Noyers-sur-Serein
Lovely medieval village in Serein valley

In the north of the Avallonnais, Noyers-sur-Serein surprises visitors with its half-timbered houses, carved pilasters, soaring wisteria and medieval arcades. This lovely village, nestling in a meander of the river Serein, boasts a number of charming little squares. Welcome to one of the loveliest villages in France!

Proud bastion

From the 13th century the castle at Noyers-sur-Serein was one of the strongest bastions in the kingdom: the De Noyers family withstood the siege ordered by Blanche de Castille.

In 1346 marshal Mile de Noyers commanded the French cavalry at the battle of Crécy. After this distinguished family died out, Noyers-sur-Serein became a Huguenot stronghold and flourished again under the rule of the Dukes of Luynes.

Throughout its turbulent history Noyers-sur-Serein remained a wine-growing village: indeed many cellar doors open directly onto the street! Did you know that on Ascension day, local wine-growers proceed to the Porte de Tonnerre and decorate the statue of the Virgin and Child, their protector?

From one surprise to another

The attractive Place du Marché-au-blé reminds us that Noyers-sur-Serein was also an agricultural borough. In fact its name comes from the Latin word nux, meaning walnut. The entire village is a picture of rural prosperity.

As you walk around you will go from one surprise to another! Here a grinning face carved on a pinnacle, there a half-open door through which you can almost hear people singing in a tavern...

Will you be able to spot the few remaining tilestone roofs? Despite their long lifespan (over 200 years), these flat pieces of limestone are too heavy to transport and have nearly all been replaced with tiles.

Markets and good food

Every autumn, the famous Burgundy truffle market is held under the arcades at Noyers-sur-Serein, with stalls selling pottery and local produce in the town centre.

On the subject of good food and wine... Why not take a trip along the Serein valley to the wine-growing village of Poilly-sur-Serein, at the heart of the Chablis vineyards?

Practical information

Here's a novel idea :the Noyers-sur-Serein Tourist Information office organises night tours and can give you the dates of medieval processions.

Address details

Syndicat d'initiative du canton de Noyers-sur-Serein
22, place de l'Hôtel de Ville
89310 Noyers sur Serein
Tel. : +33 (0)33 86 82 66 06
http://www.noyers-et-tourisme.com

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