The Joigny area is ideal for nature lovers. With its forest, vineyards and river, Joigny has a fascinating story to tell all year round. Joigny is a colourful town with its ochre, redbrick or white stone half-timbered houses, set against the green of its woodland and the ever-changing river; you can’t help but love its riot of colours. If you set off from the Joigny base on your barge cruise in Burgundy, there’s a wide range of activities to choose from.
A tour of the town and its historic buildings
Thanks to its historic heritage, Joigny has been designated a Town of Art and History and one of the ‘most beautiful detours in France’ (‘Plus Beaux Détours de France‘). The town has no fewer than 19 listed monuments. As well as churches and chapels, you can also explore the Château des Gondi. This fine Renaissance building dates from the period 1569-1613 and is the work of architect Jean Chereau. Overlooking the whole town, it stands close to the church of Saint-Jean, the work of the same architect, and is elaborately decorated. The town boasts several half-timbered houses, each with its own interesting story. Don’t miss the Museum of the Resistance, created in 1945 to commemorate the struggle of men and women against the Nazi occupiers and the Vichy government. There are some wonderful cultural and historical discoveries to be made.
Local produce and gastronomy
Joigny and the surrounding area are bursting with delicious local products. Why not take a gourmet tour, meeting the region’s producers and sampling honey, preserves, cheese, or a variety of liqueurs? Burgundy’s farms can offer choice produce and a selection of gastronomic delights. They also have a reputation for friendliness and authenticity. There are lots of producers of honey, gingerbread, cider or fruit juices who will be happy to welcome you and help you discover their produce. If you enjoy fine dining, book a table in advance at la côte saint jacques in Joigny or l’Aspérule in Auxerre. And where would Burgundy be without its wines? How about an expedition to explore the vineyards in the Joigny area and get to know Côte Saint Jacques Burgundy? A wine tour around Joigny will wake up the taste buds of every wine lover.
Joigny and its natural surroundings
After you’ve sampled the cultural heritage and the region’s food and wine, you could explore the Yonne by taking a guided tour of the town and a discovery cruise. You can also stroll along the banks of the river in Joigny and get to know the town and its natural surroundings, which are spectacular in every season. You could consider one or more of the many walking routes in the Joigny area. There’s lots of beautiful woodland to explore. Many of the walking routes have been designed with the help of the Yonne Committee of the French ramblers’ association (FFRandonnée), so beautiful routes and peace and quiet are guaranteed.
You can find the various hiking routes on the Tourist Office website.
Joigny and its surroundings make the perfect destination, whether you enjoy nature, gourmet dining or history. There really is something to suit all tastes and for all the family!
