Fontaine de la Peute Bête – A Hidden Jewel in Selongey, Bourgogne
Discover the charm of a centuries‑old fountain tucked away in the heart of Burgundy’s tranquil countryside.
Introduction
If you think the iconic châteaux of Bourgogne are the only reasons to visit this legendary French region, think again. Nestled in the modest yet picturesque town of Selongey, the Fontaine de la Peute Bête (sometimes referenced as Fontaine du 18ᵉ siècle on the place publique) offers travelers a quiet moment of history, architecture, and local life. Whether you’re a fountain enthusiast, a lover of French heritage, or simply seeking a photogenic spot off the beaten path, this stone‑crowned water feature is worth a detour on your Burgundy itinerary.
About Fontaine de la Peute Bête
Description
The Fontaine de la Peute Bête is a stone fountain situated on Selongey’s main square. While the exact height and altitude of the structure remain undocumented, its presence is unmistakable: a sturdy stone basin crowned by a modest ornamental spout that has been drawing water—and visitors—since the 18ᵗʰ century. The fountain’s name, which translates loosely to “the beast’s pot,” hints at a local legend that has been whispered through generations, adding a layer of folklore to its stone façade.
History & Significance
Built during the 1800s, the fountain originally served as a communal water source for townspeople, livestock, and merchants. Its location on the public square made it a natural gathering point, where news was exchanged and celebrations were announced. Over time, as modern plumbing replaced many public wells, the Fontaine de la Peute Bête transitioned from a utilitarian fixture to a heritage landmark. Today, it stands as a tangible reminder of Selongey’s rural past and the importance of water in shaping French village life.
The fountain is listed on the French Wikipedia page for Fontaine du 18ᵉ siècle située sur la place publique (see the source here). Though modest in scale, its stonework reflects the regional craftsmanship of the era, characterized by simple lines, durable limestone, and subtle decorative motifs.
How to Get There
By Car
- From Dijon (the regional capital): Take the A31 motorway north toward Montbard, then exit onto the D905 toward Selongey. The drive is roughly 45 km and takes about 45 minutes.
- Parking: Selongey offers free street parking around the town centre. Look for the blue “P” signs near the square; the fountain is just a short walk from most spots.
By Train
- Selongey‑Bourgogne station lies on the regional TER line that connects Dijon, Montbard, and Châtillon-sur-Seine. Trains run roughly hourly during peak times.
- From the station, the fountain is a 5‑minute walk: head east on Rue de la République, then turn left onto Place de la Fontaine where the Fontaine de la Peute Bête greets you.
By Bus
- The Bourgogne Bus network (line 12) links Selongey with nearby towns such as Saint-Jean-de-Losne and Montbard. The bus stop is located a couple of blocks from the square.
GPS Coordinates
- Latitude: 47.740769
- Longitude: 5.184066
Plug these into your navigation app for precise directions.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Why Visit | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–June) | Blooming gardens and mild temperatures make the town square especially photogenic. | Bring a light jacket; the fountain’s stone can be cool in the early morning. |
| Summer (July–August) | Long daylight hours allow for leisurely exploration of Selongey’s cafés after admiring the fountain. | Arrive early to avoid the midday heat; carry water. |
| Autumn (September–October) | Golden foliage frames the fountain, creating a romantic backdrop. | Perfect for sunset shots; the surrounding market may still be open. |
| Winter (November–March) | Fewer tourists, giving you an intimate experience of the historic square. | The fountain may be frosted—great for dramatic photos; dress warmly. |
Overall, late spring to early autumn offers the most comfortable weather for strolling around the square and exploring nearby attractions.
What to Expect
When you step onto Selongey’s central square, the Fontaine de la Peute Bête immediately draws the eye. Its stone basin reflects the sky, while the gentle trickle of water creates a soothing soundtrack that contrasts with the occasional chatter of locals.
- Atmosphere: A relaxed, small‑town vibe. Residents often sit on nearby benches, sipping coffee or reading the daily paper.
- Photographic Opportunities: Capture the fountain from low angles to emphasize its stone texture, or frame it with the surrounding historic façades for a classic French village shot.
- Cultural Touch: If you’re lucky, you may hear a local storyteller recount the legend behind the “beast” name—an anecdote that adds personality to the site.
Because the fountain is a public space, it’s open year‑round, free of charge, and accessible to all visitors.
Nearby Attractions
While the Fontaine de la Peute Bête is the star of the square, Selongey’s surroundings offer several natural and historic points of interest within a short drive:
| Attraction | Distance | Type | Quick Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Fountain (same square) | 0 km | Fountain | — |
| Spring near Selongey | 2.2 km | Spring | — |
| Spring in Champagne‑Ardenne | 2.8 km | Spring | — |
| Another local spring | 4.2 km | Spring | — |
| Source de L'Aube | 5.0 km | Spring | — |
Tip: Combine a visit to the Fontaine de la Peute Bête with a short scenic walk or bike ride to any of these springs. The gentle countryside routes are perfect for photography, picnics, and spotting local wildlife.
Travel Tips
- Bring a reusable water bottle. Although the fountain is decorative, you can refill your bottle at nearby cafés that welcome tourists.
- Dress comfortably. Cobblestone streets can be uneven; sturdy shoes are advisable.
- Check local market days. Selongey hosts a weekly market (typically on Saturdays) near the square—great for tasting regional cheese, charcuterie, and fresh produce.
- Respect the heritage. Avoid climbing on the stone basin and keep litter to a minimum to preserve the site for future visitors.
- Capture the sunrise. The square faces east, offering a golden glow on the fountain during early morning hours—ideal for photographers.
- Use French greetings. A simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” goes a long way with locals and may earn you a friendly chat about the fountain’s history.
- Plan for connectivity. Mobile coverage is generally good in Selongey, but downloading offline maps (using the GPS coordinates above) ensures you won’t get lost on rural roads.
Final Thoughts
The Fontaine de la Peute Bête may not appear on every travel brochure, but its quiet charm embodies the essence of Burgundy’s lesser‑known treasures. From its 18ᵗʰ‑century stonework to the gentle murmur of water, the fountain invites you to pause, reflect, and soak in the authentic rhythm of Selongey life. Pair it with a stroll through nearby springs, a bite of local cuisine, and you’ve crafted a day‑long adventure that captures the soul of French provincial travel.
Pack your camera, chart your route, and let the hidden fountain of Selongey become a highlight of your Bourgogne journey. Bon voyage!