Beaune’s captivating self-guided smartphone audio tour beckons visitors to uncover the town’s exceptional architecture and rich history. From the striking façade of the Hôtel Dieu Museum to the ornate Basilica of Notre Dame, each step along the way offers a glimpse into Beaune’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions and regal past as a Duchy of Burgundy. As travelers stroll past the towering medieval Beffroi belfry and well-preserved town fortifications, they’ll savor the region’s renowned cheeses and vibrant indoor market, cementing Beaune’s enduring legacy as a premier wine destination. Delve deeper, and the story of this beguiling town unfolds.
Key Points
- Explore Beaune’s architectural gems, including the Hospices de Beaune, Basilica of Notre Dame, and medieval belfry, at your own pace via a self-guided audio tour.
- Discover the town’s rich history and Catholic heritage by visiting the ornate Basilica of Notre Dame and imagining the watchmen of the medieval belfry.
- Admire panoramic views of Beaune’s charming rooftops and surrounding countryside while strolling along the well-preserved town fortification walls.
- Enjoy the region’s renowned viticulture at the wine museum housed in the former residence of the Dukes of Burgundy.
- Indulge in Beaune’s famous artisanal cheeses and soak up the convivial ambiance of the bustling indoor market.
Exploring Beaune’s Unique Architecture
As visitors stroll through Beaune’s charming streets, they can’t help but be captivated by the town’s unique architectural wonders.
The striking exterior of the Hôtel Dieu Museum Hospices de Beaune immediately stands out, with its multicolored roofs and distinctive Burgundian style.
Nearby, the Late Romanesque Basilica of Notre Dame impresses with its ornate facade and intricate details.
One of the town’s most iconic structures is the Medieval belfry, the Beffroi de Beaune, which towers over the surrounding buildings.
Visitors can also explore the well-preserved town fortification walls, offering panoramic views of Beaune’s picturesque landscapes.
From the historic buildings to the charming cobblestone streets, Beaune’s architecture captivates and transports visitors to another era.
Discovering the Basilica of Notre Dame
The Late Romanesque Basilica of Notre Dame stands as a testament to Beaune’s rich architectural heritage, its ornate facade and intricate details captivating visitors who venture through the town’s charming streets.
As you approach the church, you’ll be struck by its impressive scale and ornamental stonework, a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic influences.
Step inside to discover the luminous interior, where sunlight filters through stained glass windows, casting a warm glow over the nave’s vaulted ceiling.
Wander the aisles and marvel at the church’s exquisite religious artworks, from ornate altarpieces to intricate carvings.
This historic sanctuary offers a glimpse into Beaune’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions and the enduring beauty of French ecclesiastical architecture.
Marveling at the Medieval Belfry
After exploring the Basilica of Notre Dame, one can’t help but be drawn to the remarkable Medieval belfry, the Beffroi de Beaune, which stands as a proud symbol of the town’s storied past.
Rising 46 meters into the sky, the Beffroi’s distinctive bell tower is a striking example of Burgundian architecture. Constructed in the 15th century, the belfry’s intricate stonework and ornate pinnacles captivate visitors, inviting them to imagine the town criers and watchmen who once kept watch from its lofty heights.
Climbing the 150 steps to the top rewards adventurous explorers with panoramic vistas over Beaune’s beautifully preserved medieval core, offering a unique perspective on the town’s rich heritage.
Strolling Along the Town Walls
From the belfry, visitors can turn their gaze outward and follow Beaune’s well-preserved town walls, which encircle the historic center and offer a delightful path for exploring the town’s fortifications.
Along these ramparts, you’ll find:
- Panoramic views of Beaune’s charming rooftops and the surrounding countryside.
- Remnants of the original medieval walls, including watchtowers and gatehouses.
- Opportunities to descend into the underground passageways that once provided access to the town’s defenses.
- A unique perspective on Beaune’s architectural gems, from the Hôtel Dieu to the Basilica of Notre Dame.
As you stroll along the walls, you’ll be transported back in time, imagining the bustling activity that once took place within these historic bastions.
Visiting the Dukes’ Former Residence
As visitors leave the fortified walls behind, they’ll encounter the former residence of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, a testament to the region’s illustrious history.
The elegant, Renaissance-style building now houses Beaune’s wine museum, where guests can learn about the area’s celebrated viniculture.
Towering stone walls, ornate architectural details, and historic memorabilia transport visitors back in time, evoking the grandeur of the dukes’ reign.
Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which showcase Burgundy’s iconic wines, winemaking traditions, and the influence of the Dukes on the local wine industry.
This captivating site offers a glimpse into Beaune’s regal past and its enduring legacy as a premier wine destination.
Indulging in Beaune’s Famous Cheeses
Beaune’s renowned indoor market entices visitors with a mouthwatering selection of the region’s famous cheeses, each offering a unique flavor profile and texture. From crumbly, tangy Époisses to the rich, gooey Cancoillotte, the local dairy delights are a must-try. Explore the stalls, chat with the passionate cheesemakers, and sample the artisanal offerings.
Époisses: A soft, washed-rind cheese with a pungent, savory taste.
Cancoillotte: A creamy, spreadable cheese with a subtly sweet finish.
Brillat-Savarin: A decadent triple-cream cheese, perfect for a cheese plate.
Comté: A firm, nutty cheese that pairs beautifully with the region’s renowned wines.
Exploring the Indoor Market
Visitors can’t help but be drawn into Beaune’s lively indoor market, where stalls overflow with an enticing array of regional delicacies.
The market’s bustling atmosphere is a feast for the senses, with the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked breads, pungent cheeses, and succulent cured meats wafting through the air.
Locals and visitors alike browse the colorful displays of seasonal produce, artisanal preserves, and handcrafted ceramics, chatting with the friendly vendors who take pride in their wares.
Whether you’re seeking ingredients for a picnic or simply soaking up the convivial ambiance, the indoor market offers a quintessential glimpse into the culinary heart of Beaune.
Getting to the Starting Point
To begin the self-guided audio tour, you’ll want to head to the Porte Saint Nicolas, which serves as the designated starting point. This historic gate marks the entrance to Beaune’s Old Town, providing a convenient launching point to explore the town’s architectural gems and captivating history at your own pace.
Getting to the Porte Saint Nicolas is easy, with several nearby free parking options if you’re not staying in the town. If you’re coming from the train station, the easiest route is to walk around the circular boulevard, taking in the charming sights along the way.
Once you’ve reached the starting point, simply open the VoiceMap app, select the Beaune tour, and let the audio guide lead you on an immersive journey through this enchanting French town.
Explore Beaune’s Old Town at your own pace.
Discover the town’s architectural and historical highlights.
Enjoy the convenience of the designated starting point.
Follow the self-guided audio tour using the VoiceMap app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase the Tour in Languages Other Than English?
Unfortunately, the tour is only available in English at this time. The description states that the tour is "only available in English", which means it cannot be purchased in other languages. Users are limited to the English version of the audio guide.
Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be the best option for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking along the town’s fortification walls and uneven terrain. However, many of the key sights can be accessed with minimal walking.
Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t seem to offer any discounts, but you can save money by downloading the audio tour through the VoiceMap app for free and exploring Beaune’s highlights at your own pace. This self-guided experience provides a cost-effective way to discover the town.
Can I Pause and Resume the Tour at Any Point?
Yes, you can pause and resume the tour at any point. The VoiceMap app allows users to pause the audio and pick up where they left off, providing flexibility to explore Beaune at their own pace.
Is There an Option to Book a Guided Tour Instead of Self-Guided?
While this self-guided tour offers flexibility, there doesn’t appear to be an option to book a guided tour of Beaune. For travelers who prefer more personal interaction, guided tours led by local experts may be available through third-party providers.
Recap
Beaune’s self-guided smartphone audio tour provides a captivating exploration of the town’s exceptional architecture and rich history.
From the striking façade of the Hôtel Dieu Museum to the ornate Basilica of Notre Dame, visitors can explore Beaune’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions, its regal past as a Duchy of Burgundy, and its enduring legacy as a premier wine destination.
Visitors can indulge in the region’s renowned cheeses and vibrant indoor market.
