BURGUNDY: Autun in August – A Roman Festival

Cruise Southern Burgundy With Finesse
Autun in August – A Roman Festival

The approach to Autun is striking. Its cathedral steeple, golden in the setting sun is quite the contrast to the surrounding green of the Morvan hills; it really wouldn’t look out of place in a Disney film or a Tolkien novel.

The Gallic Rome

The Cathedral of Saint Lazarus of Autun

Named after the Emperor Augustus Caesar, he declared Autun “the sister and rival of Rome itself”; quite the accolade from a man who ruled Rome for 4 decades. In Roman times the town would have been home to some 100,000 people and considered a Roman capital to the Gallic people, today that number is just shy of 14,000.  Roman influence is evident throughout the town, from its amphitheatre to the Romanesque carvings found on the medieval cathedral, and it is a heritage that is proudly celebrated by the locals.

A Roman Festival

Journées Romaines Festival

Each year hundreds of “Romans” take to the town streets for the Journées Romaines Festival, literally translated as “The Roman Days”, every August it brings to life the unusual history of Autun. Re-enactments of battles from the Gallo-Roman Period, and reconstructions of what life would have been like in those turbulent times. The event invites you to partake of a Roman Market, get involved in archaeological workshops, spectate Gladiator fights and watch authentic Roman theatre, all in the spectacular sunshine of the south of France!

Come See For Yourself

What better way to experience the pastoral scenery and tumultuous history of Southern Burgundy than from the peaceful climes of the luxury hotel barge FINESSE, winding its way gently along the undiscovered canals and medieval villages at the heart of France.

About The French Hotel Barge Finesse

Finesse

Finesse is a double-decker hotel barge that was built to exacting standards with luxury in mind, enhanced by her modern public areas and very spacious cabin suite accommodation.

The well-designed public areas include a saloon with contemporary furnishings and panoramic windows where the emphasis is on making the most of the natural light. There is also a demonstration galley where guests can watch their chef preparing delicious gourmet meals. Outside, guests can relax on the large sun deck with its alfresco dining area, comfortable seating and spa pool.

The four air conditioned cabin suites, which can be in twin or double-bedded configuration, are very spacious (approximately 265sq ft including en suite bathroom).

Finesse is the perfect vessel on which to cruise the meandering waterways of Southern Burgundy past vineyards and charming canalside villages, and to discover fascinating places along the way such as Autun, Beaune and Dijon.

Cruise Highlights:

  • Visit Clos de Vougeot, home of the Chevaliers du Tastevin
  • Tour and private wine tasting at Château de Chamirey in Mercurey
  • Visit to Beaune, including Hôtel-Dieu Hospice
  • Visit to the ancient roman city of Autun
  • Lunch in the beautiful setting of the Puligny & Chassagne Montrachet vineyards
  • Excellent opportunities for walking and biking. “Biking Plus” option available

About Hotel Barge Finesse


Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book FINESSE
View Finesses online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


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