Visiting the Area
An ideal location in the heart of Burgundy
Located just a few minutes from Joigny and close to Auxerre, La Fontaine aux Muses enjoys a privileged setting for discovering the treasures of Burgundy and the Yonne region. Between renowned vineyards, historic towns, charming villages, forests and outstanding gastronomy, the area offers a wide variety of activities throughout the year.
Whether you are passionate about heritage, wine, hiking, or simply looking for an authentic stay in Burgundy, you will find plenty of ideas for excursions around our hotel and restaurant.
Joigny, a town of art and character
Just a few minutes from La Fontaine aux Muses, Joigny is one of the most beautiful towns in the Yonne department. Designated a “Town of Art and History”, it charms visitors with its half-timbered houses, medieval streets and panoramic views over the Yonne valley.
Joigny is also well known for its gastronomy and vineyards. The surrounding hills produce distinctive Burgundy wines, which you can discover directly from local winemakers.
Highlights in Joigny
- Half-timbered houses in the historic centre (16th-century)
- Saint-Jean Church (16th-century) and its Renaissance stained glass windows
- Saint-Thibault Church (16th-century)
- Saint-André Church, (11th & 16th-century)
- The 17th and 18th-century town mansions
- Saint-Jean Gate and remnants of the city walls
- Birthplace of Sainte Madeleine-Sophie Barat
- The Bayard Resistance Museum
- Walks along the banks of the Yonne River
- Hikes in Othe Forest (the Forêt d’Othe)
- Line fishing on the Yonne and Vrin rivers
- Boat excursions on the Yonne River
Auxerre, historic capital of the Yonne
About 30 minutes from La Fontaine aux Muses, Auxerre is the capital of the Department of Yonne and an essential stop during any stay in Burgundy. Once a Gallo-Roman settlement, it later became an important religious and commercial centre, prospering from its production and transportation of wine via the river.
Awarded with France's “Town of Art and History” label, its historic centre, riverbanks and remarkable monuments make it a perfect destination for a cultural visit.
What to see in Auxerre:
- Saint-Germain Abbey
- Saint-Étienne Cathedral
- Saint-Eusèbe Church (a 7th century church with 13th century nave & Romanesque tower)
- The Clock tower
- Natural History Museum
- Old town and half-timbered houses
- Banks of the Yonne River
Also don't miss out on:
Chablis, an exceptional wine region
Less than 40 minutes away, Chablis is world-famous for its outstanding white wines. A must-visit destination for lovers of wine tourism in Burgundy.
Vézelay, a UNESCO World Heritage gem
Perched on a hilltop, Vézelay is listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its famous basilica attracts visitors from all over the world.
- Vézelay Tourist Office
- Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine
Guédelon, a journey back in time
About 45 minutes away, Guédelon is a unique site in the world: a medieval castle being built today using only 13th-century techniques.
