BOUNTIFUL BURGUNDY, ALSACE, REIMS, LILLE AND PAS de CALAIS…
Beautiful Bourgogne and Franche-Comté delight with its history from pre-Holy Roman Empire, its famed vineyards and picturesque villages, to the delights of Champagne, stretching to Pas-de-Calais and the sea. Dijon is Burgundy’s largest city, the two regions – Burgundy and Franche-Comté were united in 2014 including Besancon, Macon, Auxerre.
North lies alluring Alsace-Lorraine bordering Germany and the Rhine, Moselle, part of France since 1871; extending West from the Marne and the Ardennes to the Nord and Pas-de-Calais reaching the sea. Remaining French after WW II, Alsace has a German dialect very distinct, as are tastes creating sublime cuisine and wines delighting all. Stunning Strasbourg is its capital, showcasing spectacular Renaissance and Gothic treasures like its Cathedral and famed animated astronomical clock. The Alsace Wine Route captivates all, discoveries beckon wine lovers from around the globe for sublime “dégustations” – not to mention numerous Alsace treasures.
Strasbourg and the “Petite France”
West from the Ardennes, Meuse, Marne lie the North, Nancy, Lille and Pas-de-Calais bordering the sea and Belgium. A region appreciated for its famed UNESCO sites – 56 historical Belfries of France and Belgium and the 13th Century Amiens Cathedral, and beautifully restored “Vieux Lille” with its numerous museums.
Street in ” vieux Lille”
Northeast of France, History and Heritage
From earliest days Burgundy and France-Comté historically controlled vast regions to the north and east, since the new Kingdom in 888 with its conflicts with the east. Various alliances via marriage saw changes; Spanish Habsburgs arrived but in 1674 France finally regained control. With rich agricultural lands straddling key rivers for commerce, it has maintained a rich heritage.
Northeast of France, Natures and Landscapes
One of France’s largest regions it stretches between the Val de Saône, Paris basin, and the Massif Central. Hot summers, with testing climate and hail, plus cold winters. Fortunately for its famed vineyards there are numerous micro-climates for their terroirs. Ten peaks for climbing delight for many sport enthusiasts.
Northeast of France, Art and Culture
Originally from Scandinavia, Burgundians were southern Baltic peoples. Their culture evolved coming from the Rhine and other influences as did the languages. Culture was impacted by the various heritages from German, Dutch, Gauls, and French. Architecture has its heritage showcasing some unique accents – rib vaults, pointed archways – on many churches, edifices.
Northeast of France, Gastronomy
Boeuf Bourguignon is a must with lardons and red wine – famed globally. Beaune’s gourmet tour highlights Pernand, Vergelesses to Chagny with “must” tastes of escargots, mustard, truffes de Bourgogne, and local spicy breads. Tempt your tastes with “escargots à l’ail”, “quenelles de brochet” or sander, ham with parsley and spices, black truffles plus all the delights of Dijon’s mustards, crème de cassis, and Flavigny’s amazing anis.
Bourgogne and France-Comté
Burgundy, located in eastern central France was discovered and inhabited by Celts and Romans with a rich heritage. It’s famed for its Burgundy wines plus Chardonnay, Beaujolais, Chablis and sublime pinot noir. A land of chateaux, canals, and vineyards with its capital – Dijon. The 1787 Museum of Beaux-Arts is a treasure like Dijon’s Palace of the Dukes. It is the birthplace of red and white wines – primarily pinot noir. Almost 200 kilometers from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean via the Seine and Yonne rivers, the Burgundy Canal meanders through breathtaking scenery, offering superb visits and memories of today and the past. Walking is essential to view all these delights from cathedrals and basilicas to memorable medieval villages, hamlets, or Arcy-sur-Cure famed cave paintings, Roman treasures like Autun, and Beaune’s renown 1443 hospital, are not to be overlooked.
Burgundy’s walled cobbled street Beaune – in the heart of its Cote d’Or vineyards, is superb. Hospices de Beaune – a former hospital with famed architecture – is now a museum hosting yearly its renowned annual wine auction. A must visit… interesting discoveries besides wine tastings are visits to the Fallot Mustard Factory, Wine Museum, and Beaune’s Cathedral.
The Hospices of Beaune
From 1731 “Bouchard Père & Fils’ wine Domaine is famed for its vintages. Just below the Chateau de Beaune it tempts guests with its superb tastings, history, and history. Caves Patriarche Père et Fils – the largest in Burgundy – invite too. Burgundy’s renown for its red and white wines mostly made from Pinot noir and Chardonnay grapes, other varieties to try include Gamay, Aligoté, Pinot blanc, and Sauvignon blanc.
Alsace
Winter skiing summons like summer hiking, biking and trekking, wine tastings, plus gourmet visits galore…Alsace has it all with beautiful pink sandstone castles, fortresses dotting hilltops. Discover Strasbourg by boat; castles and history await, plus devour an array of culinary delights…as do their superb wines. The four wonders of Alsace are Eguisheim, Kayserberg, Ribeauville, Riquewihr…on the Wine Route.
The “Wine Street” in Strasbourg
Interesting itineraries exist by land or canal; discover the Vosges mountains adding sunny delights and enchanting villages, historical monuments, and culinary discoveries …Alsace’s Wine Route – one of France’s oldest is 170 km of delightful tasting, superb old vineyards. It winds between the Rhine and Vosges Ballons of timbered villages, flowers galore offering timeless charms, with breathtaking vistas. Ribeauville enchants – a must! It’s picturesque center is perfection – superb architecture, colorful flowers, quaint passageways, boutiques and cafes galore. Famed ancient hub of Alsatian and German wines, pre-16th century Riquewihr impresses with its surrounding vineyards, imposing Castle; now a WW II Museum as do Colmar and Kayserberg.
Kayserberg’s “The Emperor’s Mountain” attracts visitors with its 13th Century Imperial Castle ruins dominating the century’s old village. A delightful historical center charms all, as does its Fortified Bridge in this idyllic valley – 2017’s France’s Favored Village. Dining is amazing; Caveau de Schlossberg is relaxing with unique selections, top service. Michelin** Chambard’s “Table de Olivier Nasti” exceeds – reserve ahead. An unforgettable dining experience – plus an interesting visit meeting him in action during this “nec plus ultra’s” seven course delight of amazing combinations, adored by all of us. Wine pairings were excellent…it is highly recommended one tastes only Alsace wines with a menu like this. Service was informative, enhancing. Another star awaits Nasti and team surely!
Nearby Turckheim’s Night Watchman with his nightly Lantern Tour is magical recalling medieval moments; from May-November at 22:00 as he secures all dwellings from fire. Vosges National Park attracts too. Tastings of Riesling and Gewurtztraminer are essential with all these discoveries as one follows the Trail.
France’s most beautiful village – Colmar – is the center of the Alsace Wine Trail. It’s Old Town’s quaint canals, half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets enchant in this Little Venice. Discover the Toy Museum, cosy cafes, wine shops “a go go”, plus don’t miss Colmar’s walking tour winding along its quaint cobbled streets and breathtaking architecture. Charming, colorful “La Petite Venise” and its famed restaurant – booked in advance for dining, historical Le Quai de la Poissonnerie enchants too, as does Le Marche Couvert with all its delights . Try a “flammekueche” with a glass of Riesling on the canal! Moules- frites at Maison Léon with a taste of Gisselbrecht AOP Trilogy is to die for, and their oysters at friendly prices! Nearby Eguisheim is another gem to enjoy with a walk.
Drive or ride through the Wine Route’s superb vineyards and fairytale villages. A fun hike is the Geovino Trail (6 kms) in the vineyards from Riquewihr to Zellenberg with great views, “info” panels too. Hunawihr enriches with its Crémant Experience; Flammekueche varies in all villages with their accents. Don’t miss the crepes at Riquewihr’s Au Vieux Pressoir!
Flammekueche
Reims and Champagne
Globally famed Reims is home to many of the world’s most celebrated champagne vineyards – most are open for visits – which should be reserved ahead. A delightful, walkable town, Reims was founded by Remus, brother of Romulus, Rome’s founder. Epernay has a more boutique environment than Reims. Reim’s Cathedral is majestic, like Saint-Remi’s Basilique. One has a choice of cellars between them—enjoy both – Cheers. One’s taste and time dictate tasting and discoveries here. Reserve visits as soon as possible. Don’t miss the Perching Bar- a tree-top delight lit with solar panels between Epernay and Reims
Reim’s Cathedral is majestic
Lille, the North, and Pas de Calais
Bordering the Atlantic, the Pas-de-Calais and North are known for their Flemish influences, ancient merchant ties. Lille’s alluring 17th century architecture attracts guest, today’s University and cultural-hub ambiance add other attractions for guests. Its Grand Place, Wazemmes market, Theater Place, are superb discoveries. Lille’s Palais des Beaux-Arts is just behind the Louvre’s offering pleasing art enthusiasts. France’s third largest city it has the best waffles at Meert’s and taste Les Gaufres à la Vergeoise – Lille’s delight for all sweet’s lovers!! “Vieux Lille” calls with the lively Grand Place, full of nightlife. Try discovering Lille is in a Classic Convertible 2CV with Champagne and a private guide!
Lille will be hosting various Olympic activities at its stadium – basketball, handball, etc…
Gastronomy
Amazing delights await across this region with its rich harvests, vineyards creating a myriad of tastes and delights from Lille’s Carbonade Flamande, Reim’s Pink Biscuits adored by Louis XVI, Burgundy’s boeuf bourguignon, Alsace’s choucroute and flammekueche – discover Michelin stars galore just behind Paris and Lyon ! Add the superb assortments of beer, wine, cordials, schnapps, etc plus now scotch, gins are being produced in Alsace for the delight of all. Moule-frites are adored from Lille to Burgundy. A classic as are so many delightful terrines, foie gras, escargots, wursts, and cheese where ever you are dining…enjoy with all the local wines, beers! Bon Appétit et Santé !
Tourism, Burgundy, Alsace, Reims, Lille, Pas-de-Calais Highlights
With its expansive reach from the Rhine to the Atlantic and south through France-Comte to north of Lyon, mountains, extensive plains with vineyards galore, plus asperges – plump white and tasty green asperges in spring, a variety of cheeses, meats, fish, and game in season offer a gourmet galaxy of tastes. From hikes to barging one discovers the castles and history easily with great routes and paths. The colorful villages are a step back intime…with their narrow cobble streets, small bridges, decorative facades.
Festivals and Traditions
Famed Christmas markets in Alsace and Lorraine – land of fortified castles, Easter in Alsace is delightful with an array of decorations, Mulhouse Carnival is for all ages, Reims Champagne Run entices, plus a variety of music and art festivals throughout the year. Wine festivals galore from Burgundy to Lille during and after harvests are very popular with music, concerts.
Activities
From the seaside to the mountains and rivers, sporting activities are available for all ages – swimming, skating, skiing – water and snow, biking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, tennis, golf, jogging, trekking are some of the delights. Barging and river travel is tops-with many tours offered on the various waterways. Biking and barging options to please all. Vosges offers lots of great diversions for families and ardent athletes. Most villages have great walking paths for all to enjoy; town/local tourism offices have all sorts of information. Ballooning is another great way to see this beautiful area…give it a try!
Gastronomy
The tastes vary with the different influences from Belgium and Germany yielding varied, interesting culinary tastes with very local French accents given the region.
Gastronomy, Burgundy
From Macon, Nuits-St-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin to Dijon gastronomic treats await. Burgundy’s globally famed specialties – escargots de Bourgogne, coq au vin, beef bourguignon, fondue bourguignonne, or la matelote d’anguille a la bourguignonne (eels), and puffy “gougères” cheese delights match perfectly with their abundance of sublime wines – mainly pinot noir and chardonnay grapes are here. Other varieties favored by connoisseurs are Aligoté, Pinot blanc, Sauvignon blanc plus Gamay are delighting guest’s palettes as do an array of cheeses. A variety of Cooking courses are offered too. Also, use the “Sites Remarquables du Goût” for interesting contacts, products.
Suggestions for dining include…
Lameloise – Chagny: A three-Michelin-starred restaurant, renowned for its refined Burgundian cuisine and impeccable service.
L’Hostellerie de Levernois – Levernois: Nestled in a countryside setting, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers creative cuisine highlighting seasonal local produce.
Le Relais Bernard Loiseau – Saulieu: A gastronomic institution, famous for its innovative cuisine and iconic dishes like steamed lobster with curry.
La Côte Saint-Jacques – Joigny: Also awarded three Michelin stars, this restaurant offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience in an elegant setting by the Yonne river.
Le Château de Courban – Courban: A Michelin-starred establishment offering refined cuisine in a historic and peaceful setting, perfect for a gourmet getaway in Burgundy.
Gastronomy, Alsace-Lorraine
Renown Choucroute is Alsace’s star dish—“sauerkraut” is fermented white cabbage cooked with lots of meat; a winter comfort food it is rich in probiotics and vitamins! Foie gras was invented in 1780 in Strasbourg – it is an Alsace “must”. Coq au Riesling delights all as does “Baeckaoffe” with three various marinated meats, potatoes in white wine to everyone’s delight, Pain d’Épices— like ginger bread – also tempts. Pretzels are amazing. Kougelhopf is Alsace’s brioche – a cottage cheese tart ! Munster is one of France’s three oldest cheeses-its name comes from monastery.
Some recommended restaurants are…
Michelin** Chambard’s “Table de Olivier Nasti” in Kayersberg: with its rave reviews for culinary creativity plus its superb service in an intimate setting.
Maison Leon, Colmar: Casual bistro with seafood delights and, eclectic menu, relaxed ambiance, offers great value.
Auberge de l’Ill – Illhaeusern: A renowned three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exceptional Alsatian cuisine and picturesque riverside location.
Buerehiesel – Strasbourg: Housed in a charming half-timbered house, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative French cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
Au Crocodile – Strasbourg: With two Michelin stars, this historic restaurant serves refined French cuisine in an elegant setting, combining classic and contemporary culinary techniques.
Chez Julien – Fouday: Nestled in the heart of the Vosges mountains, this cozy restaurant offers traditional Alsatian dishes with a modern twist, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
La Maison dans le Parc – Nancy: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience in a historic setting, serving creative French cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
L’Arnsbourg – Baerenthal: Located in a picturesque village near the border with Alsace, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant features innovative and refined cuisine inspired by both French and regional culinary traditions.
Gastronomy, Reims
Elegance, finesse highlight Champagne culinary offerings starting with “Reims ham” perfectly seasoned with nutmeg, shallots, parsley then used or eaten. Reims mustard’s amazing taste…try the Chaource soft cheese – divine with Champagne, Langres is milder and better with local red Muid Montsaugeonnais. Truffles are always a delight with Champagne…Reim’s “Biscuits roses” are some of France’s oldest – delightful, crunchy – dip into a flute too – even better! Reims’ Maison Fossier has been making them since 1691. Don’t miss the dark cork-shaped chocolates filled with Marc de Champagne “Bouchons de Champagne” …
Dining discoveries to try are…
L’Assiette Champenoise – Reims: A renowned three-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exceptional gastronomic experience with inventive dishes highlighting the finest local ingredients.
Racine – Reims: This Michelin-starred restaurant boasts a creative and contemporary approach to French cuisine, showcasing the culinary talents of Chef Kazuyuki Tanaka.
Le Foch – Reims: A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and refined French cuisine, served with impeccable attention to detail.
Le Millénaire – Reims: With its innovative and modern cuisine, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Reims.
Le Parc Les Crayères – Reims: Set in a stunning château, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves gourmet French cuisine in a luxurious and elegant setting.
L’Alambic – Reims: This cozy and welcoming restaurant offers traditional French cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, providing a taste of authentic flavors in the heart of Reims.
Gastronomy, Lille, Nord and Pas-de-Calais
A favorite is “Maroilles” – a cheese typical of Lille like Burgundy’s Comté. “Le Welsh”- another Lille delight – is a staple of Northern French cuisine like “Potjevleesch”- meat cooked in a small pot with vegetables, seasonings. “Fricadelle” – flat-bottom rounded meatball delights all as does “Waterzool” a Belgian chicken, vegetable comfort food. Northern France and Belgium love “Le Merveilleux” created by Frederic Vaucamps – a layer of meringue alternating with a layer of whipped cream !
Suggestions for interesting restaurants include:
Bloempot – Lille: A popular bistro-style restaurant offering creative and seasonal French cuisine in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
Le Lion Bossu – Lille: Known for its innovative dishes and warm ambiance, this restaurant offers a modern take on traditional French cuisine.
L’Hermitage Gantois – Lille: Set in a historic building, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers refined French cuisine in an elegant and luxurious setting.
L’Atelier Gourmand – Lille: With its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant provides a true taste of the region’s culinary delights in a charming and welcoming atmosphere.
La Table de Maxime – Lille: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers exquisite French cuisine with a contemporary twist, served in a stylish and sophisticated setting.
Le Broc – Lille: A cozy and intimate restaurant known for its authentic French dishes and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a memorable dining experience in Lille.
La Matelote – Boulogne-sur-Mer: A renowned seafood restaurant offering fresh and flavorful dishes inspired by the local maritime tradition, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Le Ch’ti Charivari – Arras: Known for its hearty and traditional Northern French cuisine, this restaurant provides a warm and friendly dining experience, showcasing the rich flavors of the region.
Where to Stay ? Burgundy, Alsace, Reims, Lille, Pas-de-Calais
Recommendations are difficult as they depend on tastes, budgets; hopefully these suggestions will be useful.
Where to Stay ? Burgundy
Abbaye de la Bussière – La Bussière-sur-Ouche: This luxurious hotel housed in a former Cistercian abbey offers elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and picturesque surroundings, including a beautiful lake and gardens.
Château de Vault de Lugny – Vault-de-Lugny: Set in a charming castle surrounded by lush greenery, this hotel offers opulent rooms, fine dining, and amenities such as a swimming pool and tennis courts.
Hostellerie de Levernois – Levernois: Nestled in a peaceful countryside setting, this hotel features stylish rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and amenities like a golf course and spa for a relaxing stay.
Hôtel Le Cep – Beaune: Located in the heart of Beaune, this historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and a wellness center, all within walking distance of the town’s attractions.
Château de Gilly – Gilly-lès-Cîteaux: This charming chateau hotel combines medieval elegance with modern comfort, offering spacious rooms, gourmet cuisine, and access to the Burgundy vineyards for wine tasting experiences.
Where to Stay ? Alsace
Hotel Les Haras – Strasbourg: Located in a renovated historic building, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a trendy cocktail bar, all close to the city’s attractions.
Hotel Cour du Corbeau – Strasbourg: Nestled in a 16th-century building, this charming hotel offers refined rooms with a blend of historical elements and modern amenities, as well as an elegant restaurant and a picturesque inner courtyard.
Hotel Regent Petite France & Spa – Strasbourg: Situated in the heart of the historic district of La Petite France, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with river views, a relaxing spa, and refined cuisine in its Michelin-starred restaurant.
Château d’Isenbourg – Rouffach: Nestled amidst the Alsatian vineyards, this medieval castle transformed into a luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant with panoramic views, and a spa for a relaxing getaway in the countryside.
Hotel Kle – Kayersberg: four star hotel, in center, attractively renovated, with efficient service.
Where to Stay ? Reims
L’Assiette Champenoise – Reims: This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, some with views of the surrounding vineyards. It features a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant serving gourmet cuisine and a relaxing spa for guests to unwind.
Grand Hôtel des Templiers – Reims: Located in a historic building, this upscale hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant and explore nearby
[excerpt] => To the east of Paris, where Marne-la-Vallée unfolds, the Golf de Bussy-Guermantes is far more than a collection of fairways and shimmering water hazards. It is, above all, a place of growth and transmission. The club has set itself a clear mission: to nurture, encourage, and refine young golfers, transforming its course into a true field of expression.
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[excerpt] => Barely fifteen minutes from Bordeaux’s urban bustle, you find yourself deep in a pine forest. At Bluegreen Pessac★★★, the scene changes abruptly: 120 hectares of nature, a wooded sanctuary where the hush of the pines contrasts with the city’s energy. For visitors from Paris or abroad, it offers an unexpected breath of calm — a pause where golf becomes an escape.
[date] => 13 October 2025
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[excerpt] => In 2025, the Orient Express revives a magic once thought confined to novels: that of a journey where the point of departure fades away, allowing the traveler to savor the present in motion. On board La Dolce Vita, Italian landscapes unfurl like the shop windows of a Parisian night glimpsed from a taxi—except here, it is rolling hills, vineyards, and legendary golf courses that pass by, offered to the eye as fleeting tableaux.
[date] => 28 August 2025
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