Discover the picturesque charm of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, in the heart of Burgundy. Immerse yourself in the history of this medieval village, which attracts with its important architectural heritage and its clear water river. Explore its castle and historic church. Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, labeled city of character of Burgundy-Franche-Comté, is a gem to explore.
It is the sources of the Druyes, present in abundance on the territory of the commune, which gave their name to this charming town in Burgundy. The commune of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines has been selected as a major tourist site and is one of the four most beautiful villages in Yonne.
What to visit in Duyes-les-Belles-Fontaines?
Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, one of the most beautiful villages in Yonne
Explore the medieval village of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines. This picturesque village, with cobbled streets and stone houses, exudes authenticity and history. But what makes Druyes famous are its magnificent fountains, which gave it its name.
Let yourself be amazed by the medieval architecture of its castle, which seems to come straight from a fairy tale. The 12th century Romanesque church is a testimony to its rich religious heritage. The medieval castle and the churches are two sites classified as historic monuments.
Druyes-les-belles-fontaines is an ideal place for a romantic getaway, a family adventure or a cultural discovery. There is no shortage of activities, whether a guided tour of the castle, a walk towards the viaduct to admire the panorama or a moment of relaxation at the edge of the springs basin, a bucolic place that will please young and old alike with its lake, children's play areas and restaurant.
We like to walk by the springs and cross the viaduct. We then stop at Les P'tits Cabris to taste a goat's cheese and finish at the Guinguette aux Bassins des Sources for a good buttered waffle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to visit Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines?
We recommend around 3 hours to visit Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines and its castle. This will allow you to discover all the main points of interest.
Are there guided tours available in Druyes?
An independent discovery tour is offered in the village lasting 1h30. Otherwise, the Druyes Castle guide offers guided tours during the castle's opening hours or all year round for adult/school groups.
How to visit Druyes with your family?
If you are with children, we advise you to download the free digital tour guide with the LEGENDR application to solve the investigation “The memory of the fairy of Belles Fontaines” by helping Ondine, the water fairy to find her magic pearls. Duration: 1h30.
Can we picnic in the village?
Yes, picnic tables are available at the basin des sources, near the children's games and the restaurant “La guinguette des sources”.
Can you park a motorhome in Druyes?
Yes. A free parking area for motorhomes is located on rue de la Comtesse Mahaut, near the Poterne, the old fortified gate of the village. 3 places are available all year round. Services: drinking water, wastewater, black water, electricity and public toilets.
Did you know?
The village saw the birth of famous people: Jean-Roch Coignet, better known as Captain Coignet, captain of the imperial guard under Napoleon I and Jean Bertin, engineer in the aeronautics sector and inventor of the skytrain.
The castle of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines
High place in the medieval history of Yonne and former home of the counts of Auxerre and Nevers, the 12th century castle stands on a hill overlooking the valley. It was one of the usual residences of Peter II of Courtenay. Now classified as a historic monument, the medieval fortress is the pride of the locals. The castle offers discovery trails, exhibitions or guided tours for families, school groups and groups of adults. You can also visit it independently. The bonus: a grandiose 360° view of the village, which embraces the hills of Puisaye-Forterre and the Morvan borders.
The Romanesque church of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines
In the shadow of the imposing feudal fortress, visit the 12th century Saint-Romain church which features among the purest examples of Romanesque art in Yonne. Destroyed by fire at the end of the 11th century, the original church was replaced at the beginning of the 12th century by the current church.
The portal is made up of numerous details such as: three arches decorated with pearls, stars and nail heads. On each side, two columns are topped with capitals decorated with fantastic animals. This portal is a very rare example of the purest Romanesque architecture.
An ideal spot for outdoor activities
Venture along the paths of this pretty town of character in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, which has developed in a deep valley, a real furrow in a vast limestone plateau with sparse vegetation but with beautiful woods nearby where you will discover notably incredible places like the Panama Valley.
Leisure activities in Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines
Hiking routes
Local gastronomy and artist workshops
The municipality, which lives mainly from tourism, organizes every Saturday evening in the summer, gourmet evenings from 18:00 p.m. to 23:00 p.m.. Visitors can eat on site or take away and discover local products offered by local artisans.
The restaurant of the guinguette-la cours frog, located on the water's edge, is also a great opportunity to discover Burgundian gastronomy.
This town of 300 inhabitants will allow vacationers to bring back local creations de l'Yonne with the Pottery of Florence and Charlie O'Plumes.
Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines in video
The town of Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines has not finished revealing its secrets to you. Stroll through its medieval streets, relax at the spring basin, take the time to have a drink at the Guinguette, stroll along the hiking trails or admire from the Viaduct, the sublime view of this charming little village…and for explorers, a visit to the castle is a must!
Ideas for outings around Druyes
Located just 1h30 from Paris, this small area 20 minutes by car from the town of Auxerre, offers many tourist attractions.
Land of the writer Colette and the Château de Guédelon, Puisaye-Forterre is recognized for its rich heritage, its potters and numerous outdoor activities accessible to all. La Puisaye-Forterre is an ideal destination for a quiet holiday in France with many ideas for outings.
