Burgundy sits at the heart of
France and has played a major role in the country’s history and culture for centuries. Its rich, fertile soils produce some of the most sought-after
wines in the world while the region’s
cities display a variety of styles of art and architecture reflecting hundreds of years of tastes and trends. Whether you prefer a laid-back holiday with gentle strolls through the cobbled streets and vineyards that dot the area, or a more fast-paced getaway full of
adventure and exploration, you’re guaranteed a totally unforgettable experience.
The culture of Burgundy revolves wholeheartedly around
food and wine, making it a destination not to be missed by foodies and vino lovers. One of the highlights of the Burgundian calendar is the annual charity wine auction held every November in Beaune – an event akin to Munich’s Oktoberfest in which street stalls selling snacks and drinks, and live music overwhelm the usually quiet town for three or four days.
The
vino-centric culture of the region extents to the point that the ancient
vineyards of Burgundy are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and more Burgundian wines are designated AOCs than in any other French wine region, meaning they cannot be produced anywhere else. Even the signature foods of the region are laced with the stuff, from the succulent
coq au vin to the rich and flavourful
boeuf bourguignon.
For history buffs, Burgundy is a treasure trove, featuring dozens of medieval abbeys, basilicas and cathedrals thanks to the region’s heritage as the heartland of the Duchy of Burgundy – a territory which once stretched from the
Netherlands to the Mediterranean and was a driving force of European culture and art throughout the middle ages.
Throughout the countryside you’re sure to be struck by the region’s timeless beauty, with rolling hills carpeted in vineyards and forests that simply burst with life. The atmosphere is one of peace and tranquillity from the hillsides to the cobblestoned town centres, yet there’s still plenty to do if you like a holiday of
adventure. Cycling and hiking trails abound, particularly in the picturesque Morvan National Park in the south, and the whole family will fall in love with the views and sights to be seen.
Whatever your idea of the perfect getaway, Burgundy will surely meet all your expectations and more. Whether you like to take it easy and leisurely browse quaint
boutiques and cafés, or explore historic and beautiful monuments until your feet are sore, you will certainly be satisfied. If walking holidays are your thing, you could hardly pick a more idyllic location. Looking for a foodie heaven? You’ve found it in Burgundy.
WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
Burgundy’s rural character means there’s not a huge amount of public transport in the region. Major centres are connected by train, but many of the smaller sites are much less accessible – to make the most of your visit, talk to one of our travel advisors about hiring a car to make your holiday run smoothly.