Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Colombe - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Colombe include historical settlements, medieval villages, and scenic natural routes. This region offers a blend of cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, with ancient towns situated on hills and tranquil river valleys. Visitors can explore historical architecture and enjoy peaceful walks. The area provides diverse opportunities for discovering its unique character.
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Colombe
- The most popular attractions is Avallon, a settlement that features a historic church with unique architectural elements. This town is situated on a hill, offering a shopping street and various restaurants.
- Another must-see spot is Cousin Road, a secluded valley route. This track runs alongside the river Le Cousin, providing a relaxing environment bordered by windmills.
- Visitors also love Saint Martin Church, a historical religious building. This church, originally a convent chapel, features impressive glass ornaments in the altar area and has a rich history of transformations.
- Sainte-Colombe is known for its historical settlements, religious buildings, and scenic natural routes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval villages to tranquil river valleys.
- The attractions around Sainte-Colombe are appreciated by the komoot community, with 72 upvotes and 61 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Avallon
Highlight • Settlement
This is composed of a central nave flanked by two side aisles. You will notice the difference in level of almost 3 meters between the portal and the choir. The height of the pillars as well as the cord which surmounts them follow, like the floor of the church, the slope of the rocky spur on which it is built.
The current organ was built in 1850 by the Grenoble maker Nicolas Chambry, in a classical style from the 16th and 18th centuries. At the same time, a new musical universe is emerging for organists and Avallon is joining in...
When you leave, don't forget to go to the apse of the Collegiate Church to admire the Romanesque cornices whose sculpted modillions (sculpted architectural element supporting a cornice) are interesting.
Source: “The Frog Circuit”
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Saint Martin Church
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If during the French Revolution the building served as a remand center, barracks or factory, in 1804, it resumed its religious function and became the second parish church of Avallon under the name of Saint-Martin Church.
In 1829, the bell tower was transferred from the roof of the Ladies Chapel to that of the current nave. Proving too small as a parish church, the building underwent major transformations in 1850...
In 1840, Father MUARO, founder of the Abbey of Pierre-qui-Vire, then parish priest of Saint-Martin, installed the reliquary of Saint-Clement, the shrine and the Main Altar.
Despite all these construction restarts, the whole Church remains homogeneous, recalling the vaults of Saint-Vorles in Châtillon-sur-Seine or that of the Abbey of Fontenay-près-Montbard,
(Extracts from bulletin n°3 of the “Friends of old AVALLON”)
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Les Terreaux Vauban
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
This old boulevard where the artillery pieces were placed, marks the northern end of the fortified city. Les Terreaux - or shaded promenade - were created in the 17th century on the site of the city's old ditches. Today, under the benevolent gaze of the statue of Marshal Vauban (Bartholdi 1873), the majestic lime trees offer shade to walkers and pétanque enthusiasts and host numerous events. Linden trees which, from 2015, have regained their curtain size - thus giving this city center promenade a 19th century look.
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Montréal Medieval Village
Highlight • Settlement
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Cousin Road
Highlight (Segment) • Other
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful medieval town on a hill overlooking the countryside.
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Attractive village, friendly people
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The town of Avallon is home to very old monuments such as the Saint-Lazare church which is in front of you and a little further on the Clock Tower. The city center is very pleasant with its squares and fountains, and its very beautiful Maison des Sires de Domecy. By heading towards Quarré-les-Tombes you will see several islands located on the course of the Cousin, as well as remarkable old bridges spanning it. The statue of the famous Avallon frog, which you will not fail to see, was sculpted in Châtillonnais stone by Yvan Baudoin.
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Magnificent site. Very nice surprise while crossing the country!
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Saint Martin, to whom the church in Avallon is dedicated, is - along with Saint Nicholas - probably one of the most popular saints of all. The memorial day of the former officer in the Roman army is November 11th. On the night after the famous “parting of the coat,” when he leaves half of his army cloak to a freezing beggar, Jesus Christ appears to him in a dream. He then converted to Christianity and was later elected bishop of Tours (France) - initially against his will.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical sites can I explore around Sainte-Colombe?
The region offers a rich historical tapestry. You can visit the historic settlement of Avallon, known for its unique architectural elements and a church with a fascinating history. Another significant site is the Saint Martin Church, originally a convent chapel with impressive glass ornaments. Don't miss the well-preserved Montréal Medieval Village, offering a glimpse into Burgundian heritage. Additionally, the vestiges of the historic Sainte-Colombe Abbey in Yonne, founded in 620, are observable during a walk.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic routes to enjoy near Sainte-Colombe?
Absolutely. The Cousin Road offers a wonderful and secluded valley route alongside the river Le Cousin, bordered by cliffs and windmills, providing a very relaxing environment. The area around Sainte-Colombe in Hautes-Alpes, if you venture further, is surrounded by mountains and boasts numerous hiking trails through the Southern French Alps.
What outdoor activities are available around Sainte-Colombe?
The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various cycling routes, including the 'Cousin Valley – Magnificent view of Avallon loop' and the 'Historic Climb to Avallon' for road cycling. For runners, there are several moderate running loops available, such as those starting from Coutarnoux or Athie. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Sainte-Colombe, Running Trails around Sainte-Colombe, and Road Cycling Routes around Sainte-Colombe guide pages.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, Avallon is considered a family-friendly settlement. Its historic charm, shopping street, and various restaurants make it a pleasant place for families to explore. The picturesque Montréal Medieval Village can also be an engaging visit for families interested in history.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions?
Yes, Les Terreaux Vauban in Avallon is listed as wheelchair accessible. This beautiful tree-lined avenue, an old boulevard where artillery pieces were once placed, offers a shaded promenade where visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Sainte-Colombe?
Visitors frequently praise the historical charm and well-preserved nature of the sites. For instance, Avallon is described as a 'really pretty town on a hill' with a historic church. The Cousin Road is highlighted as an 'absolutely wonderful and secluded valley' and a 'very relaxing place'. The Montréal Medieval Village is appreciated for being 'very beautiful' and 'well preserved'.
Can I find places to relax and enjoy the scenery?
Certainly. Les Terreaux Vauban in Avallon provides a beautiful tree-lined avenue with benches, perfect for relaxing after a city tour and enjoying the shade. The Cousin Road also offers a tranquil environment alongside the river, ideal for peaceful walks.
Are there any unique architectural features to look out for?
Yes, the church in Avallon features ribbed vaults that end in a dome shape, and its floor follows the slope of the rocky spur it's built on, creating a unique difference in level. The Saint Martin Church, originally a convent chapel, has undergone transformations but maintains a homogeneous style, with impressive glass ornaments in the altar area.
What is the best way to explore the historical town of Avallon?
Avallon is best explored on foot. The town is situated on a hill, offering picturesque views. You can wander through its shopping street, visit the historic church, and relax at Les Terreaux Vauban. There's also a 'Frog Circuit' mentioned in visitor tips, which guides you through the town's notable spots.
Are there any specific cultural or artistic sites in the broader Sainte-Colombe region?
If you consider Sainte-Colombe-en-Auxois in Burgundy, there is a 17th-century castle that has been remarkably restored and now houses a museum of contemporary art dedicated to 'design'. This offers a unique blend of historical architecture and modern artistic expression.
Can I find medieval heritage in the vicinity?
Definitely. The Montréal Medieval Village is a prime example, known for its well-preserved typical Burgundian medieval character. Additionally, the region research mentions old medieval castles in the Hautes-Alpes area, and the Abbey of La Sauve-Majeure near Sainte-Colombe in Gironde features impressive Romanesque architecture.
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