Burgundy

HISTORIC WINE COUNTRY, and enchanting French villages 

The Burgundy region of France is located in the central eastern part of France and is one of the most famous wine producing area of the country. In addition, it is also known to be one of those unique food destinations of France with world renowned boeuf bourguignon originating from here. The two most important locations for taking wine tasting tours are the towns of Dijon and Beaune.

Historically, the region was inhabited by the Celts, the Romans and the region became a Duchy during the middle Ages. For many centuries, the Dukes remained independent and even sided with the English during the 100 years war. The 15th century is known as the Golden Age of Burgundy as the territory expanded and included what is today Belgium, Holland, Picardy and Flanders making it one of the richest states of the time. The region was united to the French Kingdom in 1477 at the death of Charles the Bold.

The Capital of Burgundy, Dijon, boasts an important historical and cultural heritage and is one of those lovely small towns of France that seems to have passed through time without any scars. The historical centre is mainly pedestrian and is filled with enchanting french bistros and restaurants. Highlights of the town include the Well of Moses, the Museum of Fine Arts as well as the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy.

The small town of Beaune, capital of Burgundy before Dijon, has also kept a beautiful historical centre. The most famous attraction is by far the Hospices de Beaune that hosts every year one of the most fabulous wine auctions. The town makes for a perfect start towards the Burgundy wine region where the Pinot Noir grape variety is king. The town is also home to fine dining and michelin star restaurants that make for an ideal trip.

Burgundy Wine Tours from Beaune or Dijon

The centuries-old tradition of Burgundy wine making is evident in the bountiful vineyards stretching across the landscape. Burgundy boasts some of the most acclaimed and luxurious wines in the world. Departing from either Beaune or Dijon, we offer a large number of small group private tours and shared tours for both novice and wine lovers alike.

Our Burgundy private day trips include wine tasting tours to both côte de nuits and côte de beaune vineyards that are known to produce some of the best red wines and white wines in the world. A typical exclusive half or full day private wine tour from Dijon or Beaune with Ophorus includes tours and tastings at famous wine cellars or wineries located along the Route des Grands Crus. Other famous wine appellations include Vosne Romanée, Chateau de Vougeot, Gevrey-Chambertin, Aloxe-Corton, Montrachet and so many more.

During the tastings, experience Grands Cru and Premier Cru Wines of Burgundy to understand the differences in aromas and tastes. For lunch on a private full day tour, your guide will certainly recommend local restaurants that specialize in food and wine pairing that will enhance your dining experience.

Our Burgundy small group shared tours departing from Beaune are a perfect introduction to the wines of Burgundy. On a half day or full day option, you will discover the craft of wine making in traditional family owned domains. All our shared tours also include stops in small charming villages as well as great photo opportunities in the vineyards or next to world renowned wineries.

Other travel options while in Burgundy

If wine is not your priority, Burgundy offers the visitor a multitude of sightseeing options, such as the Palace of the Dukes, the gothic Cathedral of Saint Bénigne, the Romanesque churches of Burgundy, including the remarkable Abbaye de Vézelay (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Les Hospices de Beaune, a medieval hospital that was in use until the 20th century and now functions as a museum of Flemish art. The region is also dotted with a very large amount of stunning medieval villages that are such a delight to stroll through.

Whether you´re eager to sample Burgundy wines and discover what makes them some of the world´s most famous, wander the medieval streets and uncover Burgundy´s historical secrets, or a combination of both, Ophorus provides tours to meet every traveler´s need. Enjoy the attention of our professional English-speaking guides and let us help you experience the best this region has to offer.