The walking routes in Vareilles differ primarily in their focus: historical explanations, a forest route with two distance options, panoramic views over the Vanne Valley, or a route through the village centre and hamlets. You can therefore choose based on both the landscape and theme, as well as the stated distance. Two of the circular routes also start at the same church.

Circular Routes Starting at the Church

“À la découverte de Vareilles” is a 7-kilometre circular route that starts at Vareilles Church. Along the way, panels with QR codes explain the history of the places visited. This gives the route a historical focus in addition to its clearly stated distance. “La forêt de Champ-fêtu” also starts at the church. The shared starting point makes it easy to compare the two routes, while their themes differ.

The forest route “La forêt de Champ-fêtu” offers 9- or 13-kilometre options. Compared with the 7-km route, these are 2 and 6 kilometres longer respectively; the two Champ-fêtu options are 4 kilometres apart. The route leads to the former Champ-fêtu farm and a 35-metre-tall sequoia. Alongside the forest, the former farm and sequoia give the route a specific destination. Check the trail conditions before setting out.

Forest and Views

“Les 3 villages de la Vanne” passes through the state forest of Vareilles and Les Sièges and offers panoramic views over the Vanne Valley. The forest section and valley views together define this route. If, when choosing a walk, you place more emphasis on this landscape than on QR-code explanations or the destinations at Champ-fêtu, you can consider it as a distinct alternative.

Village Centre, Hamlets and Tastings

Another perspective is offered by “Cerisiers et Vareilles, de bourg en hameaux”. The route passes through the village centre of Vareilles and the hamlets of Cerisiers and Vareilles. Unlike the forest and valley route, this one focuses on the village centre and hamlets. You can also make your choice based on whether you prefer a landscape route or one through a village and its hamlets.

For a culinary highlight, visitors can sample local produce and artisanal drinks at Le Maquis de Vareilles. You can include the tasting in your travel plans as a separate point of interest alongside your choice of walking route. The menu may change; check the current selection before your visit.

Choosing Between the Routes

If you are deciding between the two circular routes that start at the church, a direct comparison can help: “À la découverte de Vareilles” combines 7 kilometres with panels about the history of the places visited. “La forêt de Champ-fêtu” offers 9 or 13 kilometres and leads to the former farm and a 35-metre-tall sequoia. Your decision therefore depends both on the distance and on the themes that take centre stage along the way.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Bris-Le-Vineux, Arcy-Sur-Cure, Champs-Sur-Yonne, Chassignelles, Vaumort, Mélisey, Villeneuve-la-Guyard, Nailly.

For the broader travel overview: Yonne.