Family holiday in the Morvan in autumn
7 days / 20 peopleSome seasons simply make you want to get together. When the forests of Morvan are adorned with gold, when the evenings become cooler and the scent of wood floats in the air, every moment shared takes on a special flavor.
For a week, gather the whole family in a large gîte in the heart of the Morvan. Hiking, gourmet discoveries, foraging, breathtaking panoramas and evenings under a starry sky… so many opportunities to create memories that will last long after autumn.
Reunion
Settle in at Gîtes du Moulin de Poil , a collection of cottages that can be rented privately and can accommodate up to 25 people. With its various accommodations, large fully equipped kitchen, common room and outdoor spaces, everyone will easily find their place.
After settling in, enjoy the estate's amenities: games, billiards, pétanque, or simply an aperitif on the terrace. In the evening, gather around a large table at the Auberge de Poil and savor generous cuisine with seasonal touches. A first evening to rediscover the pleasure of being together.
Conquering castles and panoramas
After a shared breakfast, put on your hiking boots and take on the challenge of the Circuit des Châteaux , starting from Poil. This demanding route crosses the wooded landscapes of the South Morvan and alternates between heritage sites, hills and panoramic views.
In autumn, the beech, oak, and coniferous forests take on vibrant hues. Breaks become opportunities to catch your breath, take a family photo, or compare the most beautiful viewpoints.
Back at the cottages: a pétanque competition, ping-pong tournament, or billiards challenge awaits. Then everyone pitches in to prepare dinner before gathering around the large table.
Getaway to Luzy
Today, we're heading to Luzy for a day spent between nature and heritage.
The more athletic can start with a hike on the Balcons du Morvan while others discover the city's heritage : the Barons' Tower Museum , the Mill Museum , and the Aubusson tapestries.
At lunchtime, take a friendly break at the Bar Resto de l'Église , then fill your baskets with local produce at Local Paysan , organic vegetables from Luzy or meats and charcuterie at NRB Nature & Région.
Back in Poil, the evening returns to its family rhythm: everyone talks about their day over drinks, a shared meal or another game of billiards.
©Jérôme Champagnat
Autumn treasures
Autumn becomes a playground with a family Land Art challenge . In teams, young and old collect leaves, branches, or natural elements to create their ephemeral artwork. Each person has their own theme, their own imagination… and a souvenir photo!
The walk also allows you to observe seasonal treasures : mushrooms, chestnuts, hazelnuts and other natural riches of the Morvan.
If your stay is around October 23rd to 25th, take advantage of the creative retreat offered at Bombyx Laineux in Poil. Wool, knitting, and traditional crafts provide a unique activity to share across generations.
In the afternoon, go for a walk in the company of Vincent's Donkeys . The youngest can ride on their backs while the older ones discover the paths at the pace of these endearing companions.
After this outdoor excursion: back to the cottages. Games, reading or preparing dinner simply extend this day spent between generations.
Between Roche and Mont Beuvray
The most athletic among you can take on a new challenge on the Circuit between Roches and Mont-Beuvray , starting from Larochemillay. A difficult route where the effort is rewarded with magnificent autumnal panoramas of the wooded hills of the Morvan.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, head to Bibracte for a more relaxed exploration of Mont Beuvray. The archaeological site is explored through the forest, and its museum recounts the history of the ancient Gallic capital . In autumn, the changing colors add a special dimension to the visit.
For a discovery suitable for several generations, families can also enjoy the participatory activities offered at Bibracte during the All Saints' holidays, with games, challenges and objects to manipulate to understand the life of the Gauls.
At the end of the day, meet up in Poil to share your discoveries and compare your most beautiful panoramas.
Look up
After several busy days, let everyone enjoy the cottages at their own pace : a walk, games or a moment of rest before a final evening with family.
As night falls, the Morvan reveals another face. The territory benefits from the International Dark Sky Reserve ( IDSR ) label: far from urban lights, the sky unveils a multitude of stars.
Snuggled up in blankets, launch one last family challenge: who will spot the first constellation? A magical way to end the day, with your eyes turned towards the sky.
Take a little bit of the Morvan home with you
Before leaving, take some time for one last breakfast together in the large kitchen or the common room. Conversations linger, the latest photos are shared, and everyone starts talking about upcoming family gatherings.
Make a final stop at the Auberge de Poil grocery store to slip some local products into your luggage and extend the flavors of this Morvan week at home .
It's time to leave again, with albums full of memories and perhaps a few new family challenges to take on at the next reunion.
Because on the Rives du MorvanAutumn offers much more than beautiful landscapes. It creates a setting conducive to reunionsto bursts of laughter and moments that bring generations together. A beautiful way to respond, together, to The Call of Autumn on the Rives du Morvan.
You can bring your own bike from Luzy train station (1 hour) or rent one locally by booking in advance. Listen to the advice of the locals you meet along the way. They will share their love for their region and suggest other routes to discover local attractions and points of interest.