We take a delightful country drive to Abbaye de Fontenay after spending a quiet Christmas in Montbard. Nestled in the frosty hills, the Abbaye du Fontenay is a remarkably preserved example of Cistercian monastic architecture and history.… Read the rest
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
Dijon
We arrive in Dijon and it’s already dark. Of my top 5 things to do in Dijon, the Christmas markets are high on the list and we head out to discover the old town’s Christmas charm.
Christmas Markets
Having arrived here from Beaune today, we’re still in the heart of France’s Burgundy region.… Read the rest
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 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
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
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
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
Rovinj
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
Pula
Pula
After a day out and about in Rovij and surrounds we make our way to Pula for the evening.
Roughly a 40 minute drive along the beach lined coast, Pula is another charming seaside town on Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula.… Read the rest