Attractions and Places To See around Santilly - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Santilly reveal a region rich in historical and architectural heritage. The area features well-preserved castles, ancient churches, and charming medieval settlements. Santilly is situated in a rural landscape, offering a blend of cultural exploration and serene surroundings. This region provides opportunities to discover significant historical sites and experience local village life.
Best attractions and places to see around Santilly
- The most popular attractions is Cormatin Castle, a castle that can be visited for…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Cormatin Castle
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Aire de loisir de la gare de Saint-Gengoux-le-National
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Chapaize Church
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Saint-Gengoux-le-National
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Church of the Assumption of Ameugny
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The Saint-Martin church in Chapaize is a beautiful, old church. Its huge, 35-meter-high tower can be seen from afar. The church was built almost 1000 years ago in the Romanesque style, it has thick stone walls and round arches.
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The recreational facility is located directly on the popular Voie Verte de Bourgogne du Sud, a scenic cycling route on a former railway line. The area offers numerous amenities for cyclists, hikers, and families: There are several shaded picnic tables and benches in a green setting. Directly at the old train station, there is a bicycle rental for classic bicycles and e-bikes, as well as a small repair station. A children's playground with 15 play structures, installed in April 2024, provides entertainment for younger visitors. Public toilets, a water point, and a large, free car park are available.
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Château de Cormatin is a magnificent moated castle from the early 17th century. The castle was built between 1606 and 1625 by the Marquises d'Huxelles. It houses the best-preserved state rooms from the time of Louis XIII in all of France. Famous are the "Gilded Rooms" (Salles Dorées) with opulent paintings, sculptures, and gilded ceilings. The extensive grounds, covering around 12 hectares, are among the most beautiful gardens in France. Highlights in the outdoor area include a large boxwood maze, an open-air baroque theatre, water features, and a historic vegetable garden.
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The historic Romanesque parish church of the municipality of Ameugny. The first documented mention dates from the year 1050, with the Romanesque west portal visible today having been built in the 12th century. A typically Burgundian hall church with three bays and a pointed barrel vault, which appears very massive and is covered with lava stones. The tympanum above the portal shows a cross in a circle and bears the rare signature of the sculptor Seguin. The church has been a listed historic monument since October 22, 1913.
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On Fridays there is a small market behind the church with delicious local produce from the region.
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Beautiful cycling route along this little station
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The residence of the Marquis d'Huxelles, built between 1606 and 1625, is home to the most sumptuous Louis XIII apartment preserved in France. Fireplaces, ceilings and wood panelling were painted, carved and gilded with sumptuous exuberance for the favourite of Queen Marie de Medici. Paintings, tapestries and period furniture complete this seductive evocation of "château life" at the time of the "Three Musketeers". The tour also reveals a monumental stone staircase (20 metres high), an 18th century kitchen and the opulent 1900s salons of an opera director. The garden, in the spirit of the Baroque period, offers 12 hectares of flowerbeds, a large boxwood labyrinth with aviary-belvedere, vegetable garden, green theatre, water features and remarkable trees.
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Superb little town, all shops and services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular attractions around Santilly?
Visitors to Santilly frequently enjoy Cormatin Castle, known for its magnificent 17th-century architecture, extensive gardens, and well-preserved interiors. Another highly-rated spot is Saint-Gengoux-le-National, a charming medieval village with historic streets and unique architecture. The Chapaize Church, an early Romanesque masterpiece, is also a must-see.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Santilly area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Cormatin Castle offers a large boxwood labyrinth, a green theater, ponds, and flower beds that delight both children and adults. The charming medieval streets of Saint-Gengoux-le-National also provide an engaging experience for all ages.
What kind of historical sites can I visit around Santilly?
The Santilly region is rich in history. You can explore Cormatin Castle, a 17th-century marvel with a fascinating past, including its owner's anti-slavery stance. The village of Saint-Gengoux-le-National boasts medieval streets and Renaissance residences. Additionally, the Chapaize Church and the Church of the Assumption of Ameugny are significant Romanesque religious buildings, while the Saint-Hippolyte Church Ruins offer a glimpse into a fortified medieval church.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Santilly offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Saint-Gengoux-le-National and Sercy Castle Loop' or 'Around Mont Péjus and the Roman oppidum'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the 'Three castles — loop from Saint-Gengoux-le-National' and mountain biking trails including the 'Fley – Saint-Gengoux-le-National loop'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Santilly, Road Cycling Routes around Santilly, and MTB Trails around Santilly.
Are there hiking trails near the attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. For example, near Saint-Gengoux-le-National, you can find routes like the 'Saint-Gengoux-le-National and Sercy Castle Loop' (easy, 7 km) or 'Around Mont Péjus and the Roman oppidum' (moderate, 13 km). These trails allow you to explore the scenic countryside surrounding the historical sites. More hiking options are detailed in the Hiking around Santilly guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about Santilly's attractions?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. At Cormatin Castle, the well-maintained gardens and the impressive architecture are highlights. For Saint-Gengoux-le-National, the authentic medieval atmosphere and charming streets are often praised. The harmonious architecture and historical significance of churches like Chapaize Church also receive high acclaim.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, the village of Saint-Gengoux-le-National offers cafes and restaurants. Additionally, near Chapaize Church, there are options for fine dining with organic ingredients, often providing direct views of the Romanesque church.
What is unique about the churches in the Santilly area?
The churches in Santilly are notable for their Romanesque architecture and historical significance. Chapaize Church is famous for its surprisingly high bell tower with Lombard influences, a rare sight in Burgundy. The church in Saint-Gengoux-le-National showcases a unique blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles with splendid stained-glass windows. The Saint-Hippolyte Church Ruins are particularly unusual as they were modified into a fortified keep in the Middle Ages.
Are there any castles besides Cormatin Castle to visit?
While Cormatin Castle is the most prominent, the region's history is rich with such structures. You can find traces of other historical fortifications, such as the ruins of the Saint-Hippolyte Church Ruins, which was once a fortified church and later remodeled into a keep.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Santilly?
The Santilly area is characterized by a rural landscape. You'll find serene surroundings with features like the meticulously restored gardens, ponds, and flower beds at Cormatin Castle. The region's hilly countryside, particularly around the Charollais and northern Mâconnais, offers picturesque views and a tranquil environment for outdoor activities.
How long should I plan for a visit to Cormatin Castle?
To fully appreciate Cormatin Castle, including its interiors and extensive gardens, it is recommended to allocate 2-3 hours. The guided tour of the 17th-century apartments, staircase, library, and kitchen typically lasts one hour, while exploring the gardens, maze, and groves can take an additional 30-45 minutes.
Is public transport available to reach Santilly's attractions?
While specific public transport routes directly to every attraction might be limited in this rural area, many visitors opt for a combination of regional transport to nearby towns and then local taxis or cycling to reach the sites. For detailed planning, it's advisable to check local transport schedules for the Burgundy region.
Most popular attractions around Santilly
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