Best attractions and places to see around Lalande, located in the Yonne department of France, offer a rich blend of history and cultural heritage. This region features historic towns, significant religious architecture, and picturesque villages set within a rural landscape. Visitors can explore sites that reflect centuries of French history, from medieval fortifications to Renaissance-era reconstructions. The area provides opportunities for exploring historical landmarks and enjoying the local ambiance, making it a destination for Lalande tourism.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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the city is incredible there is a lake full of pastures and very, very big climbs towards the street (citée scolaire)
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Toucy, historic town twinned with Kusel (Germany) and birthplace of Pierre Larousse. Historic passage of Joan of Arc in the city. Visible old half-timbered houses and historic shops. With its Saturday market, Best Market in France 2019. Away from the city center, you will find an industrial zone with various brands.
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The Republic Square with its statue in honor of Larousse on the edge of the old city fortifications offers nice places to stop.
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The entire village of St Sauveur en Puisaye seems to vibrate in the name of Colette, the local child, author of “Blé en herbe” and the “Claudine” series. His name and his memory are disseminated throughout the village through the Colette house (his birthplace) located on rue Colette, the Colette Museum installed in the castle, as well as the murals which adorn the streets. But it is also a charming village and the surrounding countryside offers many small country roads. “And if you passed between the mown meadows, at the time when the sun streams on the round stacks which are the dunes of my country, you would feel your heart open to their perfume.” Colette..., "The tendrils of the vine". Driving around the area can also provide an opportunity to experience this.
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The Republic Square with its statue in honor of Larousse on the edge of the old city fortifications offers nice places to stop, as Gerhard has already written. We had a drink in a bistro there. The friendly landlord didn't mind that we bought something to eat from the bakery next door. We would have liked to have experienced the market, but it only takes place on Saturdays.
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The town of Toucy has very ancient origins. The region was in fact associated with the exploitation of iron during the Celtic period and until around the 3rd century. Toucy then belonged to the family of Germain, bishop of Auxerre (418-448), who donated it to his church. At the beginning of the 12th century, fortifications and a chapel were built, the latter being the only one preserved entirely in elevation and included in the current church. This is a Romanesque room. It is also on the remains of the ramparts from the beginning of the 12th century that the church leans. The enclosure was completely retaken around 1170. Its remains are still visible in the city. The location of Toucy made it a long-time source of discord between the Duchy of Burgundy and the Kingdom of France, particularly during the Hundred Years' War. In 1423, the city was taken and destroyed by Burgundian troops, during the time of Philip the Good. The old church, which dated from the 13th century, was ravaged on this occasion, but it was rebuilt shortly after and appropriate means were put in place to defend it. This reconstruction took place between 1445 and 1522. At the apse, we can see two fortified towers (mid-15th century): the "Bishops' Tower", equipped with gunboats and also the most impressive, as well as the "Saint-Michel Tower" are connected by a walkway which only received battlements at the end of the 19th century during a rather drastic restoration of the monument. The nave dates from the 16th century. Not far from the church, below, on the Market Square, you can see a beautiful brick and half-timbered house (16th century). https://bourgognemedievale.com/departement-et-pays/yonne/pays-puisaye-forterre/toucy/
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One tends to underestimate the town of Pourrain when driving from Toucy to Auxerre on the D965. This road only affects the town and does not give a favorable image of this beautiful town. The climb to the church, the church itself and the square in front of the church form a very beautiful ensemble. The village is located on a hill that dominates 3 surrounding valleys. Saint Serge Church is a very large church with a unique tower. The main tower with a large bell house and beautiful church clock is in the shape of a richly decorated keep. On the west side there is a slender tower that towers over the main tower and is equipped with shooting stocks.
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The region around Lalande, located in the Yonne department, is rich in history. You can visit the Historic Center of Toucy, known for its ancient origins and well-preserved half-timbered houses. Another significant historical site is the Saint-Pierre Church of Toucy, a 16th-century fortified church built on the ruins of an old castle, featuring mighty walls and defensive towers.
Yes, several religious buildings showcase the area's heritage. The Saint-Pierre Church of Toucy is a prominent example, rebuilt in the 16th century with a unique fortified design. In the village of Pourrain, you'll find the large Saint Serge Church with its distinctive, richly decorated keep-shaped tower. Additionally, the Saint-Baudel Chapel, dating from the 16th century, features a surprisingly rich painted vault reflecting early Renaissance influence.
Lalande offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, with options ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Lac du Bourdon Beach – Lac du Bourdon loop'. For those who enjoy running, there are moderate trails like the 'Running loop from Parly'. Hikers can find routes like the 'L'Église Saint Pierre — loop from Toucy'. You can find more details and routes in the Cycling around Lalande, Running Trails around Lalande, and Hiking around Lalande guides.
Yes, the Historic Center of Toucy is considered family-friendly. It's a great place to wander through ancient streets, admire half-timbered houses, and enjoy the Republic Square, which often has a lively atmosphere.
Pourrain is a picturesque village situated on a hill, offering views of three surrounding valleys. Its most notable feature is the Saint Serge Church, a very large structure with a unique, richly decorated keep-shaped tower that stands out in the landscape.
Pierre Larousse, the famous lexicographer, was born in Toucy. You can find a monument to him, the Bust of Pierre Larousse, in the middle of the Republic Square in Toucy. This square is also a pleasant spot with cafes and restaurants, and on Saturdays, it hosts a large food market featuring regional products.
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area. The blend of medieval fortifications, Renaissance architecture, and charming villages like Toucy and Pourrain, along with the unique stories behind sites like the Saint-Pierre Church, are frequently highlighted. The local ambiance and opportunities for exploration are also highly valued.
Yes, if you visit Toucy, the Republic Square, near the Bust of Pierre Larousse, hosts a large food market every Saturday. This market offers a great opportunity to discover and purchase regional products.
Yes, there are easy walking trails available. For instance, the 'Old Railway Bridge – Historic Center of Toucy loop from Toucy-Ville' is an easy hiking route. Another easy option is the 'Saint-Pierre Church of Toucy loop from Vérigny'. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Lalande guide.
The Saint-Pierre Church of Toucy has a fascinating history. Originally, a 12th-century chapel remained after the Hundred Years' War. In the 16th century, the church was rebuilt on the ruins of an old castle, resulting in a unique castle-church design with mighty walls, cannon embrasures, and defensive towers, reflecting its strategic importance during that period.
Yes, the cycling routes around Lalande cater to various skill levels. You can find moderate routes like the 'Toucy Reeds – Historic Center of Toucy loop' or more challenging options such as the 'La Garonne Canal Locks – Paul Bert Bridge loop'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Cycling around Lalande guide.


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