Guided tour of the coal mines

On this tour, your guide from the "Mémoire des Mineurs et Mines" association in La Chapelle-sous-Dun will take you to the heart of the Brionnais countryside to show you what the industrial heart of this small coalfield used to be.
Very few traces remain visible to the layman. But your guide will be able to use his knowledge of the area and his documentation to help you discover the life and activity of this mining centre.
Its known origins date back to the end of the 18th century, and it closed for good on 31 March 1960. It reached its peak around 1900, employing over 400 people and producing a maximum of 80,000 tonnes of coal a year. He will also explain the difficulties faced by the village after the mine closed.
You can also discover the superb landscapes of the hilly bocage on the edge of the Dun foothills.
Practicalities: this route is suitable for people who can walk 4.2 km on country roads and paths with no major difficulties.
In hot weather, bring something to quench your thirst. For your comfort, suitable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
For further information, please register (limited to 15 people) at the La Clayette Tourist Office or with the Association on 03 85 28 17 65 or by e-mail at 3mlachapelle@orange.fr.

Tours can be organised on other dates for groups (minimum 8 people), or even a longer 8 km circuit. Please contact us for details.