Saulieu Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Saulieu with this travel guide featuring the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, local culture, safety tips, and more!


Introduction to Saulieu

Saulieu is a charming town located in the Burgundy region of France, known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and delicious culinary traditions. With a population of just over 3,000 people, Saulieu offers visitors a peaceful and authentic French experience, away from the bustling crowds of larger cities. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural sightseeing, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Saulieu has something for everyone to enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Saulieu

Here are some of the top attractions to check out when visiting Saulieu:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Saint Andoche Abbey: a stunning 12th-century Romanesque church that houses a collection of religious art and artifacts.
  • Francois Pompon Museum: showcases the works of the famous French sculptor Francois Pompon.
  • Maison Vauban: a historic house dating back to the 17th century, which houses an exhibit on the life and work of the French military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban.

Natural Attractions of Saulieu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lac des Settons: a stunning lake located in the heart of the Morvan Regional Nature Park, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
  • Mont Beuvray: a historical site and natural wonder that features the remains of an ancient Gallic hillfort, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Morvan Forest: covering over 1,000 square kilometers, this forest is perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saulieu

Saulieu is surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in France, and there are several hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to experience the area’s natural beauty up close. Some of the top routes to explore include:

  • The Morvan Grand Tour: a 1,000-kilometer route that takes cyclists through some of the most scenic areas of the Morvan Regional Nature Park.
  • The Saint Jacques de Compostelle Trail: a 2,500-kilometer trail that passes through Saulieu on its way to the Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela.
  • The GR13 Hiking Trail: a 24-kilometer hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Morvan Forest and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Saulieu: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities and tours to enjoy when visiting Saulieu. Some of the top things to do include:

  • Wine Tasting: Burgundy is famous for its delicious wines, and Saulieu offers plenty of opportunities to sample some of the region’s best offerings.
  • Cooking Classes: learn how to prepare classic French dishes with locally sourced ingredients from expert chefs.
  • Truffle Hunting: join a professional truffle hunter and his dog on a thrilling adventure through the forests of Burgundy to find these culinary treasures.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saulieu

If you’re planning to spend a week in Saulieu, here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the region:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Saulieu’s historic town center and visit the Francois Pompon Museum.
Day 2 Spend the day hiking in the Morvan Forest, followed by a relaxing evening at a local spa.
Day 3 Visit the Saint Andoche Abbey and enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery.
Day 4 Take a cooking class in the morning, followed by an afternoon truffle hunting adventure.
Day 5 Day trip to Beaune, a charming town in the heart of the Burgundy wine region.
Day 6 Visit the Chateau de Sully in the morning, followed by a picnic lunch at the Lac des Settons.
Day 7 Spend the day exploring the Morvan Regional Nature Park, taking in the stunning views and natural beauty of the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Saulieu

One of the biggest draws of Saulieu is its fantastic culinary scene, featuring delicious locally sourced ingredients and traditional French cooking techniques. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Boeuf Bourguignon: a classic beef stew made with local red wine and slow-cooked to perfection.
  • Escargots de Bourgogne: Burgundy’s famous snails, typically served with garlic butter and parsley.
  • Jambon persille: a traditional Burgundian dish made with ham and parsley.

Local Beverages

  • Burgundy Wine: one of the world’s most famous wine regions, Burgundy’s offerings range from full-bodied reds to crisp whites.
  • Kir: a mix of white wine and cassis, a local black currant liqueur, that is both refreshing and popular as an aperitif.

Where to Stay in Saulieu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saulieu offers a variety of lodging options to suit any budget:

  • Hotel Restaurant La Côte d’Or: a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Saulieu, featuring elegant rooms and an award-winning restaurant.
  • Hotel De La Poste: a charming 3-star hotel located in a historic building, offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Saulieu’s top attractions.
  • La Vieille Auberge: a cozy bed and breakfast located in a beautifully restored 16th-century building, offering personalized service and a serene atmosphere.

What to Buy in Saulieu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Saulieu is known for its high-quality local products, including:

  • Truffles: Burgundy is home to some of the world’s most coveted black truffles, which can be purchased at local markets and specialty food stores.
  • Charolais beef: a local breed of cattle known for its tender and flavorful meat, available at Saulieu’s butcher shops and markets.
  • Mustard: Saulieu is renowned for its delicious mustard, which can be purchased at local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Saulieu

The people of Saulieu are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions, which are deeply rooted in the history of the region. Visitors are encouraged to embrace local customs and etiquette, such as saying “Bonjour” when entering a shop or restaurant, and respecting religious traditions when visiting churches and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Saulieu

The best time to visit Saulieu is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, the region is also beautiful in the fall, when the leaves change color and the local vineyards are harvested, making it a popular time for wine lovers to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saulieu

Do:

  • Try the local wine and cuisine
  • Respect local customs and etiquette
  • Take care of the natural environment

Don’t:

  • Be too loud or disruptive in public places
  • Forget to say “Bonjour” to locals
  • Ignore cultural traditions and customs

Safety and Health

Safety in Saulieu

Saulieu is a very safe town, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should take standard precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Saulieu

Saulieu has several medical clinics and pharmacies, as well as a hospital, in case of medical emergencies. Visitors should ensure they have comprehensive travel medical insurance to cover any unexpected health issues.

Getting to Saulieu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saulieu

The closest airports to Saulieu are:

  • Dijon-Bourgogne Airport (approx. 60 km)
  • Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (approx. 200 km)

Bus Stations Near Saulieu

Saulieu is well-connected by bus to nearby towns and cities, including:

  • Dijon (approx. 1 hour)
  • Autun (approx. 20 minutes)
  • Beaune (approx. 1 hour)

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Saulieu by train, with direct connections from Paris (approx. 2 hours) and Dijon (approx. 1 hour).

How to Get Around in Saulieu

Saulieu is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, there are also several bike rental shops in town, offering the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Saulieu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Saulieu is conveniently located near several popular destinations in the Burgundy region, including:

  • Dijon: a charming city known for its stunning architecture and delicious cuisine.
  • Beaune: a picturesque town in the heart of the Burgundy wine region, with many opportunities for wine tasting and fine dining.
  • Autun: a historic Roman city with plenty of well-preserved ancient monuments to explore.

Conclusion

Saulieu is a hidden gem in the Burgundy region of France, offering visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine of the area. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural sightseeing, or simply a relaxing vacation, Saulieu has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of this charming French town!

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