Burgundy Holiday Guide
Burgundy is known the world over for its rich historical legacy, cultural treasures and its tradition of gastronomical delights and wines. French love their food and this fact couldn't be more evident than in Burgundy which is home to some of the most popular towns and cities that are famed for their food and wine such as Dijon and Chablis. To experience Burgundy and its myriad facets, explore its various cities and towns including Dijon, Beaune, Avallon, Chablis and Vezalay.
A favorite pastime in Burgundy is either taking a tour of the various historic sights or vineyards or reveling in the pleasures of wine-tasting amid magnificent natural settings. You can even enjoy the local aspects of the region and feel at home by choosing to stay in a vacation rental or as the French call it 'Gite' meaning holiday home in Burgundy. Take your pick from a range of vacation rental homes that include cottages, chalets, apartments, holiday chateau and condominiums.
Things to See in Burgundy
- Fontenay Abbey
This UNESCO world heritage site was founded in 1118 by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. The abbey got its name from the fountains that dot the well-landscaped gardens. A walk through the church, the chapter house and the scriptorium will give you a glimpse into the kind of lives the monks lived. - Chteau de Tanlay
Built around 1550, this baroque edifice is a masterpiece, which is adorned with pagoda like towers, obelisks and French Classicist ornament. The highlight of the chateau is definitely the magnificent gallery frescoed in Italianate trompe l'oeil. - Palais des Ducs
Ornamented with richly carved and colored tombs and altar pieces, this imperial palace is now home to one of France's major art museums Muse des Beaux-Arts. The museum boasts a rich collection of artistic treasures including art pieces, furniture and objects from the medieval and Renaissance periods. - Wine Tours
A visit to Burgundy is incomplete without a tour of the vineyards. You can opt for a tour from various tour operating agencies that take visitors on a tour of the villages and wineries.
Dining in Burgundy
Burgundy is known for gourmet dining and the selection and quality of food in this part of France is second to none. There are numerous restaurants that serve a range of cuisines matched by an equally impressive selection of wines and liqueurs.
- Via Mkis
This exclusive restaurant in the centre of historic Beaune offers a unique dining experience with its chef preparing exquisite French delicacies that are complemented with the best wines from its wine bar. - Abbaye de la Bussire
This exclusive gourmet restaurant serves an assortment of exquisite French specialties amid an ambience of chic sophistication. The delicacies that are accompanied by the finest wines in the world will entice and urge you to return to this restaurant time and again. - Auberge Les Tilleuls
Warm welcome, attentive service and a good wholesome meal awaits you at this restaurant in the little village of Vincelottes. The cuisine is prepared from the local produce and you will get to savor some authentic French delicacies such as foie gras, souffl chaud and plat de crme caramel.
Nightlife and Entertainment in Burgundy
Burgundy is synonymous with wine and food and naturally most evenings are spent tasting delicious wines from the local vineyards. Theatres, cinemas, clubs, pubs and bars can be found in towns such as Dijon. This university town bustles with nightlife and there are a couple of places where you can spend your night out.
- L'an-Fer
Open from Tuesday to Saturday, this vivacious club promises a good time with pulsating music and a hip and happening crowd. Some of the most popular DJs rock the club with their performance. - Messire Bar
Step back in time in this seventies bar which is open till the wee hours of the night. - Thatre du Parvais St. Jean
Those who have a keen eye for performing arts, can catch a live performance at this theatre that regularly hosts programs of arts, dance and theatre.
Golfing in Burgundy
Golfing in Burgundy is a pleasure as you get to tee off your shots amid a canopy of vineyards, rolling pastures and meandering rivers and lakes. There are a number of golf courses you can take your pick from such as Jacques Laffite Dijon Bourgogne, Beaune Levernois golf course, Chalon sur Sane and Chteau d'Avoise.