Fontenay Abbey
The oldest preserved Cistercian abbey in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site, 10 minutes from Montbard. Kids love the gardens and woodland setting as much as parents love the architecture.
10 min by car — allow about 1.5 hours.
Things to do in Montbard with children
Montbard is a perfect family base for exploring the Auxois: one hour from Paris by TGV, between Fontenay Abbey and the Burgundy canal. Here are our tried-and-tested ideas — from a toy shop that welcomes a lot of families!
Buffon Park and Museum
The park laid out by the naturalist Buffon overlooks Montbard: medieval towers, terraces and shaded paths perfect for running around. The museum tells the story of Montbard's most famous son.
In the town centre, park free to enter.
Buffon's Great Forge
A surprisingly lively 18th-century ironworks: demonstrations and water-powered machinery that fascinate children.
10 min by car, on the canal.
The Burgundy canal by bike or on foot
The towpath is flat, safe and passes through Montbard: ideal for a bike ride or a stroller-friendly walk past the locks.
Start from Montbard's little marina.
Alésia MuseoParc
Relive the siege of Alésia: modern exhibits, reconstructed Roman fortifications and children's activities around Vercingetorix and Caesar.
20 min by car, in Alise-Sainte-Reine.
Semur-en-Auxois, the medieval town
Ramparts, round towers and cobbled lanes: Semur is a life-size knight's tale, with lovely spots for a treat.
20 min by car.
Rainy day? The board-game tea room
At Emmie Sphère, right in the centre of Montbard: over 100 board games to play on site, hot chocolate, homemade pastries — and a toy shop to take your favourite home. Children's workshops on selected days.
8 rue Edme Piot, a 5-minute walk from the station.
