Burgundy Region France
The Burgundy Region France is possibly my favorite region. Burgundy travel seems to dominate our plans because we just keep feeling called to go back. I have linked in lots of maps that will open to a bigger view because I am taking you on back roads to some absolutely great villages and hamlets. You are in for a treat! Let’s escape the tourism for a while.
There is so much to do, see, and taste in the Burgundy Region France.
All the wonderful Burgundy wines and food – the local dish beef burgundy has become a family favorite at our house in the cold months of winter.Try this beef burgundy recipe.
Village of Curtil sous Burnand in the Burgundy Region
Dijon
The medieval town center of Dijon is easy to navigate as you explore history and architecture. We never tire of the beautiful tiled roofs (toits bourguignons).
Tiled roof in Dijon
About 1.5 hours northwest of Dijon is the town of Chablis, for a bit of wine tasting. We actually did this as a day trip from Curtil sous Burnand so it took about 2.5 hours. We returned via Vézelay (due south of Chablis) to see the Basilica.
View Dijon-Chablis-Vezelay France in a larger map
If you are searching for Burgundy wine tours, Beaune is the wine capitol of the Burgundy Region France. When you exit Dijon heading south to Beaune, be sure to take the N74 so that you are driving through the vineyards on your way to Beaune. This is a beautiful drive and you can stop for wine at any of the wineries to see if they offer “degustations” or tastings. This is a great way to buy your wine!
View Dijon to Beaune via N74 in a larger map
Red Wine Passion– Join us as we explore the world of red wines from Burgundy France to the Napa Valley area of California. Information for every passionate red wine lover.
The Wines of Burgundy: Revised Edition. makes a good gift for your favorite wine enthusiast.
St-Gengoux le National
From Beaune, you should continue on south on the N74 to the D981 to Rully, Givry , Buxy and St-Gengoux le National . These towns have wonderful Burgundy wines from local vineyards and on the route you will pass through small villages that the tour books never mention. Don’t be in a rush – there is much to see!
View Beaune to St Gengoux le National France in a larger map
A mere 5km south of St Gengoux le Nationale in Curtil sous Burnand is our favorite gite. From here, Dijon is only about a one hour drive. Everything is in such close range here and taking the “back roads” to your destination means you see the true heart of France.
Continue on the D981 to Cormatin for the Chateau and Bastille Day brocante sale (antique sale) and then to Chapaize for the 11th century Romanesque church.
Chapaize to Cluny
It is an easy bicycle ride from St Gengoux le Nationale to Cormatin and on to Chapaize. Be sure to not miss Lys on your way to Chapaize ! It is predominantly an artist community and there is a wonderful pottery shop there!
On this side loop off the D981, don’t miss out on the the village of Brancion perched high on Mont Saint Romain. Going south on the D981, you can visit both Taizé and Cluny if you do not plan to cycle to them on the Voie Vert.
Chalon sur Saone to Tournus
Chalon sur Saône is a large city with a beautiful cathedral, multiple markets and great shopping. Tournus, which is south of Chalon sur Saône, has the church of St Philbert, once an 11th century abbey, which cannot be missed either!
Tournus Abbaye
View Chalon-sur-Saone to Tournus and Cuisery
in a larger map
East of Tournus in the Burgundy Region France is the village of Cuisery – officially the fifth Village du Livre or Book Village in France. Here you will find a multitude of used book sellers…… definitely my kind of place !
Cuisery – A Village of Books
Cycling the Voie Verte in the Burgundy Region France
Cycling the Voie Verte bicycle/pedestrian route from Givry down to Cluny, taking in Taizé en route is our favorite activity. The Voie Verte in this region has some of the most beautiful vistas of sunflowers.
From St Gengoux le Nationale we cycle north to Givry one day and on another day cycled south to Taizé, repeating the south bound route on an additional day passing Taizé and terminating at Cluny Abbey – my favorite place!
There never seems to be enough time when we are in the Burgundy Region France. We always promise ourselves to return. The next time we will cycle south to Mâcon and ride through the tunnel.
Another means of experiencing this wonderful part of France is on a barge. France Travel invites you to explore Burgundy with Jack and Beth Hanson on one of their barge cruises. Jack and Beth have been helping happy clients go on barge cruises and tours in France and Europe since 1988. “We lived in France, owned our own charter barge and know the barges, canals and sights. We think a barge cruise is one the best vacations ever, and hope you do too.” Call toll free at 1-888-264-3983 or Contact Us for 23 years of experience and caring attention to your needs.