Dijon, France -So much more than mustard!

A few years ago, Geoff and I went on a Southern France River Cruise.  While that in itself was just delightful, we were also pleased to make the discovery of Dijon, France on our pre-night before boarding.
 
While your first thought of Dijon may be mustard, it's so much more than that.  It is the start of the Burgundy wine trail,  has a ton of history associated with it and is not filled with tourists.  There are some wonderful legends and walks associated with them including the owl trail.  Once you reach the carved owl, it's supposed to be good luck.
 
In the evening while Geoff and I were wondering around, we encountered a plaza filled with outdoor dining and water fountains that changed color.  Kids were playing in the fountains and it was a wonderful slice of summertime in France.
 
Finally our hotel was fenced off a street and when you opened the entrance gate you were treated to a stunning courtyard with outdoor dining.  It was a fabulous way to begin our trip.
 
We plan to return.  We didn't get enough time there.
 
- Cindy -

Destination of the week
Dijon, France

There are many reasons to visit the capital of France’s Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region — not least its setting amid the Burgundy vineyards, its gastronomic legacy and its wealth of history and art. Once part of the Roman Empire and capital of the Duchy of Burgundy from the 10th to 15th century, Dijon has a pedestrianised, UNESCO-listed historic heart with many medieval townhouses, Renaissance-style mansions and romanesque and gothic landmarks. Several of its museums have started offering free entry in recent years, while contemporary art has been integrated into outdoor public areas. In 2022, the opening of Dijon’s Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin — a wine education, retail and leisure complex — also brought new energy to the city.  
 
From here, stroll to the 13th-century Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon to marvel at the automaton clock atop its south tower and search for the famous owl — a small medieval carving that’s regarded as a good luck charm and symbol of the city. Join the locals and tourists who gather here to make a wish while rubbing it with their left hand. 
Rue de la Chouette (Owl Street) is on the north side of the church and it’s here you’ll find boutique-atelier La Moutarderie Fallot, which makes its legendary Dijon mustard using a grindstone. Tastings of the original are offered alongside newer creations that introduce flavors such as blackcurrant
 
It’s a 20-minute walk south to Dijon’s newest cultural and gastronomic hub, Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin. Ten years in the making and partially housed in a grand former hospital, it offers interactive exhibits on French gastronomy and wine, tasting experiences and workshops plus a wealth of shops, restaurants and bars to hop between.  
 
https://en.destinationdijon.com/destination/best-of/dijon-capital-of-burgundy/

Travel tip of the week
Take a wine master class in the city center

Dijon marks the starting point of the famed Burgundy wine route. Stretching from North to South, it’s the ideal place to elevate your understanding and appreciation of Burgundy wines!
Venture into the heart of Le Clos Vivants’ wine cellar and experience an introductory tasting. This initiation will familiarize you with the unique ‘Climats’ of the Burgundy vineyard. So, what are the ‘Climats’? They’re the distinct vineyard areas across Burgundy, each boasting its own signature grape blend. Remarkably, the ‘Climats’ vineyards are honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Virtual Vacation of the week

​This Dijon travel guide shares the best things to do in Dijon. 
Video by Before You Go and is found on YouTube​

What's next on your bucket list?

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