Beaune and the Burgundy Vineyards: Where fine wine, historic charm, and French art de vivre meet.
If the soul of France had a cellar, it would be Burgundy. And nestled at its heart is Beaune — a cobbled gem surrounded by centuries-old vineyards and a lifestyle steeped in elegance. A town where time lingers, where heritage meets haute cuisine, and where every detail is savoured like a grand cru.
Why visit Beaune now?
Beaune is a year-round destination, each season offering its own rhythm and pleasures.
In spring, the vineyards awaken in soft green, and village markets brim with fresh produce and flowers. It’s a gentle time for walking, cycling, and discovering Burgundy’s countryside in bloom.
Summer brings long, golden days perfect for wine tastings on shaded terraces, evening concerts in historic courtyards, and open-air dining under the plane trees. The energy rises, but the pace remains deliciously slow.
Come autumn, the region glows with warm hues as harvest begins — a magical period to witness the winemaking process up close and taste just-pressed grape musts. It’s a time of celebration and deep connection to the land.
And in winter, Beaune reveals its quiet charm: festive lights, cosy wine cellars, Michelin-starred dinners by the fire, and truffle season in full swing. The town slows to a whisper, ideal for those seeking intimacy and authenticity.
Premium experiences in and around Beaune
Private Grand Cru Tastings:
Book a guided visit to Domaine de la Romanée-Conti or Clos de Vougeot and discover what elevates Burgundy wines to near-mythical status. Several maisons offer exclusive cellar tours and vertical tastings — perfect for collectors or curious enthusiasts.
Cycle the Route des Grands Crus:
Ride through Puligny-Montrachet, Meursault, and Pommard, with vineyard picnics arranged en route. Electric bikes and private guides make this accessible to all levels, and the views are unforgettable.
Hospices de Beaune — A Cultural Jewel:
Visit the famed Hôtel-Dieu, a 15th-century hospital turned museum, with its iconic glazed-tile roof. Opt for the private after-hours tour for a deeper appreciation of its architecture and art collection.
Sail the Canal de Bourgogne:
Charter a luxury barge for a day trip or overnight cruise. Onboard chefs, wine pairings, and countryside views create a slow, elegant escape from the roads.
Meet the Vignerons:
Arrange a bespoke tasting at a boutique biodynamic estate. These intimate encounters go beyond the glass — you'll hear personal stories, explore barrel rooms, and sometimes even share a meal with the winemaker.
VERTU’s insider tip: Don’t leave without visiting Beaune’s Saturday market. Local cheeses, truffle oils, and handmade linens make for refined souvenirs. Ask your concierge to arrange a guided stroll with a local food expert — it’s the best way to uncover small producers and seasonal specialties.
Where to Stay: Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa
For those who seek refinement without pretense, Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa offers a discreet kind of luxury — one rooted in comfort, heritage, and gastronomic pleasure. Located just steps from Beaune’s medieval ramparts, the hotel feels like a private manor, with ivy-covered façades, lush gardens, and a quiet sense of exclusivity. The rooms blend classic elegance with modern touches, and the Nuxe Spa provides a cocoon of calm after a day in the vineyards.
But the true star? The Michelin-starred restaurant Clos du Cèdre, set in a 19th-century mansion. Here, chef Jordan Billan crafts seasonal menus that celebrate Burgundy’s terroir — morels, Bresse poultry, blackcurrants — all paired with a wine list that reads like an oenophile’s dream.
Hostellerie Cèdre and Spa in Beaune, a member of the VERTU Collection