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Things to do in Beaune

• Cycling Through Burgundy Vineyards

  
  

  Cycling through the vineyards surrounding Beaune offers a peaceful and scenic way to experience Burgundy’s wine country. The landscape shifts beautifully with the seasons, from the fresh greens of spring to the deep hues of autumn. Several clearly marked cycling routes lead through notable villages such as Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault. The terrain is mostly gentle, making it accessible even for casual riders. Along the way, small wineries welcome visitors with tastings often poured by the owners themselves, creating a personal and relaxed atmosphere that differs from more commercial tours.

  Bike rental shops in Beaune typically provide route maps and may offer picnic options, making it easy to enjoy lunch among the vines. The quiet country roads are well-suited to a leisurely pace, allowing time to notice the details of the surroundings. Stone walls, old wine presses, and roadside shrines give character to the journey and reflect the region’s long winemaking history. This slower approach offers an intimate connection to the landscape and the tradition behind Burgundy’s celebrated wines.

  
  

• Burgundy Wine Journey: Tasting at Historic Château de Pommard

  
  

  A wine tasting session at Château de Pommard offers a meaningful introduction to the essence of Burgundy wines. Set within a historic estate in a UNESCO-listed wine region, the one-hour experience includes a guided tasting of four wines from the Château de Pommard and Famille Carabello-Baum collections. Alongside the tasting, the hosts provide clear explanations about Burgundy’s five subregions and the unique terroir of the renowned Clos Marey-Monge vineyard.

  This experience is thoughtfully designed for both novices and seasoned wine enthusiasts. The guides make wine education approachable, helping guests understand how soil, climate, and regional tradition shape each wine’s character. Although the historic cellars are currently under renovation, the quality of the wines and the setting, including access to the château’s French gardens, offer a rewarding alternative. With small group sizes limited to eight, the format allows for a more personal interaction with the guide and the wines.

  Guests often highlight the warmth and expertise of the guides, who are praised for their engaging and informative style. While the visit does not include a full tour of the working wine cellars, it remains a focused and enriching experience. Visitors leave with a clearer understanding of Burgundy’s wine classifications, aging potential, and the influence of terroir, making it an ideal stop for anyone interested in deepening their appreciation of French wine culture.

  
  
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• Burgundy Wine & Bike Adventure: Cycling Through Vineyards

  
  

  Cycling through the gentle hills of Côte de Beaune offers a full-day journey through Burgundy’s wine country. The 24-kilometer route takes you past vineyards, quiet villages, and a striking 13th-century castle. Designed to be mostly flat or downhill, the ride is manageable even for those with little cycling experience. An e-bike option is available for those who prefer to conserve energy for wine tastings. The pace is relaxed, allowing time to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

  The tour includes several winery visits where you can sample some of Burgundy’s finest wines, including the Grand Cru of Puligny-Montrachet. A guide provides clear explanations of local grape varieties, vineyard classifications, and the importance of terroir. A highlight of the day is the lunch break at a traditional countryside restaurant, where a well-prepared Burgundian meal is served with local wines. This mix of physical activity and regional cuisine adds depth to the experience.

  Riding through the vineyards gives a strong sense of connection to the land. Instead of viewing the countryside from a vehicle, you are immersed in it, surrounded by the sounds, scents, and textures of the wine region. The guides, who are local experts, share stories that deepen your understanding of Burgundy’s wine heritage. By the end of the tour, you not only enjoy the wines but also gain a greater appreciation for the environment and culture that shape them.

  
  
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• Biking Through Burgundy: Winery Adventure in Beaune

  
  

  This guided bike tour through the Côte de Beaune offers a refreshing combination of light exercise and wine discovery. Beginning in Beaune, the route follows gentle, mostly flat roads through the heart of Burgundy's renowned wine region. As you cycle past vineyards and through picturesque villages such as Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault, your guide provides insight into the local terroir, grape varieties, and what sets Burgundy wines apart. One of the highlights includes a stop in the vineyard for an introduction to wine tasting right where the grapes are grown.

  The journey continues with a visit to a local winery where a producer offers a guided tasting of at least five different wines. This part of the tour gives you a deeper appreciation of the region’s wine-making traditions and the flavors that define it. With the total experience lasting about three hours, the pace remains relaxed and enjoyable, making it suitable for casual cyclists. All equipment is provided, including bikes, helmets, and water, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

  Riding back to Beaune is pleasantly easy, as the return is mostly downhill. This tour allows you to connect with the landscape at your own pace, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and absorb the character of each village along the way. It offers a more immersive perspective than driving, allowing you to truly experience the rhythm and charm of Burgundy’s wine country.

  
  
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• Wine Tasting in the Hospices de Beaune

  
  
  
  
  

  The Hospices de Beaune is both a striking historical monument and a celebrated destination for Burgundy wine tasting. Housed in a 15th-century former hospital known for its colorful patterned roof, the site offers an engaging introduction to the region’s winemaking heritage. Visitors can explore cool, vaulted cellars lined with oak barrels and sample a range of wines, including crisp whites and rich reds. Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides explain the influence of local grape varieties and terroirs, as well as the legacy of the annual charity wine auction that dates back centuries.

  What makes the experience memorable is the combination of wine education and architectural beauty. Even those new to wine will find the tastings accessible and enjoyable, made richer by the historical surroundings. The Gothic features of the building, once used as a hospital for the poor, provide a meaningful backdrop to the tasting, creating a connection between tradition, culture, and the wines of Burgundy.

  
  

• Exploring the Historic Ramparts

  
  

  Walking along the ancient ramparts of Beaune offers a quiet glimpse into the town's medieval past. These 15th-century defensive walls still encircle much of the town and provide a unique perspective over both the rooftops and the surrounding countryside. Several sections remain open for pedestrians, allowing visitors to stroll atop the walls and view original towers and gates once used to protect the town. One of the most scenic spots is near the Belfry, where you can climb higher for a wider panorama and admire the contrast between old stonework and the nearby manicured gardens.

  The full loop covers about 2.5 kilometers and can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace in roughly an hour. It is a peaceful and free activity that lets you explore Beaune at your own rhythm. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photographs, with the warm tones of the stone walls enhanced by the soft sun. While the walk is not demanding, a few uneven surfaces make it helpful to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, especially if you plan to linger and take in the views.

  
  

• Exploring the Beaune Underground Cellars

  
  

  Beneath the streets of Beaune lies a vast network of underground cellars that house millions of aging wine bottles and reflect centuries of winemaking tradition. One of the most notable sites is Patriarche Père & Fils, whose cellars stretch nearly five kilometers and hold over three million bottles. As you descend the stone stairs, the environment changes noticeably, with cooler air and the distinct aroma of oak barrels and maturing wine. The dim corridors are lined with dust-covered bottles, some decades old, creating a sense of quiet reverence. Guides explain how the stable conditions make these cellars ideal for aging and share stories of how they once safeguarded wines during wartime.

  The experience concludes with a tasting session, often held within the same underground chambers. At Patriarche, visitors are given a tastevin to sample up to thirteen wines, adding an interactive element to the visit. Tasting wines in the same place where they have quietly aged adds depth to the experience and a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. Even those familiar with wine tastings will find the setting and history of these cellars to offer a distinctly memorable perspective on Burgundy's wine heritage.

  
  

• Mustard Tasting at La Moutarderie Fallot

  
  

  La Moutarderie Fallot offers a unique look into the tradition of mustard making in Burgundy. As one of the last remaining family-run mustard mills in the region, it has been producing mustard since 1840. The tour guides visitors through the full production process, combining historical techniques with modern equipment. Along the way, you can see traditional grinding stones and learn about how mustard seeds are selected, crushed, and blended into various recipes.

  A highlight of the visit is the tasting room, where dozens of mustard varieties are available for sampling. From traditional Dijon to flavors like blackcurrant, tarragon, and honey, the range is both surprising and flavorful. Guides explain proper tasting techniques and suggest ways to incorporate different mustards into everyday cooking. The experience ends in the factory shop, which features beautifully packaged jars ideal for gifts or personal use. Even for those unfamiliar with the nuances of mustard, the visit leaves a lasting impression and adds variety to the wine-centered activities in Beaune.

  
  

Where to stay in Beaune

Best hotels in Beaune:

• Hôtel de France (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Hôtel de France in Beaune is a welcoming spot conveniently located next to the train station. The rooms are modern and comfortable, equipped with thoughtful amenities like tea and coffee makers. Guests frequently mention the staff's warm and accommodating service, always ready to assist with recommendations or any needs during your stay.

  The hotel features a relaxed bar area, perfect for unwinding with a drink after a day of exploring. In the mornings, a delicious breakfast buffet is served to help guests start the day. It's within easy walking distance of the Hospices de Beaune and other attractions in the historic town center, making it a convenient choice for visitors interested in discovering Beaune and the surrounding wine region.

  
  

• Hôtel Le Cep (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Hôtel Le Cep offers a delightful experience in the historic center of Beaune, set within beautifully preserved buildings dating from the 14th to 18th centuries. Each room is uniquely styled with antique furnishings and named after notable local wines, providing an authentic touch of Burgundy's heritage.

  This hotel places a strong focus on gastronomy and relaxation. Guests can dine at the refined restaurant operated by the Bernard Loiseau group, where gourmet dishes are thoughtfully paired with an extensive wine list. For added indulgence, the spa provides a variety of luxurious treatments. Its prime location allows easy access to Beaune's historic landmarks, including Gothic chapels and Renaissance mansions, while the staff are known for their helpful recommendations to enhance your stay in the renowned wine region.

  
  

• Abbaye de Maizières (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  The Abbaye de Maizières, a remarkable 12th-century Cistercian abbey turned boutique hotel, offers a blend of medieval history and modern comfort in Beaune. The rooms, adorned with antique furniture, are accessed through a spiral stone staircase within the tower, providing an authentic step back in time.

  Situated just a short walk from Notre-Dame Basilica and the renowned Hospices de Beaune, the location is ideal for exploring the charming wine town. Guests can relax in the atmospheric vaulted stone cellar or enjoy a swim in the indoor pool after a day of sightseeing or wine tasting. The staff are praised for their warm service and can help organize wine tours to the nearby Côte de Beaune vineyards.