This 4-day bike trip is designed to be a short, accessible, and affordable adventure through relatively flat regions, making it ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, including retirees. Each day covers a manageable distance of around 50 km, allowing plenty of time to explore charming towns, enjoy scenic landscapes, and relax along the way. The trip is budget-friendly, with a range of affordable accommodation and meal options available. To make it even more convenient, travelers can easily return to their starting point by train or ferry, adding flexibility to the itinerary while minimizing travel time and effort at the end of the journey.

Cycling the Burgundy Canal: A 4-Day Exploration of France’s Wine Heartland

The Burgundy Canal offers a serene and scenic cycling route through one of France’s most renowned wine regions. Over four days, you’ll ride approximately 50 km per day along tranquil towpaths and lush vineyards, stopping in charming villages and historic towns. This itinerary features highlights like the medieval town of Semur-en-Auxois, the iconic wine town of Beaune, and local delicacies at every turn. Your journey ends with a train ride back to your starting point, ensuring a relaxing conclusion to this unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Dijon to Vandenesse-en-Auxois

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Start in Dijon, known for its mustard, medieval architecture, and the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy.
    • Cycle along the canal through picturesque countryside to Vandenesse-en-Auxois, a charming village with views of the Château de Châteauneuf.
  • Lunch Stop: Café de l’Esplanade (Dijon)
    • Traditional Burgundian dishes. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Auberge du Pont d’Ouche (near Vandenesse-en-Auxois)
    • Cozy inn with hearty French cuisine. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hostellerie du Château (3-star, Châteauneuf)
      • Price: ~$140 USD per night.
      • A charming hotel with medieval décor.

Day 2: Vandenesse-en-Auxois to Semur-en-Auxois

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Pass through idyllic villages and rolling hills.
    • Arrive in Semur-en-Auxois, a stunning medieval town with cobblestone streets and the Gothic Church of Notre-Dame.
  • Lunch Stop: La Grange (Pouilly-en-Auxois)
    • Casual eatery with excellent local wine selections. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Restaurant Les Minimes (Semur-en-Auxois)
    • Fine dining with regional specialties. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel de la Côte d’Or (4-star, Semur-en-Auxois)
      • Price: ~$160 USD per night.
      • A boutique hotel in the heart of the town.

Day 3: Semur-en-Auxois to Beaune

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle through lush vineyards to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy.
    • Visit the Hôtel-Dieu, a stunning medieval hospice, and enjoy wine tastings at local cellars.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Clos des Lézards (Arnay-le-Duc)
    • Farm-to-table cuisine in a rustic setting. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Ma Cuisine (Beaune)
    • Renowned for its extensive wine list and traditional dishes. Approx. $35 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel le Cep (4-star, Beaune)
      • Price: ~$180 USD per night.
      • Luxury accommodations with a focus on wine tourism.

Day 4: Beaune to Dijon (Return)

Distance: ~50 km cycling + train

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle along the canal through the vineyards of Côte de Nuits.
    • Stop in small villages like Nuits-Saint-Georges for a final wine tasting.
    • Board a train back to Dijon for a relaxing end to your trip.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Vieux Moulin (Nuits-Saint-Georges)
    • Delightful riverside dining. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Return Journey:
    • Train from Beaune to Dijon. Travel time is approximately 30 minutes. Train tickets cost around $15 USD per person.

Pricing Summary

  • Accommodation: $140–$180 USD per night, featuring boutique hotels and medieval charm.
  • Meals: $20–$35 USD per person per meal, showcasing Burgundy’s renowned culinary and wine traditions.
  • Attractions: Free to explore natural landscapes; wine tastings and museum entries cost $10–$20 USD.
  • Return Train Ride: Approximately $15 USD per person.

Estimated Total: $900–$1,100 USD per person for the 4-day trip, covering accommodations, meals, and transportation.