Musée de Bibracte walks

A three-day hike starting from Bibracte, with no major difficulties apart from the length of the first stage. By observing the landscape and the place names, you’ll be transported back to the days of the timber raftsmen who used streams and then rivers to transport timber to Paris, via the Yonne and the Seine. A thriving industry that provided work for thousands of people in the Morvan fromthe 16th century until 1926.

First part of a three-day hike exploring the landscapes of the Southern Morvan. This first stage is long and difficult; it is possible to split it into two by staying overnight at “La Rivière” near Crot Morin. The Gorges de la Canche are a sensitive site classified as a Natura 2000 area; it is essential to preserve it and to be discreet. This magnificent site can only be accessed in good weather, never after a storm, snow or ice. A track allows you to bypass it if necessary.

The ancient oppidum of Bibracte was the largest city of the Aedui, a very powerful Gallic people one hundred years before our era. The largest rampart dates from the2nd century BCE, is 7 km long and was built before the smaller one, which is 5 km long, thus reducing the space. It was built on the principle of the murus gallicus, a construction made of earth solidified by interlocking layers of horizontal beams with a dry stone facing, an architectural technique admired by Caesar. This beautiful walk gives a glimpse of the grandeur of this ancient city as you follow in the footsteps of the Gauls through the majestic forest of Mont Beuvray.

The second stage of this circular Beuvray will take you on a journey of discovery through pretty villages and beautiful landscapes. Little by little, you climb through the forest towards Beuvray, the summit where the majestic Bibracte of the Aedui stood inthe 1st century BC.

The official name of the hike is: "Towards the Méchet Valley, from Bibracte to La Grande Verrière".From the Bibracte car park, leave the forest and set off to explore the Méchet Valley, with its pretty villages and small heritage sites, a beautiful discovery in the South Morvan. Breathe in the fresh air, you are in the Grand Site de France "Bibracte Morvan des Sommets".

A lovely cycle ride on a standard or electric bike, taking you on a journey of discovery through the forests of Haut-Folin along quiet country lanes. A 1,000-metre climb for a lovely ride lasting just under 3 hours.