A circular trail, two hiking trails and a walking path start in Ligny-le-Châtel. At the same time, the Église Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul, three wash houses and the Bief offer insights into the local history. You can choose different focuses for your trip: exploring the outdoors, discovering architectural history or visiting the covered market.
Trails through vineyards and countryside
The routes differ in name and classification: Le tour des vignes is a circular trail, La randonnée des Fées and Les deux côteaux du Serein are hiking trails, and La balade des Prés-du-Bois is a walking path. They all start in Ligny-le-Châtel. Routes around the village pass through vineyards, forests, meadows and fields. You can choose a route based on how you’d like to get around—on a circular trail, a hike or a walk. As route conditions can change, check the individual route before setting out.
Church and local history
The Église Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul has been classified as a Monument historique since 8 July 1911. Dating from the 12th to the 15th century, it combines Burgundian Romanesque and Gothic art. Its features include a low nave and a large, richly ornamented choir. A guide is available for visitors in four languages; check its current availability in advance. The church began opening in summer in 2008. Check the current season’s opening details when planning your trip. The Amis du Patrimoine hold concerts in the church every year; check the programme for your travel dates in advance.
Another historic landmark is the Calvaire Saint-Hubert, also known as the Croix de Montmorency. It dates from the late 18th century, was restored in 2003 and is located at the entrance to the Ferme des Comtés on the D121. The large wash house is opposite the Église Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul and is considered an emblematic building; there are three wash houses in Ligny-le-Châtel in total. The Bief still follows its original course along the western fortification wall.
Covered market and local produce
Since 30 April 2021, the covered market has welcomed around fifteen local producers and craftspeople. The number of participants and the mix of offerings can vary. These include organic produce, a bakery, honey, prepared foods, mushrooms, cow’s and goat’s cheese, poultry, beef, beer and eggs. The market brings together different aspects of local offerings, from food to craftsmanship.
A florist, a ceramic artist and a seamstress also appear there regularly; their participation may vary too. If you plan to visit the market during your stay, check the latest information before you go. This keeps your plans flexible for changing vendors and products, rather than assuming the selection will always be the same.
Nature and fishing
Ligny-le-Châtel is part of the ZNIEFF area “Forêt de Pontigny et vallée du Serein aval”; the corresponding INPN entry is dated 7 January 2025. Trails through the varied landscapes around the village also offer another way to spend time outdoors.
The Parc de la Noue Marrou is associated with fishing activities. For fishing information and reservations, contact AAPPMA La Vandoise du Serein; check local arrangements before your trip. The fishing area managed by the association covers Pontigny, Héry, Ligny-le-Châtel, Maligny, Villy and La Chapelle-Vaupelteigne. This lets you consider local history, landscapes and fishing as different interests during your stay, without combining them into a set route.
Discover more destinations: Sommecaise, Bussy-Le-Repos, Pourrain, Villeneuve-Sur-Yonne, Sens, Cornant, Pontaubert, Malicorne.
For the broader travel overview: Yonne.
