Savoring Southern Burgundy: Mâcon to Lyon

Tucked away in the rolling hills of southern Burgundy, the charming town of Mâcon offers a quintessentially French escape—one rich in pastoral beauty, historic intrigue, and, of course, world-renowned wines. Known as the “South Burgundy City,” Mâcon is a gateway to a more relaxed, sun-kissed corner of the region, where vine-covered landscapes and riverside promenades invite you to slow down and savor every moment.

Wine lovers will feel right at home here. Mâcon is famed for its Mâconnais vineyards, where limestone hills and a temperate climate produce fresh, floral white wines, particularly from the Chardonnay grape. The nearby villages of Pouilly-Fuissé, Saint-Véran, and Viré-Clessé beckon with their elegant vintages and family-run estates, many offering intimate tastings and a warm welcome into their centuries-old cellars.

Beyond the vineyards, Mâcon enchants with its pastel-hued riverfront homes, bustling market squares, and Romanesque treasures like the Church of Saint-Pierre. For art and culture, the Ursulines Museum, set in a former 17th-century convent, offers a lovely collection ranging from regional archaeology to modern art—perfect for travelers who enjoy discovering a destination’s soul through its heritage.

Just an hour south lies Lyon, the culinary and cultural capital of France, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. Here, time-honored traditions meet urban sophistication in a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new.

Begin your exploration in Vieux Lyon, the city’s beautifully preserved Old Town, where cobblestone lanes and Renaissance-era architecture whisper stories of silk merchants and medieval life. Lyon’s unique traboules—hidden passageways winding through buildings and courtyards—once used by resistance fighters during WWII, now offer an immersive step back in time.

Perched above the city, Fourvière Hill boasts panoramic views and the spectacular Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a masterpiece of Byzantine and Romanesque design. Nearby, the Gallo-Roman Museum and ancient amphitheaters provide an extraordinary glimpse into Lyon’s Roman roots.

No visit to Lyon would be complete without indulging in its gastronomic legacy. Recognized as the birthplace of French cuisine, the city teems with bouchons, traditional taverns serving Lyonnaise specialties that are both hearty and refined. Pair your meal with a glass of Beaujolais or Côte de Brouilly, and you’ll understand why this region is so beloved.

From Mâcon’s graceful vineyards to Lyon’s storied streets, Southern Burgundy offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm and urban sophistication. Whether you’re sipping wine beneath a vineyard canopy or strolling through timeworn alleyways, this region promises a deeply enriching and truly unforgettable journey. Contact Darby at Darby's Destinations to plan your visit to Southern Burgundy.