Burgundy shaped by time
Natural sites, caves and waterfalls
Beyond the Villages…
Great views, quiet paths and hidden places
Beyond the vineyards, villages and historic towns, this part of Burgundy also has a quieter natural side. Some places are known for their views, such as the Roche de Solutré; others for their unusual landscapes, protected habitats, waterfalls or caves.
This page highlights a small selection of natural sites that can make a good change of pace during a stay — from open-air walks and viewpoints to cooler, more shaded outings underground or beside the water.
Full information for the sites featured on this page is provided in our Digital Guidebooks, available to guests after reservation confirmation.
RESERVES & UNUSUAL PLACES
Panoramas, protected habitats and shifting sands
This first selection moves from the rocky landmark of Solutré to the protected habitats and sandy landscapes of La Truchère and the Dunes des Charmes. Together, they offer a good change of scene and a different way to see the natural side of the region.
Rocky heights, wetlands and dunes
La Roche de Solutré — Solutré-Pouilly
A classified Grand Site de France, the Roche de Solutré rises above the vineyards near Mâcon, with a rewarding walk to the summit and beautiful views across the surrounding countryside.
La Truchère National Nature Reserve — La Truchère
A protected reserve near the Seille and Saône, La Truchère is well known for birdwatching, with wetlands, woodland and sandy heathland creating an unusually varied natural site in a compact, easy-to-explore area. Two marked circuits reveal its contrasting landscapes: one through the dunes and peat bog, the other around lake Fouget. The sense of calm here is remarkable.
Dunes des Charmes — Sermoyer
A small but surprising landscape of inland sand dunes, the Dunes des Charmes offer a quiet walk through an unusual natural setting, quite different from the surrounding countryside. Birdwatchers may also want to keep an eye out here, as the site is known for notable species including the hoopoe.
CAVES & CASCADES
Where water leaves its mark
These sites often work best when built into a fuller day out. The Grottes de Blanot can pair naturally with Solutré or Cluny, while the Jura waterfalls at Hérisson and Baume-les-Messieurs sit well within a wider Jura itinerary — perhaps with lunch in Château-Chalon along the way.
Waterfalls and underground worlds
Cascades du Hérisson — Ménétrux-en-Joux
A classified Grand Site de France, the Cascades du Hérisson are among the Jura’s best-known natural sites. A walking trail follows the valley past a series of waterfalls, viewpoints and wooded sections.
Cascades de Baume-les-Messieurs
At the far end of the Baume-les-Messieurs reculée, the waterfall sits in one of the Jura’s most striking natural settings. Limestone cliffs, wooded slopes and the narrow valley give the whole site a very different feel from the open Burgundy countryside.
Grottes de Blanot — Blanot
The Grottes de Blanot offer a very different kind of visit underground, with guided tours through limestone galleries, chambers and rock formations beneath the countryside near Cluny.