France: Burgundy Bike Tour
France: Burgundy Bike TourOur five-night tour of the Burgundy region has been carefully orchestrated to incorporate the finer elements of France: fine wines (Pinot Noir), luxurious four-star hotels, delightful cuisine, world-class vineyards, a gentle rolling terrain, and a Burgundian "joie de vivre" that is unsurpassed in all of France.
Burgundy is an ideal setting for a one-week cycling tour, as we explore the best of the Côte d'Or and then head south, touching the Côte Chalonnaise. The terrain is both flat and rolling, and the landscapes are breathtaking. This itinerary is designed with the touring cyclist in mind, as one can easily cycle any segment with a moderate amount of experience. Distances are limited to 25 - 45 miles per day, and all rides are fully supported. Our cycle at your own pace itinerary allows one to enjoy the wine, food, history, and culture of Burgundy at a relaxing pace.
Highlights of this tour include a visit to Clos de Vougeot, the 15th century Hotel Dieu, medieval Château de la Rochepot, and a private cellar wine tasting. If you're an oenophile you won't be disappointed. Wine tasting is a highlight of this tour and the history of wine in this region is a rich one. We hope you'll join us!
Daily Itinerary
(includes 3 dinners, 5 breakfasts, 2 wine tastings)
Day 1
Rendezvous in Dijon, known for spicy mustard, then head to Gevrey-Chambertin for two nights. This town is truly an oenophile's delight, inspiring endless discussions of the best wines and their production. Of course, the best test is in the taste and you will have plenty of opportunities to sample. Bicycle fitting, short warm-up ride, and perhaps a visit to a local cave for wine tasting. Lodge at Hotel Les Grands Crus. (15 miles)
Day 2
Cycle the world famous wine region of the Côte de Nuits following a portion of the route of the "GrandsCrus." Visit Clos de Vougeot, a veritable ocean of grapes covering 125 acres, and treat yourself to a Meursault, Pommard, Aloxe-Corton, or maybe one from Gevrey-Chambertin. Here the legendary Emperor Charlemagne once owned vineyards. (22 or 32 miles)
Day 3
On our way to historic Beaune we'll visit small cobblestone villages. Visit the Hotel-Dieu, a 15th century hospital, noted for its colorful and ornately tiled roof. The wine capital of the Burgundy, Beaune is a wonderful village nestled inside thick 14th century walls that hearken back to an earlier age. You will have ample opportunity to sample the extraordinary wines of this region during our stay in this delightful village. Lodge in Beaune at the four-star Hotel de La Poste or Le Cedre for three consecutive nights. (18 or 32 miles)
Day 4
Optional loop ride, highlighted by picturesque villages and sunbathed landscapes. Meadows of flowers and shimmering wheat fields will delight the senses. Peruse the historic town of Beaune. Sample some of the finest pastry shops in all of France. Tasting the local wine is sure to please. (28 or 36 miles)
Day 5
Loop ride from Beaune, heading further south into the Côte Chalonnaise. We'll be accompanied by the white Charolais cow! Visit Château de la Rochepot, an excellent example of Burgundian and medieval architecture. Lunch in Meursault or Puligny. (25 or 37 miles)
Day 6
After breakfast a short transfer to the Beaune train station. Opt to extend your visit to this lovely region, or return to Paris via the high speed train.