Charlieu

Outdoor market on Saturday morning. Medieval village.

Benedictine Abbey - Fascinating guided tour in French. Detailed informaion in English. Worth the detour.

Silk museum (Musée de la Soie) Open 2-6pm.

(option: Couvent des Cordeliers - medieval convent)

It is possible to get a reduction for a single entry to all 3 sites.

La Clayette

Magnificent 12th century château. No visits inside the chateau. Car museum next door.

Dufoux chocolatier, chocolate shop (100% hand-crafted chocolate. Classed as a 3-star chocolate maker).

Semur en Brionnais

Classed as one of the prettiest villages in France: Romanesque church and Saint Hugues 9th century castle.

St Julien de Jonzy

Romanesque church. Follow the scenic road down past Mailly to Iguerande.

Iguerande

Roman-style church

Interesting Extras

Marcigny - If you are travelling on a Monday, see the morning market in Marcigny, the biggest and best in the region.

St. Christophe en Brionnais - The biggest Charolais cattle market in France every Thursday morning (starts from 6am, finishes around 8.30am. Then enjoy a "Pot au feu" or "tête de veau" in a local restaurant at 9 am full of local farmers and local red wine. An experience of real France!

Craftsmen & Women - there are many of these. When you see signs for them stop and go in. They are used to and welcome visitors. Not only do many make ideal gifts, but their talents hide traditional arts of provincial France.