural environments.
What is the significance of the Canal de Bourgogne in this region?
The Canal de Bourgogne is a significant feature, connecting the Yonne and Saône rivers. It plays a role in both the region's history and its current recreational offerings. The Port of the Burgundy Canal in Venarey-les-Laumes is a tourist hub where you can find barges, rent license-free boats for excursions, and enjoy cycling along its shaded route. The canal was also crucial for transporting goods, such as iron from Buffon's Big Forge.
What are some easy cycling routes near Marmagne?
There are several easy cycling routes available. For instance, the 'Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard' is an easy 26 km ride. Another easy option is the 'Fontenay Abbey – Fontenay Abbey loop from Marmagne', which is about 11 km. You can find more easy routes in the Cycling around Marmagne guide.
What is there to see in the town of Montbard?
Montbard is a historic settlement on the Canal du Bourgogne. It features a castle hill with a gothic town church and serves as a starting point for exploring the surrounding area, including Fontenay Abbey. Don't miss the Parc Buffon, which offers panoramic views and the remains of the former castle of the Dukes of Burgundy.
What is the best way to explore the Canal de Bourgogne?
The Canal de Bourgogne can be explored by boat or bicycle. At the Port of the Burgundy Canal in Venarey-les-Laumes, you can rent license-free pleasure boats for relaxing excursions. The towpaths alongside the canal are also perfect for cycling, offering a flat and scenic route. Many cycling routes in the area incorporate sections of the canal, such as those found in the Cycling around Marmagne guide.
What is the historical context of Buffon's Big Forge?
Buffon's Big Forge is an 18th-century industrial heritage site built in 1786 by Count Buffon. It was a significant center for processing iron, strategically located to utilize the Armancon river and later the canals for transport. This impressive architectural ensemble reflects the scientific advancements of the Age of Enlightenment and provides insight into historical iron production.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Marmagne?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and well-preserved architecture of sites like Fontenay Abbey, often described as 'beautiful and impressive'. The unique industrial heritage of Buffon's Big Forge is also highly valued for its insight into the Age of Enlightenment. Many also enjoy the scenic beauty of the Canal de Bourgogne and the charming old towns like Montbard, which offer a blend of history and natural surroundings.
Are there any archaeological sites near Marmagne?
While not directly in Marmagne, the significant archaeological site of Muséoparc Alésia in Alise-Sainte-Reine is within reach. It allows visitors to relive the final battle of the Gallic Wars between Vercingetorix and Julius Caesar. This site offers a deep dive into ancient history for those interested in archaeology.
What are some hidden gems or less-known spots to discover?
Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the smaller villages along the Canal de Bourgogne, which often reveal charming local life and picturesque views. The Parc Buffon, while adjacent to Montbard, offers a tranquil escape with its terraced gardens and historical castle remains, providing a unique blend of nature and history that might be less crowded than other sites.
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