In autumn, the Morvan Regional Natural Park has some fabulous surprises in store for families, amid a landscape of forests, rivers, fields and hedgerows. The perfect playground to continue enjoying after the summer, for a breath of fresh air and quality time to share with the whole family.
Find out what it's like to live in a castle, meet the animals of a rather unusual farm and visit a fortress to unveil its many secrets, all on an enchanting getaway that will delight the whole family.
In the Morvan, summer isn't over yet!
Take to the little paths in the company of donkeys
After settling into the Moulib de Poil gîte (address below), you'll be able to go walking with the donkeys in the company of Vincent. Admire the scenery around you as you work up an appetitie for the delicious treat that Hélène and Mathieu will serve up when you arrive at the auberge de Poil.
Comfort, authenticity and togetherness
At the Moulin de Poil, there are gîtes suitable for families of any size, from 4 to 20.
A private swimming pool shared by all the gîtes is at your disposal during the summer season, and you'll find a pétanque pitch and lots of activities to enjoy on the premises or in the vicinity.
- La Grange
-
81 route de la Clayette
71800 GIBLES - 03 85 84 52 57
- flovincent@sfr.fr
Canoeing on the river
Another adventure awaits you, a descent of the river Arroux in a canoe provided by your host. Armed with life jackets and oars, the children will row away and set the pace, probably amid fits of laughter. Don't forget to say hi to the Charolais cattle that come to the river to drink.
Lunch break or afternoon snack
"Rooted deep in its origins but with an open mind", is the philosophy of this fabulous restaurant where the cuisine showcases local produce and distribution channels.
- Auberge de Poil
-
16 Route de Champrobert
58170 POIL - 09 62 51 01 09
- contact@aubergedepoil.com
- aubergedepoil.com/
Afternoon and overnight stay at Château d’Ettevaux
Charly your host can tell you the entire history of this family château that he's currently renovating and improving over the years. He offers accommodation in the form of a guestroom, a cabin on the water, or a family gîte.
The estate's chickens, donkeys and sheep enjoy being stroked.
You'll be able to admire the neo-gothic chapel, and the beautiful park featuring different varieties of trees, some of which are two hundred years old. While exploring, you'll come across deer and squirrels, as well as herons, frogs and dragonflies that can be seen at the ponds.
To book a night or moreAn amazing farm where time stands still
Head for La Motte Ternant to visit an unusual farm standing above the village, from where you'll spot the Château de Thil (your next visit). You'll be greeted by Cécilia and Laurent . The site is named “Va Mollo” ("take it easy") which just about sums up the atmosphere here, an invitation to take your time and slow down to fully appreciate the charming setting.
Here, you'll be able to:
- test your agility or try your hand at an ancient technique, by joining a workshop in rope weaving or archery.
- meet a wonderful menagerie featuring a camel, Czechoslovakian wolfdogs, hens, donkeys, mangalicas and highland cattle.
- For a truly memorable day, round off your morning by staying for a picnic of local products that you'll have purchased at the Saturday morning market of Saulieu or Avallon.
Picnic of 100% local products
"Local consumption" is the promise made by products bearing the "Valeur Parc naturel régional" label. Honey farmers, winegrowers, cheesemakers and other producers boasting this seal of approval are proud to showcase what the Morvan Regional Natural Park is all about: attachment to their region, a strong human and social dimension, and the preservation and enhancement of local heritage features.
Believe us, by choosing these products you'll give a whole new meaning and flavour to the picnic experience!
A tour of the fortress of Thil
You can reach the Thil fortress in July and August.
At this mysterious site, Perceval, the illusionist who is in charge here (seriously!), will take you to visit the ruins of the region's oldest and most powerful fortress, whose secrets are unveiled as you explore its passageways, display cabinets and legends.
Here, there's no shortage of activities to keep the whole family occupied as their eyes twinkle as brightly as the stars above.
Added bonus: The grounds around the fortress offer lovely views over the Morvan and Auxois regions