Regions of France

ith a historical legacy that marks the struggles between medieval England and France, Burgundy, a once independent and powerful Duchy, presents a very rich tapestry that will fascinate the ardent explorer. In the very heart of France it is also a region that looks as keenly into the future as its storied past. From Gallic remains to Romanesque bell towers, from the treasures of cities of art to the splendour of castles, between the memory of the industrial world and the creations of the future, it's unforgettable! For the wine connoisseur it also a region that will deliver one of the most famous and concentrated wine trails in the world along the ‘Route des Grands Crus’. It is ironic but many people whizz closely past this region on the autoroute du Soleil en route to the Mediterranean, but in truth Burgundy is a superb self-drive holiday destination so it is well worth taking the detour and breaking your journey, to meander for a few days, if not longer, to explore this often overlooked corner of France as you will be richly rewarded. There are impressive Roman ruins to be visited in Autun, challenging paths to walk along in the Parc Régional du Morvan, endless pretty canals to float down and plenty of mustard to get your taste buds around in the regional capital of Dijon. And of course, there's a glass or two of Burgundy's most famous export to be enjoyed each evening. The best-known area of Burgundy is that of the Cote d`Or and the Cote de Beaune located close to Beaune with its villages whose names are those of some of the most famous wines; Gevrey Chambertin, Nuits St Georges, Pommard, Meursault and Montrachet. Beaune itself, deserves a visit with its enchanting 15th Century Hotel Dieu (see main image) and wine museum. Burgundy W The Route des Grands Crus (Wine Route) passes through the most prestigious part of Burgundy's vineyards, between Dijon and Beaune then on to Santenay. Discover 38 picturesque wine villages of the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, wineries, and beautiful countryside over a length of just 60 km. There are a staggering 585 premier cru vineyards, often very small estates surrounded by ancient stone walls, hence the term ‘Clos’. Considered the finest vineyard in the world, Domaine Romanée-Conti only produces 5,000 bottles of red wine a year, a strictly controlled yield and eye-wateringly expensive! La Route des Grands Crus 16