Location: Semur-en-Auxois, Burgundy, France, Europe (In the heart of Semur, 10 km from TGV, 60 km from Dijon) View Map
Accommodations: House, 2 Bedrooms + Convertible bed(s), 3 Baths (Sleeps 4-6)
Keywords: House, Cottage
Come Experience Burgundy! Immerse yourself in the warmth and charm of this beautiful region of France. Our vacation rental is a two-bedroom, three-bathroom house/cottage in the beautiful Medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, just an hour's train ride from Paris. The house is perfect for a small family or two couples traveling together. It has been recently renovated in a French country style, has spectacular views of the town ramparts, and is located on the north bank of the river Armancon, which winds its way through Semur.
Semur-en-Auxois is simultaneously a modern, thriving community and a friendly, welcoming town steeped in history and culture. The house is located just a few minutes' walk from the center of town, yet its location is also private and tranquil.
The house has two bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms. One bedroom is upstairs, with a stunning view of the ramparts, and one is downstairs at river level, with its own private entrance. The upper bedroom has wood floors, vaulted ceilings, a queen-sized bed, two seating areas, a private bathroom with shower, and a private balcony. The lower bedroom has two twin beds that can be brought together to form a king-sized bed, as well as a private bathroom with a shower. The lower bedroom opens onto the house's patio, giving it the most intimate access to the riverbanks.
Our rental house in Semur is the perfect retreat. Use it as a home base for exploration of the surrounding vineyards, countryside, and historical sights, or just curl up in the salon with a glass of wine and read a book to the sound of the birds and ducks.
We have detailed information and many, many more pictures available at our website (including a virtual tour) -- the link is provided below. Please visit us, and when you make an inquiry, mention that you found us through VRBO. Thank you!
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer : Detergent provided.
- Dryer : Fabric softener provided.
- Linens Provided : Sheets, towels, blankets, pillows, pillow cases -- everything you need, including bathrobes!
- Off Street Parking : Parking for one car guaranteed; contact us if you need more.
- Wood Stove
- Beds
- Queen Bed
- Twin/Single Bed (2) : Two twin beds in the lower bedroom; may be joined to form one king-sized bed.
- Convertible Bed
- Crib : Travel cot/crib provided upon request only, so don't forget to let us know that you need it!
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV : English- and French-speaking channels.
- DVD
- VCR
- Video Library : We have a small library of tapes and DVDs; the DVD player can play DVDs from any region (Europe, North America, Australia, Asia etc.), and also has a USB port for your camera -- view a slideshow after a fun day sightseeing!
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library : The stereo plays mp3-CDs as well as standard; play our CDs or bring your own music (connect your music player via the USB port).
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : Kitchen table seats 4-6. The kitchen includes all major appliances as well as two coffeemakers (press and drip), toaster and blender.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : Full set of saucepans including old-fashioned cast-iron dutch oven. Ample cutlery, dishes and glasses.
- Refrigerator : Full-size fridge with large freezer.
- Dishwasher : Dishwasher tablets provided.
- Microwave
- Outdoor Features
- Charcoal BBQ Grill
- Deck/Patio : Paved patio with outdoor seating is right on the river.
- Balcony : The upper bedroom has a private balcony.
- View/Location
- Waterfront, not Lake/Oceanfront. Ask for details : Direct riverfront with gorgeous views!
- Communications
- Telephone
- Free Long Distance : Don't worry about calling cards -- just pick up the phone and dial!
- Broadband Internet : No extra charge!
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : No extra charge!
- Suitability
- Smoking Not Allowed : Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property, including the terrace, patio or balcony.
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Swimming
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Antiquing
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- Fish from your backyard! Also visit the Roman Ruins at Alesia, Preserved Abbey at Fontenay, site of the filming of 'Chocolat' in Flavigny, the breathtaking convent and church in Vezelay, vineyards as close as 5 km from the house, and of course the church, shops, and museums in Semur itself!
Rate Details (In Euros)
On-Season (May 01-Oct 31 & Christmas, New Year's) .. €1275/wk
Off-Season (Nov 01-Apr 30; excluding holidays) ...... € 950/wk (or € 150/nt)
MULTI-WEEK DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE
Long-term winter rentals are substantially discounted; contact us for details.
Refundable Damage Deposit: €250/wk
Deposit required for Reservation: 25%
On-Season stays must be Saturday - Saturday.
Off-Season stays may begin and end any nt of the wk; 3-nt minimum.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 2001
Why the Owner Chose Semur-en-Auxois
Kathy and Jerry's journey toward purchasing their vacation rental can be summed up in one word: serendipity. They happened to find Semur and fell in love with it immediately; they happened to come across a real estate agent who happened to have a spectacular riverfront house available, and the owners just happened to be home and were willing to give them a tour. Everyone they met was so helpful and kind, and the house was so special, that Kath & Jer knew they had to make a permanent place there for themselves. Soon afterward, they also realized that Semur is such a hidden treasure that they had to share it with others.
The Unique Benefits at this House
There is something magic in the air here. Maybe it's the background soundtrack provided by the birds and the ducks; maybe it's the hourly soft chime of the cathedral or the reflection of the rampart towers in the river; maybe it's the warm, flower-fragrant spring and summer air breezing through the open balcony doors; maybe it's simply the warmth and welcoming nature of the people of Semur. There's something about this house and this place that relaxes the muscles and gently twists the corners of the mouth upward. It's easy to find yourself smiling and sighing happily even though all you've done is sit down in the unique and sunny Salon.
And that's just while you're actually at the house. Semur is in the happy position of being right in the middle of Burgundy wine country: it's almost exactly equidistant from the wine-producing regions of Chablis and Beaune. As for the food, welcome to the heart of gastronomic France, where you can enjoy superb food at a tiny auberge for a few Euros, or a meal of ambrosia at a three-star Michelin restaurant. Add to that historical sites ranging from Roman ruins to chateaux, and Semur is an ideal vacation spot for almost any kind of vacation.
Once the site of a majestic castle that protected the town, the wall and rampart towers still rise into the sky and are remarkably well-preserved. At the base of the rampart nearest our house, stairs curve upwards into town -- a shortcut for pedestrians.
One of the most picturesque cathedrals of any nearby town, the Semur cathedral is stunning, inside and out.
On Sunday mornings, the Semur pedestrian area becomes a farmer's market selling local produce, meats and cheeses. The rest of the week, it is a quaint cobblestoned street lined with restaurants, brasseries and shops. Definitely a must-see in town. The entrance is from the cathedral square on one side, and from the tourist bureau on the other. When you stroll down the street, don't miss the outdoor dining at La Goulue (you can order chocolate fondue!), the gourmet hamburger shop next door (tell the kids it's for them and then try the Epoisses burger for yourself), or Les Semurettes (try chocolates made by the advisor to the film Chocolat -- beware, they're addictive).
Staffed by friendly people who can help you plan a local trip or day hike. Or, you can use the maps provided at the house!
A cute cafe and brasserie just inside the pedestrian area. This is a great place to sit and people-watch, especially when accompanied by a croque monsieur or a bowl of ice cream.
We think this is the best bakery in town, and our neighbors agree. They are closed one day a week, which means you will, alas, have to also try the second-best bakery in town. Or try them all and see if you agree with our rankings!
This bakery is on the main road through the town and also makes great picnic sandwiches. Very friendly owner!
A picturesque medieval stone bridge that crosses the river Armancon. Our house has views of the ramparts in one direction and views of this bridge in the other.
A charming walk along the river from our house takes you to the other much-photographed medieval stone bridge in Semur-en-Auxois. This is one of our favorite evening walks. Have to burn off that creme brulee somehow!
It's not marked on the map, but on this side of the river loop there is another stone stairway that leads from the river up into town, past the ramparts.
In a gorgeous converted convent just a short walk from our house, Maryse offers French-language classes to visitors. We've talked with her and she's happy to welcome our guests for a week-long course!
The cathedral square is home to a bakery, convenience store, pharmacy, and a wonderful butcher's shop.
Two of our favorite restaurants in town, Au Douze and Entr'Acte, are just down the road from the cathedral. Entr'Acte is a casual, bustling restaurant with great pizza and even better steak frites with Epoisses (cheese) sauce. Au Douze is more formal, a mix of new and traditional elegant cuisine, great for date night.
There are photo-worthy views all over Semur, including from our house, but this spot has one of the best panoramic views of the whole town. Photography enthusiasts can't go to Semur without stopping here at dusk to try and capture a shot at the magic hour with the ramparts and cathedral lit up.
There are many walking paths in and around Semur -- including one that takes you to a Roman bath -- but one of our favorites is an after-dinner walk along the river. Staying on our side of the river is a shorter walk because the road dead-ends, or you can cross the Pont des Minimes and walk the whole loop on the other side.
There are several large grocery stores in Semur, but this is a smaller market just off the pedestrian area. A tip from the locals: if you're staying for more than a week, you can stop in here and order artisanal organic wheat bread, a treat which is delivered every Friday.
France has one of the best health-care systems in the world, and Semur has a hospital just a few minutes' drive from the house. Not that we think you'll need it, but it's nice to know it's there. There are also several pharmacies in town.
This is the nearest large grocery store in town, and it also has a gas station and recycling center.
Owner's Map of Semur-en-Auxois
Jerry and Kathy are natives of San Diego who love to travel. Kathy loves it so much that she was a flight attendant for 33 years! In all their travels, they have never found a place with more warmth and old-world charm than the little town of Semur-en-Auxois in Burgundy. The locals have welcomed them, as they do all their guests, to Semur. Kathy and Jerry (and their daughter, Brooke, who manages the rental) will be thrilled to welcome you to their house.
Property Photos
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- Our house along the river Armancon - Experience Burgundy - Burgundy, France Vacation Home
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- The spacious (yet cozy) upper bedroom also has a private balcony - Burgundy, France Vacation Home
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- The plush sofa in the sunny salon converts into a bed for 2 adults - Burgundy, France Vacation Home
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- The kitchen has modern appliances and comfortably seats four (up to 6)
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- Relax on the riverfront private patio and enjoy lunch with a view
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- Semur's ramparts and town wall peek through the trees along the waterfront patio
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- The lower bedroom has ample closet space and an en-suite bathroom with shower
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- Night view from the house of Semur-en-Auxois' ramparts and medieval town wall
Traveler Reviews (9)
Guest: Famocon (reproduced from TripAdvisor)
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Date of Stay: 10/21/10
Review Submitted: 03/09/11
I wrote a review back in October 2010 before I returned to Australia but it did not get processed for some reason. We had no idea what to expect of Semur or the cottage, other than what we had read on the owners' website. This was our third cottage stay in France and I thought the others were good. This cottage is just brilliant, it has great old world charm but with enough modern inclusions to keep us very happy. The owners were very thoughtful, providing us with a large food and wine hamper to get us through the first two days. The cottage is right next to the water, very private and easy to get to from the car parking area. The river view in front of the cottage and nearby is idyllic and there is an easy walk right around the town following the river. There is a friendly local restaurant on the other side of the river just across the stone bridge (2 minute walk) so no problems driving home. The town is amazing. The river wraps around the town which is high on a hill with ancient fortified walls. The old town city is a ten minute walk and is truly amazing. We saw a lot of medieval towns on our trip like Flavigny, Vezelay and Troyers, but for our money Semur had all of the benefits without having to travel far. The shops are quaint (we loved the butchers, great place for pates and rillettes) and the people were very friendly, especially when we temporarily lost the door key. This is a wonderful place to stay to explore the countryside. We loved the animal park, Fontenay Abbey and the Burgundy and Nivernais canals (they can be a bit hard to find and follow but well worth the effort). But by far we were just happy tootling around the countryside with a basket of food and some wine. Finally, the booking process was very easy and the deposit refunded electronically within a day or two, thanks Brooke.
Recommended for:
Guest: eimiller (reproduced from TripAdvisor)
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Date of Stay: 09/27/10
Review Submitted: 03/09/11
When the photos of a place present so beautifully, one wonders if they could possibly really be accurate. "Our" place in Semur more than lived up to our hopes. The house was comfortable and felt like home immediately. The town itself was a dream to meander through. We started the week with cheese, sausage, wine, etc bought at the Sunday farmer's market and got a taste of the true flavor of the French countryside and its relaxed pace. The location was a dream for day tripping; we never strayed more than an hour in any direction. Breakfast and dinner cooked at home were no problem with the high quality food available at the supermarket in town. And the baked goods from the local shops? Tres bon! I would go back to this lovely place in a heartbeat and sit more at the cafes in town and on the house's terrace.
Recommended for:
Really Great House!!
Guest: Lesott
(California, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/15/10
Review Submitted: 04/21/10
My husband and I stayed at this lovely home in mid-April 2010 and we had a wonderful time. The house is amazing... right on the river. The neighbors were very nice and we watched them catch a few fish. The town and people of Semur are terriffic and very welcoming and there is no shortage of things to do here. We have stayed at many homes in the past but were very impressed at the attention to detail. The house was stocked as if we were at home. Especially nice was the welcome food and wonderful bottle of Bordeaux (how did you know??) on the table when we arrived. Both of us especially appreciated Brooke's efforts to answer all of our questions prior to booking, AND after we arrived. We had a situation with a volcano limiting flights out of Europe and Brooke contacted us to offer her home if we needed a place to stay a few days. As it turns out, we did not, but the thought and concern were very much appreciated. All in all, an outstanding time was had at this home and we are currently planning a return trip. My husband can't stop talking about the incredible places to cycle. He's happy, I'm happy... I guess that means we had a great time!! Leslie and Scott California
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Guest: Cathie Kavanagh
(Mudgeeraba Australia)
Date of Stay: 12/13/09
Review Submitted: 12/13/09
What a shame we could only stay 3 days The house -a gem, comfortable, on the river,weeping willows, hungry ducks, cute bridge & views to the town ramparts- picture perfect. Semur en Auxois was delightful-the kind of French town we had imagined.We were a couple travelling with 2 singles but the house could comfortably accomodate 3 couples each with own bathroom. Very well equipped spotlessly clean,loads of character. A perfect choice for us.
Recommended for:
Guest: Jim and Joni M
(-)
Date of Stay: 11/16/09
Review Submitted: 11/16/09
A week at the lovely house in Semur was the perfect way to rediscover ourselves and focus on each other and our shared interests: food, wine, cooking, walking, daytrips, and taking in the stunning countryside. We hadn’t planned to spend so much time at the house, but ended up cooking there every night. We loved the kitchen fireplace, the incredible Boucherie Notre Dame, the boulangerie (shop early as they typically run out of baguettes and chaussons aux pommes by noon!), and the Sunday market (shop early there, too). We can’t comment on the restaurants other than Cafe Mont Drejet where we enjoyed, daily, glasses of good and surprisingly inexpensive Chablis and the most amazing tarte de fromage.Time seemed to stop when we arrived which was a relief given our pace in Paris the week prior. We arrived Saturday night and settled in with wine, sausages, and chocolate – a welcome gift from the owners as we arrived too late to shop for dinner. We lit a fire, relaxed, ate, drank, and smiled. We awoke to the pleasant quacking of ducks and calls of other birds -- a daily wake-up that we miss.Every day we took a short but steep walk up to town center, to shop, look around, and visit Cafe Mont Drejet. At the boucherie, we found and cooked over the course of the week: incredibly fresh and tender rabbit loin, whole duck (quite different from American duck – cooked in an hour!), and a variety of sausages which we grilled. We even bravely tried the house andouliette (tripe sausage) which we poached first then grilled. At the Sunday market, we bought delicious pork loin, a bag full of fresh wild mushrooms, pears, and more. We planned our day trips to Beaune, Chablis, Dijon, and Vezelay, played Scrabble by the fireplace, and enjoyed Epoisses from the Casino Market (imagine buying perfectly ripened cheese from your Seven-11!) with those farmer’s market pears. Just right.One of our favorite discoveries: Several days in a row we walked by an Epicerie just outside the town center and it was always closed. On Thursday, it was open! Outside, a small fresh fish display offered too many temptations. We chose langoustines, which we can’t find in Boston, and giant crevettes (like shrimp) for dinner. The langoustines were unbelievably sweet, like tiny lobsters, but more tender. We cooked the tails for not more than a minute in a little butter and wine reduction. The crevettes were just right as an appetizer with lemon juice, salt, and olive oil.We miss the routine that
Recommended for:
Guest: London addict
(United States)
Date of Stay: 05/29/08
Review Submitted: 05/29/08
what a wonderful location for relaxing, wine tasting, touring. the house is very comfortable, large, welcoming, and well-equipped. our week was perfect with barbecues by the stream, reading on the balcony, cozy breakfast by the wood stove in the kitchen.
Recommended for:
Guest: S.L.
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Date of Stay: 09/08/07
Review Submitted: 09/08/07
Semur, the house and Burgundy made this a wonderful, restful week. The food, wine and scenery were above and beyond expectations. We loved the flowers, cows and vineyards. The trail at Lac du Pont was close and beautiful. One week went by too quickly.
Recommended for:
Guest: L. O.
(-)
Date of Stay: 07/28/07
Review Submitted: 07/28/07
Merci We had a lovely visit with our daughter and 7 month old grandson. We enjoyed the beautiful setting, ducks and walks to the waterfalls, and of course the wine. Sorry we have to leave now.
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #55165
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