A Burgundy Blend of Bikes and wine
After a pleasant pedal back to my home base of Beaune, I'm ready for a serene evening. I stroll the delicately lit streets lassoed within the town's medieval walls and reflect on the day's drinkable delights. In the heart of France, the wine is good, the landscapes are luscious, and life is leisurely.
IF YOU VISIT...
SLEEPING: Hotel Athanor has a privileged location -- a block from Beaune's cathedral -- and offers a mix of modern comfort with a touch of old Beaune (splurge, www.hotel-athanor.com). Hotel des Remparts is a peaceful oasis in a rustic manor house built around a soothing courtyard with attentive service (moderate, www.hotel-remparts-beaune.com).
EATING: Caveau des Arches is the spot to dine on Burgundian specialties in romantic stone cellars (10 Boulevard Perpreuil, tel. 03 80 22 10 37). Brasserie le Carnot is a perennially popular place with good inside seating and better exterior tables in the thick of the pedestrian zone, serving typical cafe fare (18 Rue Carnot, tel. 03 80 22 32 93).
GETTING AROUND: Wineries are most easily accessed by car, but the many quiet service roads and bike-only lanes make this area wonderful for biking. In Beaune's city center, sights and restaurants are all within walking distance.
TOURIST INFORMATION: www.beaune-tourisme.fr.
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(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)
(c)2017 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
