In Burgundy, it's easy to find yourself in the heart of the vineyards, surrounded by prestigious estates, centuries-old cellars, thousand-year-old châteaux, peaceful villages, Michelin-starred restaurants and charming hideaways. And there's no shortage of great places to stay in the vineyards. To be enjoyed without moderation, whatever the season!
Le Clos du Colombier 1817 in Pommard, Burgundy spirit
Who could dream of a more prestigious neighbour? Clos du Colombier 1817 takes its name from a 'monopole', a plot of land in the exclusive Pommard appellation, cultivated biodynamically and adjoining the hotel garden. In this privileged setting, at the foot of the vineyards of some of Burgundy's most renowned appellations, the beautiful winegrower's house stands like a refined jewel box, a historic yet timeless residence where you can relax and unwind. Everything here has been designed for the calm, comfort and serenity of guests, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You won't find a television, for example... It's a choice that the owners have made in favour of the art of living, the pleasure of staying in spacious rooms with a view over the vines, a break at the Spa, meetings with passionate winegrowers and convivial tastings in centuries-old cellars, just a few kilometres from Beaune.
Le Castel De Très Girard is a must-see!
Halfway between Dijon and Beaune, with a wide view over the Côte de Nuits vineyards, Castel Très Girard cultivates the memory of the Burgundy terroir. This vast blond stone residence is steeped in history. In the 17th century, the 4* hotel was once a wine press, where grapes were stored and pressed to extract the juice and produce the famous Morey-Saint-Denis wines. Today, Le Castel Très Girard welcomes its guests in a contemporary setting without denying its past. From the reception area onwards, the discreet wine racks add an authentic touch, as does the imposing period fireplace in the living room, where cheerful flames crackle in autumn. Wellness breaks, bike rides, a dip in the pool or walks in the surrounding vineyards are just some of the other pleasures to be enjoyed here, on the Burgundy wine route.
Le Clos du Grand Bois: my night in a barrel
What if you spent the night in a tonneau in southern Burgundy? Yes, a large, real wine barrel fitted out to sleep up to 4 people. On the edge of the Clos du Grand Bois, on the heights of Lugny with a superb view of the Mâconnais mountains, the Saône, the Bresse and the Jura, there are 6 of them set up for unusual nights close to the vines. Each has been named after a famous grape variety: Chardonnay, Aligoté, Muscat, Pinot noir, Gamay and Sauvignon. You can enjoy the family atmosphere of the estate with, on request, a guided tour of the three-hundred-year-old vineyard, the wine-making cellar and a tasting of a selection of white, red and crémant wines from the Mâconnais. So, which wine barrel will you choose?
La Source des Fées, a magical stopover
In the heart of the Fuissé vineyards, just a stone's throw from this delightful doll's village, stands a charming old 16th-century building. In a region renowned for its white Burgundy wines, Philippe, François and Jean-Charles have created an enchanting setting, renovating the ancestral home and landscaping an extraordinary garden where the Bois des Fées spring flows. The five guest rooms (including two family suites) envelop you in a cocoon of softness. At La Source des Fées, you can enjoy the peace and quiet, the natural surroundings and the jacuzzi overlooking the surrounding 4 hectares of vines. Burgundy wine tasting, with a special focus on the estate's own wines, is also on the agenda, as are fine dining tables where you can feast on local specialities made with the finest local produce.
By Pascale Filliâtre
Journalist-traveller. I often voyage to the end of the world to explore what France offers... just next door. filliatre.pascale@orange.fr
