Ah, Paris in 2024. This year the Paris Olympics will undoubtedly turn my beloved city into a whirlwind of excitement and, let’s be honest, a lot of chaos too. As someone living between Paris and a major French wine region, I am deeply embedded in the wine business. I’ve watched my inbox become a testament to Champagne’s undying appeal. And while I adore Champagne’s and understand the appeal visit, my heart (and inbox) tells me it’s time to share the road less traveled – or should I say, board a train less crowded?
In this post, I aim to share resources and THREE TIPS for those traveling to France and French wine regions during the summer of 2024.
Tip #1 – Planning is key!
First off, let’s talk planning. I’m a firm believer in the magic of serendipity, but trying to wing it in France during the Olympics? That’s asking for a headache. Hotels, trains, and even my coveted private wine experience are booking up faster than ever before. So, heed my words: get your bookings in pronto! Scoring that cozy bed and breakfast or the ultimate vineyard experience requires a bit more finesse this Summer 2024. Book a wine experience with my in Burgundy.
Tip #2 – Travel by train and book tickets directly
Remember, navigating from Paris to these wine havens is part of the adventure. Book tickets directly through SNCF and avoid any third-party sites. There’s something magical about watching the French countryside blur from your window, knowing each passing kilometer brings you closer to an unforgettable glass of wine. I’ve nicknamed the connection from Dijon to Beaune “The Wine Nerd Express.” It’s where you can trace the vineyard-studded villages of the Côte de Nuits on your wine map.
#3 Work with a local guide
Who you’re going to meet matters. My journey through French wine regions has been filled with characters as complex and memorable as the wines themselves. Local guides aren’t just experts; they’re the heart and soul of the regions, ready to share stories that you won’t find in any guidebook. Most live in the region because of passion. Choosing to make a life in a wine region in France is special. I will introduce you to some of these people later on in this post.
Now, let’s dive into my top three French Wine Regions for escaping the Olympic frenzy:
The City of Beaune is located in the French Wine Region of Burgundy
The Burgundy wine region, located in the central-eastern part of France, stands as a testament to the enduring cultural landscape of viticulture, meriting its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This acclaim is not merely for the region’s contribution to the global wine industry through the cultivation of renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grape varietals but also for its historical significance in the development of terroir-driven winemaking practices. The Burgundy region exemplifies a unique interaction between people and their environment, fostering a viticultural landscape that has evolved over centuries.
Beaune: Picture this – walking the ancient walls of the city and within a mere 15 minutes, discovering yourself surrounded by the vineyards on the outskirts of Beaune. The only sound accompanying you is the subtle church bells in the distance. This is my everyday. Well, half of it, as I split my time between the hustle of Paris and the heartwarming beauty of Beaune. It’s not just the wine here; it’s the Saturday market, the golden hues of the vineyards in autumn, and yes, the unparalleled expressions of Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. If you find yourself in Beaune, look me up. I’ve got stories and spots that’ll make you wish you lived here too. I published a Beaune Guide you can download.
How to Get to Burgundy from Paris: Take the train from Gare de Lyon to Dijon in less 2 hours. Dijon, the capital city of the French wine region of Burgundy, offers convenient access via a direct train from Paris, presenting an ideal starting point for regional exploration. To get to Beaune, transition to a regional train at Dijon for a swift 20-minute direct trip from Dijon to Beaune, immersing you deeper into the heart of the French wine region.
Who to contact in Burgundy: Nicolas and Emily Fouilleroux (bonjour)
The City of Amboise is located in the French Wine region of Loire Valley.
Far beyond its famed castles and châteaux, here it’s the Chenin Blancs, the Cabernet Francs, and the crisp Sauvignon Blancs that truly define the region, not to mention its enchanting landscapes. Cathy Henton and Nigel, the experts I always turn to, bring the Loire Valley to life in unforgettable ways. Their tours blend wine education and history with personal stories that resonate as deeply as a finely aged wine. And let’s not forget about Nigel’s culinary skills – a few years back, I was lucky enough to enjoy a meal at their home. The chicken he served was so tender, it’s stayed with me all this time. And honestly, the goat cheese by itself is worth the trip to the Loire Valley.
How to Get to Amboise from Paris: Take the train from station Paris Montparnasse and get there in less than 2 hours.
Who to contact in the Loire Valley: Cathy and Nigel Henton
The City of Strasbourg is located in the French Wine Region of Alsace
Last but not least, Alsace. It’s where German and French cultures intertwine like the vines in their vineyards. Strasbourg, with its Gothic cathedral and cobblestone streets, is your starting line. Savannah Houston, an American transplant with a palate as refined as any local’s, will guide you through Alsace’s gastronomic landscape. Her tours are a blend of culinary delight and vinous exploration, a testament to Alsace’s unique charm. A wine trip to Strasbourg is one of the most underrated of my options. Like Burgundy, you can hop on a regional train and visit some of the smaller wine villages too and they are some of the most beautiful in France, seriously.
How to get to Alsace from Paris: Take the train from Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg in less than 2 hours.
Who to contact in Alsace: Savannah Houston
Crafting Your Journey: Remember, the essence of travel, much like wine, lies in its ability to surprise and enchant. Planning ahead allows you to savor each moment, from the first sip of a rare Riesling to the unexpected discovery of a medieval village. My role? To ensure your journey through France’s wine country is as seamless as it is unforgettable. For those who prefer a guide, my itinerary planning services are your compass to navigating the complexities of travel in a post-Olympic France.
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