Discover Germenay, Nièvre, Bourgogne: hidden gems

Created over twenty years ago for mountain bike enthusiasts, the Grande Traversée du Massif Central à VTT is a mythical route, a collector's item like few others in France.

Located on the border of the Allier, this loop leads you along the little roads of the Nivernais area to discover the beautiful Montempuy chapel. This 8,3km long loop is recommended for children over the age of ten, occasional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts. Starting from Saint-Parize-en-Viry, take the pretty little roads that cross the Nivernais countryside. Enjoy this green setting made of meadows doted with pounds in which graze the whites cows of the Bourbonnais. Continue your way to Dornes. Cross the village, a seigneury that appeared in the 13th century, for a few kilometers then return to Saint-Parize-en-Viry. Take the path that leads you to the beautiful Montempuy chapel. Founded in the 11th century by the Cluniac monks of Souvigny, this chapel, whose traces date back to Charlemagne, was next to a priory that burned during the Hundred Years' War. Take a few moments to admire this building, now listed as a Historical Monument.

Located on the border of the Allier, in the department of Nièvre, during this loop you will discover the beautiful Nivernais countryside and the lovely Montempuy chapel. This 19,3km long loop is recommended for children over the age of ten, occasional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts. Starting from Dornes, take the little roads and ride along the castle ""Château de Dornes"". Beautiful building of the 14th century, it has a beautiful Italian facade. Enjoy this green setting made of meadows doted with pounds in which graze the whites cows of the bourbonnais. Take the path that leads you to the beautiful Montempuy chapel. Founded in the 11th century by the Cluniac monks of Souvigny, this chapel, whose traces date back to Charlemagne, was next to a priory that was burned during the Hundred Years' War. Return to the village of Dornes and enjoy a moment of relaxation on the beautiful central square shaded by lime trees.

Located in Gannay-sur-Loire, also called ""near the water"", during this ride you cross the Loire canal and reach ""Port des Vanneaux"". At this stop you have the chance to admire its pleasure boats. This 5,81km long loop takes both the little ones and the big ones along the water. Ride at your own pace on small tracks to reach a pretty bridge made of stone and steal that offers you a nice view on the Loire's lateral canal. Take some time to fully enjoy this landscape. Then join Gannay-sur-Loire, whose history is closely linked to the river and its canal. Today, Gannay-sur-Loire has a 3,5 meters high lock which is the eleventh of the thirty seven floodgate of this 200km long canal. The town also has its own port, ""Port des Vanneaux"", where the sailors old houseboats are now replaced by nice pleasure boats that you can admire by taking a seat on one of the many picnic tables near the port.

A ride to be immersed in the Sologne bourbonnaise area. Discover its beautiful and typical half-timbered houses, and its landscapes full of forest, meadows and ponds. This 24,7km long loop is recommended for children over the age of ten, occasional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts. Starting from La-Chapelle-Aux-Chasses, take the small roads to the residence of Ferrières, beautiful half-timbered house of the sixteenth century. Continue your way to the village of Chevagnes. The village preserves several remarkable examples of half-timbered houses and polychrome bricks typical of the area. Take a moment to admire them. Then follow the roads along the many woods of ""Sologne bourbonnaise"" and reach the village of Paray-le-Frésil, also known as ""Saint-Fiacre"" thanks to the writer Georges Simenon who tells there the adventures of his hero ""Commissaire Maigret"". Then come back at you own pace to La-Chapelle-Aux-Chasses.

Follow this ride to visit four villages along the Loire canal. During this loop you cross the canal and join the Val de Loire Natural Area and then ""Port des Vanneaux"". This 32,2km long loop is recommended for cycling enthusiasts and electric bike users. Starting from Saint-Martin-des-Lais, follow the route to the ""Ecluse des Gailloux"" and continue your way to the stone and steel bridge that offers a superb view on the canal. Join Gannay-sur-Loire and the ""port des Vanneaux"" where the sailors old houseboats are now replaced by nice pleasure boats that you can admire by taking a seat on one of the many picnic tables near the port. Continue to Paray-le-Frésil. Follow the shaded roads and take the small bridge that crosses the Canal to reach Garnat-sur-Engièvre and the Val de Loire Natural Area. Take the wooded roads that follow the course of the river and shelter a unique fauna and flora. A stop is necessary to reach the river by foot.

Located on the east part of the bourbonnais area, ride this loop and discover the longest river of France, the Loire, and its protected area, the Val de Loire. This 8,61km long loop is recommended for both the little ones and the big ones. Starting from Saint-Martin-des-Lais - which takes its name from the branches abandoned by the Loire in flood when it withdraws - travel at your own pace on small roads surrounded by fields where the cows of the bourbonnais gaze quietly. Cross the town of Garnat-sur-Engièvre and join the Val de Loire Natural Area.. Take the wooded paths that follow the course of the river and support a unique fauna and flora. A stop is necessary to reach the river on foot by a small path. You may see a beaver or a frog!

Located on two departments and two regions, during this ride you will discover the beautiful Bailly's pond, a nice place to enjoy spending time with your family. This 10,8km long loop is recommended for children over the age of ten, occasional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts. Starting Aurouër, cross the village and take the time to observe the small church of the village and the superb 18 th century half-timbered house , one of the last vestiges of the rural habitat of the Sologne Bourbonnaise of the past. Then travel in the direction of Dornes by taking the small road along the Dornette's pond and join the beautiful Bailly 's pond. Take the time to enjoy the well-maintained, well-equipped places to spend some quality time with your family: stroll around the lake along the shaded banks, discover the pleasures of fishing or sit at one of the picnic tables for lunch while enjoying the beauty of this bucolic setting.

Follow this loop to ride along the roads of the Sologne bourbonnaise area and discover the Arboretum of Balaine, the oldest private botanical and floral park in France. The site is home to a must-see castle. This 10,7km long loop is recommended for children over the age of ten, occasional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts. Starting from Aurouër, cross the village and take the time to observe the small church of the village and the superb 18 th century half-timbered house, one of the last vestiges of the rural habitat of yesterdays Sologne bourbonnaise. Then ride towards Villeneuve on the small road that leads you through woods and fields to the Arboretum of Balaine. Created in 1804, it is the oldest private botanical and floral park in France, classified Remarkable Garden, which also houses a very pretty typically bourbonnais castle. A true garden of the world, its 20ha in the heart of the Allier region are home to more than 3,500 plants from all continents. After your visit, return to Aurouër at your own pace.

Three villages made this loop which drives you cross the Loire Canal to join the Loire river and its protected area, the Val de Loire Natural Area. This 16km long loop is recommended for children over the age of ten, occasional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts. Starting from Paray-le-Frésil - also known under the name ""Saint-Fiacre"" thanks to the writer Georges Simenon who tells there the adventures of his hero, ""Commissaire Maigret"" - ride on small roads until the Seguins bridge overlooking the canal. Take some time to admire the place. Then cross Garnat-sur-Engièvre to reach the Val de Loire Natural Area. Take the wooded roads along the river where you discover a unique fauna and flora. A stop is necessary to reach the river on foot by a small path. You may see a beaver or a frog! Then join Saint-Martin-des-Lais and cross the canal again to reach Paray-le-Frésil.

The National Center of Stage Costume is the first preservation structure, in France and abroad, to be entirely dedicated to the material heritage of theaters. Twice a year, exhibitions enhance this heritage collection of 10,000 theater, opera and ballet costumes. With a collection of 10,000 opera, theatre and ballet costumes, The National Center of Stage Costume (CNCS) is a shrine to costume making know-how and the creation of theatrical settings. There is a permanent exhibition about Rudolf Nureyef and temporary exhibitions, which are housed in the former cavalry barracks (18th century) in the Villars district, which is classified as a historical monument.

In the heart of Bourbonnais in the town of Meillard the Domain of Bellevue shelter its 22 hectare vineyard Traditional and family know-how wine with a range of wines and special vintages, white, red, rosé, sparkling wines

Large character house situated in the centre of 40 wild ha, close to its owners's farm. Perfect to practise outside activities and share friendly family moments.

Situated at 10 km from Lapalisse, this quiet, green and shady campsite is next to a lake (fishing possible). Nearby : swimming-pool, tennis, hiking paths.

Situated at 10 km from Lapalisse, this quiet, green and shady campsite is next to a lake (fishing possible). Nearby : swimming-pool, tennis, hiking paths.

Friendly place to go water-skiing. All levels. New in 2022 : aquapark with pedal boat rental and paddle The Natural Wake Park is a friendly place to go water-skiing and have fun with friends, eat or have a drink under the beach hut or simply enjoy the spectacle during a walk on the Allier riversides. The activities are available for everyone (on condition that you know swimming and you feel good in water) and are accommodated to your expectations and your levels from first time, initiation for very small children in "knee-board" (very stable board for knees), to the skiing and wakeboard improvement. Possibility of free practice and to rent equipment. A qualified and experienced team teaches you the pleasure of the board sports towed by a ski tow. Pleasures and sensation are guaranteed!

Friendly place to go water-skiing. All levels. New in 2022 : aquapark with pedal boat rental and paddle The Natural Wake Park is a friendly place to go water-skiing and have fun with friends, eat or have a drink under the beach hut or simply enjoy the spectacle during a walk on the Allier riversides. The activities are available for everyone (on condition that you know swimming and you feel good in water) and are accommodated to your expectations and your levels from first time, initiation for very small children in "knee-board" (very stable board for knees), to the skiing and wakeboard improvement. Possibility of free practice and to rent equipment. A qualified and experienced team teaches you the pleasure of the board sports towed by a ski tow. Pleasures and sensation are guaranteed!

Selling and tasting; white, red rosé or sparkling wines. White, red rosé or sparkling wines. To be remembered: Tentation vintage (red wine), Réserve de la Chabanne, vintage 2012 gold medal of the agricultural competition in Paris in 2014.

Home with an enjoyable enclosed garden with view on rolling countryside. Welcoming horseriders possible.

White and red wines. Introductory courses in oenology. Guided tour to be paid, in the vineyard and the chai in groups. White and red wine. Introductory courses in oenology

Created in 1993 by Catherine Mazarguil Artist-painter-designer, former student of the Beaux arts de Paris (ENSBA), the Atelier du Laurier Rouge is a creative space where artistic activities serve as a support for self-knowledge. Internships in the artistic field: drawing, painting, collage, mandala, creativity, relaxation Professional training in Art Therapy and Art Yoga Artistic Coaching (help and support to artists in their creative work) Capacity: ten people. Find the dates of my internships in the “Agenda” section as well as my newsletters on my site: laurier-rouge.com

Artist-painter and designer, former student of the Beaux Arts de Paris (ENSBA). Abstract oil and acrylic art, care mandalas (custom creation for therapists' offices), jewelry creation, art cards, high-end stationery, travel journals. visit of the artist's studio and its gardens in spring and summer, by appointment and motivation only.

The church, whose transept dates from the 16th century, was built in the 12th century. The plan is in the shape of a Latin cross and the apse is flat. The church contains fine statues from the 15th/16th/17th centuries, including an 'Education of the Virgin' from the 15th century; outside, a bas-relief representing "The Resurrection of Lazarus" is dated 1554. Open on request. Contact the town hall on Monday and Thursday from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. +33 (0)3 25 70 02 75 or by email: mairie.coussegrey@wanadoo.fr

The National Center of Stage Costume is the first preservation structure, in France and abroad, to be entirely dedicated to the material heritage of theaters. Twice a year, exhibitions enhance this heritage collection of 10,000 theater, opera and ballet costumes. With a collection of 10,000 opera, theatre and ballet costumes, The National Center of Stage Costume (CNCS) is a shrine to costume making know-how and the creation of theatrical settings. There is a permanent exhibition about Rudolf Nureyef and temporary exhibitions, which are housed in the former cavalry barracks (18th century) in the Villars district, which is classified as a historical monument.

Martine Daigre directs its creative field to metal sculptures, especially the monumental sculptures, where the line joins space. Open by appointment

In the world of Manu Costa known as “Costam”, there is no face or grimace. Visit to the workshop by appointment on 07 85 14 01 86

Sculptor, recuperator, autodidact passionate about the forms and the materials he works the iron. The bodies are subjects that he privileges and especially the woman declined in all these forms. Animals are part of his life and are also subjects he approaches. His desire to give the viewer this addiction to the touch, the caress, the wave of relaxation and happiness. He just wants to decorate some of our world so that we feel good.

Glass artist recognized Champagne-Ardenne Craftsmanship and Craftsman, jewelry and glass sculptures. You are invited to discover the creations of fused glass (fusing) and thermoforming in the workshop of Annie Vincent-Buffet, unique pieces are to be made to dazzle your interior. Existence of a showroom. Fusion and thermoforming of unique glass pieces Visit of the shop by appointment (tel: 06.64.63.92.39) Adult and school courses by reservation

The mill, located in the heart of the village, on the Landion river, is supplied with water by a pond which serves as its millrace, a pond itself supplied by the river and the Saint Georges fountain. It was built in 1815 and operated until 1957. The mill is double: one part produced oils (rapeseed, walnut, poppy) with 2 crossed millstones: the other part produced flours (wheat, barley, oats and rye) with 2 superimposed millstones. The mill is part of the rich heritage of Etourvy now highlighted by the "Patrimoine Saint Georges" association. Open by appointment (all year round, minimum 10 people), it does not produce flour or oil. Contact Domaine Saint Georges Price: €1.50 per person with a minimum package of €15

Visit only for groups Let yourself be guided by 200 years of history of millers through manufacturing, the anecdotes of a sacred profession where the notions of know-how and labor have been perpetuated. A beautiful exhibition of authentic objects from the mill will immerse you in the world of millers of yesteryear. Open only during the summer season, from April to September by appointment on 03 25 76 07 18. Free for children under 12, €2.00 for students and €3.50 for adults. For a group from 15 people: €3.00 per person.

A stone's throw from Ervy-le-Châtel, the Auberge de la Prairie nestles in an adorable little village with preserved architecture. To have a good time, in a warm and family atmosphere, Michel and Sabine offer you a generous “Alsatian grandmother” style cuisine and all without fuss. You will be served local Aubois and Alsatian products and wines in harmony. On sunny days, you can discover the flower-decked terrace. We would stay there... Capacity for 32 people + 28 people on the terrace Open every lunchtime except Monday. Closed every evening.

All their pizzas and burgers are mainly made from local and regional products. Burgers from the bakery in Ervy-le-Châtel / Cheeses "Les fromages de Thomas" in Flogny-le-Chapelle / "Les Frères Huguier" cold cuts in Troyes / Snails "Les escargots du Pays d'Othe" in Vosnon / Minced meat de boeuf B1 Traditional Butcher in Ervy-le-Châtel. Open noon: Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Open evening: Tuesday to Thursday + Sunday from 5.30 p.m. to 8.45 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Mondays and the last weekend of each month.

Bar Restaurant open every day except Wednesday afternoon and Sunday afternoon. Traditional, Italian and Indian cuisine. Possibility of organizing Italian, Indian or French themed evenings for groups with decor. Capacity of 50 covers, 40 covers on the terrace. PMU - LOTO - FDJ

Fast food, snacks, chip shop, pizzas. Open from Tuesday lunchtime to Saturday evening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

House with a family tradition, whose brand was created in 1912 by the grandfather of the current owner, Jacky Enfert, who in twenty years has transformed the establishment to make it one of the best addresses in the region. This charming hotel-restaurant is comfortable (three stars) but it is also an unmissable gastronomic address, with, in the kitchen, Cédric, the son, who cut his teeth with the greatest. Our restaurant rooms have just been redecorated in a 1900 workshop atmosphere, wine bar and reception rooms which allow you to have a pleasant time with the discovery of wines (cellar with more than 500 references). The restaurant "Aux Maisons", culinary college of France is coupled with a hotel. The Restaurant is closed on Sunday evening, Monday and December 24-25. Open Tuesday to Sunday noon from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. New: SPA “AUX MAISONS We offer 250 m2 of well-being, 2 cabins dedicated to face and body treatments, a hammam, a sauna, a jacuzzi, an experimental shower, an icefall and an indoor swimming pool. You can also enjoy our wide range of teas and herbal teas that will be offered to you.

Restaurant located in the heart of the Pays d'Armance: traditional French cuisine, pancakes and crepes in the Breton tradition. Open from Tuesday lunchtime to Sunday lunchtime from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Pizzeria and restaurant with traditional cuisine based on local products. Open from Monday noon to Saturday evening. Closed on Monday, Thursday evening and Sunday Menu of the day with starter and dessert: €16 (every lunch from Tuesday to Friday inclusive) Pizza from €11

Local menus, à la carte, themed evenings, atmosphere, flavors guaranteed in the heart of Chaource! Book your table, we will welcome you and awaken your taste buds with our local products cooked in Chaource, taste our recipes based on mushroom fondue in Chaource, etc. Closing days: in season, from April to October inclusive, Monday evening, Tuesday evening and Wednesday all day, out of season, Monday evening, Tuesday and Wednesday. Restaurant open 7 days a week for reservations for more than 10 covers Annual closure during the All Saints holidays as well as one week in February 100 covers indoors and 2 terraces with 30 seats Reservation recommended. Possibility of organizing seminars. Catering activity - Disabled access - Wifi access

Christelle and Cédric bathed in the magic cauldron of catering, 4 generations have punctuated time by opening "Le Cadusia" in 2010 in Chaource. Cadusia is the old name of the town of Chaource, in the time of the Carolingian king Charles the Bald. It is also the name that Christelle and Cédric have chosen to give to their hotel-restaurant. You will be welcomed in two rooms of 140 m² each, a panoramic terrace of 100 m² with a view of the Chaourçoise countryside. In the kitchen Christelle and Cédric will offer you a la plancha cuisine, world cuisine or dishes prepared in the rotisserie. Restaurant combining gastronomy and bistro approach is "Bistronomic" quality. New: SPA "AUX MAISONS" in Maisons-lès-Chaource. We offer 250 m2 of well-being, 2 cabins dedicated to face and body treatments, a hammam, a sauna, a jacuzzi, an experimental shower, a waterfall ice cream and an indoor swimming pool Restaurant open every day from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Le Puisotin is a restaurant located in the forest of Othe. Its traditional cuisine and its warm team await you there to spend a convivial moment. Discover our cuisine with a choice of exceptional products. Exhibitions by local artists are organized throughout the year, go to the Facebook page for the program. In summer season (July August), open every day even on Sunday evening. The rest of the year closed on Sunday evening, Monday all day, and Thursday noon.

Opening 03/04/2020 > 18/10/2020 Treat yourself to a break in the countryside between Morvan forest and the most beautiful vineyards in Burgundy at the fully-renovated Huttopia Etang de Fouché campsite! Open-air sports, gastronomy, activities throughout the summer, or relaxing by the pool… take your pick!

Domaine Saint Roch is a character cottage. It has 2 bedrooms to accommodate a family of 5 in pleasant and warm spaces. You can go for walks in the forest or in the fields to discover the Champagne landscape or stay calm by the swimming pool and enjoy the games on site (swing, table tennis, table football, trampoline). The region offers many possibilities to satisfy you: wine and champagne tasting, museums, restaurants and outdoor activities.

Bed and Breakfast in a converted site in an old farmhouse completely renovated with swimming pool. Between Chaource and Tonnerre, 40km from Troyes, comprising 2 independent bedrooms with private bathroom and wc. A bedroom with a double bed and a single bed and a bedroom with a double bed. Possibility of activities such as walks in the forest on foot or mountain bike, visit of cellars and children's games on site.

The Domaine Saint Roch is situated between Chaource and Tonnerre, at 40km from Troyes in an old character farm fully renovated.On the ground floor: an American kitchen, a sitting/living room and a toilet. On the first floor: a bedroom with a double bed, a bedroom with two single beds and a bunk bed, a bathroom and a toilet. Fenced garden and terrace at disposal. All charges included. Access to the estate's swimming pool. Activities available: fishing, walks in the forest, mountain bike, visit to the Chablis vineyard.

More and more of you are trying the experience of an unusual night. Often times it is a gift for an anniversary or a wedding night. If you also want to make an original gift, do not hesitate to contact us. Our Cabin is located at the exit of the Estate. The terrace offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding fields and a real feeling of freedom. The cabin has been fitted out to offer you maximum comfort, a large 160x200 bed with bolster, pillows and duvets, shower, sink and dry toilet. Management and reservations are made directly with the owners.

20 minutes from Chablis in Dawn and the gateway to Burgundy and Champagne, your stay will be placed under the sign of peace and friendliness.

In the green quiet of Val d'Armance, Ireland welcomes you in a beautiful cottage offering as many services as sympathy. Completely renovated in noble materials to meet and respond to all your expectations, their cottage offers two rooms with shower and toilet, a spacious room with TV. Two suites with comfortable living room, walk-in shower or bath. The rooms offer a beautiful view of the gardens with terraces. All rooms have wi-fi. Ability to add beds on request

13 km from Chaource, 17 km from Tonnerre near Chablis and Champagne. Gîte with 83 beds spread over 4 buildings, 2 reception rooms, 1 seminar room and 1 kitchen, in a green park of one hectare. These beds are divided into 15 rooms of 2, 6 rooms of 3, 3 rooms of 4, 1 room of 6, 1 dormitory of 7 and 1 dormitory of 10. Open all year round. Reception of classes, groups, seminars. Ideal for weddings and family celebrations. DDJS Academic Inspection approval. Tourist attractions: educational trails, wash houses, oil and flour mill, mountain bike and hiking trails. Nearby museums, Champagne and Chablis cellars, Nigloland, castles, mushroom farm and golf course in Chaource.