Burgundy by rail

If you want to escape from it all this spring and summer, the French region of Burgundy may be the perfect place to hide away.

Burgundy Tourism and Rail Europe have decided to dedicate a website to the delights of the region, and the benefits of getting there by rail.

This delightful region is the antidote to the doom and gloom pervading the atmosphere in the UK right now. The eponymous wines for which it's famous, the relaxing countryside, gourmet cuisine, traditional French towns, an extensive network of waterways and cycle paths are just some of the attractions that make this area of France ideal for some rest and relaxation.

And why spoil it with a cattle-class flight, followed by a stint on the continental motorways, when you can glide into the area by high-speed train? Rail is undoubtedly the best way to get to Burgundy. The nearest airport is two hours away by car. Add that to the two hours you'd need to check in for a flight, and the time you wait for your bags at the other end, and you'd already be there by high-speed rail.

Getting there

Most destinations in the Burgundy region can be reached from London St Pancras, Ebbsfleet or Ashford International within around five hours by train. Your journey will start on board the Eurostar, now even faster to France as normal service has resumed recently. For those watching the finances, standard class is great, but if you want to treat yourself, first class, or 'Leisure Select' is worth it, with much bigger seats, and a meal served at your seat.

You'll need to connect with a French high-speed 'TGV' train in either Lille or Paris to continue on to Burgundy. In Paris you need to change stations - but you could play this to your advantage by taking a few hours out in the beautiful French capital before continuing your journey.

There are TGV stations in Dijon, Beaune, Montbard, Sens, Chalon-sur-Saône and Mâcon-Loche. Stations are located very centrally, so there is no need for lengthy onward transfers when you get to your destination. Instead, arrive relaxed, ready to dump your bags at your hotel and start exploring this charming region.

Discover Burgundy by bike

During the past few years, Burgundy have invested in an extensive network of totally safe, family-friendly cycle routes suitable for all ages, ranging from gentle tracks to more demanding routes. There are 600km (372 miles) of dedicated cycle tracks, with no cars allowed, and a further 800km (497 miles) of marked cycle routes. The emphasis is on gentle relaxation rather than gruelling endurance cycling - it's a great way to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the region!

Many of the routes pass through vineyards, along canal towpaths or old railway lines and through pretty towns and villages. All routes are very well signed, with accommodation, cafés and restaurants all close by.

You can also make use of the new self-service bikes in Dijon city centre - these can be hired on a pay-as-you-go basis - just pick one up from one of the many points in the city. Or, bring your own - many of the TGV trains running in France have bike spaces available - but make sure you book early, as they are always popular.

Burgundy wine

The Burgundy name is probably more known throughout the world as a wine than a French region. The region has an excellent reputation for wines of exceptional quality, with vineyards such as Beaune, Chablis and Mâcon. Every type of wine is produced here - from pinot noir to chardonnay, and Crémant de Bourgogne, the region's own sparkling wine.

There are many different Wine Road routes, with itineraries through the main wine growing areas of the region. Tours are available by bike, self-drive, by public transport or as part of an excursion - which may be the best option if you are intending to sample a good few of the wines! Many of the wineries also offer accommodation, and you could also find yourself enjoying a gourmet meal. The number of different wine routes, tasting courses and winery tours is almost endless - there are over 280 winegrowers who have signed up to the Quality Charter. Whether you are a budding wine-connoisseur or just enjoy sampling fine wines - Burgundy should be on your ‘must see' list of places to visit.

What else is on offer?

Burgundy also has the most extensive network of canals and waterways in France. Various types of boating options are on offer - you can charter your own boat, large or small, or opt for the more leisurely option and book yourself onto a tour of the waterways. The region also has a reputation for excellent cuisine - there are several Michelin starred restaurants in the area to enjoy a quality meal, along with a glass of the region's finest produce.

There are many typically French towns and villages - with historical buildings and medieval architecture, museums and art galleries and pretty narrow streets full of charm and character. For the great outdoors, the Morvan Regional Nature Park has walking and hiking tracks and plenty of opportunity for horse riding.

Burgundy is uniquely diverse, a region with something for everyone, with a tradition of producing fine wines and culinary excellence. What's more, it's very easily accessible by high-speed rail from the UK.

Visit www.burgundybyrail.co.uk to find out more about the destinations and activities on offer.

Win a three-day wine break in Beaune, at the heart of the Burgundy wine region.

01 March 2009

---