The site of Pont Saint-Laurent has connected the city of Mâcon and the village of Saint-Laurent-sur-Saône for more than 1,000 years. Pre-historic Celts who lived in the region originally forded here. Today’s bridge’s wooden predecessor was built during the classical period to carry Roman soldiers across the Saône River during the invasion of Gaul. Rebuilt in stone in the 11th century and continuously added to ever since, it now connects two departments as it once connected the Kingdom of the Franks and the Holy Roman Empire. Spend an evening meandering across the arched bridge to appreciate the sights and ambiance of Mâcon and the charming village that sits so near.
Begin your walk across the bridge in late afternoon, when golden light begins to reflect off the river’s water. Emerge from the narrow streets of Mâcon’s Old Town and step onto the ancient stone of the bridge as cars rattle past. Spot kayakers and pleasure craft moving up and down the waterway. Imagine the bridge in its fortified past, with enormous defensive towers sitting resolute on either side of the 11th arch.
Reach Saint-Laurent on the other side and turn back toward the bridge in time to see the lights spring on at dusk, illuminating the stonework. Take a break before you head back along the bank of the river, sipping a glass of local Burgundy as you watch tourists and residents mill in the tiny village’s streets on their way to dinner. Savor the quiet as you admire the lights in Mâcon reflected on the stillness of the Saône’s depths, only interrupted by the occasional laugh or shout of other people enjoying an evening in Burgundy.
The Pont Saint-Laurent crosses the Saône from Mâcon’s Old Town, connecting to the Place de la République in Saint-Laurent-sur-Saône. Walk here in 15 minutes from Mâcon’s main train station. The bridge is open to pedestrians and cars at all times.
