Green Way Tour of Southern Burgundy

The Green Way Tour of Southern Burgundy: a bucolic and gourmet cycling route

Welcome to Southern Burgundy, birthplace of the first greenway in France and an exceptional destination for cycling enthusiasts. Between Chalon-sur-Saône et BuilderThe Southern Burgundy Loop offers an unforgettable cycling experience, blending unspoiled nature, historical heritage, typical villages and gastronomic delightsOn nearly 145 km of developed pathsPrimarily on greenways, this route offers an ideal getaway to experience in 2 to 4 days.alone, with friends or with family.

The journey begins at Chalon-sur-Saône, a city of art and history situated on the banks of the Saône. From there, head south towards the Green Way of the Côte ChalonnaiseA pioneering route of its kind, winding its way between vineyards and medieval villages. You will notably pass through Givryfamous for its Cellier aux Moines, Buxy with its 12th-century Red Tower, or even Saint-Gengoux-le-National and its cobbled streets.

The route continues towards Cluny, a major spiritual center of medieval Europe, whose Benedictine abbey was the most powerful of its time. Nearby, don't miss the Romanesque churches of Taizé, Ameugny, and Massilly, as well as the Cormatin Castle and its remarkable gardens. The terrain remains gentle, perfectly accessible, and the landscapes are dotted with vineyards, hedgerows and gentle hills.

From Cluny, the Green Way plunges towards the Mâconnais vineyardwith iconic milestones such as Berze-le-Chatel, the Rock of Solutré, or the Clear Wood Tunnel1,6 km long and the longest cycle tunnel in France. A cool, mineral atmosphere guaranteed! You then reach Builder, a charming city with southern accents, rich in architectural and wine-making heritage.

For the return trip, take the Blue Way, which follows the Saône northwards in a setting wild and soothing, partly classified as a Natura 2000 site. This flatter section guides you between wet meadows, riverside villages, and unusual sites such as Fleurvilledear to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. As you approach Chalon-sur-Saône, enjoy the changing light on the river, the small marinas and the gentle Burgundy atmosphere.

La Southern Burgundy Loop is entirely signposted in both directions and punctuated by Bike Welcome serviceswith accommodations, restaurants, bike rentals and easily accessible train stations. A perfect getaway for a first cycling trip, combining the pleasure of cycling, cultural discoveries and the epicurean art of living.