The best cycling routes around Saint-André-Le-Désert

Magnificent ride mostly in the shade on level, smooth ground.

The Tour des Fromages is a preserved defensive tower from the 11th century, which originally belonged to the ramparts of the powerful Abbey of Cluny. In the Middle Ages, the structure was still called Tour des Fèves (Bean Tower), as supplies were stored there. It got its current, curious name in the 19th century because a merchant used the tower to dry her homemade cheeses. Today, the tower is a popular attraction. Visitors can climb the 120 steps to the top. From up there, you have a beautiful 360-degree panoramic view over the entire medieval monastic city and the surrounding Burgundy landscape. Access to the tower is directly through the local Cluny tourist office.

A route through a green corridor, that brings joy.

The Château de Cormatin is a magnificent moated castle from the early 17th century. The castle was built between 1606 and 1625 by the Marquises d'Huxelles. It houses the best-preserved state rooms from the Louis XIII era in all of France. Famous are the "Gilded Rooms" (Salles Dorées) with lavish paintings, sculptures, and gilded ceilings. The extensive grounds, covering around 12 hectares, are among the most beautiful gardens in France. Highlights in the outdoor area include a large boxwood labyrinth, an open-air Baroque theatre, water features, and a historic vegetable garden. This spot only offers a brief glimpse of the rear grounds.

The church of Saint-Valentin de Jalogny is a historic Roman Catholic church in the municipality of Jalogny in the Saône-et-Loire department. Built in the Romanesque style, the structure was erected in the 12th century. It replaced an earlier place of worship from 969, which had been built by the famous monks of the nearby Cluny Abbey. The striking, four-story bell tower with a pyramidal tent roof was built directly next to the choir. The lower part is preserved in its original state, while the upper floor was raised in the 19th century.

Founded in 910, the Benedictine abbey developed into the starting point of the Cluniac reform movement. In the High Middle Ages, it was one of the most influential religious and political centers in Western Europe. At its peak, the Cluny congregation comprised around 1,200 monasteries with over 20,000 monks across the continent. Cluny was independent of secular rulers and local bishops. It was directly subordinate to the Pope in Rome.

The famous French National Stud Haras National de Cluny in Burgundy was established by decree under Napoleon I in 1806 to secure the army's need for cavalry horses. It thus looks back on over 200 years of equestrian history. It is located in the immediate vicinity and at the foot of the historic Abbey of Cluny. The first breeding stallions were housed in the former stables of the abbey from 1807 onwards. Today, the facility belongs to the Équivallée organization. It serves to promote equestrian sports, hosts riding tournaments and shows, and is a renowned training center (including for animal osteopathy).

Le Papyllon is a cozy bar and café in Ameugny in the Saône-et-Loire department. A cozy place primarily known as a "Tea Time & Cosy Beer Bar" with an inviting outdoor area/terrace. Travelers appreciate the large selection of beers and the relaxed atmosphere in the green surroundings.