Verdun is a small city in the French North-East. Its location, in a valley close to the Belgian, Luxembourgian and German borders, makes the city an important strategic place. Furthermore, it is one of the passage point to cross the Meuse river. As such, Verdun has throughout history been a battlefield in the numerous conflicts opposing France to its neighbours.
Summer holidays are here, so many of us are thinking about southern France. We all know about Cannes, Nice and of course Saint Tropez. So we’ve decided to go the other side and discover the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
The wonderful thing about town of Chalon sur Saone (or Saône if you like accents), is that you are almost in the south of France, but not quite. Lyon typically marks the boundary between the north and Latin southerners. However when you are heading towards the Mediterranean and arrive in Chalon, the adrenaline begins to build, you’re almost there, a few more miles to go…
The majestic river Saône flows towards the Rhone
The town is divded by the river Saône, which flows from the north to the south. The river is still used for cargo barges and also vacation cruises. You can head upstream to the Rhone or southwards to eventually find the river Rhone which flows into the Mediterranean Sea.
Food, cuisine, menus and choice… There are dozens of resturants to chose from, for all budgets and taste. Walk across the bridge to the small island of Saint Remy and you’ll fond many tables beckoning you to try their delights. With in the historical city centre, the cafes, markets and resturants are abundant.
The Sunday market with a cozy atmosphere
Take a few moments to savour the colours and perfumes of the fruit and vegetables during the animated Sunday market, which is set below the towering cathedral of Saint Vincent.
The impressive towers of the Saint Vincent Cathedral
Walking around the pedestrian cobbled streets is a comfortable delight, every corner provides a unique and charming view. From fashion to chocolate to art galleries, take your pick and enjoy.
Although the transport barge struggle to make a living in a hostile economy, some have managed to continue and await their next voyage. Perhaps they will carry cement to Amsterdam, or steel to Paris.
Sheltered behind the Saint Remy Island, you have first class moorings for all kinds pleasure boats.
From small craft to ocean sailing boats. After all the ocean is just 5 days away. If you’d like to skipper your own boat in this region, try a self-drive cruise on a canal boat like the Amercia 43 boat
Just a couple of miles from the town, you’ll find many grand vineyards and famous wines.