8 Beautiful Villages in Burgundy for Wine Lovers

Located just a short distance from the famous wine village of Chablis, Irancy definitely merits a visit. Visually, it is one of France’s vineyard gems, as, above the village, a natural amphitheater of vines faces south, capturing that all-important midday sun. Wander down a small road that starts from the forest above, and marvel at the slopes full of cherry trees and wildflowers in the spring. Wandering around the village is enchanting, soaking up its timeless, gentle atmosphere.

Wine and culture lovers flock to Vézelay each year, undoubtedly one of France’s and Europe’s prettiest villages. Its star attraction is the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, a glorious abbey that became famous in the 12th century for its association with the relics of Mary Magdalene. The main draw for visitors to this gorgeous Romanesque church is the magnificent tympanum, the carved capitals of the nave, and the soaring Romanesque interior. Little wonder then that Vézelay became an important staging point on one of the pilgrimage roads to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain.

Thankfully, the village has retained its unspoiled character, even today, and is full of 15th- and 16th-century buildings, not to mention narrow medieval streets and delightful courtyards. The Basilica and Hill of Vézelay have been listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1979. It takes at least half a day to fully appreciate its unique character. After sightseeing, visit one of Vézelay’s inviting cafes and restaurants, where traditional Burgundian dishes, friendly service, and local wines await. If you can, try to spend the night, as Vézelay is at its finest after sunset, especially after the other tourists leave!

Cluny is one of France’s most fascinating villages. Situated northwest of the vineyards of the Mâconnais, its reputation derives from the remains of a Benedictine Abbey founded in 910. Its great abbey church, Cluny III, was the largest church in Christendom for five centuries, the center of a monastic network that eventually extended across nearly a thousand establishments in Europe. Sadly, after the Revolution, the abbey was sold as national property in 1798 and subsequently dismantled, leaving only a fraction of the great church standing. Yet, many interesting parts remain, including the ancient granary and parts of the bell tower. Beyond the Abbey itself, a relaxed stroll around Cluny’s small medieval center is a major highlight, with excellent restaurants and atmospheric cafes. Also, don’t miss the nearby Jean de Bourbon Palace, which houses the Art and Archaeology Museum and features works by medieval sculptors.

The large (by Burgundian standards) village of Meursault may not be the prettiest in the region, but it deserves mention for being one of the most interesting and vibrant places in the largely sleepy Côte d’Or. Its renown as one of the world’s most famous white wine regions draws wine lovers on pilgrimage year-round, especially during the Paulée de Meursault in November. Located in the middle of the Meursault vineyards, it boasts a fine church dating back to the 15th century, whose tall spire can be seen from a distance. The focal point of activity, particularly on market day, is the handsome former château that now serves as the Hôtel de Ville. Narrow, winding streets and alleyways surround this lovely village, perfect for a gentle stroll before lunch. Unlike neighboring villages, Meursault has excellent food options, including the charmingly rustic Le Bouchon.

Brancion is one of Burgundy’s most delightful villages and a must-visit for history lovers. Situated between Cluny and Tournus, Brancion was once an important administrative center under the Dukes of Burgundy. Today it is a popular tourist destination, famed for its picture-postcard streets and a medieval castle whose origins reach back nearly a thousand years. Visitors also love the old covered market hall and quaint houses that have changed little over the centuries. And then there is the pretty Church of Saint-Pierre, a stunning example of Romanesque architectural flair. Besides the impressive tower, you’ll love the fascinating murals inside the church and the spectacular views across the vineyards of the Maconnais.

This utterly charming and beguiling hilltop village has become one of Côte d’Or’s most famous and visited places. Its headline-grabbing attraction is the majestic château, whose origins go back to a fortified site established in the second half of the 12th century. Jean de Chaudenay settled here around 1175 and took the name Châteauneuf. In the 15th century, Philippe le Bon, Duke of Burgundy, confiscated the estate before it passed to his adviser, Philippe Pot, who transformed much of the fortress into the château we see today. The Château’s turreted towers can be seen for miles around, giving the village a wonderful fairytale quality. Spend a leisurely afternoon strolling the village’s delightful narrow medieval streets, admiring the merchant houses before heading to a terrace cafe for a glass of local wine. Bliss!

One of the lesser-known wine villages of the Côte d’Or, Pernand-Vergelesses is a hidden gem. Its lack of renown has preserved this pretty village’s peaceful character, and even in the height of summer, its streets remain largely the preserve of winemakers and local residents. Strolling around its ancient streets makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. There are few headline sights, but rather a collection of old houses, sharp corners, and steep alleys clinging to the sides of a hill that partly overlooks the famous Chardonnay vineyards of Corton-Charlemagne—the ideal place to relax and unwind.