Things to See and Do in Burgundy

Events for your diary, sites to explore, arts, sports and culture

Related articles: A Complete Guide to Burgundy: Venture Beyond the Vineyards
Where to Stay and Eat in Burgundy
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FESTIVALS

Le Festival Musical des Grands Crus de Bourgogne features, as the name implies, more than 40 concerts and events from June to October, all related to the theme of wine. Website: www.musicalgrandscrus-bourgogne.fr

From June 9 to July 9 the region will celebrate 80 years of the Grands Crus Wine Route, and mark the second anniversary of its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Website: www.climats-bourgogne.com

La Fête de la Gastronomie, in September, invites punters to dine al fresco amid the region’s heritage sites. Website: www.bourgogne-tourisme.com

Saint-Vincent Tournante

This wine festival, curated by the Chevaliers du Tastevin, is held at a different wine-making village in January every year.

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS

Imaginarium

An informative and entertaining introduction to the world of wine-making in Nuits-Saint-Georges with two interactive guided tours. Website: www.imaginarium-bourgogne.com

Cassissium

Learn why the blackcurrant is, after the grape, the second most celebrated fruit in Burgundy – its history and production, followed by a tasting. Website: www.cassissium.fr

MuséoParc Alésia

Travel back in time to 52BC and the famous battle between Julius Caesar’s Roman army and the Gallic tribes united and led by Vercingétorix – and discover the vestiges of a Gallo-Roman town. Website: www.alesia.com

ART SPACES

Le Consortium

A contemporary art centre and hub of independent expression in Dijon, Le Consortium holds excellent temporary exhibitions and also boasts an important permanent collection of its own. Website: www.leconsortium.fr

FRAC Bourgogne

One of a network of 23 Regional Contemporary Art Funds dedicated to and celebrating creativity. Website: www.frac-bourgogne.org

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

Golf du Château de Chailly

It may feel a tad anachronistic or bourgeois but there is nothing quite like playing 18 holes on the stunning grounds of a medieval château, and then adjourning to its gastronomic restaurant and hotel. Website: www.chailly.com

Bike and Wine Tours

Ride through gently rolling hills and wooded paths, passing through vineyards as far as the eye can see, on a four-day Burgundy bike tour. Website: www.burgundy-tourism.com

From France Today magazine