Noyers-sur-Serein

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This is the most picturesque town in northern Burgundy. Pass by the geranium-clad lavoir, over the river Serein to the medieval gateway and there are cameo shots at every turn.

Inside the town walls there are half-timbered-houses, pigeonniers, pretty squares and arches dating from the 13th to 19th centuries. As the tourist information says: 'in Noyers, every stone is steeped in history: the church, chapels, cobbled streets and squares, the half-timbered houses, nestling in a loop of the river Serein and surrounded by a rich green landscape'. Around the town you will often see groups of artists practising their skills and there is a pleasant river walk, passing the old defence towers of the town. From April onwards the town comes alive and you can enjoy a coffee or lunch as you watch the world go by. There is a growing group of artists and craftsmen in the village, all worth checking out.


At La Porte Peinte Centre Pour Les Arts at 8 Rue de la Porte Peinte, Hiro Ota and Michelle Anderson Binczak have set up an ambitious project in a very tastefully converted old building (left). This art gallery has changing exhibitions, and a residency programme with atelier spaces, workshop spaces and event spaces along with residency accommodation for artists, makers, musicians and writers. 'Our aim', says Michelle, ' is to offer opportunities for creative exploration, work, and exchange in an inspiring environment.' She is bringing in exhibits from all over the world, there are nooks and crannies in the gallery full of surprises, altogether a refreshing experience.


Facing the market square is La Maison des Sangliers where two potters Claire and Andy Squire
(below) have a charming workshop with plenty to tempt the wallet. Inspired by medieval, Moorish art and the Arts and Crafts Movement, traditional design has been updated and contemporary design encompassed. Wander round to their workshop which is both colourful and eclectic, recently featured in Interiors Magazine.

Leather designers Yazmhil and Brice Corman cannot make enough of their handbags to meet the demand. And if jewellery is your thing, next door on Place de l'Hotel de Ville pop into the silvermith.

A full calendar of concerts takes place in July. More details on www.musicalesdenoyers.com

burgundy holiday homes in Noyers

Cottage, sleeps 6, ref: 91334d
Large house, sleeps 23, ref: 617202a
Medieval house, sleeps 1-30, ref: 601829a

bed and breakfast

Carpe Diem bed and breakfast

Places to visit nearby

• Château d'Ancy-le-Franc
• Chablis
• Montréal, medieval village

See Touring Routes

Pam Elson ©burgundytoday.com