Flavigny-sur-Ozerain

A tiny medieval village preserved in time, famous as the filming location for the movie Chocolat and for its production of aniseed candies. The village offers cobbled streets, ancient abbey ruins, and artisanal shops in an exceptionally picturesque setting.

Things to do

• Abbey of Sainte-Croix — Explore the ruins and remaining structures of this 8th-century Benedictine abbey that once dominated the village and now houses a museum of religious artifacts.
• Anis de Flavigny Factory Tour — Visit the historic candy-making facility to see how traditional aniseed candies have been produced since 1591 using centuries-old techniques.
• Chocolat Movie Locations — Walk the cobbled streets and identify filming locations from the 2000 film Chocolat, including the central square and village storefronts.
• Medieval Ramparts Walk — Follow the preserved medieval fortification walls that encircle the village for panoramic views of the Ozerain Valley and surrounding Burgundy countryside.
• Artisanal Shops and Galleries — Browse small workshops and boutiques selling local crafts, pottery, textiles, and candies along the narrow winding streets.
• Church of Sainte-Genest — Visit this 13th-century parish church featuring Gothic architecture and original stained glass windows.

Food to try

• Anis de Flavigny candies — These iconic aniseed-flavored hard candies coated in pastel colors are the village's signature product, sold throughout the abbey gift shop and local vendors.
• Burgundy escargots — Sample Burgundy snails prepared with garlic, parsley, and butter at local restaurants, a regional delicacy that pairs with local Pinot Noir.
• Coq au vin — This classic Burgundian stew of chicken braised in local red wine with pearl onions and mushrooms is served at village inns and small restaurants.
• Crème de cassis desserts — Taste blackcurrant liqueur-based sweets and tarts that showcase this famous Burgundy ingredient in the village's pastry shops.
• Local Pinot Noir and Chardonnay — Sample wines from nearby Burgundy vineyards at village cafés and restaurants, which benefit from the region's limestone-rich terroir.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit in spring or early autumn — Summer crowds can overwhelm the tiny village, while spring wildflowers and autumn colors provide the best experience for appreciating its medieval charm.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes — The village's steep cobbled streets and uneven medieval lanes require sturdy footwear, and most sites are only accessible on foot.
• Abbey museum has limited hours — The Abbey of Sainte-Croix and its museum operate seasonally and with restricted hours, so plan visits accordingly and check ahead during off-season.
• Learn about Chocolat filming history — The village proudly embraces its role as the filming location for the Johnny Depp film, and locals enjoy discussing which buildings and streets were featured.