Quite an interesting and fun read, even if you're not a foodie.
by Erik Trinidad Mar 5, 2025
Many foodies regard the Michelin guide as the authority on the best places to dine in cities around the world. However, its roots have little to do with quality cuisine: Michelin is a tire manufacturer founded in 1889, and its early restaurant reviews were designed solely to encourage Parisians to go on road trips, and thus need more tires.
Fast forward to today, and people are still gallivanting on road trips across France – but Michelin isn’t the only guide around. Nowadays, there’s also the Vallée de la Gastronomie, a newer compilation of more than 400 vetted culinary experiences travelers can explore at their leisure. The full route covers 385 miles from Burgundy, in the northeast, down to the country’s Mediterranean coast in the south.
It’s more than just restaurant recommendations: the list of culinary excursions also includes farmers’ markets, wine tastings at vineyards, and even opportunities to spelunk in caves where avant garde winemakers age their wine. It’s perfect fodder for curious gourmands hoping to plan the perfect road trip through France.
The Vallée de la Gastronomie Is France's Tastiest Roadtrip
Greg