Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing, a former commune now part of Treigny-Perreuse-Sainte-Colombe in the Yonne department, include a mix of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area is situated in the larger Puisaye region, known for its blend of historical significance and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore sites ranging from medieval castles to natural lakes and hiking trails.
Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing
- The most popular attractions is Guédelon Castle, a castle that is an ongoing project reconstructing a 13th-century castle using period techniques. Visitors can observe the building process firsthand, offering an educational historical experience.
- Another must-see spot is Château de Ratilly, a 13th-century castle transformed during the Renaissance. This historic castle now functions as a contemporary art center, hosting exhibitions and concerts.
- Visitors also love Lac du Bourdon Beach, a sandy beach offering views over Lac du Bourdon. It provides opportunities for relaxation and water activities, with facilities available during the main season.
- Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to wildlife parks and numerous hiking trails.
- The attractions around Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing are appreciated by the komoot community, with 33 upvotes and 257 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Guédelon Castle
Highlight • Castle
You must leave the site by 6 p.m. at the latest.
Attention: the water mill, which is particularly popular with children, is only open between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Why build a castle from the early 13th century in the 21st century?
Many questions about castle construction, the use of materials and the use of construction workers are still unanswered. By using the old tools and experimenting with the materials available on site, they hope to rediscover lost knowledge.
Guédelon is perhaps the most important construction site for experimental archaeology, but certainly the best known.
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Château de Ratilly
Highlight • Castle
Artisanal pottery workshop, collection of ancient Puisaye sandstone, contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, courses.
chateauderatilly.fr
+33(0)386747954
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Lac du Bourdon Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Saint-Symphorien Church of Treigny
Highlight • Religious Site
However, once you enter the interior, excitement follows. A lot of oil paintings adorn the walls, from different eras. You feel like you are in a museum.
On the wall with the front door are 4 17th-century paintings of Saints Saint Augustine, Saint Ambroise, Saint Jérôme and Saint Grégoire.
The monumental paintings of the cloister are from 1836.
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Mill at Guédelon Castle
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Tips from the Community
The mill belongs to the castle and can be reached with a short walk through the forest. Here, too, everything works with medieval know-how.
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Simply a great idea that is being put into practice here. Come by before the construction work is finished. In addition to the normal day-to-day construction work, there are also always interesting special offers. The bread baked here is pretty tasty and is sold.
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Price 2024 €16 adult €15 students - a must do, unforgettable experience.
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An unmissable experience is visiting this castle, the construction of which began in 1999 using medieval techniques. You visit a construction site (now well advanced), chat with the workers from the different trades who explain everything to you, visit the vegetable garden, the basket maker, the baker, the potter, the herbalist, etc… I highly recommend visiting this castle !
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A true medieval fortress built on 11th century foundations, completed in the 13th century, then partly transformed during the Renaissance. The four corner towers, the two entrance towers defending the drawbridge, the moat and the dovecote surround the charming square interior courtyard. Since 1951, the pottery workshop, exhibitions, shows and courses have made Ratilly a leading art center. Hours: From 03/30/24 to 06/30/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed on: Friday From 07/01/23 to 08/31/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. From 01/09/24 to 10/11/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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The watermill is located a little away from the castle in the forest and was also built using techniques and materials from the 13th century. This should not be missed.
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The project is a sensation and has now also gained respect from experts due to its scientific approach. Almost all of the materials used come from the land on which the castle is being built. Tools and techniques from the 13th century are used in the construction. The corresponding workshops are located around the castle. For example, the smithy, the dyeing works, the quarry with stonemason's hut, etc. Horses for the carriages are kept in reconstructed stables. Fences, stairs and bridges were built largely without modern materials. At the various workshops there are display boards with the tools used there. Most of the time people are working there and you can ask questions. Demonstrations are held from time to time. For example, you can watch how a rope is made or how a wooden shingle is made. Outside of school holidays, the site is visited by many school classes. But don't worry, the site is large and the crowds are well distributed. In addition, school groups are taught about the techniques used at the time in the many shelters scattered around. This means you can always find a place where you can look around almost alone. Depending on the season, one to three restaurants are open on the site. There is also plenty of space to eat there, or to eat the snacks you brought with you. There is also a large, sheltered picnic area by the car park. You can leave the site at any time if you get a stamp at the exit. In the afternoon, you reach the water mill, which was also built according to the model of the time, via a forest path about 500 metres long. The castle should be finished in 2023. Construction was still underway in June 2023, but there is already a lot to see. The chapel with murals and stained glass windows, the kitchen with bakery, the large hall, the gentlemen's room in the keep, etc. A visit is highly recommended. The €15 per person (as of 2023) is definitely worth it. Also because you can easily spend a whole day here.
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Behind the road is the large Camping Municipal. There is a hotel with a bistro on the beach in front of the street. The other stands for crepes, fries, etc. were still closed in June. Even further west is a large picnic area in the forest. The beach is also monitored during the summer holiday season. You can rent treet boats. The water is not too cold. A beautiful, quiet, large lake for swimming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical attractions can I visit near Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing?
The region is rich in history. You can explore the unique Guédelon Castle, an ongoing project reconstructing a 13th-century castle using period techniques. Another significant site is Château de Ratilly, a 13th-century castle that now serves as a contemporary art center. Within Sainte-Colombe-sur-Loing itself, the historic Église de Sainte-Colombe-sur-Loing dates back before the 11th century. Further afield, you can visit the famous Vézelay Basilica or the Collégiale Saint-Martin in Clamecy.
Are there natural attractions or outdoor spaces to explore?
Yes, the area offers several natural highlights. You can relax at Lac du Bourdon Beach, a sandy beach with facilities during the main season. The region is also known for its numerous springs, fountains, and historic wash houses, many of which are featured on marked hiking trails. The picturesque ponds around Moutiers-en-Puisaye are ideal for wildlife observation and photography.
What are some family-friendly activities in the area?
Families will enjoy the interactive experience at Guédelon Castle, where children can witness medieval construction firsthand, especially the water mill which is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Lac du Bourdon Beach offers opportunities for relaxation and water activities. For more active fun, consider Parc Animalier de Boutissaint, a wildlife park, or Le Bois de la Folie, an adventure park.
What kind of experience does <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3787817" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Château de Ratilly</a> offer?
Château de Ratilly is a unique blend of ancient architecture and modern art. This 13th-century castle, transformed during the Renaissance, now functions as a contemporary art center. It hosts exhibitions, concerts, and pottery workshops, offering a cultural experience within a historic setting. The well-preserved ensemble features four wings around an inner courtyard, surrounded by mighty round towers and a now-dry moat.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling around Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing?
Absolutely. The region provides numerous trails for both hiking and cycling. You can find various cycling routes, such as the "Guédelon and Lac du Bourdon Loop" (32 km, moderate) or the "Parc naturel de vision de Boutissant et le Château de Guédelon" (30 km, moderate). For runners, there are trails like the "Lac du Bourdon — loop — running from Saint-Fargeau" (5.9 km, moderate). You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for cycling and running trails around Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing.
Can I observe wildlife in the region?
Yes, the area offers good opportunities for wildlife spotting. Parc Animalier de Boutissaint is a dedicated wildlife park. Additionally, the ponds and small paths around Moutiers-en-Puisaye are known for various birds like ducks, herons, and egrets, and you might even spot deer or nutrias in their natural habitat.
What is special about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2590222" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mill at Guédelon Castle</a>?
The Mill at Guédelon Castle is an integral part of the medieval reconstruction project. Located a short walk through the forest from the main castle, it was also built using 13th-century techniques and materials. It's a fascinating demonstration of medieval engineering and is particularly popular with visitors, especially children. Note that it is typically open between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Are there any notable religious buildings to visit?
Yes, the region has several significant religious sites. Within the commune, the Église de Sainte-Colombe-sur-Loing is a Gothic-style church with origins tracing back before the 11th century. Nearby, you can visit the Saint-Symphorien Church of Treigny, a 15th-century church known for its impressive collection of oil paintings from different eras. Further afield, the Vézelay Basilica is a monumental example of Romanesque architecture, and the Abbatiale Notre-Dame de La Charité-sur-Loire is an important monument on French pilgrim routes.
What are the entry fees for <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2460057" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guédelon Castle</a>?
As of 2021, the basic entrance fee for Guédelon Castle is €12 if purchased online and €15 at the box office. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing and opening hours before your visit.
What is the best time to visit Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing for outdoor activities?
The Yonne department, where Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing is located, generally experiences pleasant weather for outdoor activities from spring through early autumn. The summer months (July-August) are ideal for water activities at Lac du Bourdon Beach, while spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful natural scenery.
Are there any specific hiking trails focusing on the region's water features?
Yes, the area is known for its numerous springs, fountains, and historic wash houses. There is a well-marked hiking trail (No. 7) specifically designed to highlight these water features, allowing visitors to explore the natural and historical significance of water in the region.
What is the significance of Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing historically?
Sainte-Colombe-Sur-Loing has a rich historical past. Its Gothic-style church dates back before the 11th century, and the parish was founded even earlier. During the Gallo-Roman era, Sainte-Colombe was a prosperous center, with evidence such as pottery fragments, mosaics, and foundations of luxurious buildings found behind the town hall, indicating its importance in ancient times.
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