Best attractions and places to see around Tavernay. Tavernay, a commune in the Saône-et-Loire department of France, serves as a base for exploring the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region. The area offers a variety of historical, cultural, and natural points of interest, particularly in nearby towns such as Autun and Saulieu. Visitors can find numerous sites ranging from ancient Roman structures to significant religious buildings and serene gardens.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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I highly recommend changing the direction of the hike from east to west. The ascent is easier than the descent through the gorge, and after the comfortable, but somewhat monotonous, forest paths, it's a perfect ending!
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For us, it is always a nice moment to light a candle.
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When walking through the city of Autun, it is definitely worth visiting this old theatre.
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Very worth seeing and well restored church.
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Beautiful church. We like it.
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Fantastic, these kinds of half-timbered houses
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The Saint-Lazare Cathedral of Autun is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture in Burgundy, renowned for its sculptures and magnificent architectural details. Built in the 12th century, dedicated to Saint Lazarus, considered the first bishop of Autun, it was an important place of pilgrimage during the Middle Ages, particularly because of the supposed presence of relics of Saint Lazarus. The cathedral is particularly famous for its tympanum, sculpted by Gislebertus, a master Romanesque sculptor. This tympanum depicts the Last Judgement in striking detail (Christ in majesty, saved and damned souls, and a terrifying representation of demons), reflecting the importance of the religious themes of salvation and damnation in medieval art. This masterpiece is one of the most admired works of Romanesque sculpture. Inside the cathedral, the capitals of the columns are decorated with biblical scenes and symbolic stories, also attributed to Gislebertus. These sculptures, of great finesse, tell stories taken from the Old and New Testaments. The cathedral has barrel vaults, semicircular arches and Gothic elements that were added later, including the choir rebuilt in the 15th century. It thus embodies the transition between the Romanesque and Gothic styles in Burgundy. Autun Cathedral deserves… no! Requires your visit.
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The Roman Theatre of Autun, built around 70 AD, is one of the largest ancient theatres in Roman Gaul. It could accommodate around 15,000 to 20,000 spectators. Located in the city of Autun, formerly called Augustodunum under the Roman Empire, this monument bears witness to the grandeur of the city at that time. The theatre is distinguished by its vast cavea (the space reserved for spectators), which extends over a natural hill, thus providing excellent acoustics. It is oriented so that spectators have a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. The shows given there were varied: theatrical performances, public speeches, and probably gladiatorial shows or religious ceremonies. Today, it remains an important archaeological site. Every summer, cultural events are organized there, such as concerts or historical reenactments, in order to revive the spirit of Antiquity.
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The region around Tavernay is rich in history, particularly in nearby Autun. You can explore the impressive Cathedral of Autun, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, and the ancient Roman theatre in Autun 🇨🇵, one of the largest in Roman Gaul. Don't miss The Couhard Pyramid, a unique Roman funerary monument, and the Saint-Lazare Fountain in Autun. Further afield, consider visiting Bibracte - Mont Beuvray for insights into ancient Gaul, or the Basilique de Saint Andoche in Saulieu.
Yes, the area offers several beautiful natural features and gardens. You can find serene natural beauty at Parc et jardins du château de Sully, Jardin de la Chaux, and Parc de Saint-Léger. For a more active natural experience, consider the Path along the Canche, known for its exceptionally beautiful scenery and rock formations.
The area around Tavernay is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, with options like the 'Badestrand – View loop from Sommant' (moderate, 8.1 km) or the 'Stromend beekje loop from La Celle-en-Morvan' (easy, 5.8 km). For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Temple of Janus – Gate of Arroux loop from La Celle-en-Morvan' (easy, 32.4 km) and MTB trails like the 'Arroux Gate – Couhard Pyramid in Autun loop from Autun' (moderate, 27.8 km). You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Tavernay, Road Cycling Routes around Tavernay, and MTB Trails around Tavernay guides.
Absolutely! Many historical sites like the Roman theatre in Autun 🇨🇵 and the Saint-Lazare Fountain are considered family-friendly. For a unique and active experience, the Vélorail du Morvan, located about 9.1 km from Tavernay, offers a scenic way to explore the countryside that families often enjoy.
The region is generally pleasant to visit from spring through autumn. Spring and early summer offer mild weather ideal for exploring historical sites and gardens, while autumn provides beautiful foliage for outdoor activities. Some outdoor activities, like the Path along the Canche, may have slippery rock formations in wet weather, so checking conditions is advisable.
To experience local life and taste regional produce, you can visit several nearby towns that host markets. Autun has markets on Wednesdays and Fridays, Epinac on Wednesdays and Sundays, and Saulieu on Saturdays. These markets offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Yes, The Couhard Pyramid in Autun offers a breathtaking viewpoint over the city. Additionally, the Roman theatre in Autun 🇨🇵 is oriented to provide spectators with an excellent view of the surrounding landscape. Many of the hiking and cycling routes in the area also pass through scenic locations.
The region showcases a blend of Roman and Romanesque architecture. The Cathedral of Autun is a prime example of Romanesque design, renowned for its sculptures by Gislebertus. Autun also features significant Roman structures like the Roman theatre, the Temple of Janus, and The Couhard Pyramid, reflecting the grandeur of the ancient Roman city of Augustodunum.
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and architectural beauty of sites like the Cathedral of Autun and the Roman theatre in Autun 🇨🇵. The unique and imposing nature of The Couhard Pyramid is also a highlight. For nature lovers, the exceptionally beautiful scenery and challenging rock formations of the Path along the Canche are highly appreciated.
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. For instance, the 'Stromend beekje loop from La Celle-en-Morvan' is an easy 5.8 km trail. Another accessible option is the 'Saint-Lazare Cathedral – Cathedral of Autun loop from Autun', which is 5.7 km and rated easy. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Tavernay guide.
Yes, the Morvan Regional Natural Park offers challenging routes for experienced cyclists. While specific challenging routes are not detailed in the immediate vicinity, the park is known for its varied terrain. For road cycling, routes like the 'Settons Lake Dam – Settons Lake loop from Pré Charmoy' (moderate, 74.7 km) provide a good challenge. For mountain biking, the 'Cloix Pond – Couhard Pyramid in Autun loop from Lucenay-l'Évêque' is a difficult 117 km trail. Explore more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Tavernay and MTB Trails around Tavernay guides.
While the major sites are well-known, exploring the smaller churches like Eglise de Saint Barthélémy in Cervon or the Prieuré church de Saint Pierre et Saint Benoit in Perrecy-les-Forges can offer a glimpse into local heritage away from the main tourist paths. The various smaller gardens, such as Jardin du château de Limanton, also provide peaceful, less crowded natural escapes.


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