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It is no accident that the concept of the luxury barge holiday was born in France. Not only does the incredible network of waterways make it ideal for water based exploration, but everywhere you turn, historical towns, monumental attractions and cultural and gastronomic highlights abound. With so much to see and do in this country, choosing a barge cruise in France can be quite overwhelming, but if you’re looking for fine wines, pretty canals, medieval towns, magnificent chateaux and colourful local markets, you can’t go wrong in Burgundy. This stunning region in the middle of France is blanketed in vineyards and is well known as the the heart of the winemaking world. One of its most beautiful towns, Beaune is famous for the production of Burgundian vintages, and, with a long and interesting history that dates back to pre-Roman times, it is a town definitely worth visiting when on your barge cruise in France. Top 5 Attractions Hospice de Beaune Famous for appearing on many a local postcard, the roof of the Hospices de Beaune is what stands out on this historical building, which was once a charitable refuge for the poor people of the town. Founded in 1443, it is now a museum on the inside and an architectural spectacle on the outside; the decorated roof, with its glazed tiles, is nothing short of stunning. Every year the building hosts the annual wine auction that takes place over three days. The money raised from the fine wines auctioned here is donated to charities. Enjoy Burgundian Flavours You can definitely eat well in this town. It is regarded as one of the culinary greats when it comes to Burgundy towns and it is a wonderful place to taste some local specialities. Most dishes are rich and hearty and many focus on red meats, such as the classic Boeuf Bourguignon. Frogs legs, Coq au Vin and other classic French delights were born in Burgundy and can be sampled at many restaurants here. Buy some Mustard Close by is the Burgundian capital of Dijon, famous for its mustard. Beaune, however, is home to the region’s best producer of the condiment: Edouard Fallot. You can visit the Fallot Mustard Mill in the town, which is family-run and the last independent mill in Burgundy. A visit is really interesting and covers the history of mustard, offering an insight into the link between the condiment and the region in which it is famous. You’ll get a chance to learn about the production and do some tasting too. Stroll The Ramparts Taking a leisurely meander along the ramparts that surround the town is a lovely idea and gives you the chance to experience the delights of the town from a different angle. There is much to see along the way, including the Château de Beaune, the Théâtre de Verdure and the Porte de Nicolas. Taking a stroll at dusk can be wonderfully romantic too! Picnic in the Park If you just fancy a change of scene from the boat you should visit one of the beautiful parks. Rustle up a picnic from one of the many wonderful food shops or markets in town and sit back and relax in the Parc de la Bouzaize. With its picture-postcard ambience, this park is a place of tranquillity. Watch the canoes on the little lake, indulge in a pastry from the cafe or simply enjoy watching the world go by. Of course, you will have the chance to do plenty of wine tasting on your barge cruise in France, but if you want to do some extra, there is plenty of opportunity in Beaune. If this introduction to the wine capital of Burgundy has got you thinking about a barge cruise in France and a trip to Burgundy, book with a reputable tour operator specialising in barge cruises and they will advise on the best itinerary for you. Choose from a number of options and start looking forward to your Burgundian barge holiday. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider if you're looking for an all-inclusive, luxury barge cruise in France or other great destinations. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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