Attractions and Places To See around Gien-Sur-Cure - Top 20

The region is rich in natural beauty, primarily centered around the Morvan Regional Natural Park. You can visit Le saut de Gouloux (waterfall and mill ruins), a 10-meter high waterfall nestled in the woods with ruins of old mills. A significant portion of Lac des Settons, a hub for water activities and fishing, also lies within the commune. The Cure River, near its source, offers picturesque views and opportunities for rafting and canoeing.

Yes, Gien-sur-Cure and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. The Settons Lake Dam, built in 1858 with its unique pyramid shape, is a notable man-made historical structure. You can also visit the poignant Couezon Franco-British Cemetery, a memorial to those who fought against Nazism during WWII, located within the forest. The 12th-century Romanesque Church in the heart of Gien-sur-Cure also preserves a medieval wrought-iron gate.

The Morvan Regional Natural Park provides excellent opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. Lac des Settons is perfect for fishing and various nautical activities. For specific routes, you can explore hiking trails, cycling routes, and running trails around the area.

Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Le saut de Gouloux (waterfall and mill ruins) is a fresh outing for families. The Settons Lake Dam and the general area around Lac des Settons offer easy access and beautiful landscapes for all ages. The lake itself provides opportunities for various water activities.

For scenic views, the area around Lac des Settons is highly recommended. The Settons Lake Dam offers a great perspective of the lake. While currently under maintenance, the Wooden Footbridge on the Lake, when accessible, provides a unique experience of being 'inside' the lake. Additionally, the Footbridge with lake view is another spot to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Lac des Settons.

The Morvan Regional Natural Park, which encompasses Gien-sur-Cure, is known for its unspoiled countryside, diverse flora and fauna, and dark skies ideal for stargazing. It's a prime location for mountain biking, hiking, and road cycling, offering a true immersion in nature.

Beyond the main highlights, you might find interest in the small granite quarry located in the lower part of the village near a pond on the D121, where a particular type of biotite granite was once extracted. The Romanesque Church in Gien-sur-Cure, with its preserved medieval wrought-iron gate, also offers a glimpse into local history.

There's a variety of hiking trails, from easy loops around Lac des Settons to more challenging routes. For example, you can find easy trails like the 'Settons Lake – Wooden Footbridge on the Lake loop' or moderate ones like 'Boardwalk at Lac du Crescent – Settons Lake loop'. More difficult options, such as the 'Anost – Saint-Germain Church loop', are also available for experienced hikers. You can explore these and more on the hiking guide page.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity, especially around Lac des Settons. There are routes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Bike loop from Lac des Settons' or more extensive rides like 'Settons Lake – Lake of Settons loop'. These trails allow you to explore the scenic landscapes by bike. Find more details on the cycling guide page.

Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and the tranquility of the area. The unique pyramid shape of the Settons Lake Dam and the serene setting of Le saut de Gouloux (waterfall and mill ruins) are often highlighted. The opportunity to experience Lac des Settons up close, whether from a footbridge or during water activities, is also a favorite among visitors.

Gien-sur-Cure is situated near the source of the Cure River, which flows for 112 km through the Morvan. The river has a torrent-like character, creating picturesque views and offering opportunities for adventurous activities like rafting and canoeing. Historically, the Lac des Settons dam was built to facilitate the transport of wood via the river towards Paris.

While not directly in Gien-sur-Cure, the Musée des Nourrices et des Enfants de l'Assistance Publique (Museum of Wet Nurses and Public Assistance Children) is a cultural site in the vicinity. It offers a unique insight into a specific aspect of French history, providing a different kind of cultural experience.