For those looking for nature walks, beautiful views and a revitalising experience, the Rochers du Carnaval is the place for you.
This place with a rather original name is in fact a small peak (700 metres), with around twenty enormous granite rocks. This block field can be accessed either on foot or by MTB, and is a great place to start your exploration of Morvan, the green lung of Burgundy.
The Massif or Signal d'Uchon and the intriguing granite rocks
The Massif d'Uchon stands at an altitude of 684 metres. From the top, there's a beautiful view over the woodland, and the Massif du Morvan in the distance. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Puys mountain range.
This place is especially renowned for the geological formations at the peak. When at the top, you'll see no less than 20 huge granite rocks that have been sculpted by the wind and rain. This formation is known as a block field, and it is a rare phenomenon, both for Burgundy, and for the whole of France. The strange shapes have all been given meaningful names (Mammoth, Devil's Claw, Dog's Nose) that arouse the imagination, filled with rituals and legends.
The walk up to the Rochers du Carnaval
From the car park, there's a footpath - around 550m-long - that crosses through this intriguing rock formation that defies the laws of gravity. It is marked, fully accessible and free to access all year round.
Other than this footpath, there are also 3 hiking loop trails ranging from 4 to 8 km long to explore the other natural wonders of this area, including oak forests, ponds and woodland. The departure point is the Auberge de la Croix Messire Jean.
Remember that this is a classified natural site. That means the ecosystem made up of heathland and dry grassland is fragile. This site of great ecological wealth must be respected and safeguarded for the future.
A natural site that can be accessed on a MTB
Good news for fans of mountain biking! You can also access this place on a MTB! It is actually one of the steps along the "Grande Traversée du Morvan" (Great Morvan Crossing) MTB trail, a 344 km trail through the smallest, but just as magnificent, mountain range in France.
A holiday in Morvan
The Massif d'Uchon is merely a taster of the natural wonders you can see while exploring the Morvan. Deep forests, glistening lakes and ponds, quiet little villages, a land that has kept its original wild nature. The perfect place for a welcome change of scenery and to get a taste for ecotourism for your next holiday!