Charbonnat: Hiking, the Arroux and History

When looking for hotels in Charbonnat, you can assess the destination based on specific interests: the Circuit de Charbonnat is an 18.2-kilometre hiking route rated “very difficult.” Other attractions include the Arroux, a medieval Romanesque church and natural areas associated with the river. When choosing a destination, you can decide whether hiking, riverside scenery or history is your priority.

Hiking the Circuit de Charbonnat

The Circuit de Charbonnat is 18.2 kilometres long and rated “very difficult.” The route starts at the Salle des Fêtes de Charbonnat. It passes the Étang de Chevannes and then heads towards Plaige. Distance and difficulty are two separate points to consider together when planning your hike. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Based in Charbonnat, Guides en Morvan offers guided hikes and guided tours of attractions in the Morvan and Grand Autunois Morvan. This gives you a choice of guided activities in both of these areas, in addition to a specifically described hiking route.

The Arroux, natural areas and fishing

The Arroux flows through Charbonnat. Charbonnat is part of the Type 2 ZNIEFF “L’Arroux d’Autun à Digoin”; within this area is the Type 1 area “Vallée de l’Arroux à St-Nizier et bocage de Charbonnat.” The Arroux alluvial valley from Autun to Digoin is of regional importance because of its alluvial habitats and rich flora and fauna.

Fishing information applies to the Laisy–Charbonnat section of the Arroux. Fishing with dead bait fish and dry-fly and wet-fly fishing are considered the most productive methods there. Fish in this section are reported to average 30 to 40 centimetres in size. When planning to fish the Laisy–Charbonnat section, you can use the listed methods and the average fish size of 30 to 40 centimetres as a guide. Check the applicable regulations before fishing.

Church and history

Charbonnat is home to a medieval Romanesque church dedicated to Saint Marcel. The written history of the village also goes back a long way: Charbonnat has been known since the 10th century; Carbonacum is mentioned in 924 in a charter of the Abbey of Saint-Martin d’Autun.

The former ferry is also part of the history of the Arroux. The bridge over the river was built in 1876, after the ferry had been discontinued.

Picnicking in Charbonnat

For a break outdoors, Charbonnat has the “En bord de rivière” picnic area, with natural shade, parking, tables and benches. It can be reached via the path beneath the bridge.

Discover more destinations: Baudrières, Saint-Jean-De-Vaux, Verzé, Plottes, Igornay, Saint-Léger-Sous-La-Bussière, Montagny-Sur-Grosne, Bussières.

See the broader travel overview: Saône-Et-Loire.