Visit the Vallée des Vaux and the surrounding area

In the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise, the Vallée des Vaux centres on its three iconic villages: Saint-Jean-de-Vaux, Saint-Mard-de-Vaux and Saint-Denis-de-Vaux. Nestled amongst hills, vineyards and cliffs, this area offers an exceptional natural setting for lovers of walking, trail running and rock climbing.

Surrounding these villages, the towns of Barizey, Jambles, Mellecey, Saint-Désert, Saint-Martin-sous-Montaigu round off the experience with their remarkable heritage, breathtaking views and the outdoor activities they offer, providing an authentic immersion in the heart of the Grand Chalon region.

Must-see attractions in the Vallée des Vaux

and the surrounding area

Germolles CastleResidence of the Dukes of Burgundy

In Mellecey, the Château de Germolles is one of the finest examples of ducal heritage in Burgundy. Once the residence of Margaret of Flanders and Philip the Bold, it immerses visitors in the history of the Dukes of Burgundy through its interiors, gardens and timeless atmosphere.

The Church of BarizeyThe Sentinel of Les Vaux

In the heart of the village, the Church of Saint John the Evangelist in Barizey is a true gem of the Vallée des Vaux. Built by Émiland Gauthey, it stands out for its Greek cross plan – a rarity in rural areas – and for its peaceful setting amongst vineyards, woods and the river.

The municipal campsite at Saint-Jean-de-VauxThe beating heart of the summer’s festivities

In Saint-Jean-de-Vaux, the municipal campsite offers the perfect break to make the most of the valley. In summer, enjoy a warm and authentic atmosphere with a refreshing dip in the swimming pool before an evening of fine dining and dancing at the open-air café. Memories guaranteed!

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Mellecey Chateau Germolles Ducs De Bourgogne
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Jérôme MARCHE

The Vaux Valley

A natural gem of the Côte Chalonnaise

In the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise, the Vallée des Vaux stands out as a must-visit destination for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. The villages of Saint-Jean-de-Vaux, Saint-Mard-de-Vaux and Saint-Denis-de-Vaux form its heart, nestled amidst a landscape of hills, vineyards and cliffs.

The area is characterised by a distinctive landscape, where hiking, trail running, rock climbing and nature walks provide the perfect backdrop for exploration. The paths wind their way through hillsides, forests and remarkable viewpoints, offering a unique setting in which to discover the Côte Chalonnaise in a different light.

Surrounding these three iconic villages, the towns of Barizey, Jambles, Mellecey, Saint-Désert and Saint-Martin-sous-Montaigu round off the experience of nature and heritage.

With its unspoilt natural environment, rolling landscapes and the Burgundian way of life never far away, the Vallée des Vaux offers an authentic immersion in the heart of the Grand Chalon region.

Discover the village on video!

A remarkable natural site designated as a Natura 2000 site

Just a few kilometres from Chalon-sur-Saône, the Vallée des Vaux reveals gentle and varied landscapes: hills, vineyards, forests and meadows. Part of this area is designated as a Natura 2000 site, reflecting the richness of its biodiversity and the quality of its natural habitats.

Must-see attractions in Les Vaux

For a sporting experience

With its undulating trails, cliffs and stunning views, the Vallée des Vaux offers a vast natural playground for lovers of trail running, hiking and climbing. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a day out in nature, the area provides the perfect setting to push yourself and get away from it all.

Climbing in Saint-Denis-de-VauxThe cliff in the heart of the vineyard

The Saint-Denis-de-Vaux climbing site is a popular spot amongst climbers, with around 30 routes ranging from 4a to 6c. Set amongst the trees, it offers a pleasant climbing experience even in summer, with a lovely cool atmosphere at the foot of the routes and a remarkable view over the Vallée des Vaux.

The trail in the heart of the Vallée des VauxDiscovering the viewpoints of the Côte Chalonnaise

With its rolling hills, vineyards and woodland trails, Saint-Désert is the ideal starting point for trail running and cross-country enthusiasts. The trails of the Espace Trail Côte Chalonnaise offer a different way to explore the area, taking in the ascents, descents and stunning views over the valley and the vineyards.

The villages around the Vallée des Vaux

Between nature and heritage

Around Saint-Jean-de-Vaux, Saint-Mard-de-Vaux and Saint-Denis-de-Vaux, several villages round off a tour of the valley, offering a blend of heritage, vineyards and rolling countryside. Each has its own unique atmosphere, combining history, nature and the Burgundian way of life.

Heritage and villages of character

From Barizey to Mellecey, via Saint-Désert, these villages reveal a remarkable heritage in the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise.

In Barizey, the Church of Saint John the Evangelist, built by Émiland Gauthey, is a true architectural gem. In Mellecey, the prestigious Château de Germolles, the former residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, offers a glimpse into the region’s history. Further north, Saint-Désert marks the transition between the valley and the hillsides, in a setting that blends rural heritage with vineyard landscapes.

Nature, vineyards and viewpoints

The villages of Jambles and Saint-Martin-sous-Montaigu extend the nature experience.

In Jambles, the paths winding through the vineyards offer beautiful views of the Côte Chalonnaise, which are particularly popular with walkers and trail runners. The latter will especially appreciate the 360° view from the summit of Mont-Avril.
In Saint-Martin-sous-Montaigu, the rolling countryside and the nearby hiking trails invite you to explore the valley in a different way, getting up close to the landscapes that make this area so unique.

All offers in the region

with just one click!

What to do? Where to stay? Where to eat?All offers in the Vallée des Vaux and the surrounding area

Accommodation, restaurants, activities and cultural heritage – find all the offerings from the three villages of the Vallée des Vaux (Saint-Jean-de-Vaux, Saint-Mard-de-Vaux and Saint-Denis-de-Vaux), as well as those from the surrounding villages: Barizey, Jambles, Mellecey, Saint-Désert and Saint-Martin-sous-Montaigu.

Where to go hikingin the Vallée des Vaux and the surrounding area?

Set off to explore the footpaths of the Vallée des Vaux, amongst cliffs, vineyard-covered hillsides, woodland and stunning views of the Côte Chalonnaise. Discover all our suggestions for hikes and walks starting from the villages, so you can explore these unique landscapes at your own pace.