Touring Routes

Autun and the southern Morvan

Click for area map

Dashang Kagyu Ling

What a mixed bag of civilizations this day presents; from Celtic warriors to Roman emperors and on to Buddhist monks.

Unlike most towns in Burgundy, Autun is not sited on a major river. The place has a strong, solid air, brought about by its position at the southern edge of the granite hills of the Morvan Forest and its importance in the past. Here the history of the region unfolds from the Roman domination through to the present day. The Roman amphitheatre, Porte d'Arroux and the Romanesque cathedral should not be missed.

To find out more about how the Gauls were toppled by the Romans, head to St-Léger-sous-Beuvray and the Museum of Celtic Civilization, Bibracte. The museum is a complete surprise - a state-of-the-art building in the forest, the presentation is good and you can visit the archaeological site, with superb views from Mount Beuvray.

As a total contrast to the warring factions, head down to Boulaye and the peace of the Bhutanese temple Dashang Kagyu Ling. This is a world apart. The vibrant reds, gold and turquoise in the decoration bring the forest to life.

North met south with the Celts and the Romans, east meets west with the Buddhists and Christians, here is a melting pot of ideologies to be sure.

PLACES TO STAY

Hotel Les Ursulines *** Autun

Hotellerie La Petite Verrerie *** Le Creusot

Hotel Ibis ** Autun

Logis de France Des Trois Maures ** Couches