The Magic of Burgundy Through the Eyes of A VBT Guest

Your Choice of Cycle Tour Company Will Be the Difference Between a Good Vacation, and an Extraordinary One.

Picture this: rolling vineyards bathed in golden sunlight, charming villages nestled amidst lush hills, and the fascinating sights of locals carefully tending world-renowned vineyards. Burgundy, a region steeped in history and renowned for its culinary delights, attracts cyclists and oenophiles alike.

While numerous tour companies offer cycling adventures in this enchanting landscape, one stands head and shoulders above the rest: VBT Bicycling Vacations. Having just returned from VBT’s France: The Burgundy Wine Region & Dijon Guided Tour, I can attest to the truly exceptional experiences they create. Our tour was six nights in three different hotels. The planned routes were easy to moderate (that is, not a lot of hills!) between Lyon and Dijon. My wife and I have tried other tour groups in the past and had fun comparing notes with other cyclists using different outfits during our tour (comparison shopping at its finest!)

Long story short… we’re very happy with VBT. Here’s why.

Personalized Attention from Start to Finish

From the moment you arrive, VBT ensures your comfort and enjoyment are paramount. Our expert VBT Burgundy guides, Didier and Arnaud, are not just cycling enthusiasts; they’re local experts who grew up near Burgundy, currently live in the area, and are passionate about sharing its treasures. Their deep knowledge and genuine warmth create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that feels like traveling with friends. Unlike other tour groups, VBT’s structure and business model, honed over decades of experience, ensures extra special personalized attention and a flexible itinerary that caters to individual preferences.

Let me give you an example:

We booked our own post trip (2 days) in Paris and happened to mention this to Didier.  He perked up and had the insight to offer to arrange a driver to meet us at the train station (Bercy) where we were arriving (it was around 9:00 p.m. and he realized we’d be tired.) We enthusiastically agreed. And upon arrival, boom, there was the driver, who whisked us to our hotel. Which, by the way, was the recommended hotel VBT set up.  These are always wonderful, unique, well priced, and a better value than most hotels I can find on my own… because the guides know the area intimately!

Here’s another example involving extra routes.

First, I have to confess, I’m a bit of a hammerhead (bike terminology for enjoying a biking challenge.) My wife, not so much, she just enjoys the regular day’s riding (although with all of the optional additional routes.) On two separate days, our guides gave me extra riding over and above the usual planned routes. Because they know the area so well, they knew exactly what I was looking for:  hills, climbs, speed. A panting workout.

On one of these little excursions, Arnault woke up early just to guide me on the extra route, while Didier handled the rest of the guests. We met them for a mid-morning rendezvous, to continue the day’s regular riding.  Talk about special treatment!

The second time, they plotted a route for me up to a little hilltop town called Pasques, at the end of the regular day. I took off, while they made sure all guests made it back to the Grand Hotel La Cloche Dijon and were happily resting/sight seeing/having a glass of excellent Chardonnay. While I pedaled back along the canal (after an AMAZINGLY fun downhill) Didier rode back to meet me at the beginning of town to guide me. You see, the route through Dijon had a bit of traffic on it, and he was concerned I might be tired and a bit unfocussed.

He was right about the tired… I wanted to get back for that Chardonnay, so was really pushing. But hey once again, I’m a bit of a hammerhead… and everyone is different.  That’s the point.  VBT and its guides are experts in accommodating different desires. In my experience, it’s rare to get that from other operators, at least to the same extent.

Unmatched Local Expertise and Connections

Didier and Arnaud’s insider knowledge unlocks Burgundy’s secrets in a way that no guidebook ever could. They’ll share fascinating stories about the region’s history, culture, and traditions—bringing the landscape to life in a way that’s both informative and entertaining. Their connection within the community opens doors to exclusive experiences, such as a private wine tasting. Not just any tasting… it was in the back room of a long-standing Burgundian wine dealer, where we sampled amazing vintages generally unknown to the typical North American tourist.

You know those Grand Cru vineyards that are priced over the moon? Well, we got to taste the wine from the vineyards right next to them, and in my opinion (and theirs) these were just as good.  Kind of a sneaky way to taste the best, but not break the bank.  Only local guides can set that up.

On one lovely sunny day, the leaders arranged a picnic lunch with a local landowner. Didier and Arnault shopped for local delicacies, and we feasted next to a fabulous tree-lined stream that was part of an old farm.  We had the opportunity to ask the farm owner, our host, about his life in France.  It was fascinating… and delicious!

These curated cultural encounters demonstrate VBT’s commitment to authenticity and immersion. Seriously… a common tour guide couldn’t find, never mind arrange, this kind of event. I’ve been on river cruise ship “excursion wine tastings” that simply paled by comparison.

Seamless Logistics and Unwavering Support

VBT’s meticulous attention to detail ensures a worry-free experience. It starts on day one, where they fit you to your bike, with a quality helmet.  Whether you’re riding an E-bike, a road bike, or a hybrid, they bend over backwards to make sure you’re comfortable. And the bike quality is fantastic.  I own bikes.  I know bikes.  The lightweight, reliable bikes VBT provides are really good, and in perfect working condition.

As well, a dedicated support van follows the group, carrying everything from spare parts to refreshing snacks. When a fellow rider grew tired mid-route, he was seamlessly transported to our hotel, where he relaxed with a well-deserved refreshment before we rejoined him. Sorry to say, we were all kind of thinking he got the better deal as we arrived all sweaty from the day’s ride. Of course, we got back at him with our dinnertime stories about the day’s ride. All in good fun, of course.

Luggage is transported between hotels, allowing you to focus on the joy of cycling without any burdens. Now, other tour companies do this too. But where VBT excels is in the attention to detail and care they take to protect your luggage. They know the hotels and staff handling your personal belongings—ensuring a smooth and secure transfer. You should see the hugs and kisses they get from their friends on the hotel staff.

VBT’s commitment to seamless logistics extends to their meticulously planned routes. Their detailed Ride with GPS navigation is consistently accurate, and their local knowledge allows them to adapt quickly to any unforeseen circumstances.

As an avid cyclist, I appreciated the extra routes they provided for those who craved a bit more of a challenge.

A Community of Adventurous Spirits

VBT fosters a sense of camaraderie that’s truly special. From the welcome reception to the farewell dinner, the atmosphere is fun, relaxed, and supportive. Fellow travelers quickly become friends, sharing stories, laughter, and a love for adventure. I believe this sense of camaraderie is catalyzed by the VBT trip leaders, who possess a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

This sense of community extends beyond the tour itself. VBT guests often stay in touch, forming lasting bonds forged over shared experiences. Of course, for those who are a bit more introverted, VBT trip leaders respect that, and do a great job making all guests feel comfortable, regardless of their personalities. Once again, customized touring at its finest.

Choosing VBT for your Burgundy cycling vacation means choosing an experience that goes far beyond the ordinary. Their personalized attention, unmatched local expertise, seamless logistics, and welcoming community set them apart from the competition. If you’re seeking a magical Burgundy adventure that’s more than just a bike tour, VBT’s France: The Burgundy Wine Region & Dijon Guided Tour is the answer. Their commitment to excellence, and passion for sharing the beauty of this region, shine through in every aspect of their tours.

They made our Burgundy vacation magical, and they will make YOUR vacation extraordinary as well.