Attractions and Places To See around Cortambert - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cortambert include a variety of historical sites and natural features. This region, situated in the hilly countryside of the Charollais and northern Mâconnais, offers a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor exploration. Visitors can discover ancient castles, significant religious buildings, and unique architectural feats. The area provides opportunities to explore both well-known landmarks and hidden gems, making it ideal for those seeking best attractions near Cortambert.
Best attractions and places to see around…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Cluny
Highlight • Settlement
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Cormatin Castle
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Tunnel du bois clair
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Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church
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Chapaize Church
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This is a simple, Romanesque village church from the 12th century. It was already mentioned in the documents of the famous Cluny Abbey in the year 1156. The building has been a listed "monument historique" since 1913. In the small cemetery directly in front of the church is, among other things, the grave of Frère Roger, the founder of the well-known ecumenical community of Taizé. The church is used by many young people and pilgrims as a place of silence and personal prayer.
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In the Middle Ages, the abbey was one of the most influential spiritual and cultural centers in Europe. Cluny was the mother house of the Cluniac Reform and headed a federation of over 1,200 monasteries. The third abbey church (Cluny was the largest church in the Christian world until the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome). Of the once-mighty complex, only parts of the southern transept remain today, as the abbey was largely used as a quarry and demolished after the French Revolution.
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very beautiful hike Very shaded and very pleasant
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The town of Cluny was based on the Benedictine monastery (Cluniac Abbey), founded in 910. The abbey was the starting point and center of the Cluniac reform at the beginning of the 10th century. Cluny reached its peak membership at the beginning of the 12th century with approximately 400 monks. The last abbey church (Cluniac 3) was the world's largest Romanesque basilica and, until the construction of today's St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the largest church in Christendom. The church had seven towers. Although large parts of the building were destroyed, the remaining relics are absolutely remarkable and make a visit to Cluny an unforgettable experience!
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The Tunnel du Bois Clair is a former railway tunnel and at 1.6 km the longest tunnel in France now open to a greenway. It takes 4 to 6 minutes to cross by bike, 6 to 10 minutes on rollerblades and 15 to 20 minutes on foot, horse riders are not allowed to pass. The temperature is around 11 °C. There is a lighting system, but it is best to bring extra lighting on your bike... As this tunnel is home to protected species of bats, it is closed during hibernation (from October to April). In this case, a route is offered to bypass the tunnel, taking the circular trail n°14 (4 km, level: expert). A picnic area is located above the tunnel if you are coming via Cluny.
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The residence of the Marquis d'Huxelles, built between 1606 and 1625, is home to the most sumptuous Louis XIII apartment preserved in France. Fireplaces, ceilings and wood panelling were painted, carved and gilded with sumptuous exuberance for the favourite of Queen Marie de Medici. Paintings, tapestries and period furniture complete this seductive evocation of "château life" at the time of the "Three Musketeers". The tour also reveals a monumental stone staircase (20 metres high), an 18th century kitchen and the opulent 1900s salons of an opera director. The garden, in the spirit of the Baroque period, offers 12 hectares of flowerbeds, a large boxwood labyrinth with aviary-belvedere, vegetable garden, green theatre, water features and remarkable trees.
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Please note that the Bois Clair tunnel has closing periods: https://www.cluny-tourisme.com/visites-incontournables/le-tunnel-du-bois-clair/#ouverture If it is closed you will have to go through the Bois Clair pass which has the same name but not the same height difference. Good luck!
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This tunnel is impressive in its length!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Cortambert?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. Cormatin Castle is particularly suitable, featuring extensive gardens with a large boxwood labyrinth and a green theater that delights both children and adults. The castle's well-preserved interiors also offer an engaging historical experience.
What historical sites can I visit near Cortambert?
The area is rich in history. You can explore Cormatin Castle, a 17th-century marvel with preserved Louis XIII apartments. The town of Cluny, centered around its historic Benedictine monastery, offers relics of what was once the world's largest Romanesque basilica. Additionally, the Chapaize Church is an early Romanesque church known for its architectural beauty and historical ties to Cluny Abbey.
What outdoor activities, like cycling, are available near Cortambert?
Cortambert is excellent for outdoor activities, especially cycling. You can experience the Tunnel du bois clair, which is the longest bicycle tunnel in Europe, open from April 14th to June 30th. For more cycling routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Cortambert or the Gravel biking around Cortambert guides for various difficulty levels.
Are there hiking trails around Cortambert?
Yes, the hilly countryside around Cortambert offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find a variety of trails, from easy to moderate, suitable for different fitness levels. For detailed routes and options, refer to the Hiking around Cortambert guide.
What religious sites are significant in the Cortambert area?
The region holds significant religious heritage. The Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church in Taizé is notable as the founding place of the Taizé community and the final resting place of Frere Roger. The town of Cluny is historically important for its Benedictine monastery and its role in the Cluniac reform. Additionally, the Chapaize Church, a former priory church, is considered one of Burgundy's most beautiful Romanesque churches.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Cortambert?
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. For instance, at Cormatin Castle, guests appreciate the well-maintained gardens and the impressive architecture, often spending 2-3 hours exploring. The historical significance of Cluny and the peaceful atmosphere of the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church are also highly valued.
Are there any unique architectural feats to see?
Yes, the region boasts unique architectural elements. Cormatin Castle features a monumental stone staircase, an architectural feat from the 17th century. The
What is the best time of year to visit Cortambert's attractions?
While many attractions are enjoyable year-round, the period from mid-April to late June is particularly good for outdoor activities like cycling, as the Tunnel du bois clair is open during this time. The gardens of Cormatin Castle are also at their most vibrant during spring and summer.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main highlights, the region is dotted with charming villages and scenic spots. The Chapaize Church, while historically significant, offers a serene experience in a rural village setting, often considered a hidden gem for its simple beauty and impressive Romanesque architecture.
What kind of landscape can I expect around Cortambert?
The landscape around Cortambert is characterized by the hilly countryside of the Charollais and northern Mâconnais. You can expect a mix of rolling hills, lush greenery, and picturesque rural settings, providing a beautiful backdrop for historical sites and outdoor activities.
Can I find places to eat near the attractions?
While specific cafes are not detailed for every attraction, the village of Chapaize, home to the Chapaize Church, is known to have dining options offering organic, locally sourced food, with direct views of the Romanesque church. It's advisable to check opening hours and make reservations.
Are there any specific tips for visiting Cormatin Castle?
When visiting Cormatin Castle, plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore both the well-preserved 17th-century interiors and the extensive, restored gardens, including the boxwood labyrinth. Guided tours of the apartments, staircase, library, and kitchen typically last one hour. Check their official website for the most current opening hours, especially from mid-July to mid-August when continuous opening hours are often offered.
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