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Beaune:  The Heart of Burgundy 

Good Food, Good Wine, & Good People

    What better afternoon respite than a glass of rich, red burgundy and a some lazy afternoon banter with fellow travelers?  Beaune was a relaxing change of pace from the dizzying buzz of Paris, and we were happy to wind our way deep into this cool wine cellar to sample a few delicious local wines and champagnes.  The streets of Beaune held treasures, too.  Fruit stands were filled with juicy nectarines and grapes, and the pastry shops overflowed with fancy creations and sugar delicacies.  We chose several types of nougat to take home as gifts.  For dinner, we debated between coq au vin and beef bourguignon, two local specialties.  We settled on the beef, a rich stew of tender meat simmered in a sauce of red wine and mushrooms and served with boiled potatoes.

Beaune by Day

Beaune by Night

The enchantment of Beaune is undeniable.  Its cobblestone streets and flowered window sills are all those things you fantasize when you dream of travelling to Europe.  By day, its city center bustles with locals and tourists window shopping and chatting busily  in the tiny restaurants that dot the market.  A cup of coffee or a mid-afternoon glass of wine provides a pleasant excuse to gather at one of the many street cafes.  By night, the lights dim, and small groups of people cluster for a late dinner or drinks.  Relaxed sociability replaces the buzz of the day, and people settle in to enjoy the magic of evening in the heart of Burgundy. 

The Illuminations

Europe is a cultural carnival, and time after time, you'll find that its best acts are free and the best seats are the cheap ones.                       

                                                                                               Rick Steves

Viewing the illuminations was by far our best Beaune experience.  As night settled in, we opted to join our tour buddies for one last stroll and a little ice cream.  A crowd seemed to be gathering near the old hospital, and we went to investigate.  What a wonderful surprise!  The city has animated seven of its most historic sites with a light and music extravaganzas.  Some are whimsical; others are simply beautiful. We wandered for a couple hours, getting lost at times, but thoroughly enjoying finding every site.

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