Château de Germolles: A Ducal Retreat
Discover the best-preserved residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, a luxurious 14th-century château with exquisite art, romantic gardens, and a glimpse into courtly life on the eve of the Renaissance.
Step back in time at the Château de Germolles, the best-preserved residence of the Dukes of Burgundy. This 14th-century château, once a simple fortified manor, was transformed into a luxurious country estate by Margaret of Flanders, wife of Philip the Bold. Explore the meticulously restored interiors, including the grand reception hall, ducal chapel, and private apartments, adorned with original frescoes and sculptures by renowned artists like Claus Sluter and Jean de Beaumetz. Wander through the romantic 19th-century English-style gardens, offering a serene escape. Germolles provides a unique glimpse into the opulent court life of Burgundy on the eve of the Renaissance, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and culture seekers. Guided tours, often led by the passionate owners, reveal the château's secrets and ongoing archaeological discoveries. Don't miss this exceptional site, a designated Historic Monument and 'Maison des Illustres'.
A brief summary to Château de Germolles
- 100 Place du 5 septembre 1944, 100 Place du 5 septembre 1944, Mellecey, 71640, FR
- +33385980124
- Visit website
- Tuesday 2 pm-6 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-6 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-6 pm
- Friday 2 pm-6 pm
- Saturday 2 pm-6 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Book at least 24 hours in advance via email or phone to secure your spot on a guided tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the château's interiors and the extensive gardens. The grounds include gravel paths and uneven surfaces.
- Check the château's website for the schedule of guided tours, as they vary depending on the season. Tours are typically offered in French and English.
- Consider visiting during one of the château's cultural events, such as lectures or workshops on medieval history, for a more immersive experience.
- Combine your visit with a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard in the Côte Chalonnaise. Many domaines are within a short drive of the château.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Chalon-sur-Saône, follow the D978 west towards Mellecey. The Château de Germolles is located just south of Mellecey, clearly signposted from the main road. The drive is approximately 10 minutes. Parking is available on-site. Limited parking spaces are available, especially during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
-
Public Transport
From Chalon-sur-Saône, take the Zoom Network bus line 04 towards Mellecey. Get off at the 'Bourg Germolles' stop. From there, it's a short walk (approximately 10 minutes) to the Château de Germolles, following the signs. The bus fare is approximately €2. Be aware that the bus service may be infrequent, especially on weekends, so check the timetable in advance.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Chalon-sur-Saône to the Château de Germolles is a convenient option, taking approximately 10 minutes. Expect to pay around €22-€28 for the trip. Taxis are readily available in Chalon-sur-Saône, or you can book a ride-share service via a mobile app.
Discover more about Château de Germolles
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Castle of Santenay
12.8 km
Explore a historic Burgundy castle and winery, offering tours, tastings, and a glimpse into centuries of winemaking tradition.
Domaine Du Beauregard
13.7 km
Discover Burgundy's essence at Domaine du Beauregard: family-owned winery offering tours, tastings, and vineyard picnics in Saint-Sernin-du-Plain.
Château de Couches
14.0 km
Discover a medieval fortress with a rich history, wine, and gastronomy in the heart of Burgundy at Château de Couches, a French historic monument.
Château de La Rochepot
17.9 km
A fairytale castle in the heart of Burgundy, Château de La Rochepot boasts stunning architecture and picturesque views, a photographer's dream.
Mairie de Meursault
19.2 km
Discover the iconic Mairie de Meursault, a symbol of Burgundy's wine heritage and famed film location, in the heart of the Côte de Beaune.
Domaine AF GROS
22.8 km
Discover the elegance of Burgundy at Domaine AF Gros, a family-owned winery in Pommard crafting exceptional Pinot Noir wines since 1988.
Burgundy by Request
25.0 km
Discover the heart of Burgundy’s wine culture with immersive tours and tastings at Burgundy by Request, the premier sightseeing agency in Beaune.
Safari Tours
25.1 km
Explore Burgundy's vineyards with guided wine tours and tastings. Discover the secrets of French wine in the heart of Beaune.
Mural de La Grande Vadrouille
25.2 km
A vibrant mural in Beaune, France, celebrating the classic French film 'La Grande Vadrouille' and its connection to the town.
Visite de caves Bourgogne
25.3 km
Experience Burgundy's winemaking tradition at Domaine Billard, offering exquisite Monthelie, Pommard, and Volnay wines.
Domaines et Chateaux de Bourgogne Réunis
25.4 km
Explore a diverse collection of Burgundy wines from 15 independent growers, representing the region's finest appellations and terroirs in Beaune.
Prestige des Grands Vins de France
29.1 km
Experience the heart of Burgundy winemaking at Prestige des Grands Vins de France. Guided tours, exquisite wines, and a serene vineyard setting await.
A La Française Bourgogne
44.8 km
Explore Burgundy's stunning landscapes and rich heritage with A La Française Bourgogne's expertly guided private tours.
Castle Pierreclos
53.1 km
Explore a historic Burgundy castle and vineyard. Taste exquisite wines and discover centuries of winemaking tradition in Pierreclos.
Domaine de l’Université de Bourgogne
55.1 km
Discover Burgundy's wine-making traditions at this picturesque domaine, offering insights into viticulture and a taste of local wines.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chalon Cathedral
8.6 km
Discover the architectural grandeur and serene atmosphere of Chalon Cathedral, a historical landmark in the heart of Burgundy, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Château de la Crée
13.1 km
Discover centuries of Burgundy winemaking tradition at Château de la Crée in Santenay, where history, terroir, and exceptional wines create an unforgettable experience.
Domaines Famille Picard
14.6 km
Experience the rich heritage of Burgundy wine at Domaines Famille Picard, a picturesque vineyard in Chassagne-Montrachet offering tastings and tours.
Château de Demigny
14.9 km
Discover the historical Château de Demigny in Burgundy, France, explore its elegant architecture, vineyards, and museum dedicated to the Marquis de Foudras, a celebrated hunting novelist.
Domaine De L'abbaye De Maizières
18.8 km
Discover Burgundian charm at Domaine de l'Abbaye de Maizières, a 12th-century Cistercian estate near Beaune, blending history, luxury, and biodynamic farming in a picturesque setting.
Château de Meursault
19.0 km
Discover the historic Château de Meursault, a premier winery in Burgundy, blending rich heritage with exquisite wine experiences.
Cave des Hospices
20.8 km
Discover the charm of Cave des Hospices in Allerey-sur-Saône, where local wines and rich history create an unforgettable experience in the heart of Burgundy.
le bout du monde grotte
21.6 km
Discover Burgundy's 'End of the World': A stunning natural cirque with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, and climbing routes in a protected Natura 2000 site.
Veuve Ambal circuit visite - boutique
22.6 km
Experience the elegance of Crémant de Bourgogne at Veuve Ambal Winery, a captivating destination in the heart of Burgundy's wine country.
Château De Pommard
22.8 km
Discover the elegance of Château De Pommard, a premier winery in Burgundy offering wine tastings, educational experiences, and stunning gardens.
Domaine LEJEUNE - POMMARD
22.8 km
Explore the exquisite wines and rich heritage of Domaine Lejeune, a gem in the heart of Pommard's wine region.
Château de Sercy
22.9 km
Discover the enchanting Château de Sercy in Burgundy: a medieval marvel with unique architecture, a serene pond setting, and a rich history waiting to be explored. A timeless escape!
Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne
23.8 km
Discover the soul of Burgundy wine at the Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne in Beaune: an immersive journey through history, culture, and the art of winemaking.
Domaine Debray
24.7 km
Discover the heart of Burgundy at Domaine Debray in Beaune: Experience authentic winemaking, taste exquisite wines, and explore the passion behind every bottle.
La Moutarderie Fallot
24.7 km
Experience the delicious world of mustard-making at La Moutarderie Fallot in Beaune, a unique culinary attraction steeped in tradition and flavor.
Essential places to dine
Auberge Le Petit Blanc
6.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge Le Petit Blanc in Charrecey - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Maison Lameloise
11.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Maison Lameloise, a top-tier French fine dining experience nestled in beautiful Chagny.
Cepages Et Saveurs
11.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Cepages Et Saveurs in Chagny - a perfect blend of tradition and flavor.
Restaurant Le Terroir
12.4 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Le Terroir in Santenay - where local flavors meet traditional culinary artistry.
L'Auberge du Vieux Vigneron
13.7 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at L'Auberge du Vieux Vigneron in Corpeau - where local flavors meet charming ambiance.
Blason de Vair
14.0 km
Experience modern French cuisine at Blason de Vair in Couches - where tradition meets innovation for an unforgettable dining experience.
CAVE ET CUISINE
15.4 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Cave et Cuisine in Demigny – where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Le Montrachet Restaurant
15.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and exceptional wines at Le Montrachet Restaurant in Puligny-Montrachet.
Restaurant Prosper
16.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine with breathtaking vineyard views at Restaurant Prosper in Château de Saint-Aubin.
Restaurant Le Soufflot de Meursault
18.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine in the heart of Burgundy at Restaurant Le Soufflot de Meursault, where every dish tells a story.
Au Fil Du Clos Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine with breathtaking vineyard views at Au Fil Du Clos in Meursault.
Château de Cîteaux | Restaurant Gastronomique
19.2 km
Discover exquisite Haute French cuisine at Château de Cîteaux in Meursault – where every dish is a masterpiece crafted from local ingredients.
Le Bouchon
19.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Meursault at Le Bouchon – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
L'épisode
19.4 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at L'épisode in Meursault—where each dish tells a story of Burgundy's rich culinary heritage.
Le Cellier Volnaysien
21.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Cellier Volnaysien - where local flavors meet exquisite wines in the heart of Burgundy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BURGUNDY TERROIR - Vins d'Exception
13.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of Burgundy's viticulture at Vins d'Exception, where every bottle tells a story of the region's unique terroir.
Maison de la Bourgogne
18.5 km
Discover the culinary delights of Burgundy at Maison de la Bourgogne, your gourmet grocery store for fine wines, organic foods, and local delicacies.
Le Caveau à Auxey
20.1 km
Explore the heart of Burgundy at Le Caveau à Auxey, a premier wine store and tourist attraction showcasing the region's finest wines.
Autrement Bourgogne
22.9 km
Experience the essence of Burgundy at Autrement Bourgogne, where the finest local wines and enchanting landscapes come together.
Nuiton Beaunoy - Caves des Hautes Côtes de Beaune
23.6 km
Discover the essence of Burgundy at Nuiton Beaunoy – Caves des Hautes Côtes de Beaune, where fine wines and rich traditions await.
Maison André Goichot
23.6 km
Experience the essence of Burgundy at Maison André Goichot, a renowned wine store and winery in Beaune, offering exquisite wines and rich heritage.
CPH La Grande Boutique du Vin
23.8 km
Explore the finest selection of wines at CPH La Grande Boutique du Vin, a charming wine store in the heart of Beaune, France.
Prestige Cellar Beaune
23.8 km
Experience the finest selection of wines at Prestige Cellar Beaune, where expertise meets exquisite taste in the heart of Burgundy.
Millésimes a la Carte
23.9 km
Explore the exquisite selection of local and international wines at Millésimes à la Carte in Beaune, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
Vente Vins de Bourgogne
24.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of Burgundy at Vente Vins de Bourgogne, an essential stop for wine lovers in Beaune, France.
Mon Millésime
24.9 km
Explore the rich flavors of Burgundy at Mon Millésime, a premier wine store in Beaune offering exquisite local wines and expert guidance.
Boutique Wine Market
24.9 km
Explore Burgundy's finest wines at the Boutique Wine Market in Beaune, where passion meets expertise in every bottle.
Place des Grands Crus
24.9 km
Discover the rich heritage of Burgundy wines at Place des Grands Crus in Beaune, where expert guidance and exquisite selections await every visitor.
Athenaeum - Beaune
24.9 km
Explore the Athenaeum in Beaune, where literature meets local delicacies and exquisite Burgundy wines in a charming cultural experience.
La Vinothèque
25.0 km
Discover the essence of Burgundy at La Vinothèque, Beaune's premier wine store, offering a curated selection of exquisite local wines.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Salmanazar
11.4 km
Discover the heart of Burgundy at Le Salmanazar, a charming wine bar in Chagny offering exquisite local wines and delightful ambiance.
L'Ovale
15.3 km
Experience the essence of French wine culture at L'Ovale, a charming wine bar in Couches offering exquisite local selections.
Maison Chanzy
15.4 km
Explore the exquisite wines of Burgundy at Maison Chanzy, a charming wine bar and cellar in Puligny-Montrachet, where taste and tradition meet.
Le P'tiot Bistrot
19.6 km
Discover Le P'tiot Bistrot: A cozy live music bar and cafe in Cormot-Vauchignon offering delightful performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Maison Jean-Marc Boillot
22.8 km
Explore the exquisite wines of Burgundy at Maison Jean-Marc Boillot, where tradition meets passion in every glass.
La Dilettante
24.8 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Beaune at La Dilettante, where wine and culinary artistry meet in a charming setting.
The Publican
24.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Publican in Beaune, where local flavors meet exceptional drinks in a charming setting.
Barbizier
24.9 km
Discover Barbizier: Beaune's premier destination for exquisite wines and craft cocktails in a charming and welcoming atmosphere.
la Parenthèse
24.9 km
Discover the essence of Burgundy at la Parenthèse, a cozy wine bar in Beaune offering exquisite local wines and a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Trente-Trois (Bieres du monde entier + Vin de Bourgogne)
24.9 km
Discover a world of beers and exquisite Burgundy wines at Le Trente-Trois, a vibrant beer hall in the heart of Beaune, perfect for every enthusiast.
Le Bout du Monde
24.9 km
Experience the essence of Burgundy at Le Bout du Monde, a wine bar offering exquisite local wines and delicious tapas in Beaune.
BAR 66
25.0 km
Discover the enchanting BAR 66 in Beaune, a wine bar that offers a delightful selection of local wines and a cozy atmosphere for every visitor.
La Comédie du Vin
25.0 km
Discover the enchanting La Comédie du Vin in Beaune, where exquisite wines and authentic French cuisine come together in a delightful atmosphere.
Bar - Côté Rhum - Beaune
25.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Côté Rhum in Beaune, where creative cocktails and an energetic atmosphere await you.
The American Bar
25.1 km
Experience the elegance of The American Bar in Beaune, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a sophisticated lounge atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Burgundy Wine Club
22.8 km
Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of Burgundy wines at the Burgundy Wine Club in Pommard, France, where every sip tells a story.
Le Copacabana
23.7 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Beaune at Le Copacabana, the ultimate disco club experience with pulsating music and vibrant energy.
O'Reginal Club discothèque uniquement
24.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at O'Reginal Club in Beaune, where music, dancing, and excitement create unforgettable nights.
Le Club 21 By Bourgogne Concert
38.1 km
Discover the exciting rhythms of live music at Le Club 21 in Seurre, where unforgettable performances and lively ambiance await.
Black Pearl
51.5 km
Unleash your energy at Black Pearl, the ultimate disco club in Creancey - Pouilly-en-Auxois, where vibrant nightlife and unforgettable moments await.
Diviowl Bousille Club
60.8 km
Dive into the artistic and vibrant atmosphere of Diviowl Bousille Club in Dijon, a unique blend of bar, gallery, and tattoo shop.
VIP 21 CLUB - Dijon
60.9 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Dijon at VIP 21 Club, where the music is loud, and the atmosphere is electric.
La Dolce
61.0 km
Experience Dijon’s vibrant nightlife at La Dolce, where local wines and crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Le Tube | Bar à chicha à Dijon
61.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Le Tube, a chic hookah bar in Dijon, offering a unique blend of relaxation, socializing, and delightful flavors.
L'Acropole
61.1 km
Experience the sophisticated ambiance of L'Acropole, a chic lounge in Dijon, perfect for unwinding with drinks and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Deep Inside Klub Rock
61.1 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Dijon at Deep Inside Klub Rock, where live music and great drinks create an unforgettable experience.
BBL
61.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dijon at BBL, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories come together.
Le Club
61.4 km
Discover Le Club, a stylish cocktail bar in Dijon, where expertly crafted drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
La Belle Époque
62.1 km
Discover the heart of Dijon's nightlife at La Belle Époque, where vibrant beats and a lively atmosphere await.
Byron Bay
62.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches of Byron Bay, Australia's ultimate coastal destination for relaxation and adventure.
