Cycling Burgundy and the Côte d’Or Plus! Champagne

Highlights: Charming village of Chablis, world-renowned Chablis wines

Welcome to Chablis, a picturesque village set amidst rolling vineyards. With winemaking traditions that date back to Roman times, Chablis offers a charming blend of history and modern viticulture. Take time before our first meeting to stroll through its medieval streets, admire the 9th-century Saint-Martin Church, and enjoy your first taste of the region’s crisp, mineral-rich wines.

Highlights: Cycle through historic vineyards, medieval city of Auxerre, and its impressive Cathedral

Today you pedal through the sun-drenched vineyards surrounding Chablis, passing the charming village of Lignorelles before reaching Auxerre, a city rich in history and architectural beauty. You’ll have time to explore the magnificent Auxerre Cathedral, known for its elaborate stained-glass windows, wander through the old town’s narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, and enjoy a riverside café overlooking the Yonne River.

Highlights: Medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, the flavors of Burgundy

Today’s ride immerses you in the rolling countryside en route to Semur-en-Auxois, a breathtaking medieval town perched on a granite promontory. Once there, you can walk along the ancient ramparts for sweeping views of the Armançon Valley and visit the impressive Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame. Dinner together this evening features traditional Burgundian cuisine paired with local wines.

Highlights: UNESCO-listed Fontenay Abbey, countryside ride back to Semur via Montbard and Flavigny

Today’s loop ride takes you to the Fontenay Abbey, one of Europe’s most intact Cistercian monasteries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After wandering through the beautifully preserved cloisters, dormitories, and gardens to absorb the tranquil atmosphere once cherished by medieval monks, enjoy a countryside ride back to Semur via Flavigny, passing pastoral landscapes that inspired countless Burgundian winemakers.

Highlights: Stay in a historic château, ride the Canal de Bourgogne, and taste local cheeses and wines

Cycle to Chailly-sur-Armançon for a night’s stay at the Château de Chailly, a restored 16th-century fortress. Nearby, the Canal de Bourgogne offers a peaceful setting for a scenic stroll. In town you can independently visit local fromageries and wine cellars to experience the region’s rich flavors, from fragrant Époisses cheese to delicate Pinot Noir.

Highlights: Dijon’s medieval quarter, the Palace of the Dukes, and Burgundy’s gastronomic heritage

Today you pedal through Burgundy’s rolling countryside, passing Pouilly-en-Auxois and its canal gateway. Ride past Civry’s vineyards and the limestone cliffs of Velars-sur-Ouche, following the Ouche River’s winding path. Dijon, the historic capital of Burgundy, offers a feast for the senses. Walk through its medieval streets to see the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, now home to the Museum of Fine Arts. Don’t miss the lively market halls designed by Gustave Eiffel and chock full of regional delicacies such as Dijon mustard, boeuf bourguignon, and pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread).

Highlights: Legendary wine villages, “Hotel” Dieu visit

Today’s ride features some of the most famous vineyards and wine villages on the planet: Gevrey Chambertin, Clos de Vougeot, Nuits San Georges, Romanée Conti…Vineyard country is synonymous with excellent cycling so it’s going to be a great day! Enjoy our guided visit of the 15th century “Hotel” Dieu museum, originally built as a hospital for the poor, it is one of the finest examples of Burgundian architecture. Dinner together this evening.

Highlights: Ride through the Côte Chalonnaise vineyards, visit and tasting near the charming village of Mercurey

Cycle through the rolling vineyards of the Côte Chalonnaise to Mercurey, a village known for its prestigious red wines. In Mercurey, enjoy a delicious lunch and tasting of its signature Pinot Noir in an organic family-run winery. This afternoon, we’ll shuttle to Châlons-en-Champagne.

Highlights: Dom Perignon’s stomping grounds, Reims

This morning’s route follows the peaceful Canal latéral à la Marne, which passes through picturesque vineyards and rolling hills towards Hautvillers, the legendary birthplace of Champagne. This is where the Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon made groundbreaking advancements in winemaking during the 17th century. Did he truly invent sparkling wine? That remains a matter of debate! From here, continue toward Reims, home to grand Champagne houses and the iconic cathedral where French kings were crowned for centuries.

Highlights: Bucolic bike paths, Champagne tasting

This morning you’ll pedal out of Reims on a bike path that courses over rolling hills and through vineyards overlooking forests. The Montagne de Reims, where many of the Pinot Noir grapes are grown, is also home to an extensive national park. Back in Reims, we’ll visit a famous champagne producer and enjoy a tasting and enjoy our final dinner together.

Highlights: Reflect on your journey through Burgundy and Champagne, savor final moments in Reims

As your journey concludes, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, from medieval towns and UNESCO sites to world-class wines and exquisite cuisine. Safe travels home or wherever the road takes you next.