Perhaps you thought you’d tried touring the French countryside by every possible means: electric bike, maybe, or Segway or even on horseback. Well, think again — because that was all before Fabien Ruinet landed in Dijon with his off-road scooters.
These all-terrain machines are a cross between a mountain bike and a kid’s toy scooter… but powered by an electric motor, meaning they’re probably the most enjoyable — and user-friendly — way to criss-cross the vineyards in and around Beaune. The scooters are great fun for all the family and couldn’t be easier to use… in fact, they’re already beginning to be a bit of a hit with thrill-seekers everywhere! At full throttle the two-wheeled beasts can hit top speeds of 30 kmh. Fabien organises imaginative outings along the Voie des Vignes cycling path with stops at iconic local villages such as Pommard, Volnay and Meursault. A couple of things to remember before scooting off: don’t forget your camera but do forget the idea of putting on your best holiday trousers, because they won’t emerge unscathed. In a nutshell, Fabien’s off-road rides are a great way of recharging your batteries while emptying your scooter’s!
Tips nearby:
La Table de Pauline: Situated in Nantoux, 15 minutes west of Beaune. Typical Burgundy food with wine from the Charles estate. Choice of tasting: 3, 6 or 9 wines. Friendly atmosphere. Reservation required in advance.
Le Clos du Colombier: Hotel and guest house in Pommard. Elegant and tastefully decorated rooms with views over gardens on ground floor, and over the vineyard from the upper bedrooms. Private relaxation area with sauna, Jacuzzi and massage room.