Discover La Roche-En-Brenil

La Roche-en-Brenil lies in the northeastern Morvan, a mountain range of medium elevation. Forests cover 46 percent of the municipality. The municipality is also classified within the “Le Haut Plateau Boisé” landscape unit of the Morvan and “l’Auxois des Buttes.” The range of themes extends from striking rock formations and a château with several building phases to local customs and a diving site.

Landscape and Rocks

The Rocher Arthur, a large rock with a seat-like surface, lies along the route. The Pierre de la Beuffenie has a different form: this eleven-meter-long rock formation consists of blocks balanced on top of one another, which together create a cave-like space. These two descriptions give you specific, distinct rock formations to look out for, depending on your interests.

The names Pierre Pelot and Poron Meurger also point to local folklore. Pierre Pelot is a legendary stone in the Brenil forest. Poron Meurger is one of the eight legendary stones in the area around La Roche-en-Brenil. The distinction is important for finding your way: Pierre Pelot is associated with the Brenil forest, while Poron Meurger is associated with the wider surrounding area.

Château and Local Customs

The main building phases of the Château de La Roche-en-Brenil date from the second half of the 16th century and from the 17th and 18th centuries. The château is partially protected as a historic monument. The partially protected complex includes the chapel, the moats, two drawbridges and the entrance portal. This protection status does not apply generally to the entire estate.

An altar made of local stone is known as “la pierre des morts.” The Hôtel de la Gare association is based in the former Café de l’Hôtel de la Gare in La Roche-en-Brenil. Activities and access may change; if you are interested, it is best to ask before visiting.

The “Feux des Bordes” is a traditional custom in La Roche-en-Brenil that takes place after Carnival. La Prise has a different purpose: this traditional local custom honors engaged couples and newlyweds. The two customs therefore offer different points of interest: the timing after Carnival and the honoring of couples.

Food and Activities

The restaurant L’Orée du Morvan in La Roche-en-Brenil gives traditional cuisine a new interpretation. If you are planning a visit, check the opening hours and menu in advance, as both may change.

The “Tour des pierres de légende” is a 10.3-kilometer circular route starting at Place de la Danse. This gives you a specific starting point and a set distance for your planning; check the route details before your trip.

The La Roche-en-Brenil quarry is a diving site in pink granite at the northern entrance to the Morvan Regional Natural Park. It covers 7.5 hectares and is up to 55 meters deep. There are designated areas along the shore for beginners; snorkelers can also use the site. The circular route and the diving site offer different kinds of activities. Check diving conditions with the operator before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Losne, Laignes, Arnay-Le-Duc, Epoisses, Beurthois, Maligny, Montberthault, La Motte-Ternant

For the broader travel overview: Cote-Dor.