Cycling maps and guides for the Tour of Burgundy
The Tour of Burgundy by bike an iconic loop
You can explore Burgundy’s four departments by bike thanks to an iconic route of nearly 800 km along canals and greenways. A loop accessible to every cyclist, amateur or not, with no steep climbs and a safe environment. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a bike tour in Burgundy that you won’t forget !
800 km for the Tour of Burgundy by bike
Most cyclists choose to start the Tour de Bourgogne by bike from the town of Auxerre. This route, which runs from Auxerre to Dijon, the Canal du Centre, Southern Burgundy, and then the Canal du Nivernais, is the smoothest and best-marked.
From Auxerre, you first follow the Burgundy Canal to Dijon. This plunges you directly into a peaceful Burgundy setting, featuring flower-bedecked locks, small bridges, and rural heritage. After Dijon, head towards Beaune and Santenay, where you’ll be immersed in the Côte de Beaune vineyards. A must for cycling and wine lovers!
You then continue along the Canal du Centre, from Chalon-sur-Saône to Cronat. This stage follows the waterway between green hills and wine-growing villages. Then, it’s time for the Southern Burgundy loop, between Chalon-sur-Saône and Mâcon. A relaxing greenway that crosses the rolling countryside of southern Burgundy. To round off your adventure, the Canal du Nivernais awaits you between Decize and Auxerre. It’s one of the most beautiful sections of the route, often cited as a must-see on the Burgundy cycle route.
This extensive 800-km loop can, of course, be completed in several stages, depending on your preferences and pace. Mainly along greenways and towpaths, it allows you to discover the diverse landscapes of Burgundy as you travel.
The must-see places of the Tour of Burgundy by bike
The Burgundy cycling tour is a total immersion in Burgundian life, combining nature, culture, and gastronomy.
Here are the must-see stops and places:
- Auxerre : the medieval city with half-timbered houses and lively quays.
- Dijon : the former capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, rich in museums and architecture.
- Beaune : renowned for its hospices and wine cellars, it’s an unmissable detour for a successful cycling trip to Beaune.
- The Canal du Nivernais : one of the most charming canals in France, lined with forests and meadows.
- The vineyards of the Côte Chalonnaise and Côte de Beaune : ideal for combining cycling and wine tasting.
- The châteaux and abbeys : Cormatin, Ancy-le-Franc, Châteauneuf, Cluny, Fontenay, Vézelay.
- Local specialties : for gourmets, there are snails, eggs in red wine sauce, beef bourguignon, Dijon mustard, and of course, the great wines of Burgundy.
Our ideas for cycling trips on the Tour de Bourgogne
For even more trip ideas, visit the La Bicyclette Verte website, which offers several cycling routes to enjoy with friends or family.
Routes connected to the Tour of Burgundy by bike
The Burgundy cycle network allows you to expand your adventure to other long-distance routes. Here are the main connections for the Burgundy cycle tour:
- EuroVelo 6 : between Chalon-sur-Saône and Digoin, a major route connecting the Atlantic to the Black Sea. In Burgundy, it runs along the Loire and then the Doubs in a peaceful setting.
- The Burgundy Canal : an integral part of the tour but also a route in its own right, particularly popular for family outings or short stays.
With these connections, you can easily extend your cycle tour in Burgundy or create tailor-made loops.
If you want to plan other cycling routes, don’t hesitate to consult the maps and guides in France or in Europe.