10 Reasons to Visit Greater Chalon in Burgundy 

Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, the Greater Chalon area embodies the true Burgundian way of life; an invitation to enjoy good food, fasinating sites and beautiful surroundings. Here are 10 things to look-out for on your visit. 

Located 1h30 from Lyon, Chalon-sur-Saône and Greater Chalon offer you a perfect summary of Burgundy. The Chalonnais is full of natural riches which make it an ideal place for outdoor activities, on the water, in the vineyards, in the forest or in the air. It is also the ideal place to discover Burgundian castles and Romanesque churches. 

1. A wealth of history in Chalon-sur-Saône

Greater Chalon is full of historical treasures, including Chalon-sur-Saône, a city of art and history whose historic centre reveals sites such as the Saint-Vincent Cathedral, dating from the 11th century and its magnificent cloister, the only preserved canonical cloister from Burgundy Franche-Comté. A nice way to visit is on the new little train that winds its way through the city. 

2. Chalon-sur-Saône, the capital of photography.

The city is the birthplace of Nicéphore Niépce, inventor of photography. Chalon is considered the cradle of photography today. Discover its museum, Musée Niépce, which explains the principles of photography from its invention to digital photos. The exhibition includes 4 million photos, 8000 cameras, 1500 works on display, 11 exhibition rooms! 

3. A renowned wine region

Wine lovers will be enchanted by the renowned vineyards of the Côte Chalonnaise. Taste the five quality appellations – Mercurey, Bouzeron, Rully, Montagny, Givry – and visit picturesque wine estates to discover the art of winemaking in Greater Chalon. 

4. Gourmet cuisine

Sampling local gastronomy in Greater Chalon is an experience in its own right. Traditional restaurants offer delicious dishes, showcasing fresh local produce. Don’t miss out on tasting regional specialties like boeuf bourguignon or oeufs en meurette.

5. Riverside walks on the Saône

The banks of the Saône offer picturesque walks. Embark on a 1.5 hour walk from the heart of the city: you will enjoy a peaceful atmosphere along this majestic river while discovering the local fauna and flora. 

6. A lively cultural agenda

Greater Chalon offers a diverse cultural program throughout the year. Festivals, exhibitions and concerts will immerse you in local artistic life. Mark your calendars with Chalon Dans la Rue (July), an essential transnational street arts festival or the Paulée de la Côte Chalonnaise (October) which celebrates the end of the harvest.  

7. Authentic markets

Browse the local markets where regional products, cheeses, wines, and other delicacies await you. This is the perfect opportunity to savour the authenticity of local, southern Burgundy products. Don’t miss the Friday and Sunday morning markets on Place Saint-Vincent in Chalon-sur-Saône. 

8. A wide range of outdoor activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted by the many activities that are available: hiking in the vineyards, bike rides on the voies vertes cycle paths or along the canals, 18-hole golf course, treetop adventure…and more. 

9. An easily accessible destination

Located in the heart of Burgundy, Greater Chalon is easily accessible by train or car from many large cities – 3h30 from Paris, 1h30 from Lyon. An ideal destination for a quick getaway. 

10. Burgundy’s relaxed way of life

Finally, let yourself be immersed in the sweetness of life that characterizes this lovely region. Enjoy the leisurely pace, art of living and quiet beauty of Greater Chalon for an unforgettable getaway. 

For more information, visit www.achalon.com 

Tourist office: Office de Tourisme de Chalon-sur-Saône, 4, Place du Port Villiers – 71100 Chalon-sur-Saône, Tel : 03 85 48 37 97 

[email protected]  

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