Burgundy and Lyon with Mark Bright

May 2 – 8, 2025 | Exclusive Burgundy Access

A Vintage Escape

Journey through the wine & cuisine culture of Burgundy

May 2 - 8, 2025 | 7 Days, 6 Nights

“Your passion for travel and forging new relationships is infectious. I need more!!”
Adrian C.

Questions? Text or call us
+1 (855) 219-8018

$11,700

Per person, based on double occupancy

Legendary wine director & sommelier, Mark Bright

Strolling the medieval footpaths, past vine-carpeted hills and limestone villages, you’re on your way to a small family-run estate that produces some of the finest wines in the world. It’s closed to the public — but not to you. The past few days have been an insider-only exploration of the timeless gastronomic traditions of Burgundy and Lyon, from cave to table. Tonight at a meal in one of France’s top restaurants, you’ll sample course upon course of timeless cuisine. Tomorrow, you’ll sip the most exciting vintages the region has to offer alongside iconic winemakers.

Trip Highlights

  • Learn about wine with Mark
  • Discover a food lover's paradise in Lyon
  • Sample wine in Beaujolais 
  • Taste coveted pinot noirs and chardonnays 
  • Meet Mark's favorite winemakers
  • E-bike through storybook vineyards
  • Immerse yourself in Beaune
  • Enjoy Michelin-starred meals

3 Reasons to Travel with Mark Bright

Mark Bright is the founding Wine Director at San Francisco’s Michelin-starred restaurants Saison and Angler, and winemaker at Saison and Partage Wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where he creates wines informed by years of deep study in Burgundy’s winemaking styles and techniques. As a sommelier, his award-winning lists are veritable libraries of rare wines from the region, recognized with Wine Spectator Grand Awards for 10 years running. Next spring, he’ll walk us through his home-away-from home in France, pouring stories of insight, friendship and history into every glass we share.

Forever Young

Mark’s wine journey began at age 15 when he took a solo trip to Paris and — mostly by chance — found himself in Burgundy, chatting with Beaune wine matriarch (and global wine icon) Véronique Drouhin, who illuminated how great wines embody land, culture and people. This watershed moment linked Mark inextricably to the region, which he returns to again and again as his expands into ever more aspects of wine.

His Social Network

Mark’s restaurants represent some of the largest Burgundy collections in America; he also runs a brokerage and retail business in the Burgundian wine space, through which he sources top bottles for private collectors. Let's just say he's cultivated a handful of profound relationship with some of the best winemakers in the region.

Sheer Terroir

In the cellar and vineyard, Mark curates and creates wines inspired by a uniquely Burgundian sensibility, that views each wine as a microcosm of the place, time and hands that grew it. He sees parallels in the micro-climates and diverse soil types of Santa Cruz and Burgundy, which can vary widely from plot to plot, and seeks to create wines that offer a clear vision of their unique place in the world.

Day by Day

*On rare occasions, this itinerary may change.

Day 1

May 2, Fri

Bienvenue to Lyon! We’ll meet at our hotel and kick off the adventure with a welcome cocktail. As we get to know each other, our tastemaker will share his connection to the destination and we’ll chart a course for the week ahead.

Dinner tonight is a refined affair close to home at the heralded hotel restaurant.

Tastemaker Moment: Mark will introduce himself and share his profound affection for Burgundy

Day 2

May 3, Sat

After a traditional Lyonnaise breakfast, we’ll head to the market, mingling with locals as we peruse fresh cheeses, foraged mushrooms, and even the odd table of antiques. It’s the perfect way to start an incredible week together.

Our next stop is the world’s most storied gourmet market: Les Halles Paul Bocuse. Named after Lyon’s revered chef, this hall is a foodie’s haven. After tasting our way through its fifty-odd stalls,  we’ll enjoy a leisurely tour of the historic city.

Dinner tonight is at a charming bouchon in the Presqu’île district.

Tastemaker Moment: Mark will select our wine pairing for tonight's dinner.

Day 3

May 4, Sun

Today, we make our way from Lyon to Beaune, but not with a few stops along the way. Beaujolais is called the “little French Tuscany,” today is all about learning why.  We’ll experience a private wine tasting and visit a storied family estate in the heart where winemaking is not a job but a tradition passed down for generations.

Next is Château des Bachelards, where we’ll enjoy lunch expertly paired with the estate’s wines. Upon our arrival in Beaune, we’ll hit the ground running with a tour of the medieval village, paying particular attention to the limestone Remparts that once protected its inhabitants. The rest of the evening is yours to explore Beaune’s culinary scene as you wish. 

Day 4

May 5, Mon

Today, we’ll discover Burgundy’s countryside charm: cruising on e-bikes, climbing up gentle hills, and cycling between rows of grapevines and by hamlets of red-roofed stone cottages. We’ll stop to taste wines at a family estate, before finishing with a luxurious selection of Château de la Crée wines and small bites to match.

After taking some downtime for ourselves, an elegant affair at Maison Joseph Drouhin, a beacon of Burgundian winemaking tradition, awaits us for dinner.  

Tastemaker Moment: Today, Mark will help us understand how terroir plays a pivotal role in Burgundy wines

Day 5

May 6, Tue

Burgundy is renowned for the sheer number of individual vineyards in the region. Each grower imparts their own personality to their wine; the result has been some of the world’s best Chambertin-Clos de Bèze, Clos de Tart, Clos des Lambrays, Échezeaux, Romanée-Conti, La Tâche, Musigny– and the list goes on. Today, we’ll see it all with our own eyes as we visit Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne Romanée, and Nuits-St-Georges, three of the region’s most celebrated villages.

We’ll immerse ourselves in the process of hand-stitched wines among the plots of the world’s most expensive vintages before enjoying a Michelin-starred lunch at La Rôtisserie du Chambertin. Our bellies full and hearts happy, we’ll ramble down the road and continue to meet local tastemakers as we stroll some of the most compelling terroir in all of France. 

The evening is yours to embellish.

A sommelier's hands carefully pulling a dust-covered vintage bottle from a stone rack in a dim, historic underground cellar. This intimate moment represents the exclusive access to private collections and rare vintages offered on a curated wine tour through Champagne or Burgundy.

Day 6

May 7, Wed

 We start the morning exploring Beaune’s vibrant market, famed for its bright produce, barrels of cured olives, and sausages direct from the charcuterie farms. We’ll make the acquaintance of a master barrel maker. Together, we’ll build an authentic 228L barrel and leave as budding experts in this age-old trade.

In the afternoon, we visit Beaune’s 15th-century wine cellars of a Gothic hospital-turned museum, the Hospice de Beaune. The first plantings were in 1457; almost six centuries later, it remains one of Burgundy’s most esteemed names. We’ll enjoy rare access to the private cellars and an exclusive tasting with head winemaker Ludivine Griveaux.

We’ll reconvene in the evening to enjoy an elegant private wine tasting at Les Celliers de la Cabiote and then wander over to our farewell dinner—sublime French cuisine paired with wines so exquisite we may never want to leave. 

Tastemaker Moment: Mark will raise a toast to an unforgettable week of wine tasting

Day 7

May 8, Thu

Alas, all good things must come to an end. We’ll bid adieu to each other and make our way to the airport.

People Love Our Burgundy

France 2019_Ancient wine bottles covered in dust resting in a historic cellar in Burgundy, France, showcasing traditional French winemaking and centuries-old vintages.
France 2019_Elegant diners enjoying a meal inside a grand stone-arched restaurant in Burgundy, France, featuring medieval architecture, white tablecloths, and red velvet chairs for an authentic fine dining experience.
France 2019_A florist hands a bouquet of fresh flowers to a customer at a charming outdoor market in Burgundy, France, surrounded by colorful blooms and rustic village charm.
France 2019_A group of friends raise glasses of white wine in a cozy restaurant in Burgundy, France, celebrating fine dining and local vintages in a warm, intimate atmosphere.
France 2019_Manicured hedges and a gravel pathway lead through a historic French garden in Beaune, Burgundy, with the town’s charming rooftops and church spires visible in the background.
France 2019_A person holds a bottle of Château de la Crée Santenay wine among the vineyards of Burgundy, France, showcasing the region’s rich winemaking heritage and elegant terroir.
France 2019_A group of men on bicycles lead a large pack of hounds along a scenic country road in Burgundy, France, surrounded by lush greenery and rustic charm, evoking traditional rural life.
France 2019_The colorful tiled roof and Gothic architecture of the Hospices de Beaune in Burgundy, France, showcasing the region’s rich medieval heritage and iconic patterned rooftops.
France 2019_Elegant plated dessert with berries and sorbet served at a fine dining restaurant in Burgundy, France, highlighting the region’s gourmet culinary traditions and refined presentation.
France 2019_Guests listening to a winemaker during a guided wine tasting tour in a traditional Burgundy wine cellar, surrounded by oak barrels and stone walls, showcasing the region’s rich viticulture and heritage.
France 2019_Rows of young grapevines growing in a Burgundy vineyard with a backdrop of rolling green hills and countryside homes under a cloudy sky, capturing the region’s agricultural beauty and early growing season.
France 2019_Ornate stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes inside a Gothic cathedral in France, showcasing vivid colors and intricate craftsmanship illuminated by natural light.
France 2019_Elegant pink château with gray slate roof and shuttered windows surrounded by lush greenery, photographed at dusk in the French countryside.
France 2019_A group of people raising glasses of white wine during a celebratory dinner in a stone-walled château dining room with warm lighting and elegant table settings.n
France 2019_A dimly lit underground wine cellar tunnel with rows of wine bottles stacked on both sides and a person walking through the narrow passage.
France 2019_A collection of wine bottles displayed on a round table near a bright window, with various labels and colors suggesting a selection of French wines.
France 2019_A view down a stone-paved street lined with classic European architecture, leading toward a grand cathedral with twin towers in the distance, as pedestrians and a few cars move through the scene.
France 2019_A white plate filled with assorted bite-sized appetizers, including cubes of pâté, slices of tomato with cream, and other small delicacies, each with a toothpick, set against a softly lit background.
France 2019_A grand stone chateau surrounded by lush green vineyards under a bright sky, with hills and countryside in the background.
France 2019_The facade of Hotel Le Cep with French and European flags, cream shutters, and flower boxes above the entrance.
France 2019_A burlap bag labeled “Edmond Fallot” with mustard seeds stands beside a bottle and small dishes of salt and utensils on a rustic table.
France 2019_A dimly lit wine cellar lined with rows of wooden barrels stacked neatly on both sides of a narrow stone walkway.
France 2019_A wide aerial view showing a charming French town with rows of houses, tree-lined streets, and open countryside stretching into the distance.
France 2019_A charming town square featuring an old-fashioned carousel with ornate decorations beside a stone fountain topped with a bronze statue, surrounded by half-timbered and stone buildings.
France 2019_Rows of rustic cheese wheels labeled “Tomme de Savoie Fermière” aging on wooden shelves inside a cool, dimly lit cellar.
“
The food and wine were fantastic!
Henry K.
“
Our trip was superbly well-organized, with great local guides and incredible access.
Colleen G.
“
I want everyone to have this experience.
Thomas M.

Where We Sleep

The easy elegance and heritage of Lyon and Burgundy are on full display at both of these iconic hotels.

*On rare occasions, our hotels will change. Our standards for luxury and authenticity will not.

InterContinental Hotel Dieu

Lyon

Once an 18th-century hospital, the InterContinental Hotel Dieu in Lyon is now a beacon of luxury and elegance. Nestled in the heart of the city, the suites in this architectural gem blend historical charm with modern comfort and offer breathtaking views of the Rhône River. Indulge in Lyon's vibrant culinary scene at the hotel's own Michelin-starred restaurant, Epona, where gastronomic innovation meets historic grandeur.

An elegant courtyard at dusk in a historic French villa, featuring a lit wrought-iron gazebo set for a wine tasting with candles and bottles, overlooking a manicured garden and traditional stone architecture in the Burgundy region.

Hotel Le Cep

Beaune

Ideally situated in the heart of medieval Beaune (“Capital of the wines of Burgundy”) – and just minutes away from the famous Hospices de Beaune and the Notre-Dame Basilica – the Hotel Le Cep is a genuine institution in this town. This 5-star hotel is affiliated to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, which include some of the world’s best hotels, and also a member of the Château Hôtels Collection, Le Cep owes its charm to the uniting of two private mansions and their historical 16th-century courtyards.

Book Burgundy and Lyon with Mark Bright

Number of Travelers

Payment

Reserve your spot today with a $1,500 per-person deposit plus room supplements (if relevant). Please see our terms and conditions for full payment details.

$11,700

Per person, based on double occupancy

Can't travel on these dates?
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+1 (855) 219-8018

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Questions?

We have answers! Read our FAQs below. Or text or call us at +1 (855) 219-8018 to speak with a Modern Adventure trip specialist.

  1. What does the price include?

    Six nights at a unique 5-star accommodation; private travel for all day trips and excursions; departure airport transfer; private tours with locals guides and cultural experts; exclusive VIP access and tastings; guided activities and exclusive private tours and activities; entrance fees; daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners; local beverages with meals; gratuities for local staff.

  2. What does the price not include?

    International roundtrip airfare; travel insurance; transportation to the trip start; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverage not included in itinerary; gratuity for tour leader.

  3. Where does this trip start and end?

    Our adventure begins at the InterContinental Hotel Dieu in Lyon and ends at Hostellerie Cèdre in Beaune. We recommend booking flights to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) and from Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) or Geneva Airport (GVA). On the final day of our trip, we will organize a group transfer from our hotel to the airport. The specific time of this transfer will be determined after we’ve gathered all guests’ flight times to ensure the best schedule for the group. Please note that it is your responsibility to arrange transportation to Lyon at the start of our trip.

    Detailed arrival and departure guidance is provided in your post-purchase trip materials, including recommended routes, transfer options, and timing considerations. If you have specific questions before booking, our team is always happy to help.

  4. What travel documents are needed?

    US citizens are not required to have a visa for stays in France under 90 days. Just bring a valid US passport. For citizens of other countries, please check with the French Embassy or Consulate for information and requirements.

  5. Do I need to pay a solo traveler supplement?

    For solo travelers, there is an $1,900 single-supplement fee—paid at the time of booking to secure a private room. These spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  6. Who is going on this trip?

    Our adventures typically have between 10 and 18 guests, plus our Modern Adventure team. Our experiences are fun and inclusive and you can expect to be joined by a diverse group in terms of age, background and interests—including solo travelers, couples and friends traveling together. This adventure is for travelers age 18 and above.

  7. Who is leading this trip?

    This trip is led by an expert Modern Adventure trip leader. They’re an experienced travel guide, a representative of Modern Adventure and your go-to person for questions or concerns on the trip. We’ll be joined throughout our adventure by local, expert guides who are deeply knowledgeable with respect to local cultures, customs and history and are passionate about sharing that with us.

  8. Do I need travel insurance?

    We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs; if your trip plans change for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to get medical help, emergency transport, and for theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. For best coverage, always insure the full trip cost within two weeks of your initial trip deposit and note that most ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ policies must be purchased on the date of your initial deposit.

  9. What is the cancellation policy?

    We understand plans can change. Here’s how cancellation fees are incurred depending on when you let us know:

    • More than 150 days before departure: $1,500 per person deposit
    • 150–121 days before departure: 50% of the total trip price
    • 120 days or less before departure: 100% of the total trip price

    For the full details, please see our terms and conditions.

  10. When will my final balance be due?

    Your payment schedule depends on how far in advance you book your trip:

    • At the time of booking: Pay your $1,500 deposit per person.
    • 180 days before departure: 50% of your trip cost is due.
    • 120 days before departure: Full balance is due.

    We’ll send you secure payment links and reminders before each due date to make the process easy. If you book within 120 days of your trip, the remaining balance is due within 10 days.

  11. Is this trip the right fit for me?

    Modern Adventure trips are active, immersive small-group experiences. Our itineraries often involve sustained walking and standing throughout the day, including stairs, uneven terrain, cobblestones, unpaved paths, and moving between experiences at a pace that keeps the day flowing for the group.

    These experiences are not suitable for travelers who require physical mobility assistance, personal care support, or significant itinerary modifications in order to participate. In many destinations, accommodations for significant physical limitations may not be possible without materially altering the experience for the individual traveler or the group.

    All travelers are responsible for informing Modern Adventure of any physical limitations, medical considerations, or concerns before booking, or as early as possible before departure. Please don’t hesitate to contact us before booking if you have any questions. We want every traveler to feel confident, comfortable, and fully prepared for the journey ahead.

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