Noyers-sur-Serein
A well-preserved medieval town with cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and a beautiful church. The town is surrounded by ramparts and is a delightful place to stroll and take in the historic architecture.
Grotte d'Arcy-sur-Cure
A fascinating cave system located near Auxerre. The caves contain some of the oldest known cave art in France, dating back 28,000 years.
Saint-Fargeau
a picturesque village with a beautiful chateau that dates back to the 10th century. The chateau has a fascinating history and hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Yonne

WELCOME TO Yonne

Entry Into Department

largest city
Yonne
AREA
49.95 km2
POPULATION
333,000
official language
French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

The Vineyards of Chablis

The Vineyards of Chablis in Yonne, France cover a vast area of rolling hills and are known for producing some of the world's most renowned white wines. The region's unique soil and microclimate create a distinctive flavor profile, with crisp acidity and minerality. The vineyards are a popular destination for wine lovers and offer tastings, tours, and stunning scenery.

The Basilica of Sainte

The Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine is a Romanesque church located in the hilltop village of Vézelay, Yonne, France. The church is known for its impressive architecture, intricate sculptures, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important pilgrimage destination.

The Yonne River

The Yonne River flows through the heart of the Yonne department in France and is a popular destination for water activities, such as kayaking and boating. The river passes through several picturesque towns and villages, including Auxerre and Joigny, which offer charming historic architecture and stunning views. The river is also a great spot for fishing and picnicking.

Political

Economy and Government

The economy of Yonne is diverse, with several industries contributing to the local GDP. Agriculture plays a vital role in the department's economy, with the production of cereals, fruits, and wine being the most significant activities. The vineyards of Chablis and other wine-producing areas provide a significant boost to the department's economy. The department also has a growing tourism industry, with the charming towns, historical landmarks, and natural beauty of the region attracting visitors from all over the world.

The local government of Yonne is headed by the departmental council, which is responsible for managing the budget, public services, and local infrastructure. The council is composed of 42 members, with a president elected by the council every six years. The department also has several sub-prefectures and municipal councils that oversee local governance.

Yonne is part of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France and is represented in the French National Assembly by three deputies. At the regional level, Yonne has a significant influence on the economy and politics of the region, with its agricultural and wine-producing activities contributing significantly to the regional GDP. The department is also part of the European Union and benefits from EU programs and funding.

History

History and Culture

Yonne has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times, with archaeological findings suggesting human settlements in the area as early as the Paleolithic era. The region was later inhabited by the Gauls, and during the Roman era, it was an important trading center. In the Middle Ages, the region was a key stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, with several notable churches and abbeys constructed during this period.

The culture of Yonne is heavily influenced by its rich history, with several festivals, fairs, and cultural events celebrating the region's heritage. The department is famous for its wines, and the wine culture is an integral part of the local culture, with many local festivities and events dedicated to wine production and consumption.

Yonne also has a rich culinary tradition, with local specialties such as escargots à la bourguignonne (snails in garlic and butter) and jambon persillé (ham in parsley jelly) being popular dishes. The region has a strong tradition of folk music and dance, with local groups and associations preserving and promoting the local heritage. Art and literature also play a significant role in the culture of Yonne, with several notable artists and writers hailing from the region.

HOTELS​

Les Glycines

Located in the charming town of Vézelay, Les Glycines is a luxury boutique hotel that offers beautifully designed rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a spa. The hotel is housed in a historic building and features a garden and a terrace with stunning views.

Hotel Le Maxime

Situated in the heart of the town of Auxerre, Hotel Le Maxime is a modern and stylish hotel that offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a bar. The hotel is within walking distance of several landmarks and attractions, including the Auxerre Cathedral.

Hostellerie des Clos

Hostellerie des Clos is a charming hotel located in the heart of the Chablis wine region. The hotel offers spacious rooms with traditional decor, an on-site restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, and a terrace with panoramic views over the vineyards. The hotel also has a wine cellar and offers tastings and tours.

RESTAURANTS​

La Côte Saint Jacques

A Michelin-starred restaurant located in Joigny, La Côte Saint Jacques offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion and features a terrace with stunning views over the river Yonne.

L'Espérance

Located in the village of Saint-Père, L'Espérance is a renowned restaurant that has held three Michelin stars since 1983. The restaurant offers an inventive menu that combines traditional French cuisine with modern techniques, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Le Pot d'Etain

A cozy and welcoming restaurant located in the charming town of L'Isle-sur-Serein, Le Pot d'Etain offers classic French cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant's menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons and availability of local ingredients, and the dishes are beautifully presented. The restaurant also has a good selection of local wines.
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