Avallon, the walled town on its rock
Avallon was built on a granite spur above the Cousin valley. Behind its ramparts, the old town is best explored on foot, and it makes a very handy base for Vézelay, the Morvan and the Serein valley.
What to see and do
The old town and the clock tower
The Grande Rue runs through the old town under the 15th-century clock tower. Old houses, small squares and shops: take your time.
The ramparts and the Petite Porte promenade
The walk around the ramparts offers wonderful views. From the Petite Porte promenade you look straight down into the Cousin valley.
The collegiate church of Saint-Lazare
Its carved Romanesque doorways are among the finest in the region, even if time has worn them.
The Avallonnais museum
Archaeology, fine arts and a beautiful collection of silverwork by Jean Després: a human-sized museum, perfect on a rainy day.
The Cousin valley
A path follows the river below the town, past mills, rocks and woodland, as far as Pontaubert. A cool walk in summer.
Opening times change with the seasons: check before you go. Our favourite addresses (producers, restaurants, markets) are in the welcome book of every house.
Good to know
- Avallon is easy to reach by the A6 motorway and by regional train.
- You will find shops, restaurants and services for your whole stay.
- The hilltop village of Montréal, with its collegiate church, is just a few minutes away.
Nearby
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