Saint-Apollinaire can be explored through several layers of history: the redoubt is part of the defensive system around Dijon, the church preserves a medieval apse, and other buildings tell stories of municipal and contemporary architecture. Two walks offer different lengths and thematic focuses. This lets you shape your stay around architectural history, local history, and outdoor activity.
Heritage in Saint-Apollinaire
The redoubt is part of the Séré de Rivières defensive system around Dijon. Construction took place between 1878 and 1880. By decree dated March 17, 2006, it was listed as a historic monument.
The church of Saint-Apollinaire preserves a medieval apse, which is also listed as a historic monument. In the Middle Ages, the church was a place of pilgrimage centered on its miraculous fountain. This brings together a surviving architectural feature and a religious history in a single building.
The château can also be explored through its different historical functions. M. Champy turned it into a museum in 1856. The municipality of Saint-Apollinaire acquired the château in 1931 with the aim of establishing a mairie-école there—a combination of town hall and school. The château complex also includes a dovecote with a hexagonal ground plan.
The Mille-Club, salle Marcel Daisey offers another architectural connection: the building was constructed in 1972 and bears the “Architecture contemporaine remarquable” label. This label identifies it as a remarkable example of contemporary architecture. Together, these buildings span subjects from medieval heritage to a 20th-century building; they also differ in their religious, military, municipal, and architectural character.
Walks with different focuses
The Chemin de Mémoire in Saint-Apollinaire is 3.4 kilometers long, rated very easy, and described as taking 1 hour 40 minutes. Plaques embedded in roads and sidewalks present the town’s history along the route. Here, historical interpretation is part of the walk itself.
Des Longènes au Bois-Guillaume is an 11-kilometer, moderately difficult walk, with a stated duration of 3 hours 30 minutes. It runs between town and countryside through an agricultural plain. Unlike the Chemin de Mémoire, the landscape is the focus of its description.
There are two clear differences to consider when choosing: the Chemin is shorter and very easy, while the Des Longènes au Bois-Guillaume walk is longer and moderately difficult. The stated times also help you choose a walk that fits the time you have available. There is also a fitness trail in Parc de la Redoute.
Events throughout the year
A fair has been held annually at Clos Saint-François on the second Sunday in September for more than 70 years. This recurring date gives you a specific point of reference when planning a September trip. Check the event details for the relevant year before you travel.
The Epleumiades are another recurring cultural event in Saint-Apollinaire. Together with the historic buildings and walks, they offer another perspective on the town’s cultural life.
Discover more destinations: Villy-Le-Moutier, Bligny-lès-Beaune, Diancey, Fénay, Arnay-Le-Duc, Courban, Vianges, Arcenant.
For the overview of the wider area: Cote-Dor.
