Location

Southern Burgundy

History

Burgundy's golden age began in 1364 when John II of France bestowed the Dukedom on his son, Phillip the Bold. Philip and his successors acquired vast territories, and by the early 15th century the dukes of Burgundy dominated French politics. A great power, Burgundy at that time had the most important trade, industry, and agriculture of Europe. Its court, a centre of the arts, was second to none.

It all came to an end when the last Duke, Charles the Bold, after engaging in a series of ruinous wars, lost his life. The duchy was seized by Louis XI, who incorporated it into the French lands as a province.

Traces of Burgundy's glorious past can be seen in the magnificence of the Hospice de Beaune, built by Nicholas Rolin, Chancellor of the Duchy of Burgundy, in 1443.

Also echoing Burgundy's medieval splendour is Cluny Abbey, once the largest monastery in Europe, with around 10,000 monks.

Just down the road from Les Battées is the Chateau Marguerite de Bourgogne, with its magnificent tower, dating from the 12th century.

Culture

Burgundy's wine is at the heart of its culture, and Les Battées is ideally positioned for a tour of the villages of the Cote d'Or, the Cote Chalonnaise, and Burgundy's newest appellation, the Cote Couchois. Travel the Route Touristique du Grands Vins, and sample them all.

South Burgundy offers a lot more than wine. A summer of festivals, from Chalon-sur-Saône's carnival of street theatre, to Nolay's medieval festival, offers something to delight all tastes and ages.

If music and theatre interest you, visit Autun, and experience the Roman empire recreated in the magnificent surroundings of its Roman amphitheatre. Alternatively go to an open air concert at the theatre on Mont Rome, a roman theatre recreated by the composer Patrice Sciortino, working with his bare hands.

Leisure Activities

Travel “the voie verte” (the green way) around Southern Burgundy, on horseback, by bike, or on foot and discover its varied and beautiful countryside.

Alternatively, take to the water, and cruise the Canal du Centre, which runs through St Lèger sur Dheune. The Canal du Centre Association runs boat trips from Ecuisses, a short drive from Les Battées. If you wish to keep your feet dry, you could follow the tow paths through beautiful traffic-free countryside on foot or by bike.