Would anyone have any suggestions about what route to take from Tours to Beaune? We don't want to become frustrated by getting lost with the west-east route if it would be too difficult or not scenic.

Hi Maureen,<BR>stay from Tours outgoing on the Nationalstreet(Hwy) N 76. You will pass<BR>Blere, Noyers,Selies sur Cher, Vierzon,Bourges, Nevers.<BR>At Nevers change to N81 to Decize(loire)<BR>this one goes further on as N979 to Digoin(loire), further on it changes again to N79 you will pass Paray, Charolles, and end in Macon.<BR>Even if its a bit south it's a scenery route with lot of nice hotels around.<BR>At Macon change to FREEway A6(E15) and <BR>after 95km you will reaach Beaune.<BR>For hotels on the route (like wineries,<BR>castles etc.) I may can give you more infos.<BR>email me<BR>Shain/EU/DE/D&uuml;sseldorf

Maureen,<BR>You'll have to make a decision, based upon time, whether you choose a direct route from Tours to Beaune (about 275 miles and slightly more than 4 hours drive time, mostly on highway with few prospects for getting lost) or the scenic route (about 300 miles and more than 8 hours drive time almost entirely on secondary roads with a good probability of losing yourselves). The Michelin website can probably detail either option for you. Go to www.viamichelin.com

I took almost same route from Chateau Le Bourdaisiere in Vouvray,outside of Tour, to Beaune in August,1999. I took N76 east went through Blere,Selles-sur-Cher,Vierzon,then Bourges,where we stopped for lunch and walked around to see the magnificent Cathedral. My wife did some shopping too. Bourges had well preserved old part of town and some interesting spots to check. Then I took D976 to Nevers, took D978 to Autun. This route was very scenic,going through hilly region.We stopped at Autun for break. The town center was worth to check. I took D973 to Nolay, Baubigny la Rochepot,Meursault to Beaune.It took about 8 hours including breaks and sightseeings. It was really wonderful driving experience to get the feel and enjoy the heartland part of French country side.

Hi Maureen,<BR>may I add something, too.<BR>If you considering one of the above alternatives, please check out <BR>http://www.relaischateux.com<BR>On this site you will find fantastic <BR>accomondations to your route. Maybe you will find the way in between!<BR>More infos needed ? email me<BR>Shain/EU/DE/D&uuml;sseldorf