If, like us, you spend the week rushing around like a headless chicken, you will appreciate the joy of getting some much-needed fresh air, and clearing your mind in the great outdoors. So, put on your hiking boots and choose to go walking in a 100% natural environment: a walk in the Morvan up to Mont Beuvray, around a lake, through the forest in a National Park, to the top of the famous Rock of Solutré or at the heart of the Bec de l'Allier natural reserve... So, which of these superb places are you going to explore?
Mont Beuvray Walk
>> The location
Are you a fan of history, peace-and-quiet and beautiful views? In that case, head to Mont Beuvray, a modest (821m), but no less spectacular peak in the Morvan!
There is a historical story up at this peak: it is where the Aedui (Gallic tribe) built their capital, Bibracte, 2,000 years ago. It is also where Vercingetorix was named head of the Gallic coalition!
>> The tour of the fortifications
On this trail, you will be following the ancient fortifications of Bibracte. On the programme: archaeological ruins, some superb views and trees that are hundreds of years old.
Duration: approx. 2 hours
6.5 km loop
Climb up to the Rock of Solutré
The location
Fans of prehistory and breathtaking views, the climb up to the Rock of Solutré, an iconic place in Southern Burgundy, is perfect for you.
From the 2 Rocks of Solutré and Vergisson, a smaller version, you'll be taken aback by the view of Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint-Véran great vintage wines. This place, listed a "Grand Site de France" can be traced back 55,000 years.
The walk
For this "Grand Site de France", there is a map of 5 hiking trails, including a great classic, once taken by François Mitterrand: the climb up to the Rock of Solutré.
Duration: 1 hour 15 mins
Distance: 4 km
Walks around the lakes of Morvan
For nature lovers looking for a complete change of scenery, you are guaranteed to enjoy exploring Morvan Regional Natural Park. Did you know that there are no less than 6 lakes dotted around this green lung at the heart of Burgundy
Whether you fancy a trip on a rowing boat, a canoe, sailing, rafting or paddleboarding, you will be spoilt for choice at these lakes, each with its very own unique personality.
Trail around the Lac de Chaumeçon
Chaumeçon lake is a beautiful blue mirror of Morvan. To see for yourself the natural beauty of this lake, we recommend the 12.5 km walk along the water's edge.
Forêts National Park
For fans of the great outdoors, there is a walk through the Forêts National Park, the very latest national park to be created in France, for an exploration of the fauna and flora in an exceptional protected natural area.
No less than 200 km of hiking trails and 1,000 km of MTB trails await you in this park where the biodiversity is widely recognised.
There is a wide range of walks and guided outings to choose from: you can learn about the secrets of the park's plants and animals, go climbing in the trees while respecting them, or go on a commented walk.
All the ideas for walks and outingsBec d'Allier Walk
The location
The waters of the Loire and the Allier converge here, just a stone's throw from Nevers, producing a wonderful natural spectacle! This natural environment made up of sand banks, alluvial forest and meadows with an enormous biodiversity, fully deserves the classification as a "Site Panda Fluvial" by the WWF, who are working to protect the environment all over the globe.
The walk
We recommend the 4-km-long Passeur du Bec d'Allier discovery trail where you can admire the scenery from the observation points along the banks of the river. Don't forget your binoculars!
Massif d'Uchon Walk
The location
Come to this classified natural site, affectionately known as the "Pearl of Morvan". The highest point stands at an altitude of 684 metres, and you'll be fascinated by the 20 blocks of granite in strange shapes and with strange names: Mammoth, Devil's Claw and Dog's Nose.
The walk
Venture along a small footpath and choose from 3 hiking loop trails ranging between 4 and 8 km, to explore this fragile ecosystem.
The walking locations at a glance
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