Kid-Friendly Activities on the Route des Grands Crus: The Complete Guide
- Feb 16
- 10 min read
Do you think the Burgundy Route des Grands Crus is only about wine tastings and prestigious cellars? Think again! This beautiful region between Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges is full of exciting activities perfectly suited for families with children. Whether you are staying in an apartment in Beaune or a house nestled among the vineyards, here is our complete selection of activities to keep your little explorers entertained while enjoying the charm of Burgundy.
Table of Contents:
Medieval Castles to Play Knights
Château de Couches: A Complete Medieval Immersion
About 30 minutes from Beaune, the Château de Couches — also known as the Castle of Marguerite of Burgundy — is a must-visit for families. This 11th-century medieval fortress offers activities throughout the year that are specially designed for children.
Seasonal creative workshops are the castle’s main attraction: Easter egg hunts, pumpkin carving for Halloween, and the creation of Christmas baubles and wreaths during the festive season. Outside these periods, a permanent medieval sword-painting workshop delights aspiring young knights. A welcome bonus: while the children immerse themselves in medieval arts, parents can enjoy a guided tour with a tasting of the estate’s wines.
For young adventurers, the castle also offers a digital treasure hunt that uncovers the mysteries of the fortress in a fun and interactive way. Guided by a tablet, children explore the dungeons, chapel, and gardens in search of clues. This playful experience turns a historical visit into a real-life treasure hunt.
The castle also hosts children’s birthday parties (from 8 participants) with a tailor-made program: treasure hunt, creative workshop, costume tour, snack time in the Square Tower, and even a magic show. A perfect way to create lasting memories!
Practical Information:
Prices: €8 for adults / €4 for children (ages 4–12) (may vary depending on the selected activities)
Stroller accessible
On-site restaurant
Website: chateaudecouches.com
Château de Savigny-lès-Beaune: Machines and Treasures
Just 10 minutes from Beaune, the Château de Savigny-lès-Beaune houses a unique collection that fascinates both children and adults: more than 200 vintage motorcycles (including those once owned by Jean Mermoz and Canon Kir), 36 race-ready Abarth cars, and above all, around one hundred fighter jets and helicopters displayed across a 12-hectare park.
Built in 1340, the château also features collections of straddle tractors, fire engines, and over 7,000 scale models. Children love wandering among the fighter jets and discovering these impressive machines within a medieval setting. With free admission for children under 7, it’s the perfect outing for budding mechanical enthusiasts!
Adventure Courses and Thrills
Parc Évasion Curley: An Adventurer’s Paradise
Nestled in the heart of a forest between Nuits-Saint-Georges and Gevrey-Chambertin (about 25 minutes from Beaune), Parc Évasion is the must-visit outdoor destination for active families.
The treetop adventure course is the park’s signature activity, featuring 20 different routes suitable for all ages. From age 3, little ones can safely navigate courses equipped with a continuous lifeline, ensuring maximum security while delivering real thrills. The routes range from easy green trails to extreme black courses for the most daring visitors, while the giant zip lines are a favorite among speed lovers.
Beyond the treetop courses, the park offers a wide variety of activities to keep everyone entertained:
Archery (a calm and engaging activity that helps develop focus)
Bubble football (guaranteed laughter as you bounce inside giant inflatable bubbles)
Outdoor laser tag
Life-sized escape game
Paintball (from age 12)
Big foot challenges and treasure races
One of the park’s biggest advantages is its shaded forest setting, providing welcome coolness on hot summer days. Picnic areas are available, and the unlimited giant barbecue option is perfect for extending the day in a friendly atmosphere.
Practical information:
Day pass (First or Full Pack): €59–99 (unlimited access + barbecue)
Open from age 3
Open year-round by reservation
Free shaded parking
Cultural and Gourmet Discoveries
The Burgundy Wine Climats Experience Center in Beaune
Think a wine museum couldn’t possibly interest children? The Cité des Climats et Vins in Beaune rises brilliantly to the challenge. The permanent exhibition includes a dedicated children’s area marked by seven small cabottes (traditional vineyard huts). Through these playful stations, kids discover fossils, the vine-growing cycle, grape clusters, and vineyard wildlife via immersive, multi-sensory experiences.
Game booklets and investigative trails are available throughout the year, turning the visit into a true detective adventure. Special themed booklets for Christmas, Halloween, and Easter add even more excitement. Young explorers who solve the mysteries of the Cité are even rewarded with a small gift!
On Wednesdays during school holidays and on selected weekends, the Cité hosts creative workshops covering a range of topics such as biodiversity, archaeology, and vineyard landscapes. And of course, the visit concludes with a tasting… grape juice for the children!
Special event: Don’t miss the “Head in the Stars” evening, featuring telescope observations, a planetarium, a meteorite area, and the chance to create your own star chart as a family.
The Cassissium in Nuits-Saint-Georges: The Blackcurrant Adventure
Located in Nuits-Saint-Georges (15 minutes from Beaune), the Cassissium is an interactive museum dedicated to blackcurrants that delights the whole family. Spanning over 1,000 m², this unique venue combines fun activities, sensory experiences, and the discovery of local expertise.
The visit begins in an interactive museum space where children can handle, touch, and learn about this fascinating dark berry. A humorous short film featuring “Supercassis,” the mascot, tells the story of blackcurrants through the centuries. The tour then continues behind the scenes of the Védrenne liqueur factory, where visitors discover how syrups and fruit liqueurs are made.
Children’s favorite moment? The final tasting, with more than 40 alcohol-free syrups to sample! Two activity booklets are available — “Le Cassissionnaire des Petits” (ages 4–7) and “Le Cassissionnaire des Grands” (ages 8–12) — turning the visit into a fun clue-hunting adventure.
Practical information:
Adult price: €10.50 / Free for children under 12
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Reservation required
On-site shop featuring regional specialties
The Fallot Mustard Mill in Beaune
This visit combines artisanal discovery with a hands-on workshop. At the Fallot Mustard Mill, children uncover the secrets behind the production of this iconic Burgundian condiment. Some workshops even give visitors the chance to create their own personalized mustard!
Stay at the Heart of the Action
To make the most of all these activities without wasting time on transportation, choosing the right accommodation is essential. Ideally located for exploring the Route des Grands Crus, Les Suites Indivio Concierge Service offers two options particularly well suited to families, combining comfort, space, and convenience.
Nestled in the heart of the vineyards, this charming house provides all the space needed for a relaxed family stay. Children can enjoy the garden while parents unwind in a peaceful setting. Its prime location, close to Château de Couches, Parc Évasion Curley, and the must-see attractions of Beaune, makes it easy to alternate between wine discoveries and family-friendly adventures.
For those who wish to stay right in the city center, this modern and spacious apartment makes it easy to explore Beaune entirely on foot — from the Cité des Climats et Vins to the Fallot Mustard Mill, as well as the tourist train and children’s activities. After a day full of discoveries, return to a comfortable and elegant retreat designed for the well-being of the whole family.
Both properties are fully equipped to welcome families, with all the essentials for babies and children available upon request.
Nature Walks and Unique Discoveries
Cycling the Voie des Vignes
This safe cycling route stretches for 81 km through the vineyards of the Côte de Beaune. Perfect for families, it features gentle terrain, plenty of stopping points, and breathtaking scenery. Several bike rental shops offer children’s bikes, trailers, and baby seats. From Nolay to Santenay, the route winds through vineyards listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Our tip: Choose a shorter 10–15 km ride with younger children and plan a picnic among the vineyards. The villages of Pommard, Meursault, and Puligny-Montrachet make excellent stops along the way.
Hiking with a Donkey
For a truly immersive nature experience, set off on a hike with a donkey in the surroundings of Détain-et-Bruant (about 30 minutes from Beaune). Your new long-eared companion carries the picnic and your belongings, allowing children to walk freely while bonding with the animal. This slow-tourism activity is especially popular with children aged 4 to 10.
Les Étangs d'Or – Merceuil Eco-Leisure Park
Just 10 minutes from Beaune, this 5-hectare park located at the source of the Bouzaize River provides the perfect natural setting for a relaxing break. With a lake, playground, green spaces, and an educational farm, children can burn off energy while parents enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Ideal for a family afternoon after a cultural visit.
Water-Based and Fun Activities
Beaune Côté Plage: Natural Swimming
This 3,000 m² natural swimming area features four pools, a unique 6-meter aquatic climbing wall — the only one of its kind in France — as well as a slide, rope swing, and diving boards. Set within an exceptional natural environment, it’s the perfect place to cool off on hot summer days. The site is supervised and secure, making it suitable for children aged 3 and up.
Bowling Games Factory in Beaune
Perfect for rainy days or evening outings, the Bowling welcomes both children and adults across nearly 1,600 m². With 14 modern lanes, it’s a friendly activity that appeals to all ages. Child-friendly ramps help younger players enjoy the game, and you’ll also find plenty of additional entertainment options such as laser tag and karaoke.
Fun City Visits
The Beaune Tourist Train
To explore the city without tiring little legs, the Beaune tourist train offers a guided tour of approximately 45 minutes, with commentary available in several languages. Children love this original ride, which allows them to admire all the charm of Beaune while comfortably seated.
The Mystery of the Lost Coat of Arms: An Urban Treasure Hunt
This self-guided activity invites families to discover Beaune through an exciting treasure hunt. Equipped with an adventure booklet (available at the Tourist Office), participants wander the streets in search of clues to recover the lost coat of arms. Riddles, scavenger hunts, and cultural insights combine to create a route lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes. A small treasure awaits at the end of the adventure!
Beaune Lumières (Summer)
During the summer season, explore a nighttime trail connecting Beaune’s iconic landmarks, illuminated by more than 150 evolving light displays. The projected scenography, inspired by the city’s history and heritage, captivates children and adults alike. Downloadable commentary is available for a free self-guided audio tour.
Where to Eat with Children?
After all these activities, it’s time to refuel! Here are a few kid-friendly spots in Beaune and the surrounding area:
Le Carnot (central Beaune): This Parisian-style brasserie is open 7 days a week from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. With a spacious terrace heated in winter, varied menus, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal for families.
Hôtel-Restaurant Greet (Route de Verdun, Beaune): Features the “Greet Restoooo” restaurant with an outdoor playground, terrace, and garden. Family rooms accommodating up to six guests are available if you wish to extend your stay.
Le Panorama (Route de Pommard): A restaurant with scenic views, a terrace, and baby-friendly facilities. Expect approachable French cuisine in a welcoming, family-oriented setting.
Most restaurants in Beaune offer children’s menus. During summer, opt for places with a terrace so kids can move around between courses.
Our Practical Tips for a Successful Stay
Plan wisely: Alternate between physical activities and cultural visits. One day at a treetop adventure park, the next at an interactive museum, followed by a bike ride. Children (and parents!) will appreciate this balanced pace.
Book in advance: Especially for Château de Couches, the Cassissium, and Parc Évasion. Time slots are limited and these activities are very popular, particularly during school holidays.
Pack picnics: The region is perfect for outdoor dining. Stop by the Beaune market (Wednesday and Saturday mornings) to stock up on local specialties — cheeses, charcuterie, fresh bread, and fruit. Kids love eating among the vineyards!
Come well prepared: Bring walking shoes for hikes, sunscreen, caps, and reusable water bottles. For treetop courses, choose comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little worn.
Stay at the Heart of the Action
To fully enjoy all these activities without wasting time on transportation, choosing the right accommodation is key. Ideally located for exploring the Route des Grands Crus, Les Suites Indivio Concierge Service offers two options that are perfect for families:
La Maison Les Coquelicots – Montceau-et-Écharnant: This charming home set in the heart of the vineyards provides the space and comfort needed to welcome the whole family. A garden for children to play in, family-friendly amenities, and immediate proximity to Château de Couches, Parc Évasion Curley, and Beaune’s main attractions make it the ideal base for combining wine discoveries with family adventures.
Our High-End Apartment in Beaune: For those who prefer to stay right in the city center, this modern and spacious apartment allows you to explore Beaune entirely on foot (the Cité des Climats et Vins, Fallot Mustard Mill, the tourist train, treasure hunts) while enjoying a comfortable retreat after busy days of exploration. Perfect for families who want to combine urban comfort with vineyard excursions. Both accommodations are designed with families in mind, with all essentials for babies and children available upon request.
The Route des Grands Crus is definitely not just for adult wine lovers! Between medieval castles, adventure courses, interactive museums, and walks through the vineyards, your children will create unforgettable memories in this magical region. So, are you ready to discover Burgundy as a family?
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