Suggestions for staying out from Beaune

Until we move in a few days to Normandie, I live in rural Bourgogne (Burgundy) and I'm quite familiar with it. What do you mean by "out from Beaune?"

Beaune is hardly the centerpiece of life in Bourgogne. Rather, it's a bit of an aberration; chock full of tourists. What are you hoping to see?

I have been before to Beaune, Dijon, Fontenay Abbey, Auxerre and Vezelay. We are taking friends who want to see a little of Burgundy in 2 or 3 days and stay in the country. What are your suggestions?
Where would you suggest we visit for a more authentic, less touristy experience? I know my friends would like to see vineyards and I love a village market.

I've stayed twice now at the Hotel de Challenges, just outside Beaune. Challenges is a tiny commune, only ten min. or so by car from Beaune & the hotel is a 19th century mansion on gorgeous grounds. It's quite quiet & rural, despite its proximity to Beaume. The large old Manse forms the core of the hotel with a nicely designed, more modern wing off to the side, with patios overlooking the pool. The breakfasts were excellent in the formal dining room of the chateau (or delivered to your patio if you wish). Service was impeccable, the grounds were extensive & gorgeously landscaped, the intimate hotel bar was warm & friendly & all in all it was a delight. As I said, I returned after my first stay & I would again without a second thought.

Thank you.

Perhaps the nicest B&B we’ve ever stayed in was the Carpe Diem Guesthouse In Massangis about 1 hour northwest of Beaune. It was a few years ago. The hosts were friendly and helpful, the room was beautiful and large, the bath was sparkling modern brand new or so it seemed. Pretty garden area, easy parking. Breakfast was included, we never tried the dinner option. Other restaurants were nearby. Everyone we met there was cheerful and pleasant so I doubt we were alone in our estimation. Some days we had to pull away from the breakfast table to begin touring because we all were having such a nice time. We didn’t get into the small viallge of Massangis at all so no idea what it offered. Safe travels.

We stayed in Meursault, but had a car. Hopefully you will as well! We stayed in a gîte we found through Gîtes de France. It was perfect since our gîte backed up to the owner’s small vineyard and even more expansive vineyards beyond her gate. It’s an easy town to wander through as well with a small SPAR (grocery store) near the city center. Have fun!

Oh and I have to add that we visited Parc Bouzaise in Beaune and just adored it. We had our 2 yr old and 64 yr old grandma with us and all were delighted by the stroll around the pond. Beaune is a treat !