A museum in the keep, a reservoir in the town centre and a state forest covering 724 hectares: Saint-Sernin-du-Bois can be explored from many different angles. Those interested in culture will find traces of the history of the priory and the town; outdoor options range from a leisurely walk to marked hiking loops. The local options also include a specific place to stay for long-distance hikers.
Cultural history in the keep and the town
The Raymond Rochette Museum is housed in the keep. Its palaeontological, archaeological and ethnological section includes fossils and imprint slabs, Gallo-Roman remains, historical objects, and documents and accounts of local life. Visits are available by appointment. The museum can also be visited during the European Heritage Days, held annually on the third weekend of September. Arrange your visit before you travel.
The keep was built around 1360 by Jean de Saint-Privé, the prior of Saint-Sernin-du-Bois. It was intended to protect the priory and the lands of Saint-Sernin. The church next to the priory retains features from its Baroque reconstruction in the 18th century, including pointed arches in the transept and a barrel-vaulted choir. Its furnishings are listed as a historic monument.
The architectural history can also be seen in smaller places. The Chapelle St Plotot in Gamay has a Gothic opening with a curved lintel dating from the 16th century and a narrow pointed-arch opening from the 13th century. In the commune, an approximately 400-metre-long paved section of the Roman road also survives between the hamlet of La Bruyère and the former La Croix Fichot forest lodge.
Forest, wetlands and reservoir
The Saint-Sernin-du-Bois state forest is open to the public and offers opportunities for family outings, picnics, nature watching, hiking, jogging and mountain biking. Restrictions may apply to some activities or areas. The Fontaine Sainte peat bog has a boardwalk with welcome and information panels. Before travelling, check locally on the condition of the path and panels.
Numerous plant species can be observed from a footbridge in the Marais de Fontaine Sainte wetland. The reservoir and dam in the town centre were built in 1921; they are used for observing biodiversity and for pleasant walks. These places offer different ways to spend time outdoors: the boardwalk through the peat bog, plant watching from the footbridge, or a walk by the water.
Loop walks or a long-distance trail
Eleven yellow-marked PR hiking loops cover distances from 2 to 31 kilometres; they start near the dam. The range offers a choice of routes to suit your preferred distance. Before setting off, check the local trail markings and starting points.
The GR137 long-distance trail passes through Saint-Sernin-du-Bois and connects Autun with Nolay. From Bas de Chêne, a variant heads towards Le Creusot. For planning purposes, these offer different ways to navigate: several loops with stated distances or a long-distance route connecting the town with these other destinations.
Accommodation for long-distance hikers
Halte du Barrage offers overnight accommodation for up to four long-distance hikers. Facilities include beds, a shower and toilet, and a kitchenette; there is a bicycle storage facility nearby. If this accommodation suits your plans, confirm your reservation and availability before travelling.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Sologny, Grevilly, Bruailles, Saint-Gervais-En-Vallière, Aluze, La Boulaye, Mancey, Chatenay.
For the wider travel guide: Saône-Et-Loire.
