Sermizelles can be planned around three specific themes: heritage, canoe and kayak trips on the Cure, and accommodation by the river. Tour Malakoff and Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Orient offer different historical and architectural points of interest; the Cure adds a peaceful river activity. For an overnight stay, the Château de Sermizelles accommodation complex is a specific option to consider. You can first decide whether your trip will focus more on architectural history, an activity on the water, or finding accommodation.

Heritage: tower, chapel and movable cultural heritage

Tour Malakoff was built in 1859 and overlooks the Cure Valley in a remarkable natural setting. The tower therefore combines a specific year of construction with a clear connection to the landscape. Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Orient was built in 1958 to plans by the architect Marc Hénard. A frieze depicting the apostles adorns its exterior door; the windows contain stained glass with abstract motifs. So, in addition to its history, the chapel’s design details contribute to its character: the architect’s name, the apostles’ frieze and the abstract glasswork.

In 2013, the Chapelle was protected in its entirety as a historic monument. Notre Dame d’Orient dite La Flamme is also protected as movable cultural heritage and classified as such. These protection statuses cover different categories: for the Chapelle, the status applies to the entire building; for La Flamme, it applies to the named movable cultural heritage. In the past, a procession followed the unpaved path to Chapelle Notre-Dame d’Orient. This historical tradition adds a religious dimension to the building’s history and protection status.

The Cure as landscape and activity

Canoë-Cure offers canoe and kayak trips starting from Sermizelles. A 14-kilometre route is listed for Sermizelles; the activity takes place on a calm stretch of the Cure. This provides specific information about a river activity alongside the cultural and historical attractions. The Cure features in two different contexts: as the valley setting for Tour Malakoff and as a stretch of river for canoe and kayak trips. Travellers planning their trip around their interests can therefore consider architectural history and water activities as separate focuses.

Accommodation and regional travel

The Château de Sermizelles accommodation complex is located on the banks of the Cure. It includes a 1.5-hectare park, and access may be restricted to guests. Check the accommodation complex’s availability directly before making firm plans to stay there. Its riverside location and the size of its park are specific features of this accommodation option.

For travel to Vézelay, Sermizelles-Vézelay railway station is listed as a stop in the wider region, with a shuttle connection afterwards. The shuttle runs twice a day. If you plan to use this connection, check the current timetable before travelling, as service details may change. This travel information relates to the wider region and complements the local themes of heritage, the Cure and accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Chamoux, Sens, Bèze, Dissangis, Lindry, Villeneuve-Sur-Yonne, Courgis, Quarré-Les-Tombes

For the broader travel guide: Yonne.