Uncover Hidden Gems: Aux Terrasses, Tournus's Best-Kept Secret!
Uncover Hidden Truths: Aux Terrasses, Tournus - Or, Why I Almost Missed My Train Home (And Why You Shouldn't)
Okay, let's be honest. I'm not usually one for "hidden gems." They always seem to be… well, hidden. Buried under a mountain of tourist traps and Instagram influencer recommendations. So when I stumbled upon Aux Terrasses in Tournus, Burgundy, I was skeptical. But friends, hallelujah, this place isn't just "hidden," it's a legitimate escape from reality, a place where "charm" actually means something beyond a carefully curated aesthetic (though they nail that too). Let's dive deep, shall we? Because frankly, I still haven't recovered from my trip. And I mean that in the BEST possible way.
First Impressions & Accessibility (or Lack Thereof - But It's Getting Better!)
Finding Aux Terrasses itself was a little… French. You know, the charming kind of confusion that involves cobblestone streets narrower than my car (thank goodness for the free, on-site car park!). The exterior corridor is a delight, but the front desk is a delight.
- Accessibility: Okay, I need to be upfront. This isn't the most accessible hotel in the world. The elevator isn’t perfect and the facilities for disabled guests seem a bit limited. This is a work-in-progress. However, the staff were incredibly accommodating, offering assistance whenever needed. I mean, they practically carried my suitcase up the stairs. Bless them.
Inside the Fortress of Relaxation (and Deliciousness)
Now, for the good stuff. The rooms… oh, the rooms! I stayed in a non-smoking room (thank God!) with air conditioning. And honestly, after a day of trundling through the Burgundy countryside – and getting delightfully lost – that air conditioning was a game-changer.
- Available in all rooms: Okay, this place has pretty much everything. Air conditioning to save you from the scorching sun, free Wi-Fi , a coffee/tea maker (essential!), TV and in-room safe box all ready for your convenience.
- The Bathroom The private bathroom was amazing. With a bathtub and separate shower/bathtub, I could have easily stayed in there all day long. I also loved the slippers and luxury bathrobes
The Food, the Food! OMG.
Let's talk about dining, because, honestly, Tournus is a culinary paradise. And Aux Terrasses totally gets it.
- Restaurants: They have restaurants with a la carte options, buffet and Asian cuisine too.
- The bar: I went to the bar and I did not want to leave. And you guys, the bottle of water was a lifesaver. Also, the happy hour there, totally worth it.
- Breakfast: The breakfast buffet? Incredible. Fresh croissants, local cheeses, fresh fruit… I still dream about it. You can also get breakfast in room if you're feeling lazy. Or, if you're like me, you might be in the mood for breakfast takeaway service.
Spa Days & Self-Care (Because, You Know, Burgundy!)
Now, my absolute highlight: the spa. The Sauna and steamroom are fantastic, and the pool with a view has views to die for, and the swimming pool has a great view too. I had a massage and I think I actually achieved peak relaxation.
This place is truly remarkable.
Cleanliness and Safety: More Important Than Ever
- Cleanliness and Safety: A big, HUGE thumbs up. The whole place feels spotless, and they're meticulous about hygiene. Anti-viral cleaning products are used, daily disinfection in common areas, staff thoroughly trained in safety protocol, and, the best part? – Room sanitization opt-out available. Which I did not take. This is a serious priority, and they take it seriously.
The Kind of Extras That Make You Say "Ooh La La!"
- Services and Conveniences: They have everything you need. Currency exchange? Check. Daily housekeeping? Check. Concierge? Check. Laundry service? Thank the heavens, yes! 24-hour room service: yes.
- Things to do, ways to relax: They offer body scrub and body wrap, a great fitness center.
The Quirks, The Imperfections… And Why They Don’t Matter
Okay, look. Aux Terrasses isn't perfect. There were a few minor hiccups (the Wi-fi was a little spotty in the room sometimes, and I swear the tiny mirror in the bathroom was judging my attempts at applying mascara). But honestly, these little things almost added to the charm. It's a place where you can truly disconnect.
My Emotional Breakdown (Almost)
I almost missed my train home. That almost made me cry. Because I didn't want to leave. I wanted to stay, soak up that atmosphere, and eat more of those croissants.
The Unforgettable Offer: Stop Dreaming, Start Booking!
Right, enough beating around the bush. Are you ready to experience Aux Terrasses? It's time to:
Book Now and Receive:
- A complimentary bottle of local Burgundy wine upon arrival. Because, well, Burgundy.
- Free breakfast for two
- A 20% discount on spa treatments
- Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability, because hey, you deserve it!)
- Free Wi-Fi and parking
Aux Terrasses isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience. It's a place to unwind, indulge, and maybe, just maybe, almost miss your train home. But trust me, you'll thank me later.
Click here to book your escape to Aux Terrasses today!
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, 'cause we're headed to Aux Terrasses in Tournus, France. Not exactly the Riviera, mind you, but for a stressed-out individual like myself, any escape is glorious. Prepare for ramblings, the inevitable screw-ups, and maybe a little bit of existential dread mixed with a healthy dose of French bread.
Day 1: Arrival and a Questionable First Impression
- Morning (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM): The absolute horror. Up before the birds (who are probably already planning their day in a much more coordinated manner). Flight was delayed. Ryanair, of course. Never again. I mean it this time. Managed to survive on lukewarm coffee and the dubious "breakfast" pastries I smuggled onboard. Arrived in Lyon, collected the rental car (a tiny, slightly dented Fiat, which I've already nicknamed "The Lemon"), and the GPS… well, it's French. Sounds like it wants me to drive directly into the Saône River.
- Morning/Afternoon (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): The scenic drive to Tournus. Supposed to be scenic. Mostly saw fields and clouds. And more fields. And more clouds. At one point, contemplated pulling over and joining a commune. The countryside, though, it's… green. That's the best I've got so far.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Arrive in Tournus. Aux Terrasses: finally, I'm here! Beautiful building, a bit grander than I was expecting from the website. The check-in, however, was less 'ooh la la' and more 'huh?' The woman at the reception seems to be enjoying herself, while I was very confused. She may or may not have winked at me. My French is atrocious, and her English… well, we’re communicating telepathically, I think. Room is lovely, though. Big, with a view of… something. (I'll figure it out later.) The bed looks particularly inviting.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Lunch. Found a little bistro near the hotel "Le Bistrot du Bouchon". After feeling a bit awkward, and ordering the wrong dish (I asked for the "plat du jour" but apparently, I pointed at a completely different, terrifying, dish). Anyway, the wine helped. The food was good, maybe a little heavy? But the wine… oh, the wine. Instant mood improvement.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): The "Abbey of Saint-Philibert". The Abbey. Apparently, it's the highlight of Tournus. Massive. Impressive. Lots of stone. Walked through the cloisters, trying to look deeply spiritual. Not sure I succeeded. Got distracted by the sunlight playing on the stonework. It was beautiful, actually. Then I accidentally tripped over a cobblestone and almost took out a group of nuns. Mortifying.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 7:30 PM): Wandering lost around Tournus. Attempted to find some shops. I needed a map. I'd lost all sense of direction five minutes out of the Abbey. The market stalls were amazing, it's the best I've ever seen.
- Evening (7:30 PM - 9:00 PM): Dinner. Back at the hotel. The dining room is elegant, intimidating. The waiter speaks perfect English, making me feel even more self-conscious about my awful French. Again, the food was amazing. The wine was phenomenal. I had a steak. And a crème brûlée. Don't judge me. This whole trip is about ignoring reality for a few days.
- Night (9:00 PM onwards): Sleep. So, so much sleep. Finally.
Day 2: Digging Deeper (and Maybe Getting Lost Again)
- Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Breakfast in the hotel. Proper French breakfast. Croissants, bread, jam, coffee, the works. Ate enough to power me through the rest of the day. Started planning the day.
- Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Exploring the town again. Attempting to get a better feel for the place. I'm still geographically challenged. Tried to find a specific shop recommended by a travel guide. Gave up after wandering in circles. I did, however, stumble upon a little park, hidden away. Sat on a bench, watched the locals, and felt a moment of… peace? Don't get used to it.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lunch. Found a casual spot. No menus in English (hallelujah!), had to point at things again. Ended up with something. It was… interesting.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): The Saône River Cruise. THIS IS THE ONE! Ok, I actually found this. Booked a boat tour on the Saône River. The tour guide was a character. Full of cheesy jokes and local history. The river is lovely. Reflecting the sky. The buildings on the banks were spectacular. I could have stayed there all day long. This was the most relaxing I felt all day.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Visiting the local market and shops! I spent a fortune buying local cheeses, bread, chocolates… It felt like I hadn't eaten in an hour, so I had to get a few more.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Back to the hotel. Realized I needed to order some sort of food soon.
- Evening (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Dinner in town. I wasn't really hungry, bit I did get some sort of pasta dish and a glass of wine. It was lovely.
- Night (9:00 PM onwards): Sleep.
Day 3: A Final Farewell (and a Sudden Realization)
- Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Breakfast in the hotel, again. Feeling slightly less awkward amongst the staff.
- Morning (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM): A last walk through the town. Sat by the river again. Tried to imprint the image of Tournus in my brain.
- Morning (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Check-out. Saying goodbye to "The Lemon".
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - onward): Drive back towards Lyon. The GPS, bless it, is still trying to send me into ditches. I'm starting to understand why people come to places like this. It's not just the food, or the history, or the pretty views. It's the moment you stop rushing, and just… are. Somewhere amid the abbey stones and the river cruise, I think I lost my self for a bit… in a good way. Maybe, just maybe, I'll come back.
- What a trip!
Some Imperfections and Rambling Thoughts:
- I spent a long time by myself at the hotel. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I'm used to socializing a bit more.
- This trip made me think. Too much, maybe. Life is short, and it’s weird, y'know? Why do we do anything?
- I should have learned more French. Seriously.
- I wish I could have stayed longer.
So there you have it. My messy, imperfect, and hopefully entertaining trip to Aux Terrasses. Until next time, France! (Or, you know, until I win the lottery and can afford another trip.)
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Uncover Hidden Gems: Aux Terrasses, Tournus's Best-Kept Secret! (Or, You Know, My Obsession) - A Messy FAQ
Okay, okay, spill. What *is* Aux Terrasses, and why are you so obsessed?
Right, so... Aux Terrasses. It's this *tiny* little restaurant in Tournus, France. Think cobbled streets, flowering window boxes, the whole charming shebang. But it's not just the scenery. It's the FOOD. Honestly, it's like a religious experience. I'm not kidding. I’ve eaten in some fancy places, London, Paris, blah, blah, blah… but this… this is different. It's like grandma's cooking, but, like, your grandma *was* Michelin-starred. And I'm obsessed because... well, the food, duh. But also, the atmosphere. It’s intimate, it feels authentic. Like you've stumbled onto a secret. And, honestly, I *want* to keep it secret. (But also, I *need* to tell everyone... it's a conflict, I know!)
Is it really *that* hard to get a table? I'm imagining a bloodbath.
Okay, YES. It's a pain in the derrière. I tried booking *months* in advance once, and they were still booked solid. The first time I went? Pure luck. We just wandered in, slightly tipsy from the local wine, and managed to snag a cancellation. We were practically doing the Macarena in the parking lot (don't judge). My advice? Call. Call *constantly*. Check online… if they even have a website (I think they might, but I don't even *look* anymore. Just call. I'm bad at planning, okay!?). And be prepared to eat at 6:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Or both. I may have considered that. Don't tell anyone. The struggle IS real, people!
What should I order? Gimme the lowdown.
Alright, listen. This is crucial. Honestly, the menu changes. *Constantly*. But here's the secret: Trust the specials. ALWAYS. Ask the waiter, even if you don’t speak French (though, a little charm goes a long, long way). I remember one time, I had this… *thing*… a dish with duck confit, this unbelievably buttery potato gratin, and some kind of sauce that tasted like pure, unadulterated happiness. I swear, I almost cried. Literally. And I'm not usually the weeping type! But yeah, duck confit? Probably a safe bet. Oh, and the wine list? Ask them to suggest a local Burgundy. They know their stuff. Don't be afraid to wander off-piste. You're there to discover, aren't you?
Are the staff friendly? I’m picturing snooty French waiters.
Okay, so, this is where it gets even *better*. No snooty French waiters here. They’re lovely! Truly. They're not overly formal, which I love. They're attentive without being intrusive. They laugh (I’ve made them laugh, I’m told! With my very bad French!!). They actually *care* about you enjoying your meal. I remember, last year, the head waiter (whose name I *should* know, but… French names are hard) saw me struggling with the crab claws (slightly inebriated, as usual). He just… smiled, grabbed the little cracker, and cracked them himself. No judgment, just helpfulness. It's a *vibe*, guys. It's a good vibe.
Alright, alright, so what about the price? Is it going to require selling a kidney?
Honestly? No, it's not THAT bad. I mean, it's not *cheap*, but it's not astronomically expensive either. It’s a fair price for the quality and experience. I'd happily spend my life savings there. Well, not really. But it's not a crippling blow to the bank account. You can actually *enjoy* the meal without worrying about the bill for the rest of the month (unless, like me, you order EVERYTHING). Think of it as an investment… in happiness. And possibly, your expanding waistline (thanks, duck confit!).
Any downsides? Be honest. Please!
Okay, fine. I’m not perfect. It *does* get crowded. And the tables are a little… cozy. You might end up making friends with the people next to you (which, you know, isn’t the worst thing in the world). Also, finding parking can be a pain, especially in high season. And, okay, one time, I *did* over-order, and I ended up with a mountain of food I couldn’t finish. But, honestly… those are tiny complaints. The food, the atmosphere, the whole experience… it outweighs everything. Even the potential for a food coma. WORTH IT. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Okay, you've convinced me. What's the *single* most memorable meal you've had there? Come on, the juicy details!
Alright, buckle up. This is the peak. The Everest of Aux Terrasses experiences. It was, oh god, maybe two years ago? Late summer. The light was golden. We finally managed to snag a reservation (miracle!). We ordered the *degustation* menu (because, again, *everything*). And the main course… it was this *rabbit* dish. Now, I'm not a huge rabbit person, okay? I’m more a “give me steak” kind of gal. But. This. Rabbit. First bite? Mind blown. The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender, infused with herbs, braised in… something magical. The sauce... oh, the sauce! Rich, complex, a deep mahogany color, and I think I tasted a hint of truffle? (Or I might have been dreaming. I lost track by that point). The accompanying vegetables were bursting with flavor. I actually closed my eyes and moaned (in a good way). I swear I heard my dining companion chuckle. I didn’t care. Then, the wine pairing… a local Burgundy that perfectly complemented the rabbit. I think I might have actually cried. The whole experience was like… a symphony. A rabbit symphony. And I would happily relive it every single day for the rest of my life. The end. (Now, excuse me, I need to book a flight!)
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