Morvan Regional Natural Park Travel Guide

Discover the amazing Morvan Regional Natural Park in France with our travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Morvan Regional Natural Park

Morvan Regional Natural Park is a beautiful protected area in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Spanning over 173,000 hectares, the park is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for an immersive experience in the heart of France.

List of Places to Visit in Morvan Regional Natural Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Château de Bazoches: A magnificent castle built in the 12th century that once housed legendary French writer and military officer, Marshal Vauban.
  • Bibracte: An impressive archeological site that dates back to the 1st century BC. The site features the remains of an ancient Gallic city and is believed to have been a significant religious and political center.
  • Saulieu: A charming town famous for its culinary traditions and exquisite architectural marvels such as the Gothic-style Saint-Sauveur church.

Natural Attractions of Morvan Regional Natural Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lac des Settons: A picturesque lake renowned for its crystal clear waters and beautiful surrounding landscapes. The lake is also a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating.
  • Montagne du Bard: A stunning mountain peak known for its panoramic views of the park. The mountain is a favorite among hikers and trekkers looking for an adrenaline-inducing adventure.
  • Fontaines Salées: A natural spring with mineral-rich waters reputed for their medicinal properties. The spring is also surrounded by a lush forest where visitors can hike and explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Morvan Regional Natural Park

The park has over 2,500 kilometers of trails, perfect for hikers and bikers of all levels. Some popular routes are:

  • GR13: A challenging route that covers over 130 kilometers, passes through forests, valleys, and some of the park’s most stunning views, including Montagne du Bard.
  • Tour du Morvan: A circular route that covers 220 kilometers and takes visitors on a journey of the park’s most significant landmarks and natural wonders.
  • Canal du Nivernais: A flat and serene route that follows the beautiful canal offering uninterrupted views of the park’s landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Morvan Regional Natural Park: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Experience the park’s beauty from a unique perspective while enjoying a horseback riding adventure through the forest and hills.
  • Wildlife Watching: Spot rare and exotic animals such as deer, wild boar, and birds of prey, among others, while exploring the park’s ecosystems.
  • Stargazing: Morvan Regional Natural Park is a designated “Starlight Reserve,” making it a prime spot for stargazing enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Morvan Regional Natural Park

Day 1: Explore Saulieu and dine at one of the town’s famed restaurants.

Day 2: Discover the park’s rich history and culture at Bibracte and Château de Bazoches.

Day 3-4: Trek or bike the GR13 trail, visiting Montagne du Bard and many other scenic spots along the way.

Day 5: Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lac des Settons.

Day 6: Enjoy an afternoon of wildlife watching and bird spotting at the park’s nature reserves.

Day 7: End your journey by taking a relaxing stroll through the Fontaines Salées spring and enjoying its mineral-rich waters.

Food and Drink Scene of Morvan Regional Natural Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bœuf Bourguignon: A classic French dish of beef stewed in red wine served with potatoes and vegetables.
  • Escargots de Bourgogne: French-style snails cooked with garlic and butter.
  • Jambon Persillé: A traditional pork recipe seasoned with parsley and garlic.

Local Beverages

  • Burgundy wines: The region is famous for producing some of the world’s best wines, including Chablis, Meursault, and Gevrey-Chambertin.
  • Marc de Bourgogne: A digestif made from the leftover grape skins and seeds after pressing for wine.

Where to Stay in Morvan Regional Natural Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation options within the park include:

  • Auberge de la Chaloire: A charming hotel with a rustic atmosphere located in the heart of Morvan.
  • Le Domaine du Morvan: A traditional farmhouse turned bed and breakfast offering visitors a unique experience in the French countryside.
  • La Vieille Auberge: A cozy hostel with affordable prices and a warm ambiance, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in Morvan Regional Natural Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Morvan Honey: A sweet and delicious treat produced by local beekeepers using traditional methods.
  • Morvan Cheese: A variety of cheeses made by small-scale producers who use locally-sourced milk.
  • Morvan Pottery: Beautiful pottery made by local artists that reflects the park’s heritage and culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Morvan Regional Natural Park

Morvan is steeped in Celtic history and culture, making it a unique destination in France. Visitors can partake in cultural events, such as music festivals, exhibitions at local galleries, and traditional celebrations such as the “Fête de la Vielle” or “Festival of Old Music.”

Best Time to Visit Morvan Regional Natural Park

The best time to visit Morvan Regional Natural Park is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, spring (March to May) and fall (October to November) are also great seasons to visit when the park is quieter and landscapes are awash with colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Morvan Regional Natural Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Keep the park clean and dispose of trash responsibly.
  • Stay on designated trails when exploring the park’s ecosystems.

Don’t:

  • Feed wild animals.
  • Pick or damage flora and fauna.
  • Light fires outside of designated campfire areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Morvan Regional Natural Park

Visitors should be mindful of the park’s wilderness and take necessary precautions when participating in outdoor activities. Be sure to pack appropriate gear, such as sturdy footwear and insect repellent, and stay hydrated while trekking or biking.

Health in Morvan Regional Natural Park

Visitors should avoid drinking from untested water sources and always carry water when hiking or biking in the park. Tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease are also prevalent in the area, so be sure to take necessary precautions, such as wearing long sleeves and pants and using bug repellent.

Getting to Morvan Regional Natural Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Morvan Regional Natural Park

The closest airports to Morvan Regional Natural Park are:

  • Dijon-Bourgogne airport (approximately 120 kilometers from the park)
  • Lyon-Saint-Exupéry airport (approximately 220 kilometers from the park)

Bus Stations Near Morvan Regional Natural Park

Buses from major cities in France such as Paris, Dijon, and Lyon stop in Autun, a town located on the eastern edge of the park.

Other Options

Renting a car and driving to the park is also a convenient option for visitors.

How to Get Around in Morvan Regional Natural Park

The park’s vast landscape is best explored on foot or by bike. Rental companies in the park offer bikes and other gear for hire.

Where to Go Next from Morvan Regional Natural Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dijon: A historic city famous for its rich culture, architecture, and mustard.
  • Vézelay: A picturesque town situated on a hilltop that is home to a magnificent basilica that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Magny-Cours: A motorsports circuit that hosts regular races and other exciting events throughout the year.

Conclusion

Morvan Regional Natural Park is an incredible destination for visitors looking for a unique and immersive experience in France. With its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and exciting outdoor activities, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture buff, or a foodie, Morvan is an unforgettable place to visit.

Location of Morvan Regional Natural Park in Burgundy Location of Morvan Regional Natural Park in Burgundy A tour boat on Lac des Settons A tour boat on Lac des Settons GRP Tour du Morvan GRP Tour du Morvan Château de Chastellux Château de Chastellux Savault Chapel, Ouroux-en-Morvan, under the Milky Way Savault Chapel, Ouroux-en-Morvan, under the Milky Way