Lake Settons and Lake Pannecière
The lakes of the Morvan were often built to float timber down to Paris, then to supply drinking water. Nestled in the forest, Lake Settons invites swimming, sailing and picnics on the grass. Lake Pannecière, the largest, is just next door. You cycle around one, canoe across the other, and end the day on an inn’s terrace, feet still slightly sandy.
Mont Beuvray and Bibracte
To the south, Mont Beuvray shelters the remains of Bibracte, a large Gallic town of the Aedui people, now an archaeological site and a museum of Celtic civilisation. The circuit through twisted beeches, nicknamed the queules, and the barely visible ramparts feels like time travel. The idea of a historical walk for two, followed by a meal of Morvan produce, makes a charming change from classic city dates.
Château-Chinon and Vézelay
Capital of the Haut-Morvan and dear to François Mitterrand, Château-Chinon overlooks the Yonne valley and holds the Museum of the Septennate. On the northern edge of the Morvan, the UNESCO-listed village of Vézelay, in the Yonne, and its Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine watch over the plateau. On Lyad, Nivernais singles share their favourite guesthouses; it is up to you to find someone to extend the evening by the fire.
Date ideas
- Morvan
- Lake of the Settons
- Mont Beuvray
- Bibracte
- Château-Chinon
- Vézelay
- Lake of Pannecière