Arcy-sur-Cure brings together archaeological depth and walking routes on very different scales. The cultural heritage trail is an easy, two-kilometre walk starting from Place Pasteur; the long-distance GR 13 trail passes through the village and runs between Auxerre and VĂ©zelay. There is also a parish church with building phases dating from the 13th to the early 16th century and a cave complex with traces of settlement from widely separated prehistoric periods. This offers the chance to explore architectural history, cave art and walking as distinct interests.
Cave art and long stretches of time
The cave complex of Arcy-sur-Cure and Saint-Moré comprises about fifteen caves and rock shelters. Traces of settlement range from the Middle Palaeolithic to the Neolithic; there is also cave art in the Grande Grotte and the Grotte du Cheval. This span covers several prehistoric periods, not a single date. The distinction between the specific locations of the cave art is also interesting from a cultural perspective: it is associated with two named caves. The Grottes d’Arcy are also classified as historic monuments.
Churches and architectural history
The parish church of Saint-Martin in Arcy-sur-Cure was built in the 13th century. Its choir, ante-choir and right-hand chapel date from the late 15th or early 16th century. The different dates make clear that not all parts of the building are from the same period. The Chapelle Saint-Roch in the hamlet of Le Beugnon reflects a different period of construction: it dates from the 16th century and has been listed as a historic monument since 1976. Those interested in architectural history will therefore find several clearly identified periods here rather than a single, uniform date.
Walking trails with different points of reference
For a short walk, the cultural heritage trail offers clear directions: it is easy, two kilometres long and starts at Place Pasteur. Information panels help visitors discover the sites along the route. The GR 13 is on a different scale. It passes through Arcy-sur-Cure and links Auxerre with Vézelay along its route. In the Val Sainte-Marie, the Renaissance façade of the Château du Chastenay overlooks the surrounding area; the property is privately owned. Many hikers use the GR 13 there on their way to Vézelay. This brings together a short local loop and a long-distance trail covering a broader route.
The Sentier des Boucles de la Cure is another option: it runs between Arcy-sur-Cure and Saint-Moré; in Arcy, it starts at Place de la gare. The trail passes through the Natura 2000 site. The Natura 2000 designation associated with the Cure trail aims to preserve biodiversity, natural habitats and particularly endangered species. The different starting points help visitors find their way among the walking options: Place Pasteur is the starting point for the short cultural heritage trail, while Place de la gare is the starting point for the trail between the two villages.
Planning a seasonal visit
The Chapelle du Beugnon has seasonal opening arrangements: it is open for exhibitions during the high season and closed outside the high season. Visitors are asked to make contact by email or phone. Please contact the chapel in advance as requested and check the current opening arrangements if you plan to include it in your itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Dissangis, Escamps, Vallery, Rouvray, Toucy, Dicy, Poilly-Sur-Serein, Saint-Père.
Back to the regional travel overview: Yonne.
