How to Visit Beaune, France

In the heart of Burgundy you find magnificent wine and the beautiful town of Beaune. There are approximately 100 castles, medieval towns and chateaus in the Burgundy region making Beaune a strategic home local while traveling around the countryside. Using the vines that were originally brought to Burgundy by Julius Ceasar, it was the Romans that started the legendary wines of today.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• map
• car
• comfortable walking shoes

1. This small town is very walkable and you are conceivably walking in the footsteps of those that came before you. The restaurants offer food that can only be topped by the fabulous local wines. It's a place where the you can add "extra" to the usual "ordinary" house wine. Stroll, sip and relax.

2. The Hospices de Beaune was founded in the 15th century by the chancellor of the Duke of Burgundy. The Hospices were built as a hospital for the poor. In 1971 the Hospices changed from being a hospital to a retirement home. The Hospices set up a charity that boasts one of the largest charity auctions in the world (held the third Sunday of November). You will love the checkerboard rood tiles of the buildings that were once part of the defensive walls surrounding the town.

3. Take a day trip around Beaune.
   
   Approximately 30 minutes North of Beaune, by car, is the area of Pouilly-en-Auxois with three Medieval Chateaux.
   
   Visit the town of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois and, overlooking the plain, a 12th century Medieval stronghold.
   
   Chateau de Blancey are the famous rose garden, open to the public by appointment only.
   
   Visit Chateau de Commarin, the "Palace of stone in a mirror of water". It has been owned by the same family for the pat 600 years. Open to the public, there is a vast collection of tapestries and art that has been collected by the family since the 16th century.

4. Approximately 40 kilometers North of Beaune on the A6 highway you will find the Chateau d'Eguilly. Built, and later renovated, you will find a blending of architectural styles.

5. The town of Aloxe-Corton, North of Beaune, is home to the Chateau de Corton-Andre: an 18th century castle that produces Cote de Beaune and Cote de Nuits wines. Your visit just wouldn't be complete without a visit to the 15th century cellars and a wine tasting.

6. Head into Autun next either as a day trip or the next leg of your sightseeing adventure. With the wine caves and preserved Roman historical buildings it's well worth a visit.