Pont Pinard — Attraction in Montbard

Just imagine my voice sounding like Morgan Freeman... guttural.. as I narrate this: Pont Pinard and Semur-en-Auxois are pure gems, each with its own character but both radiating that timeless French charm. I went on a day trip on the 23rd of July, more of a scouting reconnaissance to see if these spots would be worth showing friends—and the answer is a resounding 100%. Pont Pinard is calm, unspoiled, and has this understated beauty that makes you stop and just take it all in. The roads around it are a dream to drive, and with my MX-5, the whole trip felt like the perfect blend of exploration and pure driving pleasure. Semur-en-Auxois, on the other hand, is like stepping into a medieval painting—narrow streets, warm stone walls, and that picture-perfect bridge framing the town. It wasn’t busy at all, which made wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere even better. There’s something cinematic about driving through those winding roads with the town’s towers in view—it’s the kind of place you instantly know you’ll want to return to, ideally with good company and plenty of time to just sit, sip, and watch the world go by in slow...

The old town of Semur-en-Auxois is very charming. But you also shouldn't miss this picturesque bridge and the city views from down here at the river. Usually you get views from the top.

But in this case the most rewarding town views are from the bottom. Take the nice, but steep stairs down here (the "Escalier du Fourneau"). Endless photo ops with the bridge, the river and the tower all in one shot. But don't stop here.

Keep walking west along the river, you will eventually find a road leading back up. Going along the city walls back into the old town. A very nice - very rewarding - little round trip. Surely not...

This town was a short stop en route. So happy to have stopped here, a lovely little town with a walk down to the...