Family-Friendly Adventures in , Burgundy!

Route des Grands Crus

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family journey along the Route des Grands Crus in Burgundy, France, a picturesque 60-km road stretching from Dijon to Santenay, renowned for its vineyard-laden landscapes and historic villages.

Day 1: Starting in Dijon

Begin your adventure in Dijon, easily accessible by train from Paris. Spend your morning exploring the vibrant markets and the Ducal Palace, where kids can marvel at the medieval architecture. Rent a car in Dijon for an easy drive through the vineyards.

Day 2: Beaune

Drive south to Beaune, about 45 minutes away. Visit the Hospices de Beaune, famous for its colorful, geometric-patterned tile roof that will captivate the kids. It also hosts a prestigious annual wine auction. Explore the town with a stop at La Moutarderie, a mustard mill where you can learn how Dijon mustard is made, and even taste different varieties!

Day 3: Vineyard Adventures

Head towards the small village of Pommard, just a 10-minute drive from Beaune, known for its robust red wines. Opt for a family-friendly vineyard tour where you can stroll through the grapevines, and the kids can enjoy grape juice tastings. Continue your drive to Puligny-Montrachet, a 15-minute journey, offering a chance to explore white Burgundy wines. Many wineries here are welcoming to families, providing activities for children while parents enjoy a tasting.

Day 4: Château de Rochepot

Conclude your tour with a visit to Château de Rochepot, about 20 minutes from Puligny-Montrachet by car. This fairy-tale castle with its glazed tiles and medieval structure will be a hit with the kids. Enjoy a guided tour that brings history to life, perfect for sparking the imaginations of young and old alike.

Make sure to check opening hours and book vineyard tours in advance, as some may require reservations. This itinerary offers a blend of fun, education, and relaxation that keeps the whole family engaged while exploring one of France’s most esteemed wine regions.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dijon Ducal Palace (Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne)

Why Visit?

Morning: Arrival and Exploration of Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne

Start your family day trip at the heart of Dijon with a visit to the Ducal Palace, a significant historical site that once served as the seat of power for the Dukes of Burgundy. You can easily reach the palace by taking a stroll from Dijon"s central train station, which is about a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, local buses are available for a quicker commute.

Upon arrival, take a moment to admire the palace’s striking blend of architectural styles, from medieval to Renaissance. Don"t miss the Tour de Bar, a notable tower offering panoramic views of the city — a fun climb for the kids!

Interesting Fact: The Ducal Palace began as a simple fortress in the 9th century and was expanded over the centuries to become one of the grandest ducal residences in France.

Midday: Visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts

Located within the Ducal Palace, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is one of France"s oldest museums and a perfect next stop. It houses an impressive collection of art ranging from Egyptian antiquities to modern paintings. For a family-friendly activity, participate in a treasure hunt or an interactive guide specifically tailored for children, making the art more accessible and engaging for young minds.

Afternoon: Leisure Time in Les Jardins du Palais

Wrap up your visit by exploring the beautifully landscaped gardens just behind the palace. These gardens are a wonderful spot for a family picnic and some relaxation after a morning of historical exploration. Children can enjoy the open spaces, and you can soak in the serene atmosphere.

Interesting Fact: The gardens stand on what was once the palace’s defensive moat.

With so much history packed into one location plus art and nature, the Ducal Palace of Dijon offers a rich and educational day out for families looking to immerse themselves in the culture and history of Burgundy.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Dijon Cathedral (Cathedral of Saint Benignus of Dijon)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a day of exploration and enchantment at the Dijon Cathedral, a magnificent gothic masterpiece nestled in the heart of Dijon, France. This historical gem not only serves as a visual delight but also as a fascinating educational experience for the whole family.

Morning: Arrival at Dijon Cathedral

Start your day by arriving at Dijon Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral of Saint Benignus of Dijon. You can easily reach the cathedral by public transport; take a tram to the "Dijon Gare" station, and from there, it"s a short 10-minute walk. The cathedral opens at 9:00 AM, so plan to get there early to enjoy it in the quieter morning hours.

Inside Cathedral Tour

Begin with a guided tour of the interior. The cathedral, initially built in the 6th century and rebuilt in the 13th century, showcases intricate gothic architecture. Don"t miss the crypt, one of the oldest in France, housing the sarcophagus of Saint Benignus, the patron saint of Dijon, which dates back to 511 AD. This site has been a place of pilgrimage and worship for centuries, adding a rich historical layer to your visit.

Interactive Family Workshop

Post the tour, engage in a family-friendly workshop usually available during the summer months. These activities help children learn about the cathedral"s history and architecture through interactive games and crafts.

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a leisurely lunch break at one of the local bistros near the cathedral. Savour some traditional French cuisine, such as boeuf bourguignon or coq au vin, specialties of the region.

Afternoon: Explore Surrounding Areas

After lunch, stretch your legs with a walk around the charming streets of Dijon. Visit the nearby Les Halles market, where local vendors sell everything from fresh produce to crafts, providing a taste of local life.

End of Day

Conclude your day with a visit to the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne, just a 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Here, marvel at the well-preserved architecture and sprawling gardens, a perfect backdrop for some family photos.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical richness, cultural immersion, and family fun, all within the heart of Dijon. Enjoy your visit!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Rue des Forges

Why Visit?

Rue des Forges, located in the historic heart of Trois-Rivières, Quebec, offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and family-friendly entertainment. Here"s a captivating itinerary for a family day out:

### Morning: Explore Boréalis

Getting There: Start at the center of Rue des Forges and take a 15-minute walk or a short drive north to reach Boréalis.

Activities: At Boréalis, delve into the intriguing world of the history of the paper industry. Engage with interactive exhibits, such as walking through underground vaults and a scavenger hunt that keeps children excited and entertained.

Interesting Fact: Boréalis is situated in a former paper mill by the St. Maurice River, offering insights into the environmental impacts and technological advancements in papermaking.

### Midday: Lunch and Parc Portuaire

Getting There: Head back to Rue des Forges and choose one of the family-friendly restaurants for a hearty meal.

Activities: After lunch, stroll to Parc Portuaire, just a few minutes away, to enjoy breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.

Interesting Fact: The park often hosts musical performances and festivals, adding a lively atmosphere to your visit.

### Afternoon: Québec Museum of Folk Culture

Getting There: Walk south along Rue des Forges to reach the museum, approximately a 10-minute walk from Parc Portuaire.

Activities: Explore Quebec"s rich cultural heritage through engaging exhibits tailored to all ages, including workshops and traditional crafts.

Interesting Fact: The museum is housed in the historic Old Prison of Trois-Rivières, where guided tours reveal the life of inmates in the 19th century.

### Late Afternoon: Sweet Treats and Souvenirs

Getting There: Wander back along Rue des Forges.

Activities: Conclude your day with some local ice cream and browse the quaint shops for unique souvenirs.

Interesting Fact: Rue des Forges is renowned for its preserved architecture, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past.

This itinerary offers a blend of education, relaxation, and fun, ensuring an unforgettable family experience in the charming Rue des Forges!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hôtel de Vogüé

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure in Dijon with a visit to the enchanting Hôtel de Vogüé! This stunning example of 17th-century architecture is a must-see for its intricate carvings and rich history.

Morning: Explore Hôtel de Vogüé

Start your day at 8 Rue de la Chouette. You can easily reach the Hôtel de Vogüé by tram or bus from anywhere in Dijon – just get off at the Godrans stop on Line T1 or T2. The hotel, built in 1614 by Etienne Bouhier, showcases the opulence of Burgundian nobility with its ornate façade and beautifully preserved interiors. While the building is a private residence and entry to the inside is restricted, the exterior alone is worth the visit. Take time to admire the detailed stonework and the courtyard"s Renaissance elegance.

Midday: Lunch and Dijon’s Market

After exploring, head to Les Halles, Dijon’s famous market, just a 5-minute walk away. Here, you can enjoy local treats like pain d"épices (gingerbread) and the famous Dijon mustard. The market, designed by Gustave Eiffel, offers a variety of fresh, regional products that are perfect for a family picnic.

Afternoon: Visit the Owl’s Trail

Following lunch, embark on the Owl"s Trail (Parcours de la Chouette), starting right from Les Halles. This self-guided walking tour is perfect for families and takes you past 22 historical sites in Dijon, including the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. The trail is marked by owl arrows and plaques, making it an engaging way for kids to learn about the city"s heritage.

Late Afternoon: Jardin Darcy

Conclude your day at Jardin Darcy, about a 15-minute walk from the market. Opened in 1880, this was the first public park in Dijon and offers a peaceful retreat with a playground and beautiful ponds – a perfect spot for children to play and adults to relax after a day of sightseeing.

This family-friendly itinerary combines culture, history, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable visit to Dijonal for all ages!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.