From Beaune: Burgundy Grands Crus Road Tour in a Classic Car

Traveling through Burgundy’s famous vineyards in a vintage car feels like stepping into a postcard — charming, nostalgic, and full of authentic French character. This 3-hour journey, offered by My French Tour, combines the joys of sightseeing, wine tasting, and a touch of classic style that’s rare to find elsewhere. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of scenic drives, or simply someone looking for a memorable experience, this tour provides a delightful blend that’s tough to beat.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the chance to cruise along the legendary Route des Grands Crus in a genuine Citroën 2CV — a true icon of French motoring. Second, the local driver-guide’s knowledge enriches the journey, offering insights into Burgundy’s wine culture alongside the scenic views. Third, the tour’s inclusion of a winery visit with five wines to taste guarantees you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation (and some new favorites).

One potential consideration is that the vintage cars do not all come equipped with seatbelts, which might be a surprise for those accustomed to modern safety features. Plus, the tour is designed for private groups, making it perfect for couples, friends, or small families seeking an intimate experience, but possibly less suitable for those traveling solo or in larger groups.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving an authentic, relaxed way to explore Burgundy’s vineyards, combined with classic French style and expert wine commentary. It’s particularly suited to those who value scenic beauty and cultural authenticity over high-paced activities.

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Key Points

Vintage Style and Scenic Drives: Travel in a genuine Citroën 2CV for a truly French experience.
Expert Local Guide: Gain insights into Burgundy wines and region history from a knowledgeable driver.
Beautiful Vineyards and Villages: Enjoy stops at iconic towns like Pommard, Volnay, and Chassagne-Montrachet.
Wine Tasting Experience: Visit a winery for a guided tour and sample five different wines.
Stunning Views: The route offers panoramic vistas over some of France’s most famous vineyards.
Flexible & Private: The entire experience is private, with a flexible schedule and easy pickup options.

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Exploring the Burgundy Grands Crus Road Tour in Depth

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The Charm of a Vintage Car Ride Through Burgundy

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the vintage Citroën 2CV. It’s not just transportation; it’s part of the experience. The car’s quirky, laid-back vibe transports you to a different era, making the scenic drive feel more leisurely and personalized. As one reviewer noted, “Driving in the 2CV added a layer of charm that made the entire experience unforgettable.” Be aware that some cars are not equipped with seatbelts, which could seem unusual, but it’s typical for vintage models in France.

This style of travel means you’ll feel connected to the landscape, not just observing it from a bus window. The open-air nature and slow pace allow for photo stops and to really soak in the views of rolling vineyards and picturesque villages.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a pickup in Beaune, a lively hub of Burgundy wine culture. From there, the scenic 1.5-hour drive along the Route des Grands Crus takes you through some of France’s most revered vineyard landscapes. Expect to see sweeping vistas of monochrome green vineyards, dotted with traditional stone houses and charming villages.

The first stop includes a photo opportunity at one of the most scenic viewpoints. This is where you can snap some memorable pictures of the vineyards and maybe even catch a glimpse of the famous Montrachet Grand Cru plots. The driver-guide points out notable sites, such as Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault, sharing stories and historical tidbits along the way.

The Vineyard Visit and Wine Tasting

The highlight for many is the visit to a local wine estate in the Côte de Beaune. Here, you’ll tour the winery or cellar, gaining insight into Burgundy’s winemaking process, including the aging in oak barrels, which is a distinctive feature of Burgundy wines. This guided visit is often praised for being both educational and engaging — a perfect chance to understand what makes Burgundy wines so unique.

After the tour, you’ll taste five wines, giving you a well-rounded palate experience. While the specific wines aren’t named, they likely include a mix of Pommard, Volnay, Meursault, or Puligny-Montrachet, depending on the winery’s offerings. Reviewers appreciated the variety, noting that “the wines were delicious and perfectly paired with the scenic setting.” Several mentioned the tasting session as a highlight, especially as the guide shared insights into the winemaking process, including how oak barrels influence flavor.

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Scenic Return and Final Views

After the tasting, the tour resumes with a 30-minute drive back along the Route des Grands Crus, with additional stops at viewpoints for more photography and sightseeing. This segment is often lauded for its breathtaking vistas — rolling vineyards stretching to the horizon, punctuated by classic stone villages.

The tour concludes back in Beaune, leaving you with a full sense of Burgundy’s visual charm and vinous richness.

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Practical Details and What to Know

This experience lasts around three hours, making it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity. The timing is flexible — check with the provider for exact start times, as availability varies. Pickup is included, either from your hotel or a specified address within Beaune, with a central pickup point available too.

The tour is private, which means personalized attention from your driver-guide. The guide, fluent in French and English, can tailor some commentary to your interests, whether that’s more about the wines, the villages, or the history.

Pricing reflects the exclusivity and intimacy of the experience, and while it might seem a bit on the higher side, the value comes from the combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and authentic vintage travel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine lovers eager to enhance their knowledge in a relaxed setting, scenic seekers who appreciate panoramic views, and vintage car enthusiasts who want a unique way to see Burgundy. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a private, personalized experience. Those traveling with children should be aware of the car’s safety features and the limited duration.

Final Word

This vintage car tour offers a rare blend of authentic charm, stunning scenery, and immersive wine experiences. It’s a wonderful way to feel connected to Burgundy’s landscape and wine culture while enjoying the comfort of a private, personalized trip.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, visually spectacular, and educational adventure that combines classic French style with local flavors, this tour is well worth considering. Just be prepared for a slow-paced, scenic journey that leaves you with plenty of memories and perhaps a few new favorite wines.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the vintage cars are not all equipped with seatbelts and no special seats are provided for kids, this tour might not be suitable for young children.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours long, including sightseeing, winery visit, and tasting.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both French and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is included either from your hotel or a specified location within Beaune, including the Beaune office of tourism.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private vintage car ride, a guided winery or cellar visit, five wine tastings, and expert commentary from a knowledgeable driver-guide.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor stops and photos. Since the cars are vintage, dress casually and be prepared for a relaxed, open-air ride.

To sum it up, this tour perfectly captures the essence of Burgundy — picturesque landscapes, authentic wine culture, and a touch of vintage charm. It’s best for those who want to explore in style and comfort, with the added bonus of learning from local experts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable way to discover Burgundy’s renowned vineyards, this experience offers genuine value wrapped in scenic beauty.