Exploring the Storybook City of Beaune, Burgundy

Contributor Post

Entrepreneur: Brittany Garman
Company: BashBLOK
Title: Co-Founder
Industry: Event Planning

Beaune, the capital of Burgundy and a food lover’s paradise. Last fall I had the pleasure of spending a few days in this magical town located in Northeastern France and it was an absolute delight. Beautiful and quaint, Beaune is possibly one of the few cities I have been to that is worthy of being called “storybook”. I could hear Disney’s Beauty & the Beast song, “Bonjour”, playing in my head as I strolled the streets popping in and out of textile shops, boulangeries and fromageries. To sum it up, the city’s charm had charm and I was not disappointed. Having very little knowledge on Beaune beforehand I was not quite sure how to make the most of my three days. A little internet digging and some advice from travel extraordinaire, Rick Steves, heightened my excitement and I was looking forward to a truly French experience. Should you be planning a trip to Beaune, and you should, be sure to check out my favorite spots.

Wine Tasting Bike Tour with Bourgogne Evasion

If you only do one wine tasting experience, do this! My group did a half day tour and it was absolutely perfect. You will get a good bit of wine education, meet very friendly vineyard owners, taste an array of delicious wines, and get a little exercise all while being surrounded by the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

Restaurants

Every food experience in Beaune will most likely knock your socks off considering the city has several Michelin Star Restaurants. Regardless of where you go, make a reservation. Many of these restaurants have very limited seating and they typically do not turn tables. My favorites were 21 Boulevard which is located in a 15th century cellar and Ma Cuisine.

Wine

The Saturday Market

In general, I am a huge fan of seeking out local farmer’s markets and this is quite possibly the be all end all of such. As is if the Beaune’s picturesque architecture were not enough to captivate your senses, add in a gorgeous array of local vegetables, cheese, mustard and wine. There are typically over 150 vendors lining the Place de la Halle square so you will not be disappointed by your options to experience some of the finest local ingredients.

The Cook’s Atelier

The Cook’s Atelier is a tri-bid business, a shop, a cooking school and a B&B. What could be more charming than that? Even if you do not participate in their cooking classes at least visit the store. The shop is filled with stunning copper cookware, tools and is perfectly styled…truly a cooking enthusiasts delight! The store is also soon to release a cookbook and of course I have already pre-ordered a copy. It will no doubt be the best of the best!

Hospices de Beaune

From every corner of the city you will see the beautifully glazed, tiled rooftop of this pillar in Burgundy’s architecture. The structure was built in the 1400’s as a hospital to care for the poor post The 100 Year’s War and is now a fascinating museum. Surprisingly, this is also the chosen location of the annual three day wine auction, Les Trois Glorieuses, which has been a Beaune tradition for more than 150 years.

Edmond Fallot

Edmond Fallot Mustard Factory

I know what you are thinking…a mustard factory? Really Brittany? How interesting can that be? I promise, extremely interesting! Our visit to Edmond Fallot was the conclusion of our time in Beaune and what a way to go. Admittedly, I have never been a huge mustard person but all that has changed. The team at Edmond Fallot put a tremendous amount of time and energy into the layout of the exhibit, the tastings and the overall experience. Plus, you will learn how to make your own mustard and they send you home with several mini jars just for taking the tour!

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