Attractions and Places To See around Môlay - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Môlay include a variety of historical, cultural, and natural sites. Môlay, located in the Yonne department of France, serves as a base for exploring the region's diverse offerings. The area provides access to medieval architecture, significant religious sites, and unique natural features. Visitors can discover a range of experiences within easy reach of the commune.
Best attractions and places to see around Môlay
- The most popular attractions is Fosse Dionne and the town…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
Fosse Dionne
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Noyers-sur-Serein
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Stroll through medieval cobblestone streets past …
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Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre
Highlight • Historical Site
The Hôtel-Dieu was donated by Margaret of Burgundy and built from …
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Notre-Dame Church
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Saint Peter's Church
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Tips from the Community
The church in Tonnerre was dedicated to Saint Peter / “Saint-PIERRE”. Simon, nicknamed Peter (the word means "rock"), was a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee when he - together with his brother Andrew - was called by Jesus Christ to be "fishers of men". According to Catholic understanding, he is the supreme apostle, and the two millennia-long line of popes - currently Francis - are his successor. On statues and paintings, Peter is almost always depicted with two keys in his hand; this attribute refers to the biblical saying in Matthew: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven” (Chapter 16, verse 19). Saint-Pierre is - together with Saint-Paul - also known as the “Princes of the Apostles”, their common feast day in the saints' calendar is on June 29th.
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The Hotel Dieu is the work of Marguerite de Bourgogne. it is the longest medieval hospital in Europe. It was built in the XIII century.
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We enjoyed a remarkable guided tour.
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Magnificent little town, whose inhabitants are welcoming and passionate, plan time to observe and discuss!
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We were there in the morning and the church was still closed. The building from the outside and the beautiful view of the city from there made up for it.
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The deep basin of the karst spring with the historic washhouse around it is, in my opinion, the main attraction in Tonnerre. Depending on your perspective, when the sun is shining you will see deep turquoise water in front of you. Plus the rushing of the water. You can also just sit here for a while and enjoy. When we visited the spring on a Friday morning, there was surprisingly little going on.
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It has, among its furniture, a shrine which contains relics of Saint Thierry from the Saint-Michel de Tonnerre abbey, a statuette of Saint Eloi from the 15th century, a painting commemorating the deaths of the epidemic of 1632. It represents Charles-Henri de Clermont, Count of Tonnerre, interceding with Saint Roch on the occasion of the plague epidemic; Saint Roch is seated, an angel stands at his side and a dog brings him bread. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89glise_Notre-Dame_de_Tonnerre
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The Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre is a former hospital establishment founded in 1293 by Marguerite de Bourgogne, Countess of Tonnerre and Queen of Jerusalem. This exceptional historical monument has welcomed the sick and needy for centuries, who come to receive free care for the body, but also for the soul: services are celebrated every day in the chapel located at the end of the Sick Room, in a manner so that everyone can attend from their bed. Opening times: https://www.hoteldieu-tonnerre.com/tarifs-heures
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Môlay?
The region around Môlay is rich in history. You can explore the medieval hospital, Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre, founded in 1293. Other notable historical sites include the Renaissance Château d'Ancy-le-Franc, the medieval village of Montreal, and the historic Fontenay Abbey.
Are there any notable natural attractions around Môlay?
Yes, a prominent natural attraction is the Fosse Dionne in Tonnerre, a remarkable karst spring with an 18th-century washhouse built around it. The region also features cave systems like the Grotte de Champ Retard and the Caves of Arcy-sur-Cure.
What religious buildings are there to see near Môlay?
You can visit the Notre-Dame Church and Saint Peter's Church in Tonnerre, both with significant historical and architectural value. Further afield, the Vézelay Basilica of Sainte-Madeleine and Pontigny Abbey are important religious monuments.
What outdoor activities are available around Môlay?
The area offers various outdoor activities, including running and cycling. You can find numerous running trails and a wide selection of road cycling and general cycling routes that explore the local landscapes and villages.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Many attractions around Môlay are suitable for families. The Fosse Dionne and the historical Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre are both categorized as family-friendly. Exploring the medieval village of Montreal can also be an engaging experience for all ages.
What can I see in the settlement of Tonnerre?
Tonnerre, known as "La petite Venise bourguignonne," offers several attractions. Key sights include the mysterious Fosse Dionne, the historic Saint-Pierre Church, and the medieval Hôtel-Dieu with its medicinal plant garden.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Môlay?
Visitors appreciate the unique blend of history and natural beauty. The Fosse Dionne is often highlighted for its deep turquoise water and the rushing sound, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy. The Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre is highly recommended for its well-preserved state and insightful guided tours, transporting visitors to another era.
Are there any medieval villages or castles to explore?
Absolutely. The small village of Montreal offers a well-preserved medieval experience. You can also visit impressive castles such as Château d'Ancy-le-Franc, Château de Tanlay, and the Castle of Noyers-sur-Serein, each providing insights into the region's rich past.
Can I find any gardens to visit near Môlay?
Yes, the area boasts several notable gardens. These include the Jardin du moulin de Athie, Jardin du prieuré, and the Potager du château de Lantilly, offering beautiful landscapes and horticultural interest.
What is the best time to visit Môlay and its surroundings?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region generally offers pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities from spring through early autumn (April to October). Summers are typically warm, ideal for cycling and walking, while spring and autumn provide milder temperatures and beautiful scenery.
What is the Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre?
The Hôtel-Dieu de Tonnerre is a medieval hospital founded in 1293 by Margaret of Burgundy. It served as a facility for the sick and needy for centuries and is now a protected historical monument known for its exceptional preservation and architectural significance.
Are there specific cycling routes recommended around Môlay?
Yes, you can find various cycling routes. For road cycling, consider the 'Chablis Village and Vineyards – Noyers-sur-Serein loop'. For general cycling, routes like 'Saint-Martin Collegiate Church – Chablis Cycles loop' or 'Tonnerre – Château de Tanlay loop' are available, offering moderate difficulty and scenic views. You can find more details on the Road Cycling Routes and Cycling around Môlay guide pages.
Can I find running trails near Môlay?
Yes, there are several running trails available. Examples include the 'Noyers Loop loop from Noyers' and various 'Running loop from Poilly-sur-Serein' or 'Lichères-près-Aigremont'. These routes typically offer moderate difficulty and range from 6 to 9 kilometers. More options can be found on the Running Trails around Môlay guide page.
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