The best walks and hikes around Saint-Denis-Lès-Sens

A rather original historical site.

These two bridges connect to each other and link Isle d'Yonne to the town of Sens. A beautiful view of the city and the river is offered to you by crossing one and/or the other of these two bridges.

As a memorial to the many dead, such a “MONUMENT AUX MORTS” (usually called a “cenotaph” or “war memorial” in German-speaking countries) is still very important today. “Now you, O Lord, are letting your servant depart in peace, as you said…” says the so-called “Song of Simeon” (Gospel of Luke chapter 2, verse 29). However, the people who are remembered here did not die in peace, but rather became victims of war and tyranny. This is why the term “Fallen Monument” is now sometimes used instead of the “war memorial” that was previously common in German. In the French-speaking world, however, this aspect of commemorating the dead has long been included through the commonly used term "MONUMENT AUX MORTS". Regardless of language and nation, such a monument has two important and at the same time eternal tasks: -1- To keep the memory of the suffering and horror of the war alive, -2- and to call for the lasting preservation of peace.

The town hall of Sens is a public building which houses the town hall and symbolizes the republican values of the town. It is also a historic monument that highlights the neo-Renaissance style and the artistic talents of different painters and sculptors.

At Square Jean Cousin, you can admire the statue of the famous Renaissance artist who worked for Sens Cathedral. The square is a pretty garden with mosaic flowerbeds, typical of the 19th century.

The Saint-Maurice de Sens church is a 12th century Catholic church located on the banks of the Yonne. There you can admire the architecture and works of art of the church, such as the main altar, the statue of the Virgin in Majesty and the statue of Saint-Maurice on horseback. The church is only open a few days a year, but you can attend mass there every Saturday at 6:30 p.m. The church is also a good starting point for discovering the town of Sens and its rich heritage.

If you are looking for a fun and educational stop on your countryside hike, you can visit La Ferme du Glacier. This is a grain farm that also has many animals to feed and pet, such as goats, sheep, cows, pigs and donkeys. The friendly owners, Claudine and Michel, will introduce you to the different crops and agricultural equipment. The highlight of the hike is the giant corn maze, which is open from July 10 to August 31, daily from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. You can explore the maze and find surprises along the way, as well as enjoy other activities such as giant wooden games, go-karts, inflatables and more. The entrance price is 8 euros per person, which includes the visit to the farm and all activities. You can also spend the night in one of the five guest rooms or in the four-person gîte available on the farm. It's a great way to experience life on a rural farm.

From the heights of Hauts Glaciers, you can hike through the countryside and woods, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area. You will pass by the Ferme des Glaciers, where you can visit the animals and taste farm products. You will also see the aeromodelling site, where enthusiasts fly their scale models.