Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category
Hostellerie de Levernois – Burgundy
Serene Hostellerie de Levernois
Allow us to recommend a memorable stay at the tasteful 5-star Hostellerie de Levernois in the heart of the Côte de Beaune. An esteemed member of the Relais & Chateaux, the hotel is situated on the edge of a golf course in an 11-acre park that offers a seemingly endless air of tranquility.
The intimate estate includes several room and suite selections and exceptional dining to make the hostellerie the ideal base for exploring the wine country of Burgundy. Indulge in a charming lunch at the Bistrot du Bord de l’Eau on the river, before exploring area vineyards and tasting rooms – bicycles are available for your use. And at the end of the day, a glass of wine on your private terrace is essential to be beginning of a pleasant evening. Read more
5 Charms of Provençal Avignon!
Avignon overlooking the Rhone River
We hate the numbers ‘game’, but there are so many reasons to visit this enchanting city….one must limit!
1. Provençal Avignon owes its very history and much of its attraction to the Papacy. The medieval politics of the early 14th century led Pope Clement V to move the papacy to Avignon, under the protection of Philip the Fair of France. His successors came along, and Benedict XII and Clement VI felt the need to locate the great Palais des Papes overlooking the Rhone River in the center of the medieval city. The imposing palais offers a magnificent, stark white contrast to the vivid blue skies of southern France and the sprawling square beneath the palace. Read more
French Riviera – Stunning Hotel Choices!
Petit Palace terrace views
Of course we would love to be in France right now, but why not look forward, dream a little, imagine an over-the-top stay along the Riviera. Grand idea – let’s take a look at two very charming Cote d’Azur hotels and the “stars” associated with them. The 3-star Belle Époque style residence, Le Petit Palais in Nice is a smaller, elegant residence located in the heart of Cimiez. The 5-star Grand Hôtel Cap Ferrat is all one would expect of a luxury hotel by the Mediterranean. Read more
Elegant Retreat Near Normandy’s Coast
Port-en-Bessin, Normandy
Though stained with the blood, burial grounds and memorials to lost young soldiers; the vast Normandy landscape tells multiple stories. We feel the weight and sad wonder of history, struggle and loss; yet this magnificent land unfolds in soft, rolling farms and golden hay fields that embrace an existence made possible by that very history. Read more
Refreshing Lake Annecy Retreat
Gorgeous lakeside views from the Abbaye de Talloires
When Florida temperatures and electric bills suddenly elevate by 30 percent, I wander to cool places in my mind. I can’t think of a more refreshing mental escape than Lake Annecy. Tucked up against snow-capped ridges in the East of France, this pristine lake – the 3rd largest in France – displays a lovely turquoise invitation to boat, swim or simply enjoy a magnificent visual feast.
The city of Annecy welcomes visitors entranced by her location, history, cuisine and hospitality; but several villages and enticing inns surround the sprawling lake. I think I may have discovered an ideal retreat in the Abbaye de Talloires on the Southeast shoreline of the lake.
Appealing rooms with panoramic views
Certainly the locale’s history, dating as far back as 866 A.D., is intriguing, but let’s be candid here. That’s a lovely addition to the overall atmosphere, but panoramic lake views, ultra-comfortable rooms and brasserie dining by the lake engulf my imagination and quest for cool weather and beautiful outdoor views.
We have always wanted to return to Annecy for a more thorough exploration, but I’m afraid we can’t make the trip at the moment. We certainly can take our cooling mental journey and add this lovely retreat to our “Bucket List” for real travels in the future.
Can you imagine a relaxing French-style lunch by the lake? I can!!!
Copyright © 2005-2017, LuxeEuro, LLC. All rights reserved.
And don’t forget – my book Fired Up for France: The Promise of Paris – now available in E-book (pdf) and print!