The best walks and hikes around Précy-Le-Sec
4.3
(124)
477
hikers
56
hikes
Hiking around Précy-Le-Sec offers diverse terrain, situated on a plateau overlooking the Cure Valley with a high point of 311 meters. This rural environment features a mix of communal land, fertile ground, meadows, forests, and shrub vegetation. The varied topography provides opportunities for both elevated views and valley explorations. The region's landscape is characterized by its position in the Yonne department, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical proximity.
Best hiking trails around Précy-Le-Sec
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.3
(13)
61
hikers
12.9km
03:34
210m
210m
Hike the moderate 8.0-mile Grottes d'Arcy loop from Arcy-sur-Cure, featuring Cure Valley views and ancient cave proximity.
4.9
(7)
33
hikers
10.0km
02:49
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(7)
32
hikers
9.86km
02:46
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
25
hikers
5.00km
01:25
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
22
hikers
12.7km
03:31
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Next to the Manor, there is the miniature village.
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This cave is one of the many caves dug by the Cure. These are perhistoric caves that contain many paintings dating back more than 33,000 years.
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Appears at the top of the hill this elegant Renaissance style building: the Château du Chastenay. It has a turret placed in a corbel on the right, a hexagonal staircase tower in the center. The pediment of its portal is decorated with a sculpted frieze as well as a Jacquaire shell (we are on the way to Santiago de Compostela). The mullioned windows are also richly carved. The presence of a dovecote affirms the lordly character of the place. In principle, only lords, high justices, had one. The number of bowls was regulated according to the surface area of the owner's fiefdom. The pigeon was highly appreciated for its fine flesh and for its droppings, called columbine, which serves as excellent quality fertilizer.
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A first stone bridge was built in 1302. In the 17th century, due to lack of maintenance and not being suitable for vehicles, it was destroyed. The current bridge was a big investment. Completed in 1769, this elegant building is remarkable for its "donkey's back" architecture. It has 3 arches of 10 to 13 m. The triangular-shaped bridge piers facilitated the passage of trains of timber. The stone cross on the bridge was erected in 2000. It is a carbon copy of the one that existed before the French Revolution.
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Please make sure to reserve and pay in advance at www.grottes-arcy.net After paying online, be sure to note the reserved date and entry time! You only receive a payment confirmation from Systempay, without an entry time or date! At the checkout, however, the employees see the names of the online bookings. There are only guided tours that last around 50 minutes. The length of the tour is 450 m. You are not allowed to take photos along almost the entire length of the tour! That's why I couldn't take any pictures of this impressively beautiful stalactite cave. At the end of the tour the ceiling height decreases significantly. This is exactly where prehistoric people left their engravings. These engravings were only discovered in 1990 and were exposed with great effort using micro milling. An approximately 3mm thick layer of debris has been removed, but a fine, transparent layer has been left on the engravings so they are still protected. Only at the end of the tour are you allowed to take pictures of a crystal-clear small lake.
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Discover the Arcy site where Neanderthal men lived 200,000 years ago. Visit the Great Cave, which has been frequented for several centuries for its magnificent concretions; in the 1990s it revealed engravings and paintings dated 28,000 years ago, among the oldest in the world. April-June: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. July, August: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. September-November: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Tel: 03 86 81 90 63 Email: contact@grottes-arcy.net Possibility of reservation and online payment: www.grottes-arcy.net
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If you are heading down the valley to St. Moré on the hiking trail, you absolutely have to make the small detour of 150m so that you don't miss this beautiful view.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Précy-Le-Sec?
There are nearly 50 hiking trails around Précy-Le-Sec, offering a diverse range of experiences. You'll find options for various fitness levels, including 14 easy routes, 29 moderate trails, and 5 more challenging hikes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes near Précy-Le-Sec?
The terrain around Précy-Le-Sec is quite varied. You can expect a mix of plateau landscapes, offering elevated views, and explorations into the Cure Valley. The region features rural forests, communal land, meadows, and shrub vegetation, providing diverse natural environments for your walks.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Précy-Le-Sec?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Many of the 14 easy routes are suitable for families. For example, the View into the Cure Valley – Grotte des Vipères loop from Saint-Moré is an easy 5 km trail that can be completed in about 1 hour 25 minutes, perfect for a shorter outing with children.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
Hiking around Précy-Le-Sec offers access to several interesting natural and historical landmarks. You can explore the famous Caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, which are a significant natural attraction. The Discovering Arcy-sur-Cure and its Prehistoric Caves Trail is a moderate route that takes you close to these ancient caves. You'll also find scenic views of the Cure Valley and the Arcy-sur-Cure Bridge.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails around Précy-Le-Sec are circular. For instance, the View into the Cure Valley – Arcy-sur-Cure Bridge loop from Arcy sur Cure is a moderate 10.2 km loop offering scenic views. Another option is the View into the Cure Valley – Great Cave of Arcy loop from Saint-Moré, a moderate 12.7 km loop.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Précy-Le-Sec?
The trails in Précy-Le-Sec are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful views into the Cure Valley, and the opportunity to explore both rural forests and historical sites like the prehistoric caves.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest accessible by hiking?
Absolutely. Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover historical points of interest. The Great Cave of Arcy is a major highlight. Further afield, but still within reach, is the historic Vézelay Abbey, a significant pilgrimage site. You might also encounter the Château du Chastenay and an Old intersection of the Chemin de Saint-Jacques.
Is Précy-Le-Sec a good destination for forest walks?
Yes, Précy-Le-Sec is an excellent destination for forest walks. The area is home to the Forêt communale de Précy-Le-Sec, a municipal forest covering 145 hectares, providing extensive opportunities for woodland walks and exploration. The broader Burgundy region is also known for its expansive forests.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Précy-Le-Sec?
While hiking is enjoyable year-round, the spring and autumn months often offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring Précy-Le-Sec. Spring brings blooming flora and mild temperatures, while autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage. Summer can be warm, but the forested areas provide shade. Winter hikes are also possible, especially on easier trails.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Cure Valley?
Many trails in the Précy-Le-Sec area are specifically known for their views of the Cure Valley. The View into the Cure Valley – Arcy-sur-Cure Bridge loop from Arcy sur Cure and the Grotte des Vipères – View into the Cure Valley loop from Arcy sur Cure are prime examples, designed to showcase these scenic river valley vistas.
Are there options for longer, more challenging hikes?
While many trails are moderate, there are 5 difficult routes for those seeking a greater challenge. The varied topography, including the plateau and valley descents, allows for routes with more significant elevation changes and longer distances, catering to experienced hikers.
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