Avallon
Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Cousin Valley, Avallon is an invitation to step back in time. This fortified town in Burgundy-Franche-Comté, at the gateway to the Morvan, captivates visitors with its architectural grandeur and the tranquility of its hanging gardens. Between its ancient ramparts and cobbled streets, it offers a perfect balance between medieval rigor and natural serenity.
The Ramparts and the Towers: A Walk Through History
Avallon remains a walled town, best explored by walking along its ancient fortifications.
The Clock Tower: This former 15th-century town gate rises majestically above the rooftops, marking the entrance to the historic center.
The Côte Gally Bastion: This defensive position offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Cousin Valley below.
A Tamed Nature: The Valley and the Ramparts
What makes Avallon truly magical is its silhouette. The ramparts, punctuated by massive towers like the Gaujard Tower, offer shaded walks with sweeping views over the valley.
The Cousin Valley: Below, the river meanders through a dense forest and past old mills. It's the perfect refuge for hikers and dreamers seeking respite from the heat.
The Avallon Art of Living: Gastronomy and Culture
The upper town is not just a museum; it's a vibrant city that celebrates the pleasures of fine food.
The Saturday Market: Under the market halls and in the squares, producers from the Morvan region offer honey, goat cheese, and artisanal charcuterie.
The City Museums: The Musée de l'Avallonnais, housed in the former college, contains collections ranging from archaeology to contemporary art.
The Costume Museum: Located in a beautiful private mansion, the Costume Museum offers a unique opportunity to discover the elegance of centuries past.
The Collegiate Church of Saint-Lazare: A Jewel of Burgundian Romanesque Art
The true spiritual heart of the city, this building is a major stop on the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago).
The Sculpted Portals: Its two facade portals are masterpieces of Romanesque art, featuring exceptionally fine plant motifs and geometric designs.
The Mystery of the Relics: The church owes its historical renown to the relics of Saint Lazarus that it housed, attracting crowds of pilgrims from the Middle Ages onward.
The Discreet Architecture: Inside, the slope of the floor toward the chancel follows the shape of the rock, creating a unique and organic atmosphere.
The Terraced Gardens: A Cascade of Greenery
What makes Avallon unique is the way the town literally "falls" into the valley through its gardens.
The Hanging Gardens: Once used for food production, these terraced gardens along the ramparts are now havens of peace, filled with flowers and trees.
The Landscape: From the valley, these terraces create the illusion that the town rests on a pedestal of hanging gardens.
The Promenade of the Little Towers: A shaded path that allows you to admire the town's layout while enjoying the coolness of the centuries-old trees.
Conclusion
Avallon is a town of character that doesn't reveal itself at first glance. You have to lose yourself in it, descend its hidden staircases and climb its ramparts to grasp the harmony between the ruggedness of its stone and the poetry of its gardens. Gateway to the wild Morvan region, it remains an essential stop for lovers of history, nature, and tranquility.
Greater Vézelay Tourist Office - Avallon Office
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