Attractions and places to see around Genay encompass two distinct regions in France: one in the Rhône department and another in the Côte-d'Or department. Genay in Rhône offers historical significance as the former capital of Franc Lyonnais, alongside natural spaces like Parc de Rancé and proximity to Lyon. Genay in Côte-d'Or provides access to natural features such as Bois de Saint-Loup and is a base for exploring medieval towns and historical sites in the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Genay.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Nearby is Abbaye de Fontanay, which is also worth seeing.
1
0
A wonderful place that takes you back in time and is historically important.
4
0
If you like parks, views and old buildings, you shouldn't miss this park.
1
0
The bridge was built in 1756. It offers a magnificent view of the 14th century towers of Semur-en-Auxois. Dare I say it's worth stopping to take a photo on your run?
3
0
It is the tourist port of the Burgundy canal located in VENAREY LES LAUMES (21150). There are barges converted into homes, and license-free pleasure boats which allow you to take relaxing excursions with family or friends over several days. You can combine cycling as well as the discovery of sites and monuments that line the pretty shaded route. The passage of the locks is also a curiosity of the canal. The Burgundy Canal connects the Yonne and Saône rivers: https://www.canal-de-bourgogne.fr/ License-free boat excursions in Venarey les Laumes: https://www.nicols.com/croisiere-fluviale/france/location-bateau-bourgogne?q=bases-Venarey
1
0
The old Pont Pinard with the towers in the background is THE POSTCARD MOTION of Semur-En-Auxois. It couldn't be nicer.
2
0
The moated castle of Époisses was built in the 14th century as a castle with an irregular hexagonal layout. The living quarters are located between the seven rectangular towers. Worth seeing is the pigeon tower in the castle park with niches for 3200 pigeons. If you cross the moat and enter the castle through the gate, you have the opportunity to visit the very beautiful and well-kept castle garden for 2 euros. A leaflet (French, English, German and Dutch) guides you through the facility with explanations. The private rooms can only be visited as part of a guided tour (currently 9 euros) at set times.
1
0
The Parc of Buffon was created between 1733 and 1742, above Buffon and offers a wonderful view over Montbard and the Brenne valley. The park is made up of 14 landscaped, varied, planted terraces and is free to visit. Adjacent to the park are the remains of the former castle of the Dukes of Burgundy, with its two towers, the 46m high Tour de l'Aubespin and the Saint-Luis, both from the 14th century. The Saint-Urse church and ramparts are located at the top of the park and the Buffon museum at the bottom of the park.
1
0
The region offers a rich history. You can visit the impressive Époisses Castle 🏰🌹, a 14th-century moated castle with a unique hexagonal layout and a pigeon tower. Another significant site is Parc Buffon in Montbard, which features 14 landscaped terraces and the remains of the former castle of the Dukes of Burgundy. Additionally, the medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, with its 14th-century towers visible from Pont Pinard, is a must-see. For a deeper dive into history, consider Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Genay in Côte-d'Or.
Yes, both Genay locations offer natural beauty. In Genay (Rhône), you can enjoy the pleasant setting of Parc de Rancé, which includes a small fort, perfect for walks. Near Genay (Côte-d'Or), the Bois de Saint-Loup provides a notable natural site. The Morvan Regional Natural Park, also in Burgundy, offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities and experiencing the region's natural beauty. Don't miss the scenic views from Parc Buffon overlooking Montbard and the Brenne valley.
The area around Genay is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy gravel biking, hiking, and cycling. For gravel biking, explore routes like the 'Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard' or the 'Flavigny-sur-Ozerain – Marigny-le-Cahouët Castle loop'. Hikers can choose from trails like 'Semur-en-Auxois — loop' or the shorter 'Pont Pinard – Ramparts Walk loop'. Cyclists might enjoy the 'MuséoParc Alésia – Buffon's Big Forge loop from Semur-en-Auxois'. You can find more details and routes on the Gravel biking around Genay, Hiking around Genay, and Cycling around Genay guide pages.
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Pont Pinard offers picturesque views that children might enjoy. Parc Buffon is also family-friendly, with its landscaped terraces and historical remains. The Port of the Burgundy Canal in Venarey-les-Laumes is a great spot for families, offering opportunities for relaxing excursions on license-free pleasure boats and cycling along the canal. The Parc de Rancé in Genay (Rhône) is also a pleasant place for family walks and outdoor activities.
Near Genay in Côte-d'Or, you'll find several charming settlements. Semur-en-Auxois is a medieval town renowned for its picturesque setting and historic architecture. Montbard, with its Canal de Bourgogne and Parc Buffon, is another interesting town. Flavigny-sur-Ozerain is listed among 'The Most Beautiful Villages of France' and is definitely worth a visit. You can also explore Saulieu and Avallon, which offer their own unique attractions.
Montbard is a town rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore the Montbard itself, which lies on the Brenne river and the Canal de Bourgogne. A key attraction is Parc Buffon, a historical site with 14 landscaped terraces offering wonderful views over Montbard and the Brenne valley, along with the remains of the former castle of the Dukes of Burgundy.
Yes, the Canal de Bourgogne is an excellent location for cycling. The Port of the Burgundy Canal in Venarey-les-Laumes serves as a tourist hub where you can combine cycling with discovering sites and monuments along the shaded route. There are also specific cycling routes that incorporate the canal, such as the 'Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard' for gravel biking, or various cycling tours listed on the Cycling around Genay guide page.
For stunning views, head to Parc Buffon in Montbard, which offers a wonderful panorama over the town and the Brenne valley. Pont Pinard provides a magnificent view of the 14th-century towers of Semur-en-Auxois, making it a picturesque photo spot.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The well-preserved castles like Époisses Castle 🏰🌹 are praised for transporting visitors back in time. The scenic views from places like Pont Pinard and Parc Buffon are highly rated for their photographic opportunities and relaxing atmosphere. The overall charm of the medieval towns and the opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling along the Canal de Bourgogne also receive positive feedback.
Yes, if you are in Genay in the Rhône department, a local market is held every Saturday morning under the town's hall. It's a great opportunity to experience local life and find regional products.
Genay in the Rhône department holds historical importance as the former capital of Franc Lyonnais. This status meant the town enjoyed various privileges until the French Revolution, contributing to its rich heritage. While specific remnants of this capital status might be subtle, the town itself is steeped in this historical context, and you can find local landmarks like Le Lavoir that reflect its past.
Yes, Genay in the Rhône department is conveniently located approximately 20 km north of Lyon. This proximity makes it easy for visitors to access the numerous attractions of the larger city, including the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière, Vieux Lyon, Parc de la Tête d'Or, Place Bellecour, and Place des Terreaux. It's an ideal base for exploring both the local charm of Genay and the vibrant city of Lyon.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: