One hour south of Paris, the Yonne, a department of Burgundy, is a must-see! There is something for everyone. First of all, a heritage that will delight lovers of history and architecture, including the jewel, the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Vézelay, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and whose discovery offers a great moment of emotion. In addition, there are the medieval towns ofAuxerre, Joigny, Sens and Noyers, the Renaissance castles of Tonnerrois and the castle of Saint-Fargeau. Lovers of nature and large green spaces are not left out: they can enjoy a breath of fresh air in the Morvan. Make a detour to Avallon and discover the Cousin valley. Pedal along the Burgundy canal and the Nivernais canal. Embark to navigate and discover the richness and beauty of the Yonne along the water, taking your time and enjoying unique views. With river tourism you will adopt another rhythm and you will be surprised by its benefits! Stop over in the cities of art and history, board at the edge of the Chablis vineyard, moor near a restaurant of bourgeois cuisine. Indulge yourself, the land lends itself to it.
When to go to the Yonne ? Summer is the most touristic and sunny season, but some storms are not excluded, nor the heat wave, and some sites, among the most touristic, are then black with people. Come in spring, or better, in autumn to enjoy the colorful vineyards and the winegrowers' animations. However, keep an eye on the weather. Episodes of heavy rain, frost and fog are regularly announced.
Keep up to date with the cultural and festive agenda of the towns and villages in order to plan your visit, according to your interests, during flea markets, garage sales, old book markets, rural festivals or music festivals, shows and other festivities. You can navigate on the waterways from spring to mid-November. For hiking, avoid the middle of summer when it is often too hot to walk, at least in the open. Choose routes in the woods or along the riverbanks that are cooler.
The Yonne has a rather harsh climate with harsh winters, variable autumns and springs and summers that can be very hot. During the 2003 heat wave, Auxerre was one of the hottest cities in France. Microclimates are perceptible. To the north and west, the climate is oceanic with continental tendencies, to the east and south, continental. In winter, the roads can be blocked by snow and snowdrifts formed by the wind.
