Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Bénigne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Bénigne are located in the Ain department, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. This area is characterized by its natural features, particularly along the Saône river, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. The region provides a mix of riverine landscapes, lakes, and cycle paths, making it suitable for exploration. Visitors can discover both natural areas and man-made structures that highlight the local environment and infrastructure.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Bénigne
- The…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Voie Bleue along the Saône River
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Fleurville Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Between Tournus and Mâcon
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Église d' Ozenay
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Church of Burgy
Highlight • Religious Site
Showing Translation
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Saint-Bénigne.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Roman Catholic Church of St-Gervais-St-Protais in the municipality of Ozenay is an outstanding example of medieval regional architecture. A first church building on this site was already mentioned in documents around 950. The current building was largely constructed in the 12th century in two phases by the canons of Chalon. The transept, the choir, and the last bay of the nave are the oldest parts and date from the mid-12th century. The first three bays of the nave were added towards the end of the 12th century.
1
0
The Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Burgy (Church of St. John the Baptist), a small, charming village church, is a typical Romanesque building from the 11th to 12th century. It is known for its stocky, solid construction. It has a massive square bell tower and a roof covered with traditional limestone slabs (laves). Inside, the church has a single nave. Due to its historical significance, it was officially protected as a French historical monument (Monument Historique) in 1979.
1
0
An idyllic, paved cycle path directly on the riverbank. It is a section of the well-known French long-distance cycle route „La Voie Bleue - Moselle-Saône Radweg" (Route V50) along the Saône. The entire long-distance cycle route covers around 700 kilometers from the Luxembourg border town of Apach (near the tripoint) to Lyon. The Saône section follows the natural meanders of the Saône, passing meadows, historic villages, and well-known wine-growing regions such as Mâcon. The route is mostly flat on former towpaths.
0
0
An idyllic, asphalted cycle path right on the riverbank. This is a section of the well-known French long-distance cycle route "La Voie Bleue - Moselle-Saône Radweg" (Route V50) along the Saône. The entire long-distance cycle route runs for around 700 kilometers from the French border town of Apach (near the tripoint) to Lyon. The Saône section follows the natural meanders of the Saône, passing meadows, historic villages, and well-known wine-growing regions such as Mâcon. The route runs mostly flat on former towpaths.
0
0
The Plan d'Eau de Fleurville (also known as Gravière de Fleurville) is a beautiful recreational and natural lake in the Saône-et-Loire department. The body of water is located directly on the border of the municipalities of Saint-Albain and Fleurville on the Saône. It is a former gravel pit that has been renatured and is today an important refuge for biodiversity as well as a popular excursion destination. The lake is equipped with picnic tables, fishing piers, and observation points. It is an excellent place for hiking, cycling (near the Voie Bleue cycle path), and birdwatching (e.g. for storks and migratory birds).
0
0
Along the Saône runs the unfortunately often unpaved, patchy Voie Bleu ("Blue Way"). Incidentally, there is only one Voie Bleu, unlike the Voies Vertes. From Wikivoyage.
1
0
Very flat, easy, although a little monotonous...
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Saint-Bénigne?
The region offers several natural highlights. You can visit Fleurville Lake, which is ideal for observing wildlife, fishing, and relaxing with picnic facilities. Another significant natural area is the Ile de la Motte, a Sensitive Natural Area on the Saône river, known for its heron colonies and fish diversity. The river section Between Tournus and Mâcon is also popular for its fish-rich waters and scenic views.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in the Saint-Bénigne area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Fleurville Lake is equipped with picnic tables and pontoons, making it a great spot for a family outing, fishing, or simply enjoying nature. The Fleurville Lock can also be an interesting sight for children to watch boats pass through. Additionally, the flat and easy Voie Bleue along the Saône River is perfect for family bike rides.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Saint-Bénigne is excellent for various outdoor activities, especially cycling and hiking. The Voie Bleue along the Saône River is a popular cycle way offering pleasant, flat routes. For more extensive cycling, you can explore gravel biking routes like the 'Between Tournus and Mâcon – Fleurville Lake loop' or road cycling routes such as the 'Fleurville Lake – Between Tournus and Mâcon loop'. Hiking options include easy to moderate trails like the 'Port of Pont-de-Vaux – Fleurville lock loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and road cycling guide for the region.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit?
While the immediate Saint-Bénigne commune in Ain focuses on natural features, the broader region offers significant historical and cultural sites, particularly in Dijon. The Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne in Dijon is a masterpiece of Burgundian Gothic architecture, featuring a magnificent Romanesque crypt that houses the tomb of Saint Bénigne. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Archaeological Museum of Dijon, located in the former Benedictine abbey, which showcases collections from prehistory to the Middle Ages.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/5713262" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Voie Bleue along the Saône River</a> like for cycling?
The Voie Bleue along the Saône River is known for being flat and easy, making it a pleasant experience for cyclists of all levels. It offers lovely views of the Saône, with the water's color alternating between blue and green depending on the weather. It's a great option for a relaxed ride between Mâcon and Tournus.
Can I go fishing in the area?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Fleurville Lake has pontoons specifically for fishing. The river section Between Tournus and Mâcon, where the Mouge flows into the Saône, is also well-known among fishermen for its fish-rich waters.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saint-Bénigne?
Visitors particularly appreciate the serene natural beauty and the opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Fleurville Lake for wildlife observation and picnics. The flat and scenic Voie Bleue along the Saône River is highly rated for cycling, offering beautiful river views. Watching boats pass through the Fleurville Lock is also a popular pastime.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
The Voie Bleue along the Saône River is noted for its flat terrain and good road surface, making it generally accessible for wheelchair users to enjoy the scenic views along the river.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/996340" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fleurville Lake</a> like?
Fleurville Lake is a versatile spot suitable for observing wildlife, fishing, and various other activities. It's equipped with picnic tables and pontoons for relaxation. The lake is also suitable for bathing, and its gradually sloping banks make it easy to enjoy the water and spot water birds.
What is the significance of the Romanesque Crypt at Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne in Dijon?
The Romanesque Crypt at Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne in Dijon is a significant historical feature. It includes the largely untouched underground remains of a three-story rotunda built around the year 1000. This crypt houses the martyrium of Saint Bénigne, featuring colored marble pavement and sculpted capitals, and contains the tomb of the Christian martyr. It is classified as a historical monument.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in the area?
Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. The Voie Bleue along the Saône River provides lovely views of the river. The section Between Tournus and Mâcon is also a pleasant site for a break with beautiful river views. Additionally, the Beaufer Pass offers a beautiful view of the Saône Valley from its asphalt cycle path.
What is the Ile de la Motte and what can I see there?
The Ile de la Motte, located on the Saône river, is designated as a Sensitive Natural Area. It is particularly known for its heron colonies, including grey herons, little egrets, and cattle egrets. The island also plays a crucial role in maintaining fish diversity. Educational visits are organized to explore its rich natural environment.
Most popular routes around Saint-Bénigne
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
