The Abbey of Fontenay
The History of the Abbey of Fontenay
The abbey of Fontenay is a group of several abbey buildings covering an area of 5.77 hectares founded in 1118 in the commune of Marmagne (Côte-d'Or) under the impulse of Saint-Bernard de Clairvaux. It is in 1130 that the abbey finds its definitive location. The works began on this date and ended in 1147. This abbey, which is destined for the ascetic life of the Cistercian monks, is composed of a church, a cloister, a refectory, a forge, a bakery, a chapel for foreigners as well as a confinement (an isolated house sometimes regarded as a prison sometimes as a place of preservation of precious goods).
The monks there once led an austere life, devoted to manual labor and piety. It is the oldest Cistercian abbey best preserved. The estate has been owned by the Aynard family since 1906, but much of the building is open to the public throughout the year.
Evolution and Restoration of the Abbey
The Abbey of Fontenay is one of the 69 abbey-girls built under the direction of Saint-Bernard de Clairvaux. The first abbey of Fontenay is Geoffrey de la Roche-Lapointe, near Saint Bernard. In 1259, the King of France, Saint Louis declared the abbey exempt from all fiscal law. In 1269, the monastery was consecrated Royal Abbey. During the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, more than 300 people lived in the buildings of the estate.
The abbey was in the process of decline from the 14th century following looting by the English. After restoration, it was again sacked in 1557 during the Wars of Religion. The regime of Commende puts an end to the apogee of the abbey. Little by little, the monks were unable to maintain the place. In 1745, the porch, the kitchens and the refectory were demolished. In 1791, after the French Revolution, the abbey was sold and transformed into stationery by Claude Hugot. The brothers Montgolfier bought it in 1820 to build several industrial buildings. It was declared a Historic Monument in 1862 and restored from 1906 to 1911 after Edouard Aynard bought it. The Abbey of Fontenay is classified World Heritage of Unesco in 1981.
What is there to see in the Abbey of Fontenay?
It is a unique architecture of 900 years old and full of history that awaits visitors to take them on a journey back in time. It is a majestic, deeply spiritual place, built in the middle of a calm and verdant landscape. The site invites you to hike through the forest of beech and ash trees.
The Hospices of Beaune, Museum of the Hôtel-Dieu
Introduction to Hotel-Dieu
A hotel-Dieu or Hostel Dieu (ancient spelling) is a hospital administered by the church. This type of old hospice housed and took care of orphans, pilgrims, and the needy. It mainly gathered people in need. The Hospices of Beaune, of flamboyant Gothic architecture, was built from 1443 to 1457 in Beaune in the Côte-d'Or. It is one of the most beautiful and most remarkable hospitable foundations. It is currently a hospital and a Museum of Burgundy and medieval medicine in the Christian West. The site is home to an exceptional wine estate of about 60 hectares devoted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. More than 80% of the estate's vintage and vintage wines are auctioned at the prestigious Christie's to operate the property. It is the world's most famous wine charity sale.
Exploring the Hospices de Beaune
The Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune is a masterpiece of architecture. It was built at the initiative of Nicolas Rolin, Chancellor of the Duke of Burgundy and his wife Guigone de Salins. This couple is known for their charitable works and patronage. Nicolas Rolin and his wife financed this hospital for the poor thanks to an annual rent from the salt works and their own resources from the vineyard. All of the buildings are unbelievably preserved today and it houses a collection of more than 5,000 valuables, tapestries, and period furniture. A visit to these places is therefore a good opportunity to discover, among other things, the polyptych of the Last Judgment of Rogier van de Weyden, not forgetting a visit to the vineyard.
The Castle of La Rochepot
Presentation and History
The Castle of La Rochepot is an emblematic heritage of Burgundy. It was built in the 13th century on the site of the old castle of Lord Montagu Alexander of Burgundy (1170 - 1205), the previous castle having been set on fire in the 12th century. This medieval building, constructed by the architect Charles Suisse, is perched on a rocky outcrop and is distinguished by its glazed tiles, typical of Burgundy. It was the residence of the Lords Pot, knights of the Golden Fleece, and advisers to the Dukes of Burgundy. Regnier Pot acquired it in 1403 after his return from the Crusades and passed it on to his heirs. In the 16th century, Marshal of France Anne de Montmorency added it to his personal collection of more than 130 castles. Cardinal de Retz Jean-François Paul de Gondi became the owner in the 17th century before it was transferred to the first president of the Parliament of Burgundy, Pierre Legoux de la Berchère. Declared a national property during the French Revolution, the castle changed hands several times before becoming the property of Sadi Carnot (1865-1948), the son of the president, who spent 25 years restoring the ruin. The castle was sold by the Carnot family's heirs in 2016.
Discovering the Castle of Rochepot
The Castle of Rochepot is an exceptional building which encapsulates a part of France's history and, in particular, that of Burgundy. Visitors will discover the 12th-century chapel, the guards’ room, the vast kitchen, the dining room, the walkway, and rooms adorned with murals and furnished in period styles. The exterior of the estate is appealing due to its 28 hectares of rural landscape.
Stay at the Campanile Le Cepest Hotel
Located in the heart of the city of Beaune in Burgundy, Hotel Le Cep is a 5-star establishment. Its attentive staff welcomes you to a refined setting and prioritizes your well-being to offer you optimal comfort throughout your stay. The hotel offers spacious, luxury rooms and suites, fully equipped with antique furniture named after renowned Burgundy wines. Each room is air-conditioned and boasts unique decor. The hotel also features a lounge bar and a spa. Its restaurant offers gourmet cuisine and serves a wide range of local wines.
Hotel Amenities
Wi-Fi is freely available throughout the hotel. On-site indoor and public parking are provided. Charging stations for electric cars are also available. Facilities for guests with reduced mobility are available, and pets are welcome. The hotel also features a meeting and banquet room. To ensure your relaxation, the hotel's spa offers a wide range of treatments and massages. Additional services include a concierge, luggage storage, and activities such as cycling and hiking.
Nearby Attractions
Hotel Le Cep is ideally located for exploring the historic region of Beaune. Take a tour of the city and admire the Burgundian architecture of its Gothic monuments and chapels. Visit the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, the renowned Hospices de Beaune, Hôtel-Dieu Museum, or the Parc de la Bouzaise. Beaune Golf Course is a short drive from the hotel. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, and markets nearby where you can purchase souvenirs.
Visit Parc de la Bouzaize
Escape to Nature in Beaune
Planning to spend a few days in Beaune? It's the perfect place for relaxation. The region is home to several remarkable attractions and beautiful tourist sites, one of which is Parc de la Bouzaize.
Immerse in Greenery and Nature
Visiting Parc de la Bouzaize is an excellent choice for nature lovers. The park is beautifully landscaped with lush greenery and a serene lake, catering to people of all ages. You can explore the park on foot or by bike, depending on your preference. The well-maintained paths allow easy access to the park's unique layout and biodiversity.
Playgrounds for Children
Parc de la Bouzaize is ideal for family outings. Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., it offers a playground for children with various attractions to enjoy.
Experience the Educational Farm
To delight visitors of all ages, the park also features an educational farm. Not only can you see the animals up close, but you also have the opportunity to feed them.
Hiking for the Active Traveller
If you're feeling adventurous or have prepared for some physical activity before your visit, Parc de la Bouzaize also offers various hiking trails. These trails are manageable even for beginners. They provide an immersive experience in nature and the park's exceptional layout.
How to get from Beaune to CDG airport by private chauffeured car ?
The journey from CDG airport to Beaune is 3hours 21. Once you leave Beaune, you will have to take the D974. After a few kilometers, the car will arrive at the first exit in the direction of Pairs, Lyon, Dijon, etc. By taking the A6 (A6A and A6B), you will have to continue on E15 / E50 / Autoroute du Soleil. Near Paris, after driving for 3 hours, you will have to continue on the A3. The A3 motorway will allow you to reach the airport in the same way as Lille and Bobigny. Take the D902A / Deviation of Roissy-En-France to reach the commune. The airport is less than 5 minutes away.
