A nature getaway for families in Burgundy

Slow tourisme

BurgundyNature and Outdoor ActivitiesNatural Parks

Settons Lake
© Alain Doire/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tourisme - Settons Lake

Reading time: 0 minPublished on 23 January 2025

Located just an hour and a half from Paris or Lyon by high-speed train, the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region is renowned for its exquisite cuisine and idyllic landscapes, making it the perfect getaway for families seeking a refreshing break. Take a few days to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Burgundy’s most stunning locations, savoring every moment of your nature retreat..

1/ Canoeing & kayaking on Settons Lake

Lac des Settons, France

Settons Lake
© Alain Doire/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tourisme - Settons Lake

Embark on your first Burgundian adventure at Lake Settons! This picturesque manmade lake in the Morvan region was established over 150 years ago and is renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté area. Spanning more than 360 hectares, it makes a heavenly place for a trip to the country at any time of year. Families can enjoy a variety of activities and watersports, alongside plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Rent a canoe and take a leisurely paddle while soaking in the stunning views that surround the expansive shores of Lake Settons.

2/ Treetop adventure trail in the Dijon countryside

Dijon, France

The City of Dukes, known for its rich heritage, attracts visitors worldwide with its culinary scene, parks, and commitment to sustainability. Enjoy a green escape at Colombière Park, just a short walk from the city center, and experience the excitement of 7 high-ropes trails at the Ecodrome in Dijon. It's a fun adventure for both kids and adults!

3 / An eco-friendly dip at La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur

Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur, Loireauxence, France

Biological swimming at La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur - Burgundy
© INNOVEO/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tourisme - Biological swimming at La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur - Burgundy

For your next outing in Burgundy, embrace slow tourism! Head for the charming village of La Chapelle-Saint-Sauveur for a chance to unwind by swimming in the natural “Biotope” pool. You’ll find this 1,500 m² eco-friendly lake just an hour away from Dijon. It is one of the first of its kind. Here, the water is filtered by a completely natural process. Make the most of the first rays of sunshine to take the family for their first biological dip in the great outdoors. 

4/ Expedition in the Bèze Caves

Grottes de Bèze, Chemin des Grottes, Bèze, France

Bèze Cave in Burgundy
© Commune de Bèze/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tourisme - Bèze Cave in Burgundy

Dive into the depths of the Earth this weekend. Available at any time of year, this memorable experience takes place in the Caves of Bèze, one of Burgundy’s most beautiful natural sites, in the department of Côte-d’Or. The site officially opened to visitors in 1972, but 90% of the caves have never been explored and remain inaccessible. Follow the underground passages or join a guided boat tour, to admire the sheer beauty of this natural feature oozing with mystery. Guaranteed to enchant the whole family! 

5/ Comté cheese tasting at Fort Saint-Antoine

Fort de Saint-Antoine, Saint-Antoine, France

Cellar at Fort Saint Antoine, Fromagerie Marcel Petite
© Alain Doire/Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tourisme - Cellar at Fort Saint Antoine, Fromagerie Marcel Petite

Your slow tourism experience in Burgundy includes the ultimate tour for cheese lovers. In Doubs, right in the heart of the Jura Mountains, visit the cellars of the famous Fort Saint-Antoine. In the company of a guide, learn all the production and maturing secrets behind an iconic French cheese, Comté. In the underground passages of this extraordinary military fort dating from 1879, get the family to join one of the tasting sessions to discover all sorts of local products, cheese included, guided by a professional cheese maturer and taster. 

By Charlène Dosio

Freelance journalist, photographer and director

Favourite topics for this journalist, photographer and independent film-maker are surfing, society, the outdoors, culture and feminism.

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