Burgundy is one of the most important wine regions in France and indeed the world. So famous are its wines, that we use the word ‘burgundy’ to describe a rich red colour. The cuisine of the region has evolved alongside its wines, where rich flavours complement any bottle chosen for dinner. As such, it’s only natural that our Burgundy cycle routes are one gastronomic experience after another.
As you leisurely pedal past vineyards and classic châteaux, stop off at delightful cafes and fascinating cultural sights. On our Burgundy cycle routes, there’s no shortage of wonder and history; you’ll even learn about the region’s millennium-old rivalry with Champagne. Read on to discover more.
Route des Grand Crus
In Burgundy, there is a famous ‘pilgrimage’ of sorts called the Route des Grand Crus. A ‘Grand Cru’ is a regional wine classification that effectively highlights a vineyard as producing exceptional wines, almost like Michelin stars. Over hundreds of years, it was the monks of the region who would study plots of land and vineyards, observing for any soil or vines that would produce wines of note. In time, this resulted in the ‘Grand Cru’ classification.
The Route des Grand Crus visits all of the most important, and delicious, appellations in Burgundy. From Dijon in the north to Santenay in the south, this is the most important trail on our Burgundy cycle routes. Although this may seem to only attract wine lovers at first, the plethora of pretty towns, impressive views, and charming history means this route is perfect for all.
Based in one of France’s most famous wine regions, this luxury cycling tour is a gastronomic delight.
Morey-Saint-Denis to Beaune
On the Route des Grand Crus is a gorgeous little stretch of pedalling which connects Morey-Saint-Denis and Beaune. This route is a slice of tranquillity and perfectly represents the French countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass by picture-perfect villages like Nuits-Saint-Georges. Park your bikes and take a stroll past the traditional limestone houses with their magical courtyards.
We highly recommend visiting the many cafes and patisseries in the town, where a coffee and a pastry is the perfect way to refuel before heading back on the route to Beaune. Reenergised, you’ll marvel at the verdant vineyards and blissful scenery as the wind flows through your hair. Soon you arrive in the thriving centre of wine that is Beaune, where a wealth of exciting experiences are waiting for you.
Beaune to Aloxe-Corton
For one of our favourite Burgundy cycle routes, look no further than the journey from Beaune to Aloxe-Corton. Both of these towns are filled with amazing historical sights to explore. Beaune is the thriving centre of wine in the region and has been for centuries. Its most impressive attraction is the Hotel-Dieu des Hospices, a gothic hospital turned into a magnificent cathedral. The unique tiled architecture is definitely a picture-worthy view.
Between these towns, enjoy a classically French countryside. Quite paths trail gentle streams which flow beneath sprawling vineyards. If you’re lucky, you’ll stumble upon some forgotten vines where the grapes are ripe and sweet, making the perfect mid-bicycle ride snack. Burgundy cycle routes are full of charming surprises like these. Before reaching Aloxe-Corton, stop off at Château de Savigny-les-Beaune. This stunning building has an amazing collection of vintage locomotives.
Home to two very famous wines, the Corton red and Corton-Charlemagne white, Aloxe-Corton is a wine powerhouse. The gently sloping vineyards produce delicious bottles every year without fail, putting this charming town on the map. With ivy-covered buildings surrounded by rows of vines, searching for this town is likely to result in images of only the wines it produces! To truly experience its rural charm, you have to visit and see it with your own eyes.
Côte de Beaune Vineyards
Although you can find gorgeous wines throughout the region, it is from the Côte de Beaune that many of the most prestigious Burgundian wines are grown. You’ll find a huge variety of wines, from the famous whites of Meursault and Chassagne-Montrachet to the glorious reds of Santenay. When you cycle here along quiet rural routes, the scale of vineyards is breathtaking.
On the last day of our Burgundy’s Route des Grands Crus tour, you’ll have the chance to cycle along these vineyards. As it’s your last day in the saddle, it’s the perfect time to buy a bottle or dozen to take back home and treat your family and friends. There’s a very strong chance they’ll recognise the names of the places you’ve been, thanks to the fantastic reputation of Burgundy bottles.
For more information on Burgundy cycle routes, call our cycle experts today on 020 7471 7760.