Here are George Butterfield's recommendations for the best picnic spots for cyclists in the area around Beaune.

Volnay Church After an easy ride on the D73, throw down a blanket in the square outside this vineyard town's fourteenth-century church and enjoy views of the Burgundy plain and Mont Blanc.

Pas St-Martin Leave Beaune on the D970 going toward Bessey-en-Chaume but turn left at the top of the hill. Meander through forest and fields to Mavilly-Mandelot, with a lunch stop at this rocky overlook.

St-Romain Le Haut Climb the D17 via Pommard to the ruins of the Haute-Ville. Lunch on the castle walls with views of the vines below.

Clos de Vougeot Take the N74 past the famous vineyards of the Côtes de Nuits. Picnic on the walls of this twelfth-century Renaissance château and vineyard and visit the cellars and presses.

Château de La Rochepot Over a hill on the D973 and across two drawbridges, this famous castle with its gorgeous multicolored tiled roof is a prime picnic spot. It's worth the 5 euro fee.

—Jen Murphy