Welcome to France! This is the first day of your trip, after your arrival, make your own way to your first accommodation. You'll collect the rental car included in your trip at the rental office closest to you at the agreed time. 

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Les Balcons du Rohan

The city of Saverne, in Alsace, stands out for its 18th century Rohan castle. Today the building houses the Museum of Archeology, Art, and History. Ancient half-timbered houses overlook the Grand'Rue, the most famous of which is the Katz house, with carved beams. From the time of the Gallic city, which became a Roman camp called "Tres Tabernae", to the present day, Saverne retains traces of its History - vestiges of the Roman surrounding wall, medieval wall, church Romanesque, cloister, half-timbered houses. The city stands in an exceptional natural site, at the foot of mountains crowned with fortified castles all around it, like so many superb and eternal sentries. But above all, the majestic Rohan castle, with its immense neoclassical facade, recalls the glory of the Prince-Bishops and testifies to the historic role of Saverne, the seat of the bishopric for several centuries. Saverne comes alive all year round to live to the rhythm of the party. Many festivities (shows, folklore, exhibitions, competitions, and parties) are organized at the Château des Rohan, at the rose garden, in the gardens, in the squares, and in the streets to extend the pleasure of being in Alsace until the night.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Les Balcons du Rohan

The Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park includes an exceptional territory in terms of natural, historical, cultural heritage with 111 small towns. It extends between Bitche, Saverne, and Wissembourg. The forest covers 65% of the territory, between the foothills of the Vosges mountains and sandstone cliffs, clearings and ponds. The fauna is also very rich, with the presence of numerous chamois and deer, roe deer, wild boars, grouse of the woods and even lynx! There are a large number of castles and vestiges of defensive castles, often erected on sandstone spurs, among which the 12th century Fleckenstein castle, the 13th-century castle of La Petite-Pierre, which now houses the Maison du Parc, the remains of the Lichtenberg fortress, the castles of Reichshoffen, Wittschloessel, Wasenbourg, Schoeneck, Loewenstein ... most classified as Historical Monuments. Pretty little towns such as Wissembourg, Hunspach, Graufthal, Neuwiller-lès-Saverne, Reichshoffen… all bear witness to the region's medieval past and invite you to stroll through their typical alleys with flowered balconies. Beautiful chapels, an important military heritage including five works from the Maginot line, archaeological sites, numerous museums linked to history, popular traditions and know-how, complete the tourist attractions of the park. The region has expertise in the fields of glass and crystal. Three internationally recognized glassmaking sites are worth a visit. Among them, Lalique situated in the Park, which also has its museum.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Les Balcons du Rohan

The Arzviller / Henridorff lock ladder is one of the remarkable sites of the French Waterways network.In the 18th century, the necessity to connect the Seine basin and the main Rhine route by a canal lead King Louis XVI to instruct his engineer to study the Marne-Rhine canal project.This canal had to cross two natural obstacles: the line of ridges that borders the Paris basin and the Northern Vosges. The first obstacle is crossed by a 4,877 m underground passage (between the Meuse and the Moselle), and a second of 867 m. It is between Niderviller and Arzviller, by means of two underground passages of 475 m and 2,307 m, that the canal ends in the upper valley by a ladder of 17 locks (spaced an average distance of 180 m) which made it possible to cross a drop 44 meters.The inclined plane, put into service in 1969, made it possible to replace the initial locks, the crossing of which was laborious. Its cross-type construction is unique in its kind in Europe.Nowadays, the Vallée des Eclusiers is a bucolic greenway where walkers, cycle tourists, fishermen, climbers, and nature and heritage lovers meet. The Vallée des Eclusiers can be explored by bike, on foot or by tourist train from the Inclined Plan. Metz is a city with an ancient history, the first stable settlements are traced back to the Late Bronze Age. Later in the third century BC the city, known with the name of Divodurum Mediomatricorum, became the capital of the Gallic population of Mediomatrici, to then be occupied by the Romans, under which it experienced a period of great prosperity.During the Middle Ages, Metz enjoyed wide consideration and independence, being chosen by the Merovingians as the capital of the kingdom of Australia, and later it was the capital of the Duchy of Lorraine.Its independence ended when it was annexed to France in the 16th century.Enter the city through the Germans' Gate, a medieval bridge that was part of the walls that protected Metz.While spending the day in Metz, you should not

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Chambres d'hôtes - Les Collinades de Chalons

Châlons-en-Champagne was born around 2000 years ago, at the crossroads between Via Agrippa and the Marne river.It prospered in the Middle Ages when she developed her activity of production of woollen sheets.This economic growth pushes the city to protect itself and walls are raised around the city, on 5km.In the 18th century, the city underwent a transformation and gave up its walls to embellish its center with tree-lined alleys, beautiful buildings and doors.Today, the city offers visitors many monuments and curiosities, starting with its splendid St Stephen's Cathedral, built in 13th century Gothic style. The Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, which has one of the most important carillons in Europe, 56 bells as well as admirable stained glass windows from the 16th century, is also worth a visit.One of the highlights of Châlons-en-Champagne is of course the Caves of the Maison Joseph Perrier. Of Gallo-Roman origin, they extend over three kilometers and are still used to make Champagne Joseph Perrier. (visit possible upon reservation) Visit the cellars of the Maison Joseph Perrier. You'll learn all about Champagne and about this family dedicated to the sparkling wine and taste their Cuvée Royale Brut.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Chambres d'hôtes - Les Collinades de Chalons

Reims is a city in the historic region of north-eastern France, Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine. It is the unofficial capital of the wine region, and many of the most famous champagne houses are based here and offer food and wine tours and the opportunity to visit the cellars. Travel 75km on the Champagne road between Reims and Epernay. Discover the Montagne de Reims and immerse yourself in the history, heritage, and landscapes of one of the most beautiful wine regions in France. The route begins of course with a visit to Reims, the unofficial capital of the region. Then, you take the road to the South, to cross the Montagne de Reims where we grow Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Follow this route in the heart of the 300-year-old vines towards Gueux then at the top of a hill will discover the Saint-Lié chapel Go explore the very old village of Verzy. On the way, you will not fail to come across some "Faux", these curious trees which the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park abounds. Stop to visit the Cité du Champagne museum in Ay and discover Hautvillier, where Dom Pérignon invented Champagne in the 17th century. Your route takes you to Epernay where the famous Moët & Chandon house awaits you for a tour of the cellar. Visit a great name in Champagne, Maison Moët & Chandon Enter the heart of Maison Moët & Chandon, let yourself be guided through the maze of galleries where excitement arises. Initiation or rediscovery, the Moët Impérial, created in 1869, will open the doors to the unique Moët & Chandon style. Visit of the cellars and tasting of a flute of Imperial Moët: 1h15 - Visit available only in French

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Chambres d'hôtes - Les Collinades de Chalons

Troyes is in France one of the cities having preserved the largest quantity of wooden buildings. After almost disappearing, this incredible collection of half-timbered houses inherited from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance is today the pride of the city of Champagne. These colorful facades crossed by wooden beams fascinate visitors. In May 1524, a big fire ravaged a quarter of the city, reducing some 1,500 dwellings to ashes and throwing about 7,500 people in the street! The fire destroyed the most opulent quarter of the city, that of the rich merchants, not sparing the churches located in its path. The reconstruction launched immediately after a 2-day fire, saw the wealthy build magnificent mansions in stone. The less well-off opted for a reconstruction identical to their old homes. To see also in Troyes, the splendid Gothic Cathedral, the St Urbain Basilica, the Hotel Dieu, and the various museums. The Orient Forest Regional Natural Park is a legendary territory with immense reservoir lakes hidden in deep forests. It is a paradise for lovers of nature, culture, sport ...58 villages are in the park with as many treasures to discover as the Longsols half-timbered church or that of Montangon with fascinating stained glass windows. The Dosches windmill, which houses a museum, and its garden are one of the sites not to be missed in the Park. For a little relaxation in an exceptional setting, a boat trip on the Orient Lake is ideal!

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: PENSION POUR CHATS DU VAL DE VERGY

Beaune, in Burgundy, is renowned for being the capital of fine Burgundy wines, being the city at the center of the Burgundy wine-growing area which extends to the north and south of the town. The wine activities are numerous in the city and still at the heart of its economic vitality. Come and discover the history of mustard in the first museum dedicated to this condiment, Moutarderie Fallot. The Discovery Course trains visitors over the centuries to remind them of the gestures and traditions linked to mustard and its history. Old tools and materials are staged and enhanced by a harmonious play of lights and sounds. With all your senses awakened, everyone can learn new and spicy pleasures ranging from making to tasting mustards, and even test their knowledge! Duration: 1h15 Tour in English Discover a magical universe, out of time ...With its 5 km of vaulted galleries under Beaune and its 2 million aging bottles at Maison Patriarche. After a guided tour of the largest cellars in Burgundy, you can taste 5 great Burgundy wines by the glass offered. Duration about 1h30 English speaking guide Dijon, capital of the historic Burgundy region, is known for vineyard tours, the gastronomic fair in autumn, and the presence of different architectural styles, from Gothic to Art Deco. The characteristic Museum of Fine Arts of 1787, inside the large Palazzo dei Duchi, offers a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, handicrafts, and antiques. Enjoy dinner in Dijon with the local star, the boeuf bourguignon, a beef stew cooked in a red wine sauce. Drinks not included

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: PENSION POUR CHATS DU VAL DE VERGY

The Morvan is a large forest massif studded with lakes, villages and clearings crossed by streams, roads and paths. The Morvan Regional Park is an area whose history is strongly linked to agriculture and trade. Surrounded by so-called "gateway" cities, Avallon, Saulieu, Autun, Luzy, Châtillon-en-Bazois, and Corbigny, were the cities of fairs where local products were sold. The villages inside the Morvan are made of hamlets, inherited from the Middle Ages when the Lord gave land to enrich a serf. The Morvan is crossed by paths, Roman roads, and small roads between the hamlets, castles, gateway cities ... and still, connect the important forests where we took firewood to take it to Paris by floating until the end late 19th century. The area is also devoted to livestock. The current landscape is still witnessing to this history and still tells of multiple skills related to the skills of peasant and lumberjack that the Morvandiaux have been able to develop. For example, driving cattle for agricultural and forestry work and transporting goods was a recognized specialty of the Morvan which still persists through the qualities of breeder breeders of the Morvan farmers.To visit the villages of Vézelay and Bibracte, the Château de Bazoches but also the generous nature like Lac des Settons and Mont Beuvray, archaeological, historical witnesses of its past, of all its towns worth discovering, men and women, famous or not.A park to discover on foot, by bike or swimming ... taking your time.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: PENSION POUR CHATS DU VAL DE VERGY

The historic center of Besançon is surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped Doubs meander. Above the city, at the top of a hill, the citadel of Vauban, Louis XIV's engineer, watches. This 17th-century fortress houses several museums and a zoo. At the foot of the hill, the Besançon cathedral has a unique astronomical clock with 70 dials which indicates the sunrise and sunset, the tides in French ports, as well as eclipses. In the heart of the old town, the Musée du Temps displays clocks and watches, celebrating the city's past as the watch capital of France. In the same street is the birthplace of Victor Hugo, which now houses a museum dedicated to the author of the novel "Les Misérables".Boats can navigate the river, passing under the citadel through a tunnel. South of Besançon, the Jura massif attracts hiking and kayaking enthusiasts.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Résidence Les Rives de la Fecht

Colmar is a French town near the border with Germany. The old town, with its cobbled streets, lined with half-timbered buildings has a lovely medieval character. Located on the Wine Route of Alsace, between vineyards and mountains, Ribeauvillé is a charming city with a beautiful historical heritage. The seat of the Lordship of the Ribeaupierre family, from which derives the name of the city, the ruins of 3 fortified castles built by the will of the family still dominate the city and the surroundings. Hiking trails lead to each of the castles. Château St-Ulrich, (the oldest and most important of the 3 castles) Ginsberg Castle, Haut-Ribeaupierre castle, (as its name suggests, the highest of the 3 castles). In Ribeauvillé, remains of the ramparts and some defense towers are still visible. The city center is filled with houses and flowery buildings, squares, and fountains. Do not miss : The Town Hall (18th century) The Butcher's Tower (13th century) The old market hall, former storage place, The house of the menétriers (house which has a unique decoration in frontage dating from 1683), etc ... The first Sunday in September, the Fête des Ménétriers Ribeauvillé is also a city of wine production. Domaine Louis Sipp, the producer of organic wines, welcomes you to discover their property.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Résidence Les Rives de la Fecht

Strasbourg, the official seat of the European Parliament, displays a culture and architecture with German and French influences.The Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame de Strasbourg offers daily entertainment on its astronomical clock and a panoramic view of the Rhine halfway up its 142-meter high bell tower.In the heart of the city, the Big Island is surrounded by the Ill river. The district of Petite France includes medieval bridges and canals bordered by half-timbered houses from the 16th century.In the majestic Rohan Palace rising above the river, the Museum of Fine Arts houses works by Peter Paul Rubens and other great masters. Place Gutenberg, one of the oldest in the city, houses the Neubau, an old town hall, completed in 1585 in a Renaissance style.The traditional "winstubs" (wine bars) serve local specialties such as garnished sauerkraut. Enjoy a typical alsatian menu included for your lunch today. Drinks not included

Meals: Lunch

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Résidence Les Rives de la Fecht

Return the rented car to the nearest rental office at the agreed time.