Attractions and Places To See around Sermizelles - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sermizelles include a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. This commune in the Yonne department of France is situated along the Cure River, surrounded by partly wooded and rocky hills. The region offers a variety of points of interest for visitors to explore.
Best attractions and places to see around Sermizelles
- The most popular attractions is The Saussois Rocks, a cliff formation that is popular with climbing enthusiasts. These limestone cliffs reach about 50 meters in height.
- Another must-see spot is Avallon, a settlement known for its pleasant atmosphere and imposing medieval buildings. Visitors can explore its historic center and various architectural features.
- Visitors also love Cordelle Chapel, a religious building with a modest Romanesque decor. This small chapel marks the site where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade in 1146 and was home to the first Franciscan monastery in France.
- Sermizelles is known for its historical sites, religious monuments, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to picturesque towns and natural rock formations.
- The attractions around Sermizelles are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and 60 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
The Saussois Rocks
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Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in Vézelay
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Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père
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The Église Notre-Dame de Saint-Père church is built in Burgundy Flamboyant style and is considered a masterpiece of this Late Gothic style. The three-nave church with its 50-meter-high bell tower was built in the 13th century and has been listed as a monument historique since 1840. The two chapels were in the 14./15. and the narthex added in the 15th century. The iconography of the church is not very enlightening, but inside you can find the rather worn-out portrait of a Geizkragens, which keeps his purse hanging around his neck. He is flanked on both sides by a dragon that seems to bite his ears off. This symbol can be seen quite ambiguously: The man turns deaf, although he certainly had the means to help (egoism) or the man is so fixated on his belongings that he forgets to protect himself - himself something good to do (greed as obsessive-compulsive disorder). The richest is the open narthex. For more than two centuries, sculptors were able to realize their ideas and stonemasons could prove their skill in craftsmanship. Upon entering the covered narthex you can see on the right two statuettes in half relief, which are to represent Girart de Roussillon and his wife Berthe or his daughter Eve. They are considered the founders of the former abbey of Saint-Père.
Probably the church (former abbey) had a function as the last stop in the pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Mary Magdalene in Vézelay.
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Cordelle Chapel
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The 17th-century southern porch is what remains of a Franciscan church.
The site of La Cordelle, at the foot of the Eternal Hill towards Asquins, marks the place where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade in 1146. The Romanesque chapel was built in the mid-12th century by the Abbot of Vézelay in memory of this great historical event. It is also the site of the first Franciscan monastery in France, founded around the chapel in 1217. Long forgotten, the chapel is once again inhabited by the Franciscans and is open to visitors.
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Avallon
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This is composed of a central nave flanked by two side aisles. You will notice the difference in level of almost 3 meters between the portal and the choir. The height of the pillars as well as the cord which surmounts them follow, like the floor of the church, the slope of the rocky spur on which it is built.
The current organ was built in 1850 by the Grenoble maker Nicolas Chambry, in a classical style from the 16th and 18th centuries. At the same time, a new musical universe is emerging for organists and Avallon is joining in...
When you leave, don't forget to go to the apse of the Collegiate Church to admire the Romanesque cornices whose sculpted modillions (sculpted architectural element supporting a cornice) are interesting.
Source: “The Frog Circuit”
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This church, dedicated to the Holy Cross (Latin: "Santa Croce"), derives its patronage from the cross on which Jesus Christ died. The veneration of the Holy Cross is largely based on Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great (who, after his victory at the Milvian Bridge in Rome, recognized Christianity as a religion and ended the long period of persecution with the Edict of Toleration of Milan in 312). She made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land (Israel/Palestine) in the early fourth century and brought numerous relics back to Europe, including the "True Cross," on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Helena is therefore often depicted with a cross as an attribute. The Church celebrates the Feast of the Discovery, public presentation, and veneration of the Holy Cross—called the "Exaltation of the Holy Cross"—on September 14th.
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Very worthwhile visit to this beautiful church
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Very small chapel with a Franciscan monastery. The monastery was only returned a few years ago. The monks are trying to rebuild the monastery through a project
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The town of Avallon is home to very old monuments such as the Saint-Lazare church which is in front of you and a little further on the Clock Tower. The city center is very pleasant with its squares and fountains, and its very beautiful Maison des Sires de Domecy. By heading towards Quarré-les-Tombes you will see several islands located on the course of the Cousin, as well as remarkable old bridges spanning it. The statue of the famous Avallon frog, which you will not fail to see, was sculpted in Châtillonnais stone by Yvan Baudoin.
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A true jewel of Burgundian Gothic art, the church of Saint Père sous Vézelay deserves a moment of attention. Built from the 13th to the 15th century and dedicated to the Virgin, it only became a parish church in the 16th century, succeeding the old Saint Pierre church which gave its name to the village and whose ruins can still be seen at the exit. south of the village. The 13th century bell tower, elegant and airy, 50m high, is visible for miles around. In the middle of the 19th century, the building was in a very advanced state of disrepair. However, Prosper Mérimée describes it as "a gothic cathedral in miniature". Viollet-le-Duc, then 26 years old, fell in love with the church of Saint Père, the restoration of which he launched in 1841. He worked until 1844 on the choir, the chapels and the nave. and in 1868, ends with the bell tower. However, due to a lack of resources, he practically does not intervene on the porch (or narthex). This part, which is the most striking because it evokes real stone lacework, was then restored by Boeswilwald between 1888 and 1889.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Sermizelles?
The region around Sermizelles is characterized by beautiful, partly wooded and rocky hills, a valley plain, and rolling terrain, with the village itself situated along the Cure River. A prominent natural feature is The Saussois Rocks, limestone cliffs reaching about fifty meters in height, popular with climbing enthusiasts. You can also find natural sites like Bois Monsieur within Sermizelles.
Are there opportunities for climbing near Sermizelles?
Yes, The Saussois Rocks in Merry-sur-Yonne are a very popular spot for climbing enthusiasts. These imposing limestone cliffs attract climbers from as far as Paris, offering a challenging and scenic experience.
What kind of hiking and walking trails are available near Sermizelles?
The area around Sermizelles offers a variety of trails for walking and hiking. You can find routes that take you through the scenic countryside, along the Cure River, and to nearby historical sites. For specific routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Sermizelles guide, which includes options like a 10 km loop from Sermizelles to Vézelay.
Can I find cycling or mountain biking routes in the Sermizelles area?
Absolutely. The region is well-suited for cycling and mountain biking, with routes catering to various difficulty levels. For mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails around Sermizelles guide. If you prefer road cycling, the Cycling around Sermizelles guide offers routes like a difficult 60 km loop with magnificent views of Avallon.
What historical and cultural sites are worth visiting near Sermizelles?
Sermizelles and its surroundings are rich in history. Within the village, you can see the Tour Malakoff (1858), Chapelle Notre-Dame-d'Orient (1958), and the Romanesque Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativité. Just a short distance away, the monumental Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père is a masterpiece of Burgundian flamboyant style. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Vézelay Basilica is also nearby, a significant stop on French pilgrim routes.
Are there any charming towns or villages to visit for a day trip from Sermizelles?
Yes, several charming towns and villages make for excellent day trips. Avallon, about 10 km away, is known for its pleasant atmosphere and medieval buildings. Montreal, an unspoiled medieval village, is about 18 km east. Noyers-sur-Serein, recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages, is about 24 km northeast with its half-timbered houses and riverside setting.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Sermizelles?
Many of the historical sites and natural areas around Sermizelles can be enjoyed by families. Exploring the medieval streets of Avallon or discovering the unique architecture of Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père can be engaging for all ages. The natural beauty of the Cure River valley and the surrounding hills also offers opportunities for family walks and picnics.
When is the best time of year to visit Sermizelles for outdoor activities?
The region around Sermizelles is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking, cycling, and exploring historical sites without the peak summer heat. Summer is also popular, especially for activities along the Cure River and enjoying the lush green landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts before planning your outdoor adventures.
Are there any 'hidden gems' or less-known spots to discover near Sermizelles?
Beyond the well-known sites, consider visiting the Caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, which contain prehistoric paintings over 33,000 years old, offering a unique archaeological and natural experience. The small Cordelle Chapel, marking where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade, is another historical gem with a modest Romanesque decor and a Franciscan monastery.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Sermizelles?
Visitors frequently praise the imposing nature of The Saussois Rocks, noting the shaded rest areas and the opportunity to observe climbers. The picturesque village of Saint-Père and its incredible porch at the Notre-Dame Church are also highly appreciated for their impressive architecture. Many also enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and medieval charm of Avallon.
Can I find local markets or wine-related experiences near Sermizelles?
Yes, the region is known for its local markets and wine. You can find markets in nearby towns such as Avallon, Vermenton, Clamecy, and Auxerre on various days of the week. For wine enthusiasts, the famous wine region of Chablis is about 31 km northeast, offering opportunities to explore vineyards and taste local wines.
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