Attractions and Places To See around Collonge-En-Charollais - Top 20

Collonge-En-Charollais offers several significant historical and cultural sites. You can visit the Église Saint-Étienne de Collonge-en-Charollais, a church with Romanesque foundations from the 11th century and Gothic additions from the 15th century, notable for its descending entrance steps. The Monument de Maranges commemorates Resistance fighters from WWII. Additionally, an Ancienne Tour (Old Tower) from the 15th and 16th centuries, part of a former castle, is still surrounded by its moats. Nearby, the settlement of Saint-Gengoux-le-National features medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and a church blending Gothic and Romanesque architecture. You can also find La Serrée Castle, dating from the 15th century, in the nearby town of Curtil-sous-Burnand.

Yes, a must-see natural feature is La Mer de Pierres (The Sea of Stones). Located within the forest, it's a vast accumulation of sandstone formations that resemble a motionless sea. You can discover it via a 'Balade Verte' (Green Walk) starting from the village.

The region is characterized by extensive forests, covering 70% of its territory, making it ideal for hiking. The GR7 long-distance hiking trail crosses the commune. You can also explore the Sentier de la Résistance, which follows the path taken by WWII Resistance fighters. For more structured outdoor adventures, you can find various MTB Trails, Running Trails, and Cycling routes around Collonge-En-Charollais.

Yes, families will enjoy the Aire de loisir de la gare de Saint-Gengoux-le-National. This leisure area offers picnic tables, a bicycle repair station, toilets, and a children's play area. It's conveniently located along the Voie Verte de Bourgogne du Sud, a 77km long cycle path on an old railway line. The nearby settlement of Saint-Gengoux-le-National is also considered family-friendly with its charming medieval streets.

The commune benefits from numerous water sources, including 36 wells, 6 fountains (like the Marguerite fountain), and 13 springs. For convenience, there is an Accessible Drinking Water Fountain available, which is particularly useful on longer routes where other supply points might be scarce.

The area, situated at the foot of Mont Saint-Vincent, offers varied landscapes including limestone hills and granite zones. For a fantastic panoramic view, visit the Statue of Mary, which provides expansive views of the Saône valley. A picnic bench is located nearby for resting while enjoying the scenery.

The area is recognized for its ecological importance, falling within a ZNIEFF (Zone Naturelle d'Intérêt Écologique, Faunistique et Floristique) of type I, specifically 'Bocage et bois de Mt St Vincent et de Chaleutre'. This designation highlights its value as a habitat, particularly for European barbastelle bats, and its rich biodiversity within the bocage and woodland landscapes.

Yes, the GR7 long-distance hiking trail crosses the crest of the commune from northwest to southeast, offering opportunities for extended walks and exploring the diverse landscapes of the region.

Visitors particularly appreciate the authenticity and historical charm of places like Saint-Gengoux-le-National, with its medieval streets and unique architecture. The practical facilities at the Aire de loisir de la gare de Saint-Gengoux-le-National are also highly valued, especially by cyclists and families. Many enjoy the fantastic views from spots like the Statue of Mary, often noting the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for rest.

Yes, Collonge-En-Charollais played a significant role in the French Resistance during World War II. The Monument de Maranges commemorates a tragic event involving Resistance fighters. You can also follow the Sentier de la Résistance, a trail that traces the path taken by Resistance members who established a camp in Portus.

Beyond the historical church, you can explore the remains of an Ancienne Tour (Old Tower) from the 15th and 16th centuries, which is still surrounded by its moats. Additionally, La Serrée Castle, a 15th-century construction with residential buildings, corner towers, and a dovecote tower, is located nearby in Curtil-sous-Burnand.