Burgundy’s must-sees just over an hour from Beaune

Ancy-le-Franc is renowned for its sumptuous Renaissance château, a true architectural gem from the 16th century. The Château d’Ancy-le-Franc is a gateway to the nobility of Burgundy, with its elegant facades, refined interior decor and vast French parklands. You can take part in guided tours, temporary exhibitions and numerous cultural events throughout the year. Its parkland of over 50 hectares, located near the Port du Canal, is also sure to charm you with its peaceful, leafy setting.

One of the very first French monuments to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,Fontenay Abbey is a veritable monument to Romanesque art, near Montbard. Founded in 1118 by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, this Cistercian abbey is one of the best preserved in Europe. Visitors are invited to stroll through its cloister, abbey church and chapter house, and admire the elegance of its architecture. Nestling in an unspoilt valley covering more than 1,200 hectares, the abbey boasts buildings that have been remarkably well-preserved for almost 900 years.

Overlooking the village of Époisses, which has been awarded the “cité de caractère” label , the fortress welcomes you. Themedieval château of Époisses has seen a prestigious history unfold since the IVᵉ century. Residence in turn of the Queen of the Franks, the Dukes of Burgundy, the Grand Condé and then the Marquise de Sévigné, it was first a royal house before becoming a seigneurial residence in the XIIᵉ century. Its allure blending medieval and Renaissance architecture offers a unique immersion in regional history. Its richly decorated rooms and peaceful gardens invite you to take a stroll. The château even inspired Madame de Lafayette to write her novel The Princess of Cleves. The victim of numerous attacks, it was almost demolished in the 18th century. It has survived the centuries to still deliver its secrets to visitors today. The little extra, you can visit a dovecote in perfect condition.

Narrow cobbled streets, colourful facades in warm tones, typical round tiles… It smells of the South, doesn’t it? Well, welcome to Tournus, a charming town in Saône-et-Loire, in the heart of southern Burgundy. On the banks of the River Saône, Tournus is a must for history and architecture buffs. Its emblematic Abbaye Saint-Philibert, an 11th-century Romanesque jewel, captivates visitors with its pink and ochre stonework, cloister, ancient frescoes and fascinating history. It was built by monks on the run from Noirmoutier. Admire the vaulted naves and wander through the crypt, where you’ll come across a very old well where the head of Tournus’ protector, Saint-Valérien, is said to have been thrown. You can also visit theHôtel-Dieu de Tournus, an 18th-century hospital with one of the oldest apothecaries in France. Tournus is also a true paradise for gourmets and food lovers. Gastronomy is an art of living. From bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, Burgundy classics can be savoured in every sauce! On the menu: beef bourguignon, Bresse chicken and snails, not forgetting Burgundy wines and cheeses… it’s hard to choose between Cîteaux, Délice de Bourgogne and Pommard! Just an hour from Beaune, Tournus invites you on an escapade combining culture, flavours and the good life along the river. It’s a destination to discover for anyone who loves combining heritage, gourmet pleasures and moments of relaxation on the banks of the Saône.

If you thought Burgundy was all vineyards and churches, Le Creusot will surprise you! The cradle of modern industry in France, the town welcomes you with a huge 100-tonne sledgehammer built by Schneider in 1876. But there’s more to Le Creusot than steel and machines. Its history can also be discovered at the Château de la Verrerie, Marie-Antoinette’s former royal glassworks. With its two characteristic large cones, this 18th-century industrial site was transformed by the Schneider brothers, one of whose furnaces became an Italian-style theatre. The Parc de la Verrerie, located right next to the château, is a haven of greenery perfect for a family stroll. To get away from it all, head to the Parc des Combes: a family park with steam train, hot-air balloon, duck and Canadian river! As a bonus, there’s a breathtaking view of the Morvan! And of course, there’s good food! Friendly restaurants, local specialities and wines from the nearby Couchois region round off this unexpected and exotic getaway.