Fancy a romantic weekend? Do you need to get away from it all? What about a trip to Beaune? Discover the famous Beaune wines, known throughout the world, as well as the architectural treasures in this unique city.
There’s plenty to do in Beaune, therefore, choose an OVO Network property for your stay and relax with our list of 10 things to do in the city.
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Top 10 Things To Do in Beaune
1 Hospices de Beaune Built as a hospital and refuge for the poor in 1443, Hospices de Beaune is a stunning gothic complex and is one of France’s most prestigious monuments. A series of gifts of land meant the charity became one of the most significant wine producers in the region. Today the 60 hectares of land are devoted largely to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, much of which is sold off at the huge charity wine auction on the third Sunday in November. This auction, organised by Christies, is part of a three-day festival which wine-lovers won’t want to miss, but the Hospice itself is worth a visit for its stunning architecture, the hospital museum and the wine shop.
2 A day at the beach For a great family day out, relax at Beaune Cote Plage, an unusual eco-complex where grassy beaches surround four natural leisure ponds with vineyard views. Younger visitors will enjoy the paddling pond, whereas older children will love the deeper ponds with slides, a climbing wall, a vine swing and diving boards. The biologically-filtered water is chemical-free, and there are always lifeguards on duty. Meals and snacks are available from the onsite cafe, so that you can make a day of it. A day pass starts at €5.60 for an adult, and €4.10 for under 15s (under 3s go free).
3 A chateau with a twist Visit the Chateau de Savigny-les Beaune, just 5km from Beaune, and you get much more than a wine-tasting and a beautiful historic building. There is also a wonderful collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, fire engines and fighter planes. This delightful, if slightly wacky, display has to be seen to be believed – admission is €11 for adults, €5 for older children and free for under 9s.
4 Pick a festival Beaune must surely be the festivals capital of France. With more than 40 festivals and events throughout the year, there is sure to be something to interest you, whether it’s classical music, jazz, sculpture wine or even thrillers! Check out the events calendar to plan your visit.
5 Taste the wine You don’t need to go out to a vineyard to taste the wonderful wines of the Côte de Beaune – the town is home to a great choice of wine vaults where you can sample and buy some of the best vintages. Try Louis Jadot in Route de Savigny, where you can buy ‘fins de loges’ bottles – the last from a particular domaine – or Champy in Rue du Grenier à Sel, one of the oldest wine merchants in town, whose cellars contain some of the original wine-making equipment. For a general introduction to the wines of Burgundy, tastings at the Cave de l’Ange Gardien come highly recommended – booking is essential.
6 Follow the owl in Dijon Perhaps the best way to discover the rich history of Dijon, just 45km north of Beaune, is to “suivez la chouette” – the Owl’s Trail is a 22-stop walking tour of the city, which takes in all the main sights. A map of the trail costs €3.50 from the tourist office on Rue des Forges, or you can download an app on your phone. Children will love looking out for the owl plaques!
7 Parc de la Bouzaize Take time out during a day’s sightseeing to relax in this peaceful park. Younger visitors will enjoy the ducks and fish in the small pond, and it’s a great place for a picnic. There are plenty of paths to explore, and the park is a great starting place for cycling tours of the vineyards.
8 Cycle the Voie des Vignes This 36km track will take you from Beaunes via Pommard and Meursault to Santenay, and then on to Nolay. You’ll pass through beautiful vineyards with names that you are sure to recognise – make sure to make time for a tasting or two. Do as much or as little as you like, but remember, it’s a linear route, so you’ll have to factor in time to cycle back the same way. The trail is also used by agricultural vehicles, so at times like harvest, it can get quite busy. There are plenty of places where you can rent bikes in Beaune – try Bourgogne Randonées.
9 Shop at the market Beaune’s weekly market takes place in the Place de la Halle on Saturday mornings, just in front of the Hospice de Beaune. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a feast for the senses, with fresh local vegetables, charcuterie, flowers, handmade soaps and breads as well as jewellery, clothes and gifts. The market spills over into local streets – if it’s antiques you’re after, head for nearby Place Carnot.
10 Marche aux Vins Combine an appreciation of art and wine at Marche aux Vins, an unusual wine vault housed in a former church in the heart of Beaune. Take your time over a self-guided tasting of a range of wines from the Burgundy area (sommeliers are available to help if required) while enjoying an exhibition of modern art – check the website for the latest exhibitions.
So, if you are keen to try out some of these top 10 things to do in Beaune? Why not book your stay in Beaune by renting a top-qualty, comfortable property! Whether you are with family or friends, it’s the perfect French destination.
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