Christmas in Montbard

Christmas in Montbard

Christmas in Montbard promises a quaint town which transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland with its cobblestone streets and charming medieval architecture adorned with festive lights and decorations. They cast a warm glow against the crisp, frosty air.… Read the rest

Marché aux Vins

Marché aux Vins

The Burgundy region has a long tradition of winemaking, dating back to Roman times and Beaune’s Marché aux Vins, or Wine Market, is closely tied to this tradition. It began as a way for local producers to showcase and sell their wines.… Read the rest

Beaune

Beaune

Beaune is a captivating town nestled in the Burgundy region of eastern France. We arrive here from Annecy via a little picnic stop near Château de Sercy. The whole area seems renowned for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and prominent wine heritage.… Read the rest

Hôtel Dieu

Hôtel Dieu

This gorgeous medieval building, the Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices du Beaune), had a very useful and serious purpose. Founded in 1443 by Nicolas Rolin, Chancellor of Burgundy, and his wife Guigone de Salins, the Hôtel-Dieu was originally established to provide medical care and accommodation for the poor and sick.… Read the rest

Château de Sercy

Château de Sercy

We stumble across the Château de Sercy whilst meandering through Burgundy. On the way from Annecy to Beaune, this lovely chateau is an example of how France’s medieval history can just pop up. Seemingly in the middle of nowhere.… Read the rest

Annecy

Annecy

Arriving in Annecy by train from Chamonix, we set out to explore the past and present of France’s Venice of the Alps. This extraordinarily picturesque city is nestled in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France. With its charming canals, stunning lakeside views, and well-preserved historical architecture, Annecy offers a rich tapestry of history, culture and gastronomy.… Read the rest

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens, in London’s western outskirts, is one of the most magical places I have visited. It’s a misty Sunday morning in London and, due to tube closures, it takes me almost two hours to travel the relatively short distance across town to the Gardens.… Read the rest

Rovinj

Rovinj Marina

Rovinj is a really pretty little coastal town with a stunning old town and its own personality. The town centre, complete with a picture perfect marina, makes it very popular with tourists.  Even at this time of year, just past the peak of summer, when the weather (or at least the water!)… Read the rest

Cesky Krumlov Castle

Cesky Krumlov Castle

The centerpiece of the stunning medieval town of Cesky Krumlov (Český Krumlov) is its magnificent castle complex. The castle, founded by the Vítkovci family in the 13th Century, is one of the largest in Central Europe. The castle reflects a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles shaped by centuries of expansion and renovation.… Read the rest