Located on the heights of the Yonne, Vézelay invites you on a journey where art, history and spirituality meet in an exceptional natural setting, offering a unique experience to lovers of France and its hidden treasures.

Vézelay is a major place of pilgrimage on the way to Santiago de Compostela where the Sainte-Madeleine Basilica, listed in the Unesco World Heritage.


Vézelay, a unique heritage in France

Between its medieval streets and its breathtaking view of the Yonne valleys, this village never ceases to amaze with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, making it a essential step near Puisaye-Forterre.

Did you know?

The famous film of The big mop was partly filmed in the village of Vézelay.

The village of Vezelay overlooking the surrounding vineyards

The Maison Jules Roy and the Zervos Museum are eloquent examples of this cultural richness, offering for each visit a immersion in the art and history of the Burgundy region.

Charlene Jorandon
Nuns walking towards the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

Vézelay is also a pilgrimage site important, dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene. You will also pass through this village, on your way to Santiago de Compostela.


The Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay

The town of Vézelay shines with its rich heritage, dominated by the majestic Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. Classified at Unesco World Heritage, this architectural marvel attracts visitors from all over the world, who come to admire its art and history.

Charlene Jorandon
Interior architecture of the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vezelay

Its size and scope impress the most curious passers-by who let themselves be charmed by this monument of Romanesque art.

While visiting the crypt, you can admire the 12th century wall paintings recently discovered during restoration work.

Twice a year, during the summer and winter solstices, the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene gives way to the magic of the place by letting light enter the heart of the building. These rare and majestic events show the richness of the architectural heritage established during the creation of the Basilica.

Agnès Millot / Grand Vezelay Tourism

On the heights of Vézelay

Unmissable tourist activities

During your vacation in Yonne, you will find many varied activities in the Grand Vézelay region.

In addition to the visit to the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, the art lovers will appreciate the Zervos Museum, located in the Maison Romain Rolland, which houses a remarkable collection of modern works by Picasso, Léger, and Giacometti, among others. In addition, Studio Morize, with its exceptional view of the Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine, offers photo workshops to capture the beauty of Vézelay.

Corentin Janvier
By bike through the vineyards of the Vezelay region

For lovers of good wines, a private tasting in the wine estates of Chablis, near Vézelay, is a must. There exceptional quality Burgundy wines, combined with the beauty of the landscape, promise a memorable experience.

You can also take advantage of a guided tour offered by the services of the Grand Vézelay Tourist Office to discover the Basilica, the village or the surrounding areas in more depth from the heart of Vézelay.

Courtyard of the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vezelay

The destination of Grand Vézelay

The Grand Vézelay destination brings together different areas such as the Morvan Regional Park, the village of Noyers sur Serein, classified among the most beautiful villages in France, or the town of Avallon. Each of them has tourist attractions likely to appeal to you.

View of Lake Pannecière in the Morvan Regional Natural Park
Pixabay

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The Morvan Regional Natural Park

The Morvan Regional Natural Park is a natural paradise where the charm is still preserved. Among the lakes, forests, peaks, many outdoor activities await you. It is also a place in charge of French history since'here in the heart of Burgundy, the forests of Morvan were transformed into maquis during the French Resistance of the Second World War.

the restaurant terraces in Noyers sur Serein
Nathalie Jard / Puisaye Tourism

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Walnut trees

The village of Noyers seduces with its medieval charm and tranquility. Classified among the most beautiful villages in France, Noyers offers a real journey through time with its cobbled streets, its half-timbered houses and its remains of fortifications which tell centuries of history. The village museum has one of the major collections of naive art in France.

The town of Avallon renowned for its historic center
Pixabay

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Avallon

The town of Avallon is renowned for its historic center full of heritage, particularly with its Saint-Lazare collegiate church. classified as a historic monument. You can also walk along the frog circuit, the city's mascot.

Which tourist towns can you visit around Vézelay?

Around the destination of Grand Vézelay, you have the opportunity to discover during your vacation, the town ofAuxerre and its Abbey, the town of Chablis and its wines, the village of Saint Fargeau and its emblematic castle as well as the town of Treigny with its medieval construction site Guedelon. Vezelay is only 1 hour from Dijon and 00 hours from Paris.

Is it easy to find a place to eat on site?

À Vézelay, you will have the possibility of finding a place to eat with gastronomy professionals, in a typical restaurant of the region or even in wine estates to enjoy a wine tasting.

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