Cycling Burgundy and the Côte d’Or

Highlights: Charming village of Chablis, world-renowned Chablis wines

Welcome to Chablis, a picturesque village set amidst rolling vineyards. With winemaking traditions that date back to Roman times, Chablis offers a charming blend of history and modern viticulture. Take time before our first meeting to stroll through its medieval streets, admire the 9th-century Saint-Martin Church, and enjoy your first taste of the region’s crisp, mineral-rich wines.

Highlights: Cycle through historic vineyards, medieval city of Auxerre, and its impressive Cathedral

Today you pedal through the sun-drenched vineyards surrounding Chablis, passing the charming village of Lignorelles before reaching Auxerre, a city rich in history and architectural beauty. You’ll have time to explore the magnificent Auxerre Cathedral, known for its elaborate stained-glass windows, wander through the old town’s narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, and enjoy a riverside café overlooking the Yonne River.

Highlights: Medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, the flavors of Burgundy

Today’s ride immerses you in the rolling countryside en route to Semur-en-Auxois, a breathtaking medieval town perched on a granite promontory. Once there, you can walk along the ancient ramparts for sweeping views of the Armançon Valley and visit the impressive Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame. Dinner together this evening features traditional Burgundian cuisine paired with local wines.

Highlights: UNESCO-listed Fontenay Abbey, countryside ride back to Semur via Montbard and Flavigny

Today’s loop ride takes you to the Fontenay Abbey, one of Europe’s most intact Cistercian monasteries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After wandering through the beautifully preserved cloisters, dormitories, and gardens to absorb the tranquil atmosphere once cherished by medieval monks, enjoy a countryside ride back to Semur via Flavigny, passing pastoral landscapes that inspired countless Burgundian winemakers.

Highlights: Stay in a historic château, ride the Canal de Bourgogne, and taste local cheeses and wines

Cycle to Chailly-sur-Armançon for a night’s stay at the Château de Chailly, a restored 16th-century fortress. Nearby, the Canal de Bourgogne offers a peaceful setting for a scenic stroll. In town you can independently visit local fromageries and wine cellars to experience the region’s rich flavors, from fragrant Époisses cheese to delicate Pinot Noir.

Highlights: Dijon’s medieval quarter, the Palace of the Dukes, and Burgundy’s gastronomic heritage

Today you pedal through Burgundy’s rolling countryside, passing Pouilly-en-Auxois and its canal gateway. Ride past Civry’s vineyards and the limestone cliffs of Velars-sur-Ouche, following the Ouche River’s winding path. Dijon, the historic capital of Burgundy, offers a feast for the senses. Walk through its medieval streets to see the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, now home to the Museum of Fine Arts. Don’t miss the lively market halls designed by Gustave Eiffel and chock full of regional delicacies such as Dijon mustard, boeuf bourguignon, and pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread).

Highlights: Legendary wine villages, “Hotel” Dieu visit

Today’s ride features some of the most famous vineyards and wine villages on the planet: Gevrey Chambertin, Clos de Vougeot, Nuits San Georges, Romanée Conti…Vineyard country is synonymous with excellent cycling so it’s going to be a great day! Enjoy our guided visit of the 15th century “Hotel” Dieu museum, originally built as a hospital for the poor, it is one of the finest examples of Burgundian architecture. This evening we’ll enjoy one final dinner together.

Highlights: Tour ends in Beaune

Avoir, notre ami ! May your memories of Burgundy endure.