A new must-visit site in the region. If you’re planning a short weekend in Burgundy this autumn, taking in the Roche de Solutré, Beaune, Cluny or even the basilica of Vézelay, don’t miss this movie set, whose foundations date back to the 12th century! And yet, despite the fact that its construction dates back a long way, its name nods in the direction of immortality.
Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, one of the most beautiful villages in France
If ever there was a place near Lyon that could boast of being a medieval village, this is it. From its name to its architecture, its history and its location, Châteauneuf epitomizes the idea of the Middle Ages. Despite its small size, the village boasts a rich architectural heritage. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, Châteauneuf was a focal point for wealthy merchants, who built some of the region’s finest residences, still standing today. But it’s the imposing château that remains the main attraction, visible for miles around! Dungeon, fortress, drawbridge: the entire collective imagination of the Middle Ages is captured here. Today, it’s a must-see.
In 2022, there were just 81 inhabitants living in the tiny village of Châteauneuf, and yet! A number of restaurants, guest houses and artisans have set up shop here, making Châteauneuf a charming stopover for heritage lovers. By car, it’s easy to get to, as the Autoroute du Soleil passes close by, so you can stop off without too much trouble. If you’re lucky enough to catch a sunset, especially in autumn (the village faces due west), you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view over the plain and the nearby Burgundy Canal …
Claude Lelouch’s“Partir, revenir “, a film made in Châteauneuf
The village’s charm had caught the director’s eye, and he decided to shoot his film there, perhaps his most committed, with a cast of actors to die for: Annie Girardot, Jean-Louis Trintignant, but also Michel Piccoli, Françoise Fabian and Richard Anconina. The music is by Michel Legrand and Sergei Rachmaninov, if you please. So it took an iconic location like Châteauneuf to complete the cast.
Châteauneuf-en-Auxois
🧭 County: Côte d’Or
📩 Zip code: 21320