Attractions and places to see around Empury include a mix of historical sites and natural landscapes. This small village in the Nièvre department of central France is situated in the Brinjame valley, a tributary of the Cure river. It is also part of the Morvan Regional Nature Park, offering access to varied natural environments. The area provides opportunities to explore local landmarks and the wider natural surroundings.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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View of the bridge and the village, take the small path to go down below and reach the small stone bridge
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Not for regular bikes, only for mountain bikers. Bring wellington boots.
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The view from above of the old stone bridge is worth it. You have to stop on the upper bridge.
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Great section, exciting bridge and great view of Vezelay
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A must see ! It would be a shame to be in the area and miss it :)
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The Crescent Dam was built between 1929 and 1932. A gravity dam, it is 330 meters long and 37 meters high. Its width at the base is 24 meters and at the crest 3.5 meters. It was built on the initiative of SA Compagnie HydroElectrique de la Cure and was owned by the City of Paris until 1946. The dam was built to regulate the waters of the Yonne and Seine rivers and thus prevent flooding in Paris, while also producing electricity. More than 165 hectares of cultivated land, hamlets, mills, and paths were flooded to allow the creation of the reservoir (maximum depth of 40 meters). It occupies four municipalities and two departments, and is fed by the Cure and Chalaux rivers. The structure was partly financed by war reparations owed by Germany to France after the First World War. This is why much of the dam's mechanisms are German-made. The road across it is narrow and only allows passage for one vehicle. Fortunately, there is very little traffic.
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This waterfall is a great place to complete your trail. It is fed by the nearby Etang de Goulot and is an ideal place to take a break and bathe in the sound of the waterfall.
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This waterfall is a great place to complete your trail. It is fed by the nearby Goulot pond and is an ideal place to take a break and bathe in the sound of the waterfall.
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Empury and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. Within the village, you can visit the 11th-century Church of Saint Laurent and the historic Mill of Charrières. Nearby, don't miss Bazoches Castle, the former residence of Marshal Vauban. Further afield, the monumental Romanesque Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay and the abbey in Corbigny are also significant historical sites.
Yes, Empury is nestled in the Brinjame valley and is part of the Morvan Regional Nature Park, offering rich natural beauty. Key natural attractions include the picturesque Narvau Waterfall, fed by the nearby Etang de Goulot, and the serene Étang Chaumail, a forest-enclosed pond perfect for quiet contemplation. The impressive Crescent Dam, which forms Lac du Crescent, is another significant natural and man-made feature.
The region around Empury, particularly within the Morvan Regional Nature Park, is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, cycling, and running trails. For specific routes, explore the options available in the cycling guide, running trails guide, and road cycling routes guide for Empury.
Yes, the area offers family-friendly options, especially those focused on nature. Étang Chaumail, for example, is surrounded by hiking trails and features a children's playground and an arboretum, making it a great spot for families. The natural landscapes of the Morvan Regional Nature Park also provide ample opportunities for family walks and exploration.
The best time to visit Empury for outdoor attractions is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is most favorable for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural beauty of the Morvan Regional Nature Park. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage.
For a unique viewpoint, the Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge offers a notable view, especially from above the old Roman bridge. The serene Étang Chaumail is often described as a hidden gem, enclosed in the forest with a calm, glass-like surface, providing a tranquil escape.
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The Pierre-Perthuis Stone Bridge is appreciated for its photo opportunities and historical significance. The Narvau Waterfall is loved as an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy the sounds of nature. The peacefulness and scenic views of places like Étang Chaumail also receive high praise.
Many of the natural trails and outdoor areas within the Morvan Regional Nature Park are suitable for dog walking. While specific dog-friendly designations vary, generally, well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on most hiking and walking paths. Always ensure to clean up after your pet.
Empury is a great starting point for cycling adventures, with routes catering to various skill levels. You can find challenging routes like the 'Bazoches, Saint-Aubin-des-Chaumes et la vallée de La Cure' circuit or more moderate options. For detailed routes and distances, refer to the Cycling around Empury guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Empury guide.
Given Empury's small size, several charming towns and villages are within easy reach. Bazoches, home to Bazoches Castle, is just 3.65 km away. Other notable places include Lormes, the historic Vézelay with its basilica (approx. 14 km), Corbigny (approx. 15 km), the medieval town of Avallon (approx. 17 km), and the unspoiled village of Montreal (approx. 27 km).
The Morvan Regional Nature Park is a protected natural area known for its rich ecosystem, including forests, lakes, and diverse wildlife. Empury has been an integral part of this park since 2020, making it an excellent base for exploring the park's extensive hiking trails, natural wonders, and unspoiled landscapes. The park offers numerous opportunities for nature-based activities and experiencing the region's ecological heritage.


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