A stay in Gilly-Lès-Cîteaux can be shaped around three specific interests: architectural history, routes along the Vouge and regional cheeses. The town’s history spans different eras, linking the history of the Benedictines and Cistercians with buildings and bridges. There are also hiking routes, a short walk and offerings centred on cheese. This lets you choose the focus of your stay according to your interests.
Buildings with different stories
The Château des Abbés de Cîteaux is partially listed as a historic monument. The protected features include the moat, four park gates, the cellar and selected interior rooms. The protection therefore covers several parts of the estate, from the grounds to certain interior rooms.
The Grange de Saulx has its own story: the de Saulx family built it in the 13th century. In 1449, the Cistercians acquired the grange at the initiative of their abbot, Jean Vion. Today it is used for cultural events; the programme may vary.
The Château de Gilly-lès-Cîteaux is an inheritance from the monks of Cîteaux Abbey. It was initially a Benedictine priory; in the 13th century, the Cistercians took it over. In the 14th century, it was turned into a fortress. This transformation took place during the Hundred Years’ War (1337–1453). The Church of Saint-Germain also dates from the 14th century. The Pont Chevalier was rebuilt in 1679 after the Wars of Religion. The commune is also home to the remains of numerous mills.
Hiking and experiencing the Vouge
The GR de pays de Grands Crus long-distance trail passes through Gilly-Lès-Cîteaux. The “Sur les traces des moines de Cîteaux” route is rated easy and is 17 kilometres long. Check route conditions and trail markers before setting out. For a shorter option, there is a walk around the Vouge. The route’s 17 kilometres are on a different scale from this short walk, offering two distinct ways to add some activity to your stay.
Near the Church of Saint-Germain, a footbridge offers a view of the Vouge. The Amis du patrimoine et de l’histoire de Gilly organise tours of the area during the Journées du Patrimoine. If you plan to join a tour, check the dates for your travel period.
The Church of Saint-Germain has a level entrance and a level exterior path with a surface suitable for wheelchair access. The path is at least 90 cm wide throughout. Confirm these conditions again before your visit.
Cheese and regional products
The Fromagerie Delin, located in Gilly-Lès-Cîteaux, produces regional cheeses, including Brillat-Savarin, Morbier and Tome. Les Halles de Gilly is a factory outlet in the town. It offers cheese and other regional products, including charcuterie, regional specialities and selected wines.
At the Fromagerie Delin site, Les Voûtes by Delin offers wine and cheese tastings. Offerings and dates may change; check ahead if you plan to include a tasting in your itinerary. This gives you different ways to enjoy local cheeses: as part of the regional offering, when shopping or as part of a tasting.
Discover more destinations: Levernois, Selongey, Meloisey, Bessey-En-Chaume, Vougeot, Semezanges, Marcheseuil, Ivry-en-Montagne.
For the main travel overview: Cote-Dor.
