A château, cheese and a task-based discovery trail offer different ways to explore Epoisses. Historical highlights include Château d’Époisses and Église Saint-Symphorien, alongside the history of Époisses cheese and the 3 km “Soupe de la sorcière” trail. You can tailor your stay around architecture, culinary heritage or a family-oriented activity.
Château d’Époisses and its architectural history
The exterior of Château d’Époisses, its gardens and dovecote can be visited year-round from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. As opening arrangements may change, check visiting hours before setting out. Cheese tastings are available in the château’s dining room for groups of 12 or more. If you plan to take up this option, confirm dates and conditions in advance.
Église Saint-Symphorien is located in the château courtyard and dates back to the 12th century. Its bell tower was raised in the 15th century. Four towers, including the keep, were built at the château in the 13th century for protection. The church, the later alteration to the bell tower and the château’s towers therefore represent different building phases and functions.
Époisses cheese: history and production
The history of Époisses cheese dates back to the 16th century. It was first made by a community of Cistercian monks near the village of Époisses. The cheese was granted AOC status in 1991 and AOP status in 1996. These two dates add precisely dated later milestones to its historical origins.
During production, the cheese is washed once to three times a week with water that is gradually enriched with Marc de Bourgogne. It is aged for four to eight weeks. The washing frequency and aging period are two different measures of time: recurring care each week and the duration of maturation.
The “Soupe de la sorcière” trail
The free family discovery trail “Soupe de la sorcière” can be completed at any time; check its local availability before your visit. It is 3 km long and suitable for children aged five and over. A map, hidden wooden markers and a recipe card are used for navigation and activities. At the stops, you can discover information and clues about places along the route. The distance and age recommendation give families practical points of reference for deciding whether the trail is suitable for their group.
The options differ when planning your day: the château areas mentioned above have visiting hours from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., while the trail can be completed at any time; check its local availability. The tasting is an option for groups of 12 or more, and you should confirm dates and conditions in advance.
Discover more destinations: La Roche-En-Brenil, Is-Sur-Tille, Saint-Marc-Sur-Seine, Montagny-Lès-Beaune, Longvic, Montbard, Fénay, Labergement-Lès-Seurre.
Return to the main travel overview: Cote-Dor.
