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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Saulieu.
Nestled in the heart of the Burgundy region, Saulieu is a charming town that offers a feast for all the senses.
From its picturesque streets to its culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a laidback escape, Saulieu is the destination that promises to enchant you.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Saulieu:
1. Basilique Saint-Andoche
Basilique Saint-Andoche is a Romanesque style basilica located in the town of Saulieu, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful and intricate Romanesque architecture of the basilica, including its ornate capitals, columns, and arches. The interior of the basilica features a nave with a barrel-vaulted ceiling, as well as numerous frescoes and wall paintings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the impressive 9th-century crypt underneath the basilica, which contains the tombs of Saint Andoche and his companions.
The crypt is decorated with stunning frescoes and sculptures, and is one of the oldest and most well-preserved examples of Carolingian architecture.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to check the basilica’s opening hours before planning your visit, as they can vary throughout the year.
2. Musée François Pompon
Musée François Pompon is a museum dedicated to the works of the French sculptor François Pompon.
What to see or do: The museum houses an extensive collection of Pompon’s sculptures, including his iconic White Bear, as well as sketches, drawings, and personal effects.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly Pompon’s White Bear, a minimalist masterpiece that perfectly captures the essence of the animal in a few simple curves and planes.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the small town of Saulieu in the Burgundy region of France.
3. Hôtel de ville de Saulieu
A magnificent town hall located in the charming town of Saulieu, France.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive Flemish-inspired façade and the stunning interior decoration.
Don’t miss: The fine collection of art and furniture that includes 17th and 18th-century paintings, tapestries, and sculptures.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the opening hours before you visit.
4. Parc de l’Auxois
A wildlife park in Saulieu, France, featuring numerous animals from different parts of the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the park while observing various animals such as tigers, lions, bears, antelopes, monkeys, and many others.
There are also fun activities for the whole family, including a maze, a playground, and a mini-farm.
Don’t miss: The park’s highlight is the bird of prey show which displays the incredible skills of eagles, owls, and vultures. It’s a spectacle that will leave anyone in awe.
Insider travel tips: The park is quite big, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allocate enough time for your visit. Don’t forget to bring cash as some of the activities, like pony rides, require extra payment.
Arriving early in the morning gives you the best chance to enjoy the animals without the crowds.
5. Lac de Chamboux
Lac de Chamboux is a stunning natural lake located in Saulieu, a commune in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can indulge in various water sports activities such as swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The crystal clear waters of the lake are also perfect for a refreshing dip during hot summer days.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss renting a pedal boat with friends or family and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding forests while enjoying a leisurely ride on the lake.
Insider travel tips: Swimming in the lake is only allowed in designated areas. Visitors are advised to bring their own picnic supplies as there are limited facilities around the lake.
Additionally, it is recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a good spot and avoid the crowds during peak season.
6. Chapelle Saint-Symphorien
Chapelle Saint-Symphorien is a Romanesque chapel located in Saulieu, a charming town in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the well-preserved architecture of the chapel, including its impressive bell tower and intricate stone carvings. The interior features stunning frescoes dating back to the 11th century.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the famous “Judgment of Solomon” fresco, which depicts King Solomon and the two women claiming to be the mother of a child.
Insider travel tips: Visit the chapel in the morning for the best lighting to view the frescoes. Additionally, take a stroll around Saulieu’s charming old town and try the local culinary specialty, “jambon persillé” (ham with parsley).
7. Église Saint-Saturnin
Église Saint-Saturnin is an 11th-century Romanesque church located in Saulieu, a town in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the church’s magnificent architecture that features arches, columns, and intricate carvings. The interior of the church boasts beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the church’s impressive organ with its delicate pipes and golden decorations.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting in the summer, catch one of the church’s organ concerts. Also, take a stroll around the town of Saulieu to see its quaint streets and charming cafes.
8. Fontaine Ganaud
A beautiful 19th-century fountain located in the charming town of Saulieu, in the heart of Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around Saulieu and admire the unique architecture and charming atmosphere of the town. Don’t miss the impressive Gothic-style Saint-Andoche Church, the famous Bernard Loiseau’s restaurant, or the delicious local cuisine.
Don’t miss: The Fontaine Ganaud, with its intricate details and stunning design, is a must-see.
From the sculptures of mythical creatures to the intricate floral motifs, every inch of this fountain is a work of art.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a foodie, make sure to visit on a Saturday morning and explore Saulieu’s bustling market.
Don’t forget to sample some of the local specialties, such as Burgundy snails, jambon persillé (ham in parsley jelly), or époisses cheese.
Additionally, try to visit during the Saulieu Jazz Festival in August for a lively atmosphere and fantastic live music.
9. Le Livre dans la Théière
A cozy tea room and bookstore located in the charming town of Saulieu in Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while browsing through a handpicked selection of books in both French and English. The tea room also offers homemade cakes, pastries, and light meals for lunch.
Don’t miss: Their signature tea, Le Thé dans la Théière, a blend of black tea, spices, and citrus fruits. Also, make sure to try their delicious quiches and tarts.
Insider travel tips: The tea room gets busy during peak hours, so make sure to arrive early to secure a spot. They also offer take-out if you’re in a hurry.
And don’t forget to grab a book as a souvenir to remember your visit.
10. Musée des Sapeurs Pompiers de Saulieu
A museum dedicated to the history of firefighting in the French town of Saulieu.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore numerous exhibits that showcase the evolution of firefighting equipment and tactics. A highlight of the museum is its collection of vintage fire trucks, including a rare 1876 steam pump.
The museum also pays tribute to the brave men and women who have served as firefighters over the years.
Don’t miss: The museum’s extensive collection of antique firefighting uniforms, helmets, and other gear. Visitors can also climb aboard a vintage fire truck for a fun photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the heart of Saulieu’s historic district and is easily accessible on foot.
It is open daily during the summer season, but hours may be limited in the off-season, so be sure to check ahead of time.
Admission is affordable, making it a great activity for families or anyone interested in the history of firefighting.
11. Église Saint-Julien de Mont-Saint-Jean
Église Saint-Julien is a medieval church located in the village of Mont-Saint-Jean in the Burgundy region of France.
What to see or do: Explore the Romanesque architecture of the church and marvel at the beautiful sculptures and elaborate carvings on the doorway. Admire the colorful stained glass windows and the serene frescoes on the walls inside.
Don’t miss: The stunning views from the church’s terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside. Walk around the picturesque village of Mont-Saint-Jean and take in the charming atmosphere of this historic place.
Insider travel tips: Visit the church during the summer months when they have guided tours available in English and French.
You can also attend the annual music festival held here in July, which features live performances by renowned artists from all over the world.
12. Tour de l’horloge de Saulieu
The Tour de l’horloge de Saulieu, also known as the Clock Tower of Saulieu, is a historic tower located in the center of the town of Saulieu in Burgundy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a stunning view of the surrounding town and countryside. Along the way, they can explore the tower’s interior, which houses an exhibition about Saulieu’s history and architectural heritage.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the oldest clock in Burgundy, which dates back to 1662 and is still in working order today. Visitors can watch it in action and even see the original mechanism that powers its movement.
Insider travel tips: For the best views of the town and countryside, try to visit the Clock Tower on a clear day.
Also, be aware that visitors will need to climb a steep spiral staircase to reach the top, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
13. Maison de l’École Buissonnière
Maison de l’École Buissonnière is a charming museum located in the picturesque town of Saulieu in France that showcases the history of education in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can step back in time and explore a recreated 19th-century classroom, complete with antique desks, chalkboards, and educational tools from the era.
The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what school life was like for children in the past.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the beautifully preserved school memorabilia, including handwritten textbooks, blackboards covered in chalk scribbles, and old photos of teachers and students.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during the week when the museum is less crowded.
14. Le Relais Bernard Loiseau
A luxurious 5-star hotel and restaurant located in the charming village of Saulieu, Burgundy.
What to see or do: Indulge in the Michelin-starred cuisine at the restaurant, relax at the hotel’s spa and wellness center, explore the beautiful Burgundy countryside and nearby vineyards.
Don’t miss: The chance to taste the famous “Escarbille” dish, created by renowned chef Bernard Loiseau.
Insider travel tips: Book a table at the restaurant well in advance as it’s very popular, take a cooking class at the hotel to learn the secrets of French cuisine, and visit the nearby town of Beaune for a wine tasting experience.
15. Maison aux mille truffes et champignons
Maison aux mille truffes et champignons is a unique market and museum dedicated to truffles and mushrooms in Saulieu, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse through a variety of truffle products, from fresh truffles to truffle oil, and learn about the different types of mushrooms found in the region.
The museum showcases the history of truffle hunting and the different techniques used to find them.
Don’t miss: Take a truffle hunting tour with a professional truffle hunter and their specially trained dogs. Visitors can also attend cooking classes and taste delicious truffle dishes.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit in the winter months (November to February) for the best chance of finding fresh winter truffles. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice and recommendations from the friendly staff.