Attractions and Places To See around Chaumard - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Chaumard, located in the Nièvre department of France, offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The commune is nestled within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, featuring diverse landscapes of forests and lakes. Chaumard overlooks Lac de Pannecière, a central feature of the region known for its serene blue waters. The area provides opportunities to explore natural sites, historical landmarks, and cultural points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Chaumard
- The most popular attractions is Wooden Footbridge on the Lake, a bridge that takes you inside the lake rather than just around it. It offers scenic views over the water.
- Another must-see spot is Settons Lake Dam, an impressive man-made structure. This dam, completed in 1858, is notable for its unique pyramid shape, designed to withstand water pressure through its own weight.
- Visitors also love Couezon Franco-British Cemetery, a historical site located in the heart of the forest. It serves as the resting place for French and foreign combatants who fought during the summer of 1944.
- Chaumard is known for its natural features like lakes and forests, historical sites, and cultural points of interest. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from engineering feats to poignant memorials.
- The attractions around Chaumard are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 280 upvotes and 70 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Settons Lake Dam
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Couezon Franco-British Cemetery
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Château-Chinon Town Center
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Wooden Footbridge on the Lake
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Stravinsky Fountain
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The Franco-British cemetery of Couezon, sometimes called the "cathedral of greenery," lies in the heart of the forest. It holds the remains of those who fought against Nazism during the summer of 1944, a time when the Morvan region played a strategic role for the Resistance. In some areas, the maquis groups benefited from the support of the SAS, British special forces parachuted into the massif. The Bernard maquis group chose to bury here the men and women, French and foreign, who fell during these battles.
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This cemetery commemorates the men and women of the Morvan resistance movement. In the summer of 1944, the Morvan region became a strategic location in the liberation of the territory and was home to important sites for the organization of the French Resistance. These units were supported by British special forces parachuted into the Morvan region.
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The Bernard maquis, stationed in this forest, established this military cemetery to bury the bodies of the combatants who died during the fighting for liberation. This cemetery, in the heart of the forest, is often called the "Cathedral of Greenery." It's a beautiful forest perfect for a stroll.
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The Town Hall Square is named after former President François Mitterrand, who was mayor of Château-Chinon from 1959 to 1981. An imposing "Niki de Saint Phalle Fountain" faces the Town Hall. It is a monumental work composed of sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle and an articulated base created by Jean Tinguely. It was created between 1987 and 1988, commissioned by President François Mitterrand.
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Hello, Update of my comment posted on May 2, 2024: This is now the 4th photo that does not correspond to Château-Chinon but to the castle in Chinon in Indre-et-Loire, see my first comment ;-)
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According to the sign there are supposed to be otters here
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Fountain in Château-Chinon
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Good morning, I agree for the last four photos taken at Château-Chinon, but for the first it would look more like the Tour du Moulin at Château de Chinon in Indre-et-Loire! https://forteressechinon.fr/decouvert-la-forteresse/son-architecture/la-tour-du-moulin... Well, I did this route by bike in 2022, allow a few days to get there from around Château-Chinon ;-) https://alez.fr/Loireavelo/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Chaumard?
Chaumard is nestled within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering abundant natural beauty. The most prominent feature is Lac de Pannecière, the largest lake in the Morvan region, known for its serene blue waters and opportunities for freshwater fishing. You can also experience unique views from the Wooden Footbridge on the Lake, which takes you inside the lake itself. The broader Morvan area also features natural wonders like the Cascade du Saut de Gouloux.
Are there any historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit near Chaumard?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit the Couezon Franco-British Cemetery, a poignant memorial in the forest dedicated to those who fought against Nazism during WWII. The village of Chaumard itself has an Église (Church) dating back to the 12th century. Nearby, the Settons Lake Dam is an impressive historical engineering feat, completed in 1858 with a unique pyramid shape.
What family-friendly activities are available around Chaumard?
Many attractions around Chaumard are suitable for families. The Wooden Footbridge on the Lake offers a fun and unique perspective of Lac de Pannecière. The Settons Lake Dam is also considered family-friendly. Additionally, the nearby Château-Chinon Town Center provides a pleasant environment for a family stroll, with its historical charm and the impressive Stravinsky Fountain.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Chaumard's attractions?
The region around Chaumard, particularly within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, is ideal for various outdoor pursuits. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy loops around Lac de Pannecière. There are also running routes and challenging mountain biking trails that explore the lakes and forests of the Morvan.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. For instance, you can enjoy an easy 5.5 km loop from Cité de Pannecière around the Pannecière Dam and Yonne, or a 3.7 km easy loop around Lac de Pannecière directly from Chaumard. These trails offer pleasant walks through the natural landscape.
What is there to see in the nearby town of Château-Chinon?
Château-Chinon, a short distance from Chaumard, offers several points of interest. You can explore the Château-Chinon Town Center, which was originally a Roman oppidum and provides panoramic views from Calvary. Don't miss the monumental Stravinsky Fountain by Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely in the Town Hall Square. The town also hosts the Museum of the Septennat and the Museum of Costume.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Chaumard?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique experiences offered by the region. The Wooden Footbridge on the Lake is a favorite for its scenic views and immersive feel. The historical significance of sites like the Couezon Franco-British Cemetery resonates deeply with many. The impressive engineering of the Settons Lake Dam also draws considerable interest for its unique design and history.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas in the Chaumard area?
Absolutely. The Wooden Footbridge on the Lake provides excellent scenic views over Lac de Pannecière. The Settons Lake Dam also offers magnificent views of the lake and surrounding forested hills. In Château-Chinon Town Center, you can enjoy a panorama from Calvary.
Is the Morvan Regional Natural Park dog-friendly?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park generally welcomes dogs, but it's important to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas, near livestock, and during nesting seasons to protect wildlife. Always clean up after your pet. Specific regulations may apply to certain trails or attractions, so it's advisable to check local signage.
What is the best time of year to visit Chaumard and its attractions?
The Morvan region, including Chaumard, is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the natural landscapes, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for water activities on Lac de Pannecière and enjoying the longer days. While some activities might be limited, winter can offer a serene, quiet experience of the frosted landscapes.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth discovering around Chaumard?
Beyond the main highlights, the charm of Chaumard lies in its quiet, unspoiled countryside within the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Exploring the smaller paths and hamlets around Lac de Pannecière, such as below Les Quatre Vents, can reveal magnificent, tranquil views away from more frequented spots. The historical Église of Chaumard, though mentioned, often offers a quiet moment of reflection on local history.
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