Indulge world-Class Wines and Culinary Delights in Burgundy
Burgundy, France:
Your Guide to World-Class Wines, Medieval Towns, and Culinary Delights
A Brief History and Tourist Overview of Burgundy
Burgundy, a region in east-central France, is renowned for its world-class wines, historic cities, medieval architecture, and picturesque countryside. Once a powerful duchy, Burgundy's rich past is evident in its grand châteaux, abbeys, and vineyards. Today, it's a haven for wine lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a taste of authentic French culture.
Reasons to Choose Burgundy for Your Next Vacation
- World-Class Wines: Burgundy is home to some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world, producing renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Take a wine tour, visit cellars, and savor the region's exceptional vintages.
- Medieval Towns:Explore the charming towns of Dijon, Beaune, and Auxerre, with their cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historic monuments.
- Gastronomic Delights: Indulge in Burgundy's culinary traditions, from escargots (snails) and boeuf bourguignon (beef stew) to coq au vin and regional cheeses like Époisses.
- Cycling and Hiking: Discover the scenic countryside by bike or on foot, following the many trails that wind through vineyards, forests, and along canals.
- Cultural Heritage:Visit historic abbeys like Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital with a stunning Hôtel-Dieu.
1. Transportation Options
- Airports: The closest airports to Burgundy are Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).
- Trains: Burgundy is well-connected by train, with high-speed TGV trains linking major cities like Dijon and Beaune to Paris and other destinations in France.
- Buses: A reliable and affordable way to travel between towns and villages not served by trains.
- Car Rental: The best option for exploring the region at your own pace, especially the smaller villages and vineyards.
2. Main Cities, Regions, and Accommodation
-
Dijon: The capital of Burgundy, a vibrant city with a historic center, the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, and a renowned mustard museum.
- Luxury: Grand Hôtel La Cloche Dijon MGallery, Hôtel Vertigo
- Mid-Range: Hotel des Ducs, Holiday Inn Dijon Toison D'Or
- Budget: Hôtel Philippe le Bon, Vertigo Hôtel
-
Beaune: A charming town known for its Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital with a stunning Hôtel-Dieu, and its wine cellars.
- Luxury: Hôtel Le Cep & Spa Marie de Bourgogne, Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa Beaune
- Mid-Range: Hôtel de la Poste, Hôtel Le Home
- Budget: Hôtel Le Cep, Hôtel de France
-
Chablis: A picturesque wine region famous for its Chardonnay wines.
- Luxury: Château de Vault de Lugny, Hostellerie des Clos
- Mid-Range: Hôtel Le Clos, Au Relais Fleuri
- Budget: Hostellerie du Vieux Moulin, La Maison de Chablis
3. Top Tourist Attractions
- Hospices de Beaune: A former hospital with a stunning Hôtel-Dieu, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
- Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy (Dijon): A historic palace complex with a museum showcasing the region's rich past.
- Basilique Notre-Dame de Beaune:A Romanesque basilica with a beautiful tympanum and stained-glass windows.
- Clos de Vougeot:A historic vineyard and former Cistercian abbey, now a wine museum.
- Vézelay Abbey:A UNESCO World Heritage site, a Benedictine abbey with stunning Romanesque architecture.
- Morvan Regional Natural Park: A vast protected area with forests, lakes, and charming villages.
4. Sample Itineraries
- 3 Days: Dijon (2 days) + Day trip to Beaune (1 day)
- 5 Days: Dijon (2 days) + Beaune (1 day) + Wine Route (Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune) (2 days)
- 7 Days: Dijon (2 days) + Beaune (1 day) + Wine Route (2 days) + Auxerre and Chablis (2 days)
- 10 Days: Dijon (2 days) + Beaune (1 day) + Wine Route (2 days) + Auxerre and Chablis (2 days) + Vézelay (1 day) + Morvan Regional Natural Park (2 days)
5. Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October): Pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers in spring, and colorful foliage in autumn.
- Summer (July-August): Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities and wine festivals, but also the busiest time.
6. Holidays in Burgundy
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Easter Monday (March/April)
- Labour Day (May 1)
- Victory in Europe Day (May 8)
- Ascension Day (May/June)
- Whit Monday (May/June)
- Bastille Day (July 14)
- Assumption Day (August 15)
- All Saints' Day (November 1)
- Armistice Day (November 11)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
7. Useful Tips
- Learn a few French phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing some basic French will be appreciated.
- Book wine tastings in advance: Many wineries require reservations, especially during peak season.
- Try the local cuisine: Indulge in escargots, boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin, and regional cheeses.
- Rent a bike: Cycling is a great way to explore the vineyards and countryside.
- Visit the Christmas markets: If you're visiting in winter, don't miss the charming Christmas markets in towns like Dijon and Beaune.
I hope this guide helps you plan a wonderful trip to Burgundy!
SHARE: