The best walks and hikes around Chitry

There are nearly 200 hiking routes around Chitry, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls through vineyards to more challenging treks across the rolling hills.

Chitry is nestled within an amphitheater of small valleys, surrounded by extensive vineyards. You'll hike through picturesque vineyard-laden hillsides, charming cherry orchards, and fertile farmland. The region's distinctive limestone and marl-limestone formations create a unique, undulating terrain with varied views.

Yes, Chitry offers 77 easy routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Beines lake – Bench with View of Vineyard loop from Beine, an easy 4.8 km trail that takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, leading through vineyards and past a tranquil lake.

While hiking, you can explore historical points of interest such as the fortified tower and the 13th-century Church of Saint-Valérien in Chitry-le-Fort village. Further afield, consider visiting the Paul Bert Bridge, or the impressive Saint-Étienne Cathedral of Auxerre and Abbaye Saint-Germain.

Yes, for experienced trekkers, there are 13 difficult routes. One challenging option is the Douzein Orientation Table – Panorama loop from Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, a 22 km trail with significant elevation changes, offering rewarding views.

The trails in Chitry are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 380 reviews. Hikers often praise the superb viewpoints of the vine-covered hillsides, the blend of natural beauty with historical elements, and the well-maintained paths that traverse varied terrain.

Yes, many routes in Chitry are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular Panorama – Douzein Orientation Table loop from Saint-Bris-le-Vineux and the Paul Bert Bridge – Statue of Paul Bert loop from Augy.

The best time to hike in Chitry is generally during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards offer beautiful scenery, either with fresh green growth or vibrant autumn colors. Summers can be warm, while winters are generally mild but can be damp.

While Chitry is a rural area, local transport options exist. You can often find bus services connecting larger towns like Auxerre to Chitry. However, for direct access to many trailheads, especially those outside the main village, having your own vehicle or arranging local transport might be more convenient.

Parking is generally available in or near the villages that serve as starting points for hikes, such as Chitry-le-Fort, Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, Augy, Beine, or Irancy. Look for designated parking areas or roadside spots, especially near churches or village centers. It's always a good idea to check local signage for any restrictions.

Absolutely. The region's rolling hills and vineyard-covered slopes naturally provide many scenic viewpoints. The Panorama – Douzein Orientation Table loop from Saint-Bris-le-Vineux is specifically known for its superb viewpoints overlooking the surrounding vine-covered hillsides.