More Burgundy gems to explore in your campervan

Why our own “doorstep” is one of the best in France!

The Newmans from Bedfordshire, UK just got back from a three week campervan trip and wanted us to let everyone know that our very own region of Burgundy must not be overlooked if you are planning a French trip!

They spent most of their trip covering the miles and explored everywhere from Normandy to The Dordogne but felt the absolute highlight was the last four days spent on our doorstep in Chablis, Noyers, Vezelay and Avallon just dipping into edge of The Morvan National Park. We know this region and it’s wines pretty well and whole heartedly agree that the area is not to be missed. Here’s our route suggestion for a relaxing tootle without covering many miles at all.

Chablis is a really pretty town surrounded by hilly vineyards producing famous wines and it is well worth a visit.

You can taste the somewhat pricey wines for free at “La Chablisienne” the co-operative producer in the town or head out into the surrounding villages to the smaller wine makers for a more rustic and authentic experience.

Driving through this region is an absolute joy with virtually empty roads and wonderful scenery over the brow of every hill and there are lots of free “France Passion” places to stay from restaurants to wine makers.

Jean-Marc Brocard in the village of Prehy makes some truly wonderful Chablis but also owns vines that are just outside of the Chablis Appellation (same grape, same terrain just much lower price) and we think their Kimmeridgien at €6.80 per bottle knocks many a Chablis into a cocked hat.

For a great four day to one week break, head for Chablis and surrounding villages for a day or two then follow a circular route through Noyers-sur-Serein (Medieval city and one of “Les Plus Beaux  Villages de France“), Avallon (cobbled streets and great views over the Valley de Cousin from the ancient ramparts), Vezelay (Unesco world heritage site with a wonderful Abbey) then stop off at Arcy-sur-Cure to see the splendid caves with prehistoric drawings and finish in Auxerre on the River Yonne for a bigger town fix (half-timbered buildings, a cathedral and a stunning abbey).

This route involves a total of about 260 kms and four hours driving so makes for a very relaxed four day to one week break.

There is so much to see and do here, if you have longer to spare the possibilities are almost endless and you could venture a little deeper into Burgundy or even just explore this small but interesting area in more detail.