XNZT4T4T08904JEH8TB is a commune in the department of Saône-et-Loire, in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, a few kilometers northwest of Chalon-sur-Saône which it is bordering.
Its territory of 7 km² is crossed by the course of the Thalie, a sub-tributary of the Saône, and another stream initiated the development of two ponds and a leisure area to the west of the locality.
This, also served by the A6 motorway (the Chalon Nord interchange is located there) and the old RN 6, has retained a green environment, covered with arable land (29% of its surface area), forests (20%) but also meadows (20%).
The town, to the east of the commune, now has nearly 2,600 inhabitants, due to the creation of residential areas linked to the proximity of Chalon.
The heritage and leisure offerings, due in particular to the aerodrome whose runways are located to the north of the locality, make Champforgeuil a center of interest during a stay in the region.
In terms of heritage, two notable sites can be mentioned in the town.
First of all, the castle of Champforgeuil, near the church. Mentioned from the 13th century as a possession of the bishops of Chalon (which it remained until the Revolution), it was composed in 1598, according to an inventory drawn up at that date, of a keep, five towers and several buildings. It was then the victim of pillage during the wars of the League, when the Catholic party contested the legitimacy of the King of France.
Today, after several successive owners in the 19th and 20th centuries, there remains a porch tower to which is attached a more recent circular tower and a large rectangular building. Rearrangements took place in the 19th century. The domain, always private, is occasionally open to the public (exteriors only).
The parish church is also worth a look. We note that the choir has retained its original Gothic appearance but the nave, on the other hand, was rebuilt and enlarged in 1818-1820, according to the plans of the Chalonnais architect Violet.
On the cultural side, events (meetings, readings, conferences) are regularly scheduled at the library: information on +33 6 59 58 24 32.
In addition, shows and associative events are hosted at the Pierre Châtelet room: contact at the town hall on +33 3 85 97 19 29.
As far as "nature" leisure activities and sports are concerned, the Canal du Center which partly runs along the course of the Thalie, in the east of the territory, is bordered by a greenway open to walkers and two-wheelers linking the neighboring towns of Chalon to Santenay.
It is also possible to enjoy the castle park and the paths connecting the two ponds, to the west of the town. A 1350 m fitness trail has been set up, and a wooded area is accessible to the public. For fishermen, the practice is authorized but a card must be collected from the town hall (contact +33 3 85 97 19 29).
For hikers, a marked circuit links the main sites of the locality (castle park, town center, playgrounds, etc.). Secure loops are also available to reach Chalon and the banks of the Saône. Maps and information from the town's tourist office on +33 3 85 48 37 97.
Other types of leisure sites are located, linked to the aerodrome or the activity zone adjoining the motorway interchange.
The airfield itself was developed in 1935 and today it includes two runways of 1440 and 850 m, the first being covered. Traffic there is dedicated to business flights and medical and military flights. Find out more at +33 3 85 46 14 48. The Grand Chalon flying club is also based on the platform, which has a flying school and offers discovery flights in the region or first flights (contact +33 3 85 41 82 64 or +33 6 30 92 21 58) as well as a skydiving club (contact +33 3 85 43 40 87 or +33 6 09 40 25 81).
Nearby, the "Sky Circus" is a "sports wind tunnel" club which offers baptisms, initiation sessions and free fall practice "in door". A simulator creates an artificial wind which recreates the sensations of skydiving! Information on +33 6 81 65 11 47.
In another register, a karting club welcomes young and old alike wishing to have a pleasant time with thrills or to take a driving course. Contact on +33 6 11 40 16 79.
As for the "Concept Ball" center, it offers the practice of futsal, padel, badminton but also archery or field hockey under a huge covered area and on suitable coverings. Inquire at +33 3 85 92 94 41.
