Discover the essence of Burgundy, France, with a curated list of activities ranging from wine tasting on the Route des Grands Crus, culinary delights in local markets, historical tours of ancient abbeys and châteaux, to outdoor adventures in Morvan Park and scenic canal cruises. Immerse yourself in Burgundy's rich culture, history, and natural beauty for a memorable experience.
Burgundy, a region in east-central France known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned wines, offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Here's a list of activities to indulge in while in Burgundy:
Wine Tasting and Winery Tours
Explore the Route des Grands Crus: Follow this famous wine route through the heart of Burgundy's wine country, stopping at various vineyards for tastings.
Visit the Hospices de Beaune: Discover the essence of Burgundy's wine culture with a visit to the historic Hospices de Beaune, where you can explore its rich heritage, taste fine wines, and experience the excitement of the famous annual wine auction all in one go.
Bicycle Wine Tours: Embark on a guided bike tour through the rolling vineyards, stopping at various wineries for tastings and learning about the winemaking process from grape to glass.
Wine Education Workshops: Participate in workshops that delve into the complexities of Burgundy wines, including understanding different varietals, the significance of terroir, and the art of wine tasting.
Vineyard Picnics: Enjoy a curated picnic among the vines, combining local delicacies with a selection of regional wines for a picturesque and palatable experience.
Private Cellar Tastings: Arrange for a private tasting session in the ancient cellars of some of Burgundy's most esteemed wineries, offering a more intimate insight into the region's wine heritage.
Meet the Winemakers: Engage with local vintners at smaller, family-owned estates, gaining personal stories and insights that enrich the tasting experience.
Culinary Experiences
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Burgundian dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin from local chefs.
Visit Local Markets: Explore markets like the one in Dijon to sample local cheeses, mustards, and other regional specialties.
Enjoy a Meal in a Traditional Auberge: Savor a meal in a countryside inn, pairing local dishes with Burgundy wines.
Cultural and Historical Exploration
Tour the Châteaux: Visit some of the region's historic castles like Château de Cormatin and Château de Chateauneuf-en-Auxois.
Explore Dijon's Historic Center: Wander through the medieval streets, visiting the Palace of the Dukes and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Abbey Visits: Discover the ancient abbeys such as the Abbey of Fontenay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Outdoor Activities
Canal Cruises: Take a leisurely cruise along the Burgundy Canal, enjoying the picturesque landscapes.
Hiking in Morvan Regional Natural Park: Explore the trails in this lush, green park that offers lakes, forests, and beautiful vistas.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Vineyards: Soaring above the picturesque vineyards and historic villages of Burgundy in a hot air balloon offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the region's breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-do for a truly memorable experience.
Hiking in the Jura Mountains: Explore scenic trails that offer stunning views and the chance to discover the region's diverse flora and fauna.
Kayaking on the Saône River: Paddle through serene waters, passing by charming villages and lush countryside.
Horseback Riding through Vineyards: Experience the vine-covered hills of Burgundy on horseback, a unique way to explore the wine country.
Fishing in Lac des Settons: Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in one of Burgundy's beautiful lakes, surrounded by natural beauty.
Rock Climbing near Solutré: Challenge yourself with rock climbing adventures amidst the remarkable landscapes of the Mâconnais area.
Golfing in Chalon-sur-Saône: Play a round of golf on one of Burgundy's scenic courses, blending sport with stunning views.
Bird Watching in the Morvan Regional Natural Park: A haven for nature enthusiasts, this park is home to diverse bird species, offering excellent bird watching opportunities.
Paragliding over the Vineyards: For an adrenaline rush, paraglide over the rolling vineyards, enjoying a bird's-eye view of the region's iconic landscapes.
Special Events and Festivals
Attend the Fête de la Musique: Enjoy live music performances throughout Dijon and other towns on June 21st.
Experience the Saint-Vincent Tournante: A rotating wine festival held in January where different villages celebrate their wines each year.
Join the Burgundy Truffle Festival: Learn about and taste Burgundy truffles at this festival held in various locations in the fall.
Art and Craftsmanship
Pottery in Puisaye: Visit this region known for its pottery and participate in a workshop to learn the craft.
Artisanal Mustard Making: Discover the art of mustard making in Dijon, with opportunities to visit factories and taste different varieties.
Relaxation and Wellness
Spa Retreats: Indulge in a spa experience in one of Burgundy's luxury hotels or wellness centers, many of which offer vinotherapy treatments.
Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive through the countryside, stopping at small villages and scenic overlooks.
Shopping and Markets
Antique Shopping in Beaune: Browse the antique shops for unique finds and souvenirs.
Local Crafts and Produce: Look for local markets that sell handmade crafts, cheeses, wines, and more, providing a taste of Burgundy to take home.
Each of these activities offers a unique way to experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of Burgundy, making your visit truly memorable.
