Beaune: Winery Tour by Bike with Wine Tasting

History

Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, has been a viticultural hub since Roman times, but its prominence grew under the Dukes of Burgundy in the Middle Ages. The region’s unique climats—specific vineyard plots defined by soil, slope, and microclimate—were mapped by Cistercian monks in the 12th century, earning UNESCO World Heritage status in 2015. These climats, particularly in Côte de Beaune, produce world-renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with villages like Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault celebrated for their distinct terroirs.

The area’s winemaking tradition, refined over centuries, blends meticulous grape cultivation with artisanal techniques, making Burgundy’s wines globally exceptional. Beaune’s historic center, home to landmarks like the Hospices de Beaune (1443), reflects its wealth from the wine trade. This bike tour immerses you in this legacy, cycling through iconic vineyards and meeting local producers who continue the region’s storied craft.

Highlights

• Cycle through the scenic vineyards of Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault.
• Learn about Burgundy’s UNESCO-listed climats with an expert guide.
• Meet local producers and visit a winery for a guided tour.
• Enjoy a minimum of five wine tastings, including red and white varieties.
• Capture stunning photos on an easy, beginner-friendly bike route.

Full Description

Embark on a 3-hour bike tour through the heart of Côte de Beaune, starting at Bourgogne Evasion by Active Tours (5 Allée du Dr Bouley, Beaune). After a brief orientation on bike and helmet use, pedal along a mostly flat, sealed cycling path through the picturesque vineyards of Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault, passing charming villages. Your English-speaking guide shares insights into Burgundy’s climats, grape varieties (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay), and the region’s unique terroir, explaining why its wines are exceptional.

Enjoy a 15-minute wine tasting in the vineyard, sampling one wine while learning about soil and grape influences. Then, visit a local winery in Pommard for a 1-hour guided tour, tasting four additional wines (red and white, regional to Premier Cru) and meeting the producer. Purchase bottles on-site or arrange delivery, if desired. The return to Beaune follows an easy downhill path, ensuring a relaxed ride with unforgettable views and photo opportunities. Designed for visitors, not avid cyclists, the tour is accessible with one small hill that can be walked.

Why Choose This Experience?

This bike tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual adventurers seeking an active, immersive dive into Burgundy’s wine culture. The easy, flat route through iconic Côte de Beaune vineyards suits beginners, while the guide’s expertise on climats and tastings appeals to connoisseurs. Meeting a local producer and touring a winery adds authenticity, and the five-wine tasting offers a rich snapshot of Burgundy’s reds and whites.

Ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers, the 3-hour format balances exploration and relaxation, fitting easily into a Beaune itinerary alongside visits to the Hospices de Beaune or Dijon. The small-group setting and stunning scenery, as praised in reviews, ensure a memorable, photo-worthy experience in the heart of Burgundy’s wine country.

What’s Included

• Bike rental and helmet.
• English-speaking guide.
• Minimum of five wine tastings (one in the vineyard, four at the winery).
• Guided winery visit in Pommard.
• Opportunity to purchase wines with delivery options.

Itinerary

• Meet at Bourgogne Evasion by Active Tours, 5 Allée du Dr Bouley, Beaune.
• Bike orientation and helmet fitting (10 minutes).
• Cycle through Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault vineyards (1 hour).
• Vineyard wine tasting with climat explanation (15 minutes).
• Pommard winery visit and four-wine tasting (1 hour).
• Return to Beaune via downhill path (35 minutes).
• Total: ~3 hours.

Pricing

From $93 per person

Meeting Point

Bourgogne Evasion by Active Tours, 5 Allée du Dr Bouley, Beaune, opposite Parc de la Bouzaize (Open in Google Maps).

How to Get There

• By Train: From Dijon to Beaune station (~20 minutes), then a 10-minute walk to the meeting point.
• By Bus: Line 2 from Beaune center to Parc de la Bouzaize, a 2-minute walk.
• By Foot: From Hospices de Beaune, it’s a 5–7-minute walk to Allée du Dr Bouley.
• By Car/Taxi: Drop-off at 5 Allée du Dr Bouley; parking available nearby.

Good to Know

What to Bring:

• Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for cycling.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor exposure.
• A water bottle for hydration (no food/drinks during tastings).
• A backpack for purchased bottles (or arrange delivery).
• A camera for vineyard and village photos.

Know Before You Go:

• Not suitable for children under 19 due to wine tastings; ID may be required.
• The route is mostly flat with one small hill (walkable); no advanced cycling skills needed.
• Tours run rain or shine; bring a light raincoat if needed.
• Not fully wheelchair-accessible due to biking; contact the operator for mobility concerns.
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early for bike setup; late arrivals may miss the tour.
• Don’t overtake the guide for safety on the return downhill.
• Minimum participants required; if canceled, you’ll get a refund or reschedule.

Reviews

• Lovely bike ride through Beaune’s vineyards! The Meursault tasting was a highlight. Highly recommend this scenic tour!
• Great time! The ride was easy, the scenery stunning, and Helene was an amazing guide. Loved every moment.
• Leah was brilliant! Three hours was perfect, but we’d do a full day next time. Thanks for an unforgettable tour.