GR213 (Wine Trail of Burgundy)
GR213 Wine Trail of Burgundy: Complete Guide to Hiking the Famous Burgundy Wine Route
Embark on a journey along the GR213, famously known as the Wine Trail of Burgundy, where rolling vineyards stretch towards the horizon and centuries-old stone villages nestle amidst lush fields and verdant hills. This iconic hiking route weaves through the heart of France’s legendary Burgundy wine region, offering hikers a sensory feast of picturesque landscapes, historic châteaux, and the fragrant aroma of ripening grapes in the air.
As you follow well-marked paths, you’ll experience a tapestry of scenic beauty—sun-dappled forests, tranquil rural lanes, and vibrant market towns brimming with local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a wine enthusiast seeking immersion in vineyard life, the GR213 promises a blend of adventure and pleasure, where every step brings you closer to the essence of Burgundy.
Route Overview
The GR213, or Wine Trail of Burgundy, starts in the historic town of Santenay and finishes in Romanèche-Thorins, traversing approximately 70 kilometers over the course of 3 days. The trail passes through several notable Burgundy wine villages, including Cheilly-lès-Maranges, Remigny, Chagny, Rully, Mercurey, Givry, Buxy, and Saint-Gengoux-le-National. Each stage features well-marked footpaths connecting rural landscapes, picturesque vineyards, and charming village centers, with overnight accommodation options available in most larger towns along the way.
The route offers mainly dirt and gravel vineyard tracks, interspersed with segments of paved rural and village roads. Elevation gain is gradual, accumulating to around 1,200 meters, and the highest point on the trail reaches about 600 meters above sea level. While waymarking is present, it can occasionally be faded or confusing at village crossroads, making it advisable to carry a map or GPS device. Facilities such as restrooms, water sources, and picnic spots are available in or near towns, and hikers should plan food and water resupply in advance, as services are less frequent between villages. The trail is best suited to those with a moderate fitness level and who are comfortable with multi-day, self-sufficient hiking through mixed agricultural and rural environments.
Tracing the Heritage of the Burgundy Wine Trail
Winding through the heart of Burgundy, the GR213 retraces paths that have been shaped by centuries of viticulture, local trade, and monastic influence. Burgundy’s vineyards date back to Roman times, and by the Middle Ages, the region’s wine industry flourished under the stewardship of powerful Benedictine and Cistercian monasteries. The monks meticulously mapped and cultivated the land, laying the groundwork for Burgundy’s world-renowned vineyards and the famed concept of terroir, the unique character imparted by each plot of land.
Many towns and villages along the GR213 route grew prosperous through the wine trade, with grand châteaux, fortified walls, and old market halls still standing as testament to their historical significance. Walking this trail, hikers retrace ancient supply routes and pilgrimage paths used for centuries, passing through landscapes that have changed little since the days of the Dukes of Burgundy. This rich tapestry of history is not just visible in the architecture, but also felt in the living traditions of wine festivals, family-run domaines, and enduring local customs that color the trail today.
Notable highlights
- Vineyard Landscapes: Walk through sweeping rows of famed Burgundy vineyards, where you can observe the intricate patchwork of grape varieties that have made the region’s wines world-famous.
- Historic Villages: Pass through charming villages such as Santenay and Mercurey, each boasting cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and lively wine cellars.
- Châteaux de Bourgogne: Encounter grand historic estates, including châteaux and manor houses that once served as the homes of nobility and centers of wine production.
- Romanesque Churches: Marvel at centuries-old churches and chapels nestled in countryside settings, many featuring distinctive Burgundy tiling and intricate stonework.
- Wine Tasting Opportunities: Enjoy stops at local domaines and wine cooperatives along the way, where you can sample renowned red and white Burgundies directly from the source.
- Scenic Overlooks: Reach panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas over vineyard-draped hills, picturesque valleys, and the winding Saône River.
- Market Towns: Immerse yourself in authentic Burgundy culture at bustling markets in towns like Chagny, where fresh produce, artisan cheese, and local specialties abound.
- Ancient Monastic Sites: Explore landmarks such as the remnants of Cistercian and Benedictine monasteries, echoing the region’s deep-rooted spiritual and agricultural history.
Challenges to expect
While the GR213 is generally rated as moderate in difficulty, hikers can expect long daily stages and some steep ascents and descents, especially when traversing hilly or vineyard terrain. Certain sections become slippery in wet weather, particularly the dirt and gravel paths through vineyards and forests. The route can also be exposed to the sun for extended stretches, making sun protection and adequate water essential, particularly during the warmer months.
Navigation can sometimes be challenging—though waymarking is present, it may be sparse or faded in rural segments or at intersections within villages. Carrying a detailed map or GPS device is recommended. Additionally, services such as shops and accommodations are not evenly distributed along the trail, so hikers should plan food, water, and lodging stops in advance to avoid lengthy detours.
Weather in Burgundy is variable during the spring and autumn hiking seasons, with the chance of sudden rainfall and occasional mist, which can further complicate trail conditions and visibility. It is advisable to check local forecasts and be prepared for quickly changing weather by packing appropriate gear.
France - Forest
- Urban
- Dirt
- Gravel
- Paved
- Hotels
- Hostels
- Campsites
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
The hike begins in Santenay, a celebrated Burgundy wine village. The route heads north through gentle vineyard terrain towards Cheilly-lès-Maranges, following a mix of dirt and gravel paths, with occasional paved village roads. After enjoying views of rolling hills and patchwork vineyards, the trail continues through Remigny before entering Chagny, a lively town offering services and accommodations ideal for a first night’s rest.
From Chagny, the second day carries on through the rising vineyard slopes of Rully and Mercurey, passing through renowned wine estates and old stone villages. Expect moderate ascents and descents as you cross the scenic Côte Chalonnaise, pausing for possible tastings or side visits in Mercurey, then pressing onward to Givry, a village known for its hospitable atmosphere and classic Burgundy wines.
Leaving Givry, the third day traverses tranquil rural landscapes and small wine-producing hamlets such as Buxy and Saint-Gengoux-le-National. The terrain alternates between vineyard tracks, stretches of forest, and rolling farmlands, offering increasing glimpses of the southern Burgundy countryside. The journey finishes at Romanèche-Thorins, where Burgundy meets Beaujolais, concluding the experience amid celebrated vineyards and opportunities to explore local wine culture.