Virtual Tour of Beaune: The Wine Capital of Burgundy (Part 2)

Part two of our Virtual Tours series through Beaune explains why this walled medieval town is considered as ‘The Capital of Burgundy Wines’. Follow Cruise Director and Tour Guide, Matthew, as he uncovers Beaune’s fascinating wine-making heritage, and how it has become the epicentre of Burgundy’s wine trade.

The capital of the Burgundy wine country, Beaune is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Burgundy. Until the 15th century, Beaune was the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy. France eventually took the town from the Burgundians in 1477 after the Duchy was annexed by Louis XI following Charles the Bold’s death.

First a Gallic sanctuary and then a Roman town, Beaune is now a mecca for wine lovers. This thriving town is surrounded by ramparts and has a labyrinth of caves (wine cellars). During its three-day festival and wine auction in November, free wine-tastings draw huge crowds, many of whom arrive thirsty and leave satisfied, albeit a little tipsy!

The Hôtel-Dieu, a charity hospital funded by the sale of wines produced on lands donated by its benefactors, was, until 1971, a working hospital. It had been constructed originally to provide free care for men who had fought in the Hundred Years’ War. Today, the Musée de l’Hôtel-Dieu displays Flemish-Burgundian art and the Grand Salle, at 165 feet long, is a showpiece to display its original furniture.

Its roof tiles, which have become world-renowned, are polychromatic in the Burgundian-style and date from the Renaissance.

You can visit Beaune on our cruises aboard L’Impressionniste & Finesse 

Related Articles

Is Beaune the Most Beautiful Town in Burgundy?

Beaune is overflowing with history, art and wine. Here are the best sites for culture lovers, including parks, museums and of course, tastings. Read More

From the Roman to the Romanesque: The Attractions of Autun

Autun's rich architectural and cultural heritage makes this one visit not to be missed when cruising aboard hotel barge Finesse in Southern Burgundy Read More

Discover Auxerre: Cathedral, Old Town, Wines & More…

The French city of Auxerre is a dwelling frozen in time. Whilst you’re wandering around, it’s easy to forget you’re in France, and think you’re in a fairy-tale! Read More

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Burgundy, France

Burgundy is one of the most idyllic regions in rural France. With so many beautiful places to explore, you’ll need our Top 10 guide to see the best bits! Read More

The Historic Town of Vézelay in Burgundy

Located fifty kilometres south of Auxerre, Vézelay offers a rich tapestry of culture, tradition and history amidst spectacular surrounds... Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the River Yonne

The River Yonne is one of the most important rivers in Burgundy, extending from Auxerre, where it joins the Canal du Nivernais Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the Canal du Centre

The Ultimate Guide to the Canal du Centre - History, interesting facts, maps, nearby towns and villages, places of interest and lots more! Read More

Clos de Vougeot: Home of the Chevaliers du Tastevin

Learn the secrets of the historic vineyards of Clos de Veugeot and discover why the ancient site represents the winemaking industry of Burgundy Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the Canal du Nivernais

The Ultimate Guide to the Canal du Nivernais - History, interesting facts, maps, nearby towns and villages, places of interest and lots more! Read More

Get a glimpse of France gone by at Abbaye de Fontenay

Relax onboard the luxury Barge, La Belle Epoque, and enjoy a tour of the famous Abbaye de Fontenay Read More

Visit Burgundy’s Oldest Winemakers for Maison Champy Wine-Tasting Experience

Does it get any more indulgent than sampling exceptional wines at the vineyards of Burgundy’s oldest wine company? Maison Champy has been producing award-winning wines since 1720 and it’s the... Read More

Grapes and Gastronomy at Domaine Laroche, Chablis

Guests aboard L'Art de Vivre or La Belle Epoque will visit the renowned Domaine Laroche, situated in the famous vineyards of Chablis... Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the Saône River

The River Saône flows for 300 miles from the Vosges Mountains to its junction with the River Rhone in Lyons and is navigable for 230 miles Read More

Burgundy Wine Guide: Some of the Most Expensive Wines in the World

Burgundy Wine Guide: The Burgundy wine region is home to some of the most expensive wines in the known universe, there are plenty of good, affordable wines that can... Read More

The Ultimate Guide to the Burgundy Canal

The Ultimate Guide to the Burgundy Canal - History, interesting facts, maps, nearby towns and villages, places of interest and lots more! Read More

X