Discovery by bike & Tasting in the vineyards

Discover Burgundy on Two Wheels: A Bike & Tasting Tour in Beaune

Imagine cycling through the gentle rolling hills of Burgundy, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see and charming villages beckon along the way. For those seeking an authentic, active way to experience France’s legendary wine region, the “Discovery by bike & Tasting in the vineyards” tour from Chenôve offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure, local history, and regional flavors. At just under four hours, this small-group outing costs around $75 per person — a reasonable price for a memorable day that combines scenic cycling with delicious tastings and cultural insights.

What makes this tour truly stand out? First, the chance to explore idyllic Burgundy villages like Marsannay-la-Côte, Fixin, Brochon, and Gevrey-Chambertin at a leisurely pace. Second, the emphasis on local food and regional wine — including samples of white wine, crème de cassis, cheese, and parsley ham — adds a flavorful touch many visitors appreciate. We also love the small-group setting of just 10 participants, which fosters friendly conversation and personalized attention from your guide.

A potential consideration? While the route is described as easy and suitable for all levels, you’ll want to be comfortable riding a bike and prepared for outdoor conditions. The tour takes place in good weather, so if rain dampens the day, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled. Still, for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic outing coupled with tasting moments, this experience is hard to beat.

If you’re someone who enjoys active travel, local culture, and good food, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers looking to combine gentle exercise, picturesque landscapes, and a taste of Burgundy’s best wines and regional delicacies — all within a fun, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Leisurely Cycling: An easy ride along scenic paths, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Authentic Experience: Visit charming villages and learn about Burgundy’s wine heritage.
• Tastings Included: Sample regional wines, cheeses, and local specialties like parsley ham.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Guided by Local Experts: Guides provide insightful commentary and friendly service.
• Weather-Dependent: Good weather is essential — cancellations are possible in poor conditions.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

This tour begins in the heart of Chenôve, a town with cobblestone streets and exposed stone houses that hint at Burgundy’s historic charm. From here, your guide — whose enthusiasm and knowledge shine through the reviews — leads you on a gentle ride through a landscape dotted with vineyards and small villages. The journey covers roughly 6 miles each way, which is manageable for most cyclists even at a relaxed pace.

The first stop is typically in Marsannay-la-Côte, a village renowned for its wine production. Here, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to take in the picturesque views of vineyard-covered hills and perhaps visit a local winery or cellar — though the emphasis is on the ride and tasting rather than formal tours. Along the way, your guide shares stories about the region’s history of wine-making, adding context to the scenery.

Further stops include Fixin, Brochon, and Gevrey-Chambertin, each with their own charm and wine reputation. These villages are characterized by their historic buildings, scenic vineyards, and quiet streets. The route itself is described as “no difficulty,” making it suitable for people of various ages and cycling abilities. The slow, relaxed pace means you can truly observe the surroundings and chat with your fellow travelers.

Throughout the ride, you’ll take breaks to enjoy regional food specialties — cheeses, parsley ham, and perhaps some regional bread or crackers. These tasting moments help you appreciate local flavors and pairings, often accompanied by regional white wine and crème de cassis. The reviews make it clear that these tastings are a highlight, with many describing the local wines and cheeses as “fantastic” and the guide’s commentary as “amazing.”

After approximately three hours, the tour concludes back at the starting point, having experienced a well-rounded introduction to Burgundy’s wine country — all without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Authentic, Delicious, and Educational

One of the most praised aspects of this tour as highlighted by reviews is the knowledgeable and friendly guide. Baptiste, mentioned specifically, received accolades for his engaging manner and depth of regional wine and food knowledge. This human touch elevates the experience from just a bike ride to a genuine cultural exploration.

Many reviewers appreciated the stunning scenery — rolling vineyards, quaint towns, and historic architecture — which make for perfect photo opportunities. The fact that you’re cycling through some of France’s most prestigious wine areas adds a special sense of connection to the land and its traditions.

The food and wine tastings are also a standout. Being able to sample regional cheeses and ham alongside regional white wines and crème de cassis provides a fuller sensory experience. As one reviewer noted, “Riding through the vineyards was the highlight of our trip to Bourgogne,” emphasizing how this experience combined physical activity with culinary discovery.

What about value? At $74.52 per person, considering the inclusion of bike, helmet, tastings, and guide service, this tour offers excellent value. Instead of just sitting at a tasting room, you get to see the landscape, learn about its history, and enjoy the fresh air, making it a more memorable and engaging way to experience Burgundy.

Practical Tips for Participants

Given the outdoor nature of the tour, wear comfortable clothing suited for cycling and weather conditions. While helmets are provided and recommended, you should feel comfortable riding for about 6 miles each way with some stops. Since the route is described as easy, it’s suitable for most people with moderate fitness, but a basic level of cycling comfort is recommended.

Timing-wise, the tour begins at 9:00 am, making it a perfect morning activity, especially if you want to leave the afternoon free for other explorations or a relaxed lunch in Beaune. The meeting point at Square Pierre Curie is accessible by public transportation, but a car might be convenient depending on your accommodation location.

Remember to bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months. The tour is weather-dependent; if rain is forecasted, you might want to consider rescheduling or checking the cancellation policy.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike and tasting experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and want to see Burgundy’s countryside from a different perspective. It’s ideal for those who appreciate local culture, regional food, and wine without requiring strenuous effort. Families with older children, couples, and solo adventurers will find the small-group setting welcoming and intimate.

If you’re curious about Burgundy’s wine heritage but prefer an active, authentic approach over a traditional tasting room visit, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable, and educational experience. The combination of scenic cycling, regional tastings, and engaging storytelling makes it a memorable highlight of any Burgundy trip.

For travelers who want to combine light exercise with culture, this tour provides a friendly, well-organized way to experience the best of Burgundy’s vineyards and villages — all at a pace that allows for genuine enjoyment and discovery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The route is described as “no difficulty” and suitable for everyone, making it perfect for those with basic cycling skills.

How long is the bike ride?
The total distance is about 6 miles each way, with plenty of breaks for tastings and sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the bike, helmet (optional), guide, tastings of white wine, crème de cassis, cheese, and parsley ham.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. If the weather is poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. You can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in the group?
Maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for cycling. Bring sun protection and water.

Are the tastings included?
Yes, regional wines and local food samples are part of the experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
At Square Pierre Curie, in Chenôve, and it ends back at the same point.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, but a car might be more convenient depending on your accommodation.

Can children join this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate difficulty and small group size suggest it’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike; check with the provider if you’re bringing children.

In all, this Burgundy bike and tasting tour offers a wonderful, authentic way to enjoy the region’s beauty, flavors, and traditions, making it a highlight for active travelers eager to see more than just the surface of France’s wine country.