Backroads of Burgundy – Cycling in the wine country

Canal de Bourgogne
From Montbard, we follow the quiet towpaths of the Canal de Bourgogne, built to forge a navigable route from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. We make the easy ride to the impressive Cistercian Abbaye de Fontenay, once run as a paper mill by the Montgolfier family but now restored to its former glory and designated a World Heritage site.

Chateaux & Walled Cities
Continuing our route along the canal we pause at the captivating walled city of Flavigny-sur-Ozerain - described as the Sleeping Beauty of Burgundy and the setting for the film 'Chocolat' - before we reach Semur-en-Auxois. Perched on a granite outcrop and nestling in a loop of the river Armançon, Semur's maze of houses and cobbled streets make it one of the most picturesque towns in Burgundy. Here we can simply relax and soak up the atmosphere or alternatively cycle out to visit some of the neighbouring chateaux as well as the optional diversion to the hill top village of Alise-Ste-Reine with its Roman remains.

Vin et vélo!
Winding our way through charming medieval villages and the elegant Chateau Commarin, we head deep into the heart of the Burgundy wine growing region, which boasts such celebrated names as Pommard, Mersault, Nuits-St-George and of course the classic Cotes de Beaune. Basing ourselves in Beaune, we aim to venture out and sample some of the region's fine wines and cheeses - reputed to be the favourites of a certain Napoleon Bonaparte and a worthy reward after a day's pedalling!

Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1 - Arrival in Montbard

Day 2 - In Montbard
Start the tour by exploring Montbard. before heading out to see the Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. North of Montbard also lies the Grand Forge de Buffon.

Day 3 - Cycle to Semur en Auxois
Follow the Canal de Bourgogne, constructed in the 19th Century, which links rivers Saone and Yonne. Pass through the fascinating village of Moutiers St Jean to Epoisses, while an optional diversion visits the chateau of Bourbilly, which is set in beautiful grounds.

Day 4 - In Semur
just outside of Semur is one of the region's more picturesque villages, Flavigny sur Ozerain, setting for the film “Chocolat”. Sample local wine in the “Vignoble de Flavigny” and consider an optional trip to the hill top village of Alise St Reine.

Day 5 - Cycle to Pouilly en Auxois
Today you can choose to pass through Pont Royal towards the canal towpath, a top stop for barges and houseboats, or take the high level route via the picturesque hilltop village of Mont St Jean.

Day 6 - Cycle to Beaune
Head out through the village of Vandanesse, just south of Pouilly, and enjoy the valley of the Rhoin on your way to Savigny les Beaune.

Day 7 - In Beaune
Having arrived in Beaune, you can choose to spend your last day meandering through the old town's cobbled streets, where there's a wine museum and fantastic collegiate church of Notre Dame to explore.

Day 8 - Tour ends Beaune

Is this trip for you?
You'll bike around 45km each day, with additional day rides on top of that. You'll mostly cycle on backroads and towpaths, with the chance to enjoy picturesque villages, historic sites and sample local food and wine. 4 days involve cycling between villages, enabling a selection of day rides and other activities throughout the tour. You can ride independently or with group members. Cycling on 95% asphalt; 5% gravel tracks.

The trip is rated 'Moderate'

Moderate: Better suited for experienced cyclists that have a reasonable level of fitness and regularly cycle at home, the trip consists mainly of relatively flat routes, with occasionally steeper ascents & descents.