Vézelay and its vineyards: the perfect van getaway between history and fine wines

Discover Vézelay, a medieval gem in the Morvan, and its renowned vineyards. From its legendary basilica to rolling green hills and wine cellars, this van road trip promises adventure and unforgettable flavours.

Perched on a hill overlooking the Cure river, Vézelay is a Burgundian village where time seems to stand still. Listed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages, it captivates with its exceptional heritage and endless vineyard landscapes. In a van or motorhome, explore its mystical soul and viticultural treasures, blending scenic walks with unforgettable tastings.

Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay

A masterpiece of Romanesque art, this basilica has been a major pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages. Its sculpted capitals and vaulted nave are truly breathtaking.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Municipal Campsite ★ 4.5 Campsite by the Cure river, immaculate facilities (4.5/5). 25-minute walk, spacious pitches. › Camping Municipal de Vézelay et Auberge de Jeunesse Campsite ★ 4.2 Shaded site near the vineyards, 17-minute walk to the basilica. Rated 4.2/5, peaceful and authentic atmosphere. › Flat parking with picnic table Vézelay Parking ★ 4.8 Flat forest car park, 5 km from Vézelay (4.8/5). Picnic tables, 31-minute walk. › River view parking Pierre-Perthuis Parking ★ 3.5 Wild riverside spot with views of historic bridges. 5-minute drive, free access. › Les Ruesses parking Vézelay Parking ★ 3.1 Municipal car park at the foot of Vézelay, direct access to the basilica. Free, quiet (3.1/5), 8-minute walk. ›

Colline éternelle de Vézelay

Offering a 360-degree view over the vineyards and Burgundy countryside, this vantage point is perfect for a picnic. The golden light at sunset is simply magical.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Municipal Campsite ★ 4.5 Campsite by the Cure river, immaculate facilities (4.5/5). 25-minute walk, spacious and shaded pitches. › Camping Municipal de Vézelay et Auberge de Jeunesse Campsite ★ 4.2 Shaded campsite near the vineyards, close to the basilica (17-minute walk). Rated 4.2/5, peaceful and authentic atmosphere. › Flat parking with picnic table Vézelay Parking ★ 4.8 Flat and spacious forest car park, natural setting (4.8/5). 31-minute walk, picnic tables. › River view parking Pierre-Perthuis Parking ★ 3.5 Wild riverside car park with views of historic bridges. Narrow access. 5-minute drive, untamed and peaceful. › Les Ruesses parking Vézelay Parking ★ 3.1 Municipal car park at the foot of Vézelay, direct access to the basilica. Free, quiet but busy during the day. ›

Caves de Bailly-Lapierre

Descend underground to uncover the secrets of Crémant de Bourgogne. A tasting session is included to finish the visit in style.

Where to sleep nearby

Village-chalets Le Rû du Pré Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly campsite (4.7/5) with pool and fresh bread. 8-minute drive (7 km). › Community hall parking wine village Chitry Parking ★ 4.3 Free car park in a Burgundy wine village. 7-minute drive (6 km). › Parking by the fishing pond Vincelles Parking ★ 3.8 Free car park by a fishing pond. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Picnic parking by the water Augy Parking ★ 4.3 Discreet riverside car park, 2 flat pitches. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Camping les Ceriselles Campsite ★ 4.2 4-star campsite by the Canal du Nivernais. 36-minute walk. ›

Château de Bazoches

A medieval fortress straight out of a fairy tale, this castle boasts remarkable gardens and richly furnished rooms. Vauban once stayed here to design his plans.

Where to sleep nearby

Vauban parking Bazoches Parking ★ 3.8 At the foot of Vauban’s castle, flat and shaded ground. Easy access, 9-minute walk. › Picnic parking with panoramic view Domecy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 5 Panoramic view of the village, picnic area by the road. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Simple and peaceful parking Domecy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 4.2 Flat and open communal car park, near a church. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Forest entrance parking Domecy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 3.7 Very quiet forest area, preserved natural setting. 47-minute walk. › Mont Sabot chapel parking Neuffontaines Parking ★ 2.8 360-degree panoramic view, picnic table. 6-minute drive (5 km). ›

Vignobles de Chablis

An hour’s drive away, the slopes of Chablis produce some of the world’s most famous white wines. Stop by a domain for a Chardonnay tasting.

Where to sleep nearby

Picnic parking with panoramic view Domecy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 5 Panoramic view of Domecy-sur-Cure, free roadside car park on a quiet road. Easy access in 7 minutes (7 km). › Camping Municipal Campsite ★ 4.5 Campsite by the Cure river, clean facilities and electricity, 24-minute walk. Reasonable prices. › River view parking Pierre-Perthuis Parking ★ 3.5 View of two historic bridges, wild riverside car park. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Camping Municipal de Vézelay et Auberge de Jeunesse Campsite ★ 4.2 Shaded spot near the vineyards, close to Vézelay basilica. 18-minute walk, peaceful atmosphere. › Forest entrance parking Domecy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 3.7 Very quiet forest area, preserved natural setting. One pitch, 7-minute drive (7 km). ›

Grotte d’Arcy-sur-Cure

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this prehistoric cave houses 36,000-year-old cave paintings. A fascinating dive into prehistory.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping De L'Isle St Jean Campsite ★ 4 Shaded campsite by the Cure river, warm welcome. 21-minute walk, spacious pitches. › Quiet parking between river and road Saint-Moré Parking ★ 4.6 Quiet riverside car park, clear water. 35-minute walk, naturally shaded. › Riverside parking Bessy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 4.5 Rustic picnic area, idyllic setting. 43-minute walk, tables and recycling bins. › Grassy riverside parking Arcy-sur-Cure Parking ★ 3 Grassy area near the river, free 24/7. 24-minute walk, under renovation but accessible. › Church parking Voutenay-sur-Cure Parking ★ 3.7 Quiet car park facing the church, river 5 minutes away. 50-minute walk, easy access. ›

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