Savigny-lès-Beaune is a classic Burgundy wine village – with a surprise. Just 4.5 km north-west of Beaune, it lies in a little valley between the hills of Corton and Beaune, along the River Rhoin. Its vineyards produce well-known red and white wines, and its château hides one of the most unusual collections in the region.
Why visit Savigny-lès-Beaune
Come for wine tasting in family cellars, walks among the vines and a château that mixes 17th-century architecture with racing cars and aircraft. It is an easy, quieter base for exploring the Côte de Beaune.
Things to do in Savigny-lès-Beaune
The château and its collections
The Château de Savigny-lès-Beaune, first built around 1340 and rebuilt in the 17th century, is a listed historic monument. Today it houses collections of Abarth cars, motorcycles, military aircraft, vineyard straddle tractors and fire engines – a fun visit for all ages. An inscription at the cellar door claims that Savigny wines are “nourishing, theological and disease-fighting”.
Wine tasting
The village has many winegrowers’ cellars. On the first weekend of May, the event Bienvenue à Savigny sees producers open their doors for tastings.
Vineyard walks and events
Walk through the vines on the slopes around the village. In July, a gourmet walk of about 5 km crosses the vineyards, and in October the Foulée des Vendanges is a 10 km run through the vines.
Beaune
The wine capital of Burgundy, with the famous Hospices de Beaune, is only a few minutes away.
Best time to visit
May to October, with the harvest in September. Spring and autumn are ideal for walking.
Getting there
Beaune station has TGV and regional trains. The A6 motorway passes nearby. The nearest airports are Dijon (limited flights) and Lyon. A car or bike is best for touring the vineyards.
What to eat and drink
Red and white Savigny-lès-Beaune wines, boeuf bourguignon, jambon persillé, gougères and Époisses cheese.
Travel tips
- Book tastings in advance, especially outside events.
- Rent a bike to ride between Savigny, Beaune and the Côte.
FAQ
How far is Savigny-lès-Beaune from Beaune?
About 4.5 km, a few minutes by car or bike.
What is special about the château?
Its collections of cars, motorbikes and aircraft inside a historic Burgundy château.
