At Lyon Secret, we’re not the type to sit idly by and watch the trains go by, and when it comes to exploring the surrounding area, we’d rather jump at the chance (and hop on the train) to discover our beautiful regions. This time, let’s venture a little further from the capital of Gaul… It’s definitely worth the trip. We’re heading to a small village in Burgundy that, despite being in the spotlight, has managed to retain its authenticity and all its charm. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site the same year as Mont Saint-Michel and the Palace of Versailles, Vézelay has managed to preserve a certain sense of intimacy in the face of these two tourist giants.
Vézelay and its UNESCO World Heritage Basilica
The tiny village of Vézelay is located in the Yonne department, on the edge of the Morvan Regional Nature Park. Perched on its promontory—also known as the “eternal hill”—the village’s layout is a curiosity in itself. Unlike the circular villages of Pérouges or Oncieu, Vézelay stretches out in a long, narrow shape. It’s impossible not to be captivated by this long street that winds its way up to the famous basilica. On either side, you’ll find restaurants and shops run by local artisans. In short, there’s plenty of great food to enjoy and souvenirs to take home from your pilgrimage to Vézelay.
As early as 1979, the basilica and the hill of Vézelay were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Just like Old Lyon, these sites are recognized for their “outstanding universal value.” Not bad for a village of just 500 residents! The basilica is a true gem of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Like any centuries-old monument, it has weathered its share of more or less tragic episodes and vicissitudes: fires, acts of veneration, looting, revivals, decline… Fortunately, a recent restoration has restored the building to its original splendor.
Inside, the views are simply breathtaking. Devoid of any ornamentation, the choir is of incomparable purity. Only the sun is allowed to cast its rays there. In fact, during the summer solstice, when the sun is at its zenith, the light falls at regular intervals in the center of the aisle, in perfect harmony with the proportions of the nave… The magic of this place is therefore eternal.
Burgundy, the heart of France
When you look at a map of France, Burgundy is right in the center. Its geographic location naturally makes it a key region. And for good reason! First of all, the food there is absolutely divine. And for any self-respecting Lyonnais, this is a fundamental principle that cannot be denied. Burgundy wine is often cited as the best in the world; its meat— especially Charolais beef—is also universally acclaimed; and its cheeses (Époisses, Brillat-Savarin, Cîteaux, Soumaintrain) are a true temptation for any food lover on earth. In short, Burgundy is best experienced through its cuisine before it’s even seen.
But that’s where it gets interesting, because the region is just as appealing to the palate as it is to the eye. Burgundy is magnificent. A true showcase of our heritage, it truly shines. Take the Abbey of Fontenay, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with those of Pontigny and Saint-Germain-d’Auxerre; the castles of Maulnes, Ancy-le-Franc, Tanlay, Bussy-Rabutin, and Bazoches; and the cities of Dijon, Cluny, and Beaune, known worldwide for their heritage. It was also in Burgundy, very close to Chalon-sur-Saône, that photography was invented…The list goes on, but we won’t keep you any longer—it’s your turn to board the train!
