Find the best villas, holiday homes and apartments in Yonne

Yonne: An overlooked gem in Burgundy-Franche-Comté

Located in the north of the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region, Yonne is often considered France’s “undiscovered” gem. It’s where the rolling hills of the countryside meet world-class vineyards and medieval secrets.

A glimpse into history

Yonne’s history is a tapestry of religious power and royal influence. In the Middle Ages, it was a spiritual powerhouse. The Abbey of Saint-Germain in Auxerre and the Basilica of Vézelay were essential stops for pilgrims.

The region served as a gateway between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Burgundy, resulting in a landscape dotted with fortified towns and Renaissance castles. Perhaps most famous today is the Guédelon Castle project – a modern attempt to build an authentic 13th-century castle using only medieval techniques and materials.

Your next getaway

If you’re looking for the perfect getaway, Yonne offers a quintessentially French retreat. The atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris (which is only about 90 minutes away).

Imagine waking up in a charming gîte or boutique hotel, spending your morning sightseeing through cobblestone streets and enjoying a scenic drive through golden sunflower fields. Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a family outing, the leisurely pace of life here is the ultimate relaxation.

The Burgundian Table: Typical Foods

Yonne is a foodie’s paradise. It’s the birthplace of many of the most important dishes of French gastronomy:

Chablis Wine: These crisp white wines are famous worldwide and are grown in the chalky soil near the town of Chablis.

Gougères: Spicy water cakes mixed with Gruyère or Comté cheese.

Boeuf Bourguignon: Although the whole of Burgundy lays claim to it, the Yonne version often contains local Charolais beef.

Andouillette de Troyes: A distinct, tasty sausage often found in local markets.

Truffe de Bourgogne: The prized Burgundy truffle is hunted in the region’s humid forests.

Activities and nature

The nature of Yonne is diverse, ranging from the dense forests of the Morvan Regional Nature Park to the calm waters of the Yonne River.

Sailing: Rent a canal boat on the Canal du Nivernais, often referred to as one of the most beautiful canals in Europe.

Hiking and cycling: The region is crisscrossed by trails, especially around the white cliffs of Saussois, which are also popular for climbing.

Cave exploration: Visit the Arcy-sur-Cure caves to see prehistoric wall paintings that rival Lascaux.

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