Saône Et Loire

Saône-et-Loire is a beautiful region in Burgundy, France, known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. A road trip here sounds like a fantastic idea! Let’s dive into an ideal 2-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty and culture of this lovely area.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Burgundy

Morning: Cluny

• Start your day in the picturesque town of Cluny, famous for its historical abbey. The Abbey of Cluny was once one of the most important monastic sites in Europe. Take a leisurely stroll around the abbey grounds and visit the museum to learn about its fascinating history.
• Grab a coffee and a croissant at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.

Midday: Cormatin

• After Cluny, hop in your car and drive about 20 minutes to Cormatin. Here, you can visit the stunning Château de Cormatin, known for its beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. The guided tour is well worth it!
• For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby bistro. Try some local specialties like coq au vin or a hearty beef bourguignon.

Afternoon: Tournus

• Next, head to Tournus, a charming town along the Saône River, about a 30-minute drive from Cormatin. Explore the Romanesque Abbey of Saint-Philibert, which dates back to the 10th century. The architecture is simply breathtaking!
• Take a leisurely walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the serene views.

Evening: Dinner in Tournus

• For dinner, indulge in some local cuisine at a restaurant in Tournus. The region is known for its excellent wines, so don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Burgundy wine!
• After dinner, take a stroll through the town as the sun sets, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Day 2: Nature and Vineyards

Morning: La Rochepot

• On your second day, start with a drive to La Rochepot, about an hour from Tournus. The highlight here is the stunning Château de La Rochepot, perched on a hilltop with its colorful roofs. The views from the castle are simply spectacular!
• Explore the surrounding vineyards and take in the beautiful countryside.

Midday: Beaune

• After exploring La Rochepot, make your way to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Visit the famous Hôtel-Dieu, a former hospital with stunning architecture and a fascinating history.
• For lunch, treat yourself to a meal at one of Beaune’s many bistros. You can’t go wrong with a cheese platter featuring local cheeses!

Afternoon: Wine Tasting

• Spend your afternoon indulging in some wine tasting. There are numerous vineyards and wine cellars around Beaune where you can sample some of the best wines in the region. Consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the winemaking process.
• If time allows, take a scenic drive through the vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, where you can stop and take photos of the beautiful landscapes.

Evening: Return to Cluny

• As your road trip comes to an end, head back to Cluny for your final evening. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your adventures over the past two days.
• If you’re up for it, take a night walk around the town to soak in the charming atmosphere one last time.

Tips for Your Road Trip:

• Make sure to have a good map or GPS, as some of the roads can be winding and rural.
• Don’t rush! Take your time to enjoy the scenery and stop at any charming villages or viewpoints along the way.
• Try to learn a few basic French phrases; the locals will appreciate your effort!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 2 days in Saône-et-Loire! Enjoy your road trip and all the delightful experiences that await you in this beautiful region! Safe travels! 🚗✨