The local history of Bessenay includes the old Église Saint Irénée. It is of medieval origin and was first mentioned around 1645 as Notre-Dame de Bessenay.
Anyone wishing to rent a holiday apartment in Bessenay can find information here about the Chapelle de Ripan and the Circuit de Bernay.
Culture and History
The Chapelle de Ripan stands on a rocky promontory and is dedicated to Notre-Dame du Prompt Secours. Its construction began in 1872, and it was blessed on 12 October 1873.
Bessenay has three heritage walking trails under the title “Puits et croix”. QR code signs describe the crosses. The wells are located on private property and can be viewed from the path or the road.
The Croix de Jainon is described as the oldest cross in Bessenay. It has been impressively restored; a QR code enables the translation of the engraved texts.
Paths and Circular Walks
Bessenay has hiking trails available in printed form at the town hall and at the Office de Tourisme des Monts du Lyonnais.
The “Circuit Chapelle de Ripan” is a signposted circular route of 4.3 km with 79 metres of ascent and a stated duration of 85 minutes. It is open daily year-round and freely accessible.
The pet cemetery at 62 chemin de Ripan can be included as a stop on a hike in Bessenay. The “Circuit de Bernay” is a 7-km cultural trail with a stated visiting time of two hours.
The “Randonnée découverte du patrimoine Bessenois” is an accompanied 3-km cultural trail through Bessenay that leads to several attractions.
Another offering is “Les Gnolus – Oh, cherry chérie”, a free geocaching experience in Bessenay in which participants follow Bolono and discover the history of the place.
Landscape and Views
The Chapelle de Ripan is considered a particularly suitable place for viewing the panorama due to its geographical location. There is a picnic area and a landscape information board at the chapel.
The hamlets of La Brévenne and La Combe in Bessenay offer particularly panoramic landscape and viewing experiences.
Local Specialities from Bessenay
Fruit and vegetable producers in Bessenay sell their products directly from the farm, at markets and in farm shops or producers’ shops.
