We are planning a holiday to Europe in July 2009 (4 adults & 2 children). After visiting Paris and Disneyland we are planning to hire a car and drive down to Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland and then up through Germany to Amsterdam and then head over to London. We feel it would be good to stop over for one night in the Burgundy region of France to break the journey but are not too sure where would be the best place to stop. We would like to stop over in a small, charming, unique little village or walled town or just somewhere uniquely french. Our budget is not not a lot so any suggestions on "cheaper" accommodation in the region would also help. Thanks
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
I'm not looking at a map right now, so I'm not certain this is along your route. See what information you can find on the small city of Besancon. Although not a walled city, there is a walled fortress on top of the hill overlooking the town. No world-class sights here, just a well maintained, attractive, clean town. Great architecture from the 1800s and plenty of restaurants. Fits your requirement of "uniquely French". And... you will see almost no tourists.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
There are many exceptional places in Burgundy, including Rick's pick, Beaune, Semur-en-Auxois, and a host of lovely small towns.
With the possible exception of Vezeley, which is stunning but very popular, most have budget accommodations, though for high season you should reserve as soon as possible.
Without knowing more about you and your family I guess I'd suggest Beaune, a friendly accessible old town with something for most tastes. If you'd prefer something smaller, say a bit more about what you all like and perhaps I or someone else here can make a suggestion.
Burgundy is not a bad choice, but logistically Alsace, another charming area, might be more directly on the way.
Have fun!
Posted by
OP
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
3 posts
Wow this Graffiti Wall / Travelers Helpline is absolutely fantastic. Thank you so very much Tom & Adam for your advice. Besancon is definitively on our way and we can still stop over in Beaune on our way through to Besancon. I will read up and do a bit of investigating about this town. Thanks Adam for the advice about Vezelay being so popular - we would prefer to stay away from the crouds wherever we can as we are more outdoor / nature people who enjoy the quiet. I will also check out your advice about the Alsace area.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Since you "enjoy the quiet," I will mention my favorite small town in Burgundy, Noyers-sur-Serien.
It is a gorgeous little place with no blockbuster sights to see, but you can walk along the river and through the cobblestoned streets, and work is ongoing on excavating the old chateau--a true ruin--which sits on top of a high bluff above the town.
The only hotel in town is a very basic place with ten rooms. Some of these rooms are in a twelfth century building. More luxurious accommodations are available through various chambres d'hote. There is a campground by the river.
You might prefer a livelier place like Beaune, also if you are seeking a geographic midpoint to break your trip Noyers may be too close to Paris. But, it is lovely.