I pedal leisurely along the towpath beside the Burgundy Canal, past neat rows of old oaks, maples, and poplars that form a tall, shady green cathedral along the flanks of the shallow canal. My bicycle’s tires crunch on the white limestone. Coming to a lock I stand on a small stone bridge that crosses over the canal. I’m waiting for La Belle Époque — the luxury hotel Barge that will be my home for ... Read Full Article
Boating in France: The Burgundy Canal to Dijon
Last week we decided we needed some time out of port and on the canal, so we headed up the Burgundy Canal towards Dijon. We have been to Dijon by train from St Jean de Losne a couple of times this summer; that’s only about a 30-minute trip. The trip by boat takes us two days for the 24 locks and 30 kilometers at 6 km/hour. Six years ago we cruised the entire 242 km. length of this canal and knew ... Read Full Article
Wine Appreciation in Champagne and Burgundy
Two of Europe’s most popular wine regions – Champagne and Burgundy – have been painted in a new light with Natalie Maclean’s entertaining travelogue, Red, White, and Drunk All Over: A Wine-Soaked Journey from Grape to Glass. She laments the state of most wine-orientated literature: “When I read about wine, I often get the odd impression that it has no alcohol in it.” Natalie’s first stop in ... Read Full Article
Mary Magdalene’s Bones, Old Stones, and “Chocolat”
For eight centuries, pilgrims have come to the great basilica in Vezelay to be blessed on their long journey to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a pilgrimage that was, and is today, a significant spiritual journey. The Basilica Saint Mary Magdalene still awes visitors like John and me. A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture of the Middle Ages, it was famous in the 12th century for its relics of ... Read Full Article
Exploring Champagne and Burgundy in France
If you want to travel beyond Paris, be sure to consider the Champagne-Ardenne region and/or Burgundy. These two areas have so much to see and do that you will be very busy. And if you are a lover of champagne or fine wine, you will be in heaven. Champagne-Ardenne When you pop a bottle of "champagne", you can be sure it is produced right here in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France. ... Read Full Article
Discover Dijon, France
Dijon, France is a charming, walkable town that offers lots of interesting nooks and crannies for the adventurous tourist. There are several museums, and fascinating churches as well as shops and restaurants galore. Dijon is located in the heart of the Burgundy wine region of France, so the food is hearty and delicious"¦great cheeses, Beef Bourguignon and, of course Dijon mustard. Follow the ... Read Full Article