Half way between Paris and the Swiss border lies the French town of Dijon famous for it's mustard but there is more this quaint little town than mustard. For the keen there are many ways to enjoy this ancient city and its delights. Here are some suggestions.
Palace of the Dukes of Dijon
The town's crowning glory is the Tour Philippe le Bon (or Good Philip's Tower) that sits at the heart of the town. The 46 metre-tall tower encompasses the power and majesty of the Dukes of Burgundy.
The view from the tower is a spectacular mish-mash of church spires, cathedrals and glinting copper domes. Each building seemingly jostles for space with Gothic cathedrals rubbing shoulders with Renaissance mansions. Rebuilt in the mid-17th century the ancient Palace now serves as the town hall. The once grand kitchens and reception halls have been converted into a museum of fine arts.
Dijon's Chapels and Spires
La Chapele de Elus (Chapel of the Elected Representatives) was built between 1738 and 1739. The chalpel walls are lavishly sculpted and carved. Dijon is also known as the "town of a hundred spires" because Dijon is home to as many convents and churches.
Shopping in Dijon
Dijon is not short of shopping opportunities either, visit the Galeries Lafayette and the La Toison d'Or for branded goods and other treats such as typical French cafes, chocolate shops and patisseries, and boutiques of every kind.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon is synonymous with mustard. Dijon mustard is made with grape juice and white wine. And a perfect gift for those back home is a bottle of genuine Dijon mustard.
But there is more to Dijon mustard because at the central market there are a myriad of stalls that specialise in flavoured Dijon mustard and a joy to the palate they are too. The market was built in the middle of the 19th century and its glass-work and wrought iron work are stunning in themselves.
Dijon Vineyards and Burgundy Wine
France of course, is famed for its wine and Dijon is fortunate enough to be located near some of the best Burgundy vineyards. For serious lovers of wine a visit to the Cote de Nuits is essential; here a visit to the Chateau du Clos de Vougeot and its 12th-century cellars is a real must. Travel through the golden-hued vineyards before retiring to the cool cellars to enjoy the wine tasting that is included in the tour.
Some of the best wines in the world are to be found at the Route des Grand Crus, also known as Burgundy's Champs Elysees. The reds here are famous around the world for their quality.
So put aside the idea that Dijon is just mustard; it is much more. Grand houses, churches, convents and cathedrals, excellent shopping opportunities, fine wine are just a few of the delights of this beautiful region of France.
