Burgundy road trip: Day 4

Another day, another abbey. Fontenay Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest and best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in Europe. Located near Montbard in Burgundy, France, it was founded in 1118 by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. The abbey showcases classic Cistercian architecture with a magnificent Romanesque church, cloister, dormitory, and a a water propelled forge. Nestled in a peaceful valley, Fontenay reflects the Cistercian ideals of self-sufficiency, prayer, and manual labor, offering a powerful glimpse into medieval monastic life.

Semur-en-Auxois is a picturesque medieval town. Situated on a pink granite bluff and nearly encircled by the River Armançon, the town shows off its well-preserved medieval architecture, including cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and ancient fortifications. Its unique charm and heritage make it a notable destination in the Burgundy region.

Vézelay is a historic hilltop village in the Yonne department of Burgundy, and renowned for its stunning Romanesque basilica and spiritual heritage. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vézelay was a major pilgrimage center during the Middle Ages and remains a key starting point especially for the French pilgrims for the Way of St. James to Santiago de Compostela. The Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine features remarkable sculptural art and draws visitors for both, its religious and architectural significance. The village also offers panoramic views and a rich medieval atmosphere.

At the end of this wonderful sightseeing day we found a quiet campground at a lake (Camping Etang du Goulot) with a curious inhabitant on site which caused some excitement in Hilda.