Best attractions and places to see around Buno-Bonnevaux include a variety of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The village, situated in the Essonne department, is crossed by the Essonne River, contributing to its calm atmosphere and providing natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient sites, medieval castles, and significant religious buildings, reflecting a rich history from the Mesolithic era to more recent centuries. The Vallée de l'Essonne also offers scenic landscapes for exploration.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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This Lorraine cross is actually located on the gable of the maquisards. There is a beautiful view of Fontainebleau. This place also serves as a break/photo point for trailers/hikers.
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superb little chapel decorated by Jean Cocteau where he rests. a commentary said by Jean Marais accompanied the visit. a so-called simple garden adjoins the chapel. there are many medicinal plants found there. entrance price 3 euros
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The trail moves on to the main essentials The hall In 1479, by a special grace from Louis The North-South facing Hall, 46 m long, 16 m wide and 13 m high, covers a total surface area of 730 m2. 48 oak pillars, resting on “dice”-cut stone bases, support a chestnut frame typical of Ile-de-France at that time; this frame presents to the north (on the rue Langlois side) a “pavilion” farm. Today, La Halle is still the site of a market on Thursday afternoons. The square, the houses gathered all around, bear witness to the great commercial activity which already reigned in the region 500 years ago. La Halle has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1923. Bonde Castle is located near the town center of Milly-la-Forêt, Built near an artificial island in the l'École river to the west of the Notre-Dame collegiate church, its park is bordered to the west by the course of the river which forms a moat to the north protecting the châtelet. History Built in the 12th century by the lords of Milly, the castle was ruined during the English siege in 1432. At the end of the 15th century around 1475, owned by Admiral Louis Malet de Graville, it was rebuilt and enlarged. What was then the keep became the entrance gatehouse, the drawbridge was replaced by a permanent stone bridge and a gate closed access between the northern defense tower and the governor's house. A square courtyard was surrounded by a wall and had in the center a chapel dedicated to Saint Valentine. The castle was successively the property of Hugues III de Bouville, Olivier V de Clisson, Jean II de Montmorency, Jean-François de Faudoas d'Averton, Marc-Antoine Front de Beaupoil de Saint-Aulaire and Pierre Marie of Lau d’Allemans. In the 19th century, the towers of the chatelet were enhanced with brick battlements and a slender roof. In 1859 the Corne bridge was rebuilt near the castle washhouse which served as a watering trough for the animals. At the end of the 20th century the mills along the river were demolished. In 1964, the Bonde washhouse downstream of the river which was part of the estate was rehabilitated. On December 20, 1972, the castle was partly listed as a historic monument. The park was listed in 1991 for its fences, canals and paths. the house of Jean Cocteau. Entrance to the J. Cocteau house [This 17th century residence, flanked by turrets, was formerly called the Governor's House. It corresponds to an old outbuilding of the castle in front of which the vassals came to pay homage and faith to their lord. Jean Cocteau bought this house with Jean Marais in 1947 and lived there until his death. Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Church Founded in the 11th century, the former chapel of the castle, it was rebuilt around 1485 on the orders of Admiral de Graville in the Gothic style of the 13th and 14th centuries. The bell tower, 57 meters high, dates from the 11th century in its lower part and from the 12th and 13th centuries in its upper part. The arch of the main portal in the primitive Romanesque style comes from an old church in Milly (Saint-Pierre or Saint-Jacques). On the east side of the bell tower - Place Grammont side - the arms of Admiral de Graville are still visible. Many works of sacred art are found inside the church. The church was listed as a Historic Monument in 1926. The dovecote; Located on the old triangular square of the dovecote cul de sac, this old building was part of the Domaine du Moustier, property of Fulbert I, lord of Milly and officer at the court of Dagobert I in the 7th century. Destroyed in 1432 or 1433, the complex included a vast farm. According to a count in 1792 it had around 1200 niches. Only the lords held the right to build these premises designed for breeding. The Moustier de Péronne gate is one of the oldest vestiges of Milly and dates from the 7th century. It provided access to the moustier (monastery in old French) owned by Fulbert I, who obtained the land of Milly from Dagobert I. His son Wulfran was born there around the year 635. Entering religion, he became the apostle of the frieze (Netherlands), then bishop of Sens before retiring to Saint Wandrille where he died in 720.
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There is no classic wayside cross (sometimes called a field cross in the open field) or a summit cross that crowns a mountain, but a rock engraving. The lower half of the drawing—whenever scratched into the rock—shows a chalice, such as might be used at Eucharistic celebrations. The outer edge of the vessel is decorated with a cross. Another great cross grows out of the chalice itself. Whether this rock engraving is actually connected to the order of the Knights Templar (the exact name was “Poor Knighthood of Christ and the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem”), as indicated as a question in the highlight title, I cannot judge. In this case it would have to go back to the 12th or 13th century, i.e. it would have to have been preserved for a very long time.
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This small sacred monument, in the shape of a "Croix de Lorraine," rises majestically on the Pignon des Maquisards. The structure consists of several elements: a two-tiered foundation above the rock, followed by a brick base containing a plaque with a dedicatory inscription. On top of this rests a brick obelisk, tapering slightly towards the top but not terminating in a point. Above the obelisk, the actual cross, visible from afar, stands enthroned in its typical form with two horizontal crossbeams.
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Great view, possibility to sit down for a break
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Buno-Bonnevaux is rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century Church of Saint-Léger, which houses the tombstone of Cyrille d'Arbouville. Don't miss the unique Polisher "des sept Coups d'épée", a sandstone rock with seven parallel cuts classified as a Historic Monument. The village also features several historic wayside crosses, including the 17th-century Cross du Curé Garnier. For a broader historical experience, consider visiting the 15th-century Market Hall of Milly-la-Forêt, a listed Historic Monument showcasing the region's past commercial activity.
Yes, the area boasts several impressive estates. The Château de Chantambre, with its central building dating to 1612, was once owned by tennis legend René Lacoste. While the old Château de Moignanville has been replaced by a bourgeois house, it remains a site of historical interest. You can also explore the magnificent Domaine de Courances, featuring a 17th-century castle, extensive park, and beautiful water features, less than an hour from Paris.
The village is characterized by its peaceful natural setting, crossed by the Essonne River, which contributes to its calm atmosphere and feeds several ponds popular with fishermen. The wider Vallée de l'Essonne offers scenic landscapes for exploration. While not a natural feature, the Cross of Lorraine on the Maquisards' Pignon offers magnificent views of the surrounding natural area.
The region around Buno-Bonnevaux is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, road cycling, and gravel biking. For detailed options, explore the Hiking around Buno-Bonnevaux guide, the Road Cycling Routes around Buno-Bonnevaux guide, or the Gravel biking around Buno-Bonnevaux guide.
Yes, the Domaine de Courances is a family-friendly attraction, offering extensive gardens and a castle to explore, providing a pleasant outing for all ages. The natural features like the Essonne River and its ponds also offer opportunities for relaxed family time.
Buno-Bonnevaux has a deep ancient history. A significant Bronze Age sepulchral site was discovered here in 1975, revealing over 400 burials. Additionally, two unassuming hypogea (ancient burial chambers) carved into sandstone offer a glimpse into the Neolithic era. Vestiges like rock engravings and carved stones from the Mesolithic and Neolithic eras have also been found.
Beyond the main historical sites, Buno-Bonnevaux is home to an airfield specialized in gliding, offering a unique perspective on the area. The village was also an active pilgrimage site dedicated to the Sacré-Cœur of Jesus from 1870 to 1960, with the Château de Moignanville serving as an end point for this pilgrimage.
Visitors particularly appreciate the magnificent views from sites like the Cross of Lorraine on the Maquisards' Pignon. The serene and green setting of places like Domaine de Courances, with its refreshing pools and streams, is also highly praised. The historical depth and peaceful atmosphere of the region are consistently highlighted by those who explore Buno-Bonnevaux.
The Market Hall of Milly-la-Forêt is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable historical site for visitors with mobility needs. While specific accessibility details for other sites may vary, this 15th-century monument offers an inclusive experience.
Yes, the village has several significant religious landmarks. The Church of Saint-Léger, with parts dating back to the 12th century, is a central religious site. The 13th-century Chapel of Bonnevaux, once the parish church of Saint Sulpice de Bonnevaux, also holds historical and religious importance. Additionally, various historic wayside crosses are scattered throughout the village.
You'll find a variety of hiking trails around Buno-Bonnevaux, catering to different fitness levels. Popular routes include 'The Cyclop – Milly-la-Forêt Village Center loop' and 'Church of Courances loop'. For a full list of options, including distances and difficulty grades, consult the Hiking around Buno-Bonnevaux guide.
Milly-la-Forêt, a short distance from Buno-Bonnevaux, offers several attractions. The 15th-century Market Hall of Milly-la-Forêt is a must-see. You can also explore the Château de Bonde, which has a history dating back to the 12th century, and the house of Jean Cocteau, where the famous artist lived. The Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Church, founded in the 11th century, is another significant historical and architectural site.


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