Solutré rock
An imposing sight

Sphinx-like amidst the Mâconnais vineyards, the Roche de Solutré seems to lie in wait for visitors. This unusual geological feature, one of nature's masterpieces, has become a symbol of southern Burgundy. No need to be a geologist to enjoy the superb views from the top. More than just a rock, it's a “Grand Site de France” for you to explore!

Important prehistoric site

The steep limestone slopes of Solutré-Pouilly, Vergisson and Le Mont-Pouilly appear to have been inhabited by men of the Mousterian area, 52,000 years ago.

In 1866, the geologists Henry Testot-Ferry and Adrien Arcelin discovered thousands of horse, bison, auroch and mammoth remains at the foot of the rock, one of the largest such finds in Europe.

They are displayed in the departmental Prehistory museum, where the tools, flints and other remains of Palaeolithic nomadic hunters will help you travel a long way back in time!

Great treks through the vineyards

The "Grand Site" also comprises three wine appellations of great renown: Pouilly-Fuissé, Saint-Véran and Mâcon-villages.

• As you pass by the vineyards, don't miss the extraordinary viewpoints over the Solutré rock and the Saône valley.
• You can climb the rock in under an hour. From its summit, on a clear day, you can see the Alps...
• · On the way back, why not stop at the Prissé or Charnay-les-Mâcon wine cooperatives for a tasting?

Don't stop there! Follow the Val Lamartinien tourist route or try the 16 kilometre hiking track round the Rocks...

Mythical mountain

Adrien Arcelin's novel, entitled "Solutré or the Reindeer Hunters", began a romantic myth about hunters forcing their prey to jump off the Rock. Late 20th century research has shown that such hunting methods were not practised here... but the myth lives on.

Practical information

Mâcon Tourist Information office can tell you all about activities available at the "Grand Site".

Office de tourisme de Mâcon
1 place Saint-Pierre
71000 Mâcon
Tel. : +33 (0)3 85 21 07 07
E-mail : info@macon-tourism.com
http://www.macon-tourism.com/

Opening times

October, April & May:
 - Monday to Saturday, 10am-12 noon & 2-6pm

1st November to 1st March:
 - Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-12 noon & 2-6pm

June and September:
 - Monday to Saturday, 9.30am-12.30pm & 2-6.30pm

July and August:
 - Daily, 9am-12.30pm & 2-6.30pm

Find nearby