MUST VISIT
We continue our look at the Saône et Loire, an incredibly pretty part of the Burgundy region. It is a great place to experience life in rural France along with all the modern amenities that you need for daily living.
Charolles is typical of the charming historical villages found dotted across the Saône et Loire landscape. Located 45 kms from Mâcon, the village carries the nickname ‘the Charolais Venice’, a hint to the number of rivers and waterways in the local area.
A walk around this medieval village is a treat and a great photo opportunity (Editor: Thanks to Melanie & Margot at the local Bureau de Tourisme for the recommendation). You can spend all day exploring the village and its immediate surroundings featuring many important historical buildings, some dating back to nearly a thousand years, although the village can actually trace its roots back to Roman times.
A definite must-visit is the Municipal Museum of the Priory, located in a former Benedictine priory built in the 10th century. It features an exceptional collection of earthenware from the local area. There are also artworks by Jean Laronze (1852-1937), a Burgundian painter. In the chapel, you will find some of the works of René Davoine (1888-1962), a Charolais sculptor and nationally celebrated artist.
The area is, of course, home to the famous breed of beef cattle (Charolais), and the Maison du Charolais celebrates this heritage through interactive displays and educational workshops.
Using Charolles as a base, there are some impressive and popular places nearby including the Paray-le-Monial basilica (12 kms away). This picture-perfect town is steeped in history and has been an important pilgrim location since the 17th Century. From an architectural point of view, the highlight is the ‘chevet’ found to the rear of the basilica with a very traditional roman style that includes a series of round chapels.
Wednesday is market day in Charolles and something not to miss is the Festival du Boeuf, held in the village on 5th & 6th December 2020, celebrating the region’s four-legged ambassadors! (Editor: you mean cattle, right?)
If you are looking for a different pace of life peppered with history, then Charolles is a great place to start.