Avallon

Avallon is a historic fortified town in the Yonne department of Burgundy, perched on a rocky spur above the Cousin valley. Its old town retains medieval ramparts and towers, including the Tour de l'Horloge, along with timber-framed houses and granite façades typical of the region. The Collégiale Saint-Lazare, a Romanesque church with finely carved portals, stands as one of the town's key religious landmarks. Avallon serves as a gateway to the Morvan Regional Nature Park, with nearby woodlands, lakes such as Lac des Settons, and trails for walking and mountain biking. Vézelay, renowned for its UNESCO-listed basilica, lies around fifteen kilometres away. The Cousin valley, dotted with old mills and shaded riverbanks, is popular for gentle walks and fishing. Burgundian cuisine, featuring specialities such as parsleyed ham, snails and regional wines, adds to the appeal of this quiet town, valued for its unspoilt natural surroundings and well-preserved historic architecture.