Attractions and Places To See around Vézannes - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Vézannes, a commune in the Yonne department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, offers a base for exploring historical, cultural, and natural sites. The area provides a diverse range of experiences, from medieval history to natural beauty. Vézannes itself is a quiet village, with numerous points of interest located within a short drive. This region is characterized by its historical landmarks and natural features.
Best attractions and places to see around Vézannes
- The most popular attractions is…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Towpath of the Canal de Bourgogne
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Fosse Dionne
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Saint-Martin Collegiate Church
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Notre-Dame Church
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Saint Peter's Church
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Beautiful church in Chablis currently being renovated
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A "chemin de halage", in German "treidelpfad", which runs alongside the waterway right next to the bed of the river or canal, was an indispensable part of the transport infrastructure in earlier times. Before ships could move using motor power, horses ran along the bank and pulled the ship against the current. This was called "treideln", and that is how the "treidelpfad" got its name. Where these paths directly on the bank have been preserved, they are now popular with hikers and cyclists.
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I walked past without seeing it 😂😂
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Originally a simple oratory of a pilgrim's house, it became, over time, the main church of Tonnerre. In the 11th century, the Hôtel-Dieu Notre-Dame was a modest house welcoming pilgrims on the route to Saint-Jacques. It has a small chapel dedicated to Mary. Over the centuries, the oratory grew and gained in importance. It became a cure, a parish then a deanery. It was in the 16th and 17th centuries that the monument took on the face we know with its high tower topped with the inscriptions "Jesus Maria Ave Gracia", and the initials CHC, for Charles Henri de Clermont, Count of Tonnerre and great patron.
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We enjoyed a remarkable guided tour.
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It has, among its furniture, a shrine which contains relics of Saint Thierry from the Saint-Michel de Tonnerre abbey, a statuette of Saint Eloi from the 15th century, a painting commemorating the deaths of the epidemic of 1632. It represents Charles-Henri de Clermont, Count of Tonnerre, interceding with Saint Roch on the occasion of the plague epidemic; Saint Roch is seated, an angel stands at his side and a dog brings him bread. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89glise_Notre-Dame_de_Tonnerre
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The church in Tonnerre was dedicated to Saint Peter / “Saint-PIERRE”. Simon, nicknamed Peter (the word means "rock"), was a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee when he - together with his brother Andrew - was called by Jesus Christ to be "fishers of men". According to Catholic understanding, he is the supreme apostle, and the two millennia-long line of popes - currently Francis - are his successor. On statues and paintings, Peter is almost always depicted with two keys in his hand; this attribute refers to the biblical saying in Matthew: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven” (Chapter 16, verse 19). Saint-Pierre is - together with Saint-Paul - also known as the “Princes of the Apostles”, their common feast day in the saints' calendar is on June 29th.
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The Saint-Martin collegiate church from the 12th and 13th centuries is very well preserved. The church is definitely worth a visit. A special feature is the south portal, whose door wings are decorated with various horseshoes. Built in 1160, rebuilt from 1220. Apart from the tower, all the walls date from the Middle Ages. The paintings from the 13th century and the horseshoes on the side gate identify the building as a stage on the St. James pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The various restorations have not changed the building, with the exception of the tower, which was added in 1852. https://www.moulindelacoudre.fr/de/2017/02/11/die-stiftskirche-saint-martin/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Vézannes?
The area around Vézannes is rich in history. You can explore the medieval Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre, a hospital founded in 1293 by Margaret of Burgundy. Also in Tonnerre, the Fosse Dionne is a significant natural and historical landmark. Further afield, consider visiting Pontigny Abbey, one of the region's most renowned Cistercian abbeys, or the elegant Château de Tanlay, known for its frescoes and interiors.
Are there any natural attractions or features to explore?
Yes, the region offers beautiful natural features. The Fosse Dionne in Tonnerre is a remarkable karst spring with a substantial water flow and an extensive underground network. Additionally, the Towpath of the Canal de Bourgogne provides scenic routes along the canal, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty and spotting historic locks.
What outdoor activities are available near Vézannes?
The area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Burgundy Canal – Canal de Bourgogne loop from Dannemoine' or 'Running loop from Cheney'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Montbard and Tanlay Castle Loop from Tonnerre' and gravel biking options like the 'Tonnerre – Canal de Bourgogne at Tanlay loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Running Trails around Vézannes, Road Cycling Routes around Vézannes, and Gravel biking around Vézannes guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Vézannes?
Many attractions in the Vézannes area are suitable for families. The Towpath of the Canal de Bourgogne is great for walks and cycling with children. The Fosse Dionne and the town of Tonnerre offer an interesting historical and natural experience. Religious sites like Saint-Martin Collegiate Church and Notre-Dame Church also welcome families.
Where can I find religious buildings or churches of interest?
You can visit several significant religious buildings. The Saint-Martin Collegiate Church, dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, is well-preserved and features 13th-century paintings. The Notre-Dame Church in Tonnerre, with its distinctive high tower, also has a rich history. Pontigny Abbey is another prominent Cistercian abbey in the wider region.
What is the best time to visit Vézannes and its attractions?
The region is generally pleasant to visit from spring through autumn. These seasons offer mild weather ideal for exploring historical sites, walking along the Canal de Bourgogne, and enjoying outdoor activities. Summer can be warm, while spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Are there any wine-related attractions nearby?
Yes, the famous wine region of Chablis is only about 9 km from Vézannes. Here, you can explore prominent wineries like La Chablisienne or visit Domaine Celine & Frederic Gueguen to learn about and taste local wine production.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Vézannes?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The Towpath of the Canal de Bourgogne is loved for its scenic routes and preserved historic locks. The Fosse Dionne is often described as a 'must-see' for its unique natural formation and historical significance. The medieval Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre is highly recommended for its well-preserved state and immersive historical experience.
Are there local markets in the vicinity of Vézannes?
Yes, several nearby towns host vibrant markets. Tonnerre has a market on Saturdays, and Chablis hosts one on Sundays. Other markets can be found in towns like Saint-Florentin, Auxerre, and Migennes on various days of the week, offering local produce and goods.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known places to discover?
While Vézannes itself is a quiet village, exploring the smaller, less-frequented sections of the Towpath of the Canal de Bourgogne can reveal charming, tranquil spots and historic lock-keepers' houses. The smaller villages surrounding Vézannes often hold their own unique, quiet charm and local history.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see?
The region showcases a range of historical architecture, primarily medieval and Renaissance. You'll find well-preserved medieval structures like the Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre and the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church. The Château de Tanlay offers a glimpse into elegant Renaissance design with its frescoes and interior decorations.
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