I have just returned from a delightful trip in France with Decouvertes! Our trip included nights in Lyon, Beaune (2), Champagne and Paris. Overall, it was an excellent trip.
Lyon – This was the second time that I have been to Lyon; both times were too short. Lyon is the culinary capital of France and has many amazing restaurants. The old town is very walkable although a bit hilly. I would suggest a two to three night stay to properly explore properly and have a chance to dine around.
Beaune – Located in the heart of Burgundy, it is a very walkable small town. It is very famous for the historic Hospices de Beaune which was a hospital built in the 14th century which was still in use until 1972. The hospital holds a very famous wine auction every January in which wine collectors travel from all over the world to attend. There a few luxury hotels in the town and several mid-range right outside the city center. Once again, food and wine is huge in this area. The tiny town has over 200 restaurants!! It’s a perfect location to explore the Burgundy region.
Paris – I love Paris - it’s my favorite city in the world and simply magical. I felt very safe and traveled all over the city by myself. I bought a three day metro pass, loaded it to my phone and used it all over the city. I visited the following places:
Notre Dame –Notre Dame is STUNNING, even more than my previous visit. I highly recommend visiting even without a ticket.
La Gallerie Dior – A must visit for anyone interested in fashion. I highly recommend getting a ticket in advance.
The Musee D’Orsay – This was a spur of the moment visit and I bought my ticket onsite without a wait. Highly recommend.
Versailles – I pre purchased my ticket and had a 12p entry. Versailles so was VERY crowded but still a wonderful visit. I purchased a ticket for the Petit Train (9 Euro) and used the Hop On Hop Off feature to go to the Moat and Petite Trianon. An electric golf cart can also be rented for 43 Euro per hour to see the grounds. The train and golf carts CAN NOT be pre reserved.
I also took the Pastry and Chocolate Tour as well as the Ultimate Paris Food Tour through Walks and Devour. Both were excellent tours with knowledgeable and friendly guides. I highly recommend any Walks tour if clients do not want/need private. Both tours had about 8 people.
Hotels:
Intercontinental Lyon Hotel Dieu
The IC Lyon is a Signature Preferred property that is located on the peninsula that divides the city and an easy walk to the old town. The hotel was originally the main hospital in Lyon and has been completely renovated. While contemporary, many of the original features were found during renovation and preserved. It is very modern and comfortable but with a mix of history. The rooms were very large and well appointed. I had a Premium Room with a Rhine View. The highlight of the property is the Le Dome, their bar which has been voted the #1 hotel bar of the world. It is popular with hotel guests and locals.
Le Cidre
Le Cidre is located in Beaune. It is a small boutique hotel that felt very cozy. I loved the public areas and it reminded me of a hunting lodge. The lounge had a roaring fire which we enjoyed while having a cocktail. The rooms were smaller but nicely appointed. There is a 1 Michelin star restaurant on property but it was closed the night we were there. The hotel is a very easy walk into downtown.
Le Cep
Le Cep is a very unusual property also located in Beaune. It is in the heart of town and is made of multiple buildings. The owner is 2nd generation. He and his father both bought the neighboring properties when they were available and now have 72 rooms. As most were different buildings at one time, each room is unique in its furnishings and it is very spread out. All of the rooms are heavy on antiques and all have different themes. I had the closest room to the public areas. The owner is lovely and super friendly and staff is very accommodating. He hosted us for a private dinner with wine pairings in his wine cellar. The food and wine were amazing and it was a very special experience.
Royal Champagne
WOW! What an amazing property and is located a 45 minute train ride away from Paris. It is a newer boutique property with a high end spa. The rooms were HUGE and very comfortable. We all wished we could have stayed two nights so we could enjoy the spa and countryside. Surprisingly it is very family friendly as well. They are in the process of opening a sister property in a former chateau in Burgundy as well.
Pavillion de la Reine – Paris
This hotel has been on my hotel bucket list for a long time and is Signature Preferred. It is located in Le Marais is directly across from Place des Voges. The hotel is quite large with many different corridors. The rooms are large and I loved the exposed wood beams in my suite. Once again, very cozy feeling.
If you need restaurant recommendations in the areas, please let me know as I have a great list.
