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Published: September 4th 2016
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ss Catherine – Burgundy
Woke up this morning in the village of Macon. On the bus at 8.30 for the beautiful trip through the Burgundy countryside to the village of Beaune. We passed on a detour through the lovely little village of Torne half way between the North and the South of France – a good place to stop for lunch (sort of like Hamilton only nothing like Hamilton)with a Michelin star restaurant. I never knew before Michelin star = 1 star for food, 2 stars food and service, 3 stars for hotel; too. So in future go for the one star Michelin its cheaper and you still get the best food. We passed the little village of Dijon (this is appellation AOC) heartland. Arrived and the village of Beaune. Very lovely and we arrived on Saturday, market day. What a treat! However first the guided tour of the Hotel Dieu de Beaune which is actually a home and hospital for the poor – “palace for the poor” and it was. In 1443 the local Duke of Burgundy with his wife decide to buy his way to heaven so financed the building of this hospital which was in
use right up till 1971. It was run by an order of nuns, but has been a historic monument since 1862 so it was in use for one hundred years after that. It would be one of the nicest historic buildings I have seen, and we were all fascinated. On display was a polyptych (5) of the last judgement that had been to the Louvre to be restored. It was truly amazing however slightly disturbed that the artist placed the woman near the door to hell and the men near the door heaven. Saturday was the day to be in town. The market was beautiful and busy and bustling. Nothing from China. No plastic bags, everyone had their basket! The food and flowers were gorgeous. Back on the bus to heading through the most stunning country side (vineyards). Went to the castle of Conte (Count) R de Tornay, the Chateau de Rully for lunch. The count is the 22 Count from that line dating back to 1200’s. His main income is from of course his wine which is appellation and made from Chardonay (been made in the area for 1000 years) and Pinot Noir. Very nice too as we had
some tasting in the cellar with help from his 5 year old. However he is having trouble with the upkeep so he has a couple of Uniworld buses through and provided lunch and a tour. First the lunch. Now we know what Beef Bourguignon should taste like. Followed by Apple Tarte Tain. Some of us had second helpings of both. Memorable lunch served in the old stable followed by a tour of the castle and some history with help from the next Count aged five and the black Labrador puppy. Truly fabulous day. Back to the boat by 4.30….OH no! shower 1
st layer packing and Captains farewell cocktails and dinner.
As hard as I tried to be on my best behaviour ….they are kicking me off tomorrow..
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