Mention the Burgundy, or Bourgogne, region of France and true wine lovers will immediately say it’s where you find some of the best wines in the world! The strong image of terroir, infinite well-kept vineyards, never-ending lists of wines you want to coddle in your cellar. However, as you make your way through the amazing wine country and spectacular tastings, (most likely with Bonnecuvee.com), keep in mind there are many other treasures to find in Burgundy.
Don’t overlook the many Renaissance châteaux to explore, the numerous Romanesque structures, the picture-perfect hilltop villages. Remember the movie “Chocolat” starring Johnny Depp and Juliette Binoche? It was filmed in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, voted one of the most beautiful villages in France!
So, as you try to decide between a glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay (or both), keep in mind all the places you can explore. So much to write about that at this time, I will focus on Dijon and its surroundings.
- DIJON- Capital of the Burgundy region, Dijon was once the home of the Dukes of Burgundy, which naturally brings with it a trunk-full of history and incredible architecture. The cobblestone streets are surrounded by medieval houses and ornate 13th–17th-century hôtels particuliers ranging from Gothic to Art Deco, are yours to explore. Highlights of the city are the Place de la Libération, the Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and one of the oldest museums in France, the Musée des Beaux Arts. The distinguished 1787 museum, housed in the vast Palace of the Dukes, holds a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, crafts and antiquities. This city is a jewel among jewels in Burgundy.
- THE MARCHÉ DES HALLES- an enclosed market where locals shop for their fresh fare, was designed by Dijon’s well-known native, Gustave (yes, Eiffel Tower guy!). This is the place to go to find local delights such as the traditional Dijon mustard, made with brown mustard seeds and white wine, or a mix of wine vinegar, water and salt designed to imitate the original verjuice. While you take a break from shopping, toast all this with a glass of Kir, which is a an apéritif made with white wine and crème de cassis blackcurrant liqueur. A French favorite
- WINE MUSEUM-When in French wine country there must be extensive wine history to be told. Still in the city of Dijon, take some time to explore the wine museum. Located in the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, you have a chance to visit a historical site as well as learn the history of wine form antiquity to present times. While in the museum, don’t miss the impressive collection of wine related tapestries.
- FOOD-We cannot talk about the Burgundy region without mentioning the fabulous food! With hundreds of bistros and restaurants to choose from, from tiny local diners to famous Michelin restaurants (check out L’oiseau des Ducs for instance), you will not be at a loss to find great food. Boeuf Bourguignon, one of the most famous French dishes, originates here. Oeufs en Meurette, a delicious dish of soft poached eggs in a bourguignon sauce (mouth-watering time), charcuterie like the jambon persillé, escargots (yes, don’t be afraid to try the snails) and the celebrated cheese of the town of Epoisses that proudly bears its name, these are just a few of the many gastronomic delights and a must try for foodies.
- BEAUNE- A stone’s throw from Dijon and a must-do day trip, you will find this picturesque city where you can find the Hotel Dieu de Beaune. A gothic hospital founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, this place has become a museum where you can see how the sick and the poor were taken care of by charitable caretakers. When you visit, don’t forget to look at the beautiful golden colors of the altar piece of The Last Judgement by Rogier Van der Weyden as well as the sculpted, ornate ceiling of the “Salle des Pôvres”. The Hotel Dieu de Beaune has become an important site where once a year in November, and since 1859, amazing wines are auctioned off for charity. But don’t concentrate in just this building, Beaune is a delightful place to get lost in and explore!5. FOOD-We cannot talk about the Burgundy region without mentioning the fabulous food! With hundreds of bistros and restaurants to choose from, from mom and pop shops to famous Michelin restaurants, you will not be at a loss for great food. Boeuf Bourguignon, one of the most famous French dishes, originates here. Oeufs en Meurette, a delicious dish of soft poached eggs in a bourguignon sauce (mouth-watering time), charcuterie like the jambon persillé, escargots (yes, snails) and the celebrated cheese of the town of Epoisses that proudly bears its name, these are just a few of the many gastronomic delights and a must try for foodies.
- TRANSPORTATION TO BURGUNDY- Has this short list tempted you enough to visit Burgundy? There are many ways to get there but trains are the most convenient form of transportation from Paris. From either the Gare de Lyon or the Gare de Bercy, Dijon is about an hour and a half away in a direct train that will take you through the heart and countryside of France!
This just about scratches the surface of the many things to see and do in Burgundy. Time to pack your bags and start your own discovery of the region that is truly a bid deal!
