Located within the central region of Burgundy, the rural departement of Saone-et-Loire has always been popular with tourists, thanks to its outstanding natural scenery and outdoor activities as well as its intriguing collection of prehistoric sites and more recent historic buildings and towns. The recent development of a long cycle route through the region has also helped to increase the number of visitors to Saone-et-Loire who can now safely explore large areas of central France by bike.
The Voie Verte or “Green Way” is a cycle route that follows the line of an old railway for over 120 kilometres through central France. Although it is called a cycle route, it is in fact open to walkers, joggers and rollerbladers too, though if you want to try and tackle the whole length, you would probably be better trying it on two wheels rather than two feet! The local tourist office has produced a guide to the route, including recommendations of places to stay and eat en route, and providing information about some of the interesting places that the Voie Verte either passes through or close to.
The Roche de Solutre is a limestone cliff in the south of Saone et Loire that is an important prehistoric site; excavations here have turned up hundreds of thousands of artefacts as well as evidence that it was once used as a base for hunting. If you haven't tired yourself out on your bicycle, the path to the top and a great view is quite an easy one. The next stop on the Voie Verte is the Berze-le-Chatel castle, a medieval fortress with an impressive 13 towers.
Cluny Abbey, further north, was built over 1,000 years ago and its church used to be the largest in the world. A remarkable amount of the original building is still standing, though it has been repaired and added to over the centuries. The original cloisters are particularly impressive as is the more modern clock tower. There are several music festivals held here every year, including one featuring classical concerts by world-renowned performers in July and August.
Pedal a bit more and you will come to the Chateau de Cormatin, a 17th century country house with some of the most opulent interior design in all of France. The extensive gardens are also worth exploring and feature a 200-year-old orchard and a maze – if you still have the energy!
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Saone-et-Loire? Then below is a selection of gites in Saone-et-Loire and villas in Saone-et-Loire that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
