Burgundy & Alsace Travel Guide - Attractions, Eating, Drinking, Shopping & Places to Stay

Burgundy is the hilly area of eastern France and is known worldwide for its fine wines. One-third of the region's wine is red ("rouge") and two-thirds white ("blanc"). The Burgundy region has five villages distinguished as "the prettiest villages of France" as well as three World Heritage Sites and a unique medieval building project. Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, is just over an hour and half by high speed train (TGV) from Paris or a more sedate train journey from Basel or Geneva. Alsace is a particularly beautiful part of France. Castles and ruins dot the hillsides and the towns retain an old European look and feel. The region has nearly as much German influence as French with restaurants serving some of the finest sauerkraut and beer found outside of Germany. Alsace is one of the smallest and most densely populated provinces in France. Located in the upper east corner of the country, the region shares its borders with both Germany and Switzerland. Alsace's capital, Strasbourg, is a hub of political activity with many European Union organisations based in the city. The region has always been known for its fine wine and the 'Route de Vin' is a small road that connects the wineries and vineyards in the region's cities and towns.