The historic streets form a kind of labyrinth and reveal traces of Coulanges-La-Vineuse’s rich history. Winegrowing and a hiking trail with views over the Yonne Valley add to the appeal. If you choose the town for a stay, you can plan around these themes separately: architectural history, wine and landscape offer different insights—and come with different visiting arrangements.
Architectural history in and beyond the town centre
In the town centre stands Église Saint-Christophe, a historic monument classified as a Monument historique since 1947. It was built between 1737 and 1742 to plans by the architect Servandoni. Visits are possible by prior appointment; the keys must be requested at the presbytery. Be sure to plan your church visit in advance.
Maison Jeanne d’Arc is the last surviving example of 15th-century architecture in Coulanges-La-Vineuse and was listed as a Monument historique in 1929. The construction date, 1561, is preserved on the façade of Maison aux Cariatides. Its painted ceilings can be viewed after making an enquiry at the town hall. Taken together, these buildings trace several centuries of local history: from the surviving example of 15th-century architecture, to the date on the façade, to the church built in the 18th century.
Le Pressoir is also among the protected historic buildings: the press and its associated building were listed as Monuments historiques in 2002. Le Pressoir is one of the few surviving presses of the “à abattage” type that can still be visited. Ask about visiting arrangements in advance so you can plan this stop accordingly.
Winegrowing and its history
The regional BOURGOGNE COULANGES-LA-VINEUSE appellation has been officially recognised since 1990. It applies to still white, red and rosé wines. At wineries in Coulanges-La-Vineuse, visitors can taste AOC wines, including red wines made from Pinot Noir, as well as rosé and white wines. As tasting opportunities are offered by individual wineries, it is best to ask them directly.
The Musée de la vigne displays tools, machinery and other items associated with winegrowing. The museum also includes a 12th-century cellar that opens onto underground galleries. Groups are welcomed by prior appointment. This offers two different ways to explore the winegrowing tradition: tasting wines with the winemakers, or seeing the equipment and spaces associated with winegrowing.
Ridges, valley views and trails
Coulanges-La-Vineuse lies between two valleys on a ridge that slopes down towards the Yonne Valley; the town is known for its winegrowing. From the plateau, the hiking trail offers views of Coulanges-La-Vineuse and the Yonne Valley. If you want to spend time outdoors as well as visit historic buildings and explore wine, this provides a distinct landscape-focused option. Check the current trail conditions before setting out.
For a seasonal tour of several winegrowing villages, the OenoBus runs from Auxerre to Coulanges-La-Vineuse, as well as Escolives-Sainte-Camille, Irancy, Chitry, Saint-Bris-le-Vineux and the hamlet of Bailly. After getting off, visitors can continue exploring on foot. Check the current operating schedule for this seasonal service before travelling.
When looking for a hotel in Coulanges-La-Vineuse, the focus of your stay can be a good starting point: historic buildings, wine or views from the plateau. When planning, take into account the differences between visits by prior appointment, enquiries at the town hall, group visits by arrangement and the seasonal bus service.
Discover more destinations: Les Sièges, Thury, Villeblevin, Savigny-sur-Clairis, Merry-La-Vallée, Druyes-Les-Belles-Fontaines, Mézilles, Collan.
Go to the main travel overview: Yonne.
