From vineyard to bottle

From Beaujolais to Côtes-de-Nuits: On a self-guided automobile tour, enjoy the tourism amenities and charm of Burgundy's winemaking regions. Extend your discovery of local geography in learning all about wine, from grape-growing on the vine to the final bottled product.

Day 1: Romanèche-Thorins - Cruzille
Your stay begins with a special trip exploring the local vineyards aboard a hot-air balloon piloted by the Hameau Duboeuf, a theme park devoted to vineyards and winemaking that entertains and shows visitors all facets of Burgundy's wine heritage.
Continue along your path with a visit to Château Portier, a building characteristic of the Beaujolais style. A few metres from the Moulin à Vent windmill, a 15th-century historical monument, the castle's grounds feature vines from some of Southern Burgundy's most prestigious parcels; visitors can taste a broad array of famous past vintages. Don't miss the traditional "Mâchon Beaujolais" snack platter of local cheeses and charcuterie!
Leave the Beaujolais landscape behind and travel through the distinct rolling hillsides of the Mâconnais. Discover Lamartine country, from the summit of the Solutré or Vergisson peaks. With proper footwear, a half-hour hike to the top of these beautiful ochre-coloured rocky outcroppings unveils a striking panoramic view over sloping vineyards, picturesque villages and the Saône River plain to the east.

Our suggestion is to spend the night in Cruzille, at a self-catering lodge on an estate practicing organic farming (possibility of an estate tour and tasting).

Day 2: Cruzille - Dracy-le-Fort
Your day starts with the picturesque village of Brancion amidst a Middle Age setting. The castle, surrounded by a deep ravine, is visited with or without a guide. Admire the Saint-Pierre church at your leisure; if you time it right, the harpist will regale you with sweet melodies.

Further on the itinerary, enjoy a gourmet stop in the Tournus area. Gastronomic restaurants abound here and showcase a traditional authentic cuisine, offering the chance to dabble perhaps in a cooking class at the Relais d'Ozenay restaurant.

If you want to stretch your legs, the series of "Green Hikes" expose some of this territory's best kept architectural secrets.

Now it's time to discover one of the jewels of Romanesque art with a visit to the Saint-Philibert Abbey in Tournus; stop by the abbey's private wine cellar. A few explanations about local vineyards and winemaking precede a tasting session highlighting a typical selection of Tournus favourites.

We suggest spending the night in a charming hotel in Dracy-le-Fort, where you can dine on local specialities.

Day 3: Dracy-le-Fort - Gevrey-Chambertin
Your last day takes you on the road of Burgundy's celebrated vintages.
Navigate through the historical quarter of Chalon-sur-Saône, marvel at the Hospices de Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges wine village. Cellars and estates will constantly tempt you along this itinerary.
We suggest completing the tour at the Château de Pommard to discover one of France's most highly reputed wines.