Planchez brings together a 15th-century church, memorial sites in the town centre and two circular walking routes of distinctly different lengths. An ancient Gallic route and the Oussière gorges add to the cultural and scenic picture of the area. When planning an outing, the routes can be distinguished primarily by their length and stated difficulty.
Cultural history in the town
The Église Saint-Sulpice is one of Planchez’s landmarks and dates from the 15th century. Visitors can ask for the key at the town hall during opening hours; please confirm this access information before your trip.
In the town centre, the installation about the Resistance and Planchez is part of the “Chemins de mémoire” walking trail. Texts and photographs tell the story of events during the Second World War and the town’s reconstruction. Planchez was destroyed by German troops in reprisal and rebuilt in the 1950s. The church recalls the 15th century, while the installation and reconstruction bring the 20th-century history into focus.
The mill and the craft of milling
Another historical trace leads to the Moulin de la Presle. It operated until 1948 and resumed operation in 1982. When the mill is running, buckwheat is still ground there; the mill is privately owned. If you are considering a visit, ask in advance about visiting arrangements. The mill thus brings together its dated operating history and the traditional practice of grinding buckwheat while it is in operation.
Landscape and ancient routes
Planchez lies on an ancient Gallic route linking Mont Beuvray with Saulieu. The Oussière gorges, also known as Houssière, are a remarkable wild natural area. Remains of a Gallic path or Gallo-Roman road were discovered at the Nid au vautour site.
Two circular routes, two distances
For a shorter walk, the 3.7 km Tour du bourg de Planchez is rated easy. It is also suitable for mountain biking and families. The Boucle de la pierre Ă Boron is 12 km long, of moderate difficulty and marked in yellow; it starts and ends in Planchez. It is dedicated to the Pierre Ă Boron in the hamlet of the same name and to the local legend of the Vouivre. In short, the Tour du bourg is the shorter, easy route, while the Boucle de la pierre Ă Boron is the longer, moderately difficult alternative.
Where to stay in Planchez
The municipal hostel L’Huis Prunelle has 18 beds and is located on both the Chemin de Compostelle et d’Assise and the GR 13. Its location on both routes is relevant when choosing a base if your trip follows either of them. The route connections can help you check whether the hostel suits your planned itinerary. The number of beds helps you assess what your group needs. Before travelling, ask for the latest information on capacity and opening times.
Discover more destinations: Mhere, Tazilly, Fours, Menou, Saint-Martin-Du-Puy, Challuy, La Nocle Maulaix, Fléty.
For the main travel overview: Nièvre.
