In the heart of Bourgogne, 35 minutes from Chalon-sur-Saône, the Hospices de Beaune are a marvel of Gothic architecture... but also an inspiring port of call for wine aficionados! Once you’ve toured the building, you have to stop by the shop, which sells Puligny-Montrachet, Meursault and Volnay. But beyond the prestigious vineyards, the magnificent landscapes of Beaune are perfect for walking and cycling, from Fontenay Abbey to Germolles Chateau, and of course Cluny!
DINNER IS SERVED!
This chef earned his stripes with Paul Bocuse before continuing his education in the finest establishments (including the Tour d’Argent in Paris). In his restaurant in Viré, Mâconnais, a one-hour drive south of Beaune, Frédéric Carrion celebrates regional products and makes the local terroir his main source of inspiration.
GO CULTURAL
A remarkable example of 17th century military architecture spread across almost 12 hectares, the citadel overlooks Besançon old town with spectacular views. The Citadel, less than 90 minutes from Chalon, is home to three museums including the Natural History Museum, hugely popular for its wildlife collections.
GET ACTIVE
The Grandes traversées du Jura are seven amazing long distance trails, including one of 400km between Mandeure, in Doubs, and Culoz, in Ain. It crosses the Doubs Gorge, Haut-Doubs, the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, and Bugey. A big hit with walkers!
TOUR TRIVIA
It has been more than 30 years since the Tour de France visited Chalon-sur-Saône. This year will be its fifth time as a stage city. On the last occasion in 1988, Thierry Marie won the stage by breaking away with a 500m sprint.
EXPERIENCE
An outstanding programme for the most European of music festivals. In 2019, Christine and the Queens, NTM, The Chainsmokers, Angèle, Interpol, Slash, Parkway Drive and Jeanne Added are on the bill. Festival-goers can enjoy the music from 4-7 July on the iconic stage in Belfort (also a stage in the 2019 tour), in the northeast of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. A musical interlude!