SIDEQUEST: The De Gaulle Pilgrimage

How to Complete

3 steps curated by Wine Memories

1. 📜 1

   Visit La Boisserie (His Home)

   history $

   De Gaulle's private residence is preserved exactly as he left it — his study, his library, his view of the countryside at La Boisserie estate in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises. This is where he wrote his memoirs after retreating from public life. Entry is approximately €10 for self-guided tours or with audio guide.

   🔄 BACKUP: If closed, the gardens and exterior are visible.

   🍷 Log Memory
2. 📜 2

   Find His Simple Grave

   history Free

   A simple white cross marks his grave — no titles, no honors listed, just "Charles de Gaulle 1890-1970" in the churchyard of Colombey-les-Deux-Églises parish church. His wife Yvonne rests beside him. Walk to the church from La Boisserie (10 minutes) and find the grave in the cemetery.

   🔄 BACKUP: Ask any local for directions - everyone knows.

   🍷 Log Memory
3. ⛰️ 3

   Climb to the Cross of Lorraine Memorial

   Optional

   adventure Free

   A massive Cross of Lorraine — De Gaulle's resistance symbol — stands 44 meters tall and visible for miles on the hill above the village (Mémorial de la Croix de Lorraine). Erected in 1972 as a pilgrimage beacon, climbing to it completes this sidequest. Hike the steep path from the village (20-30 min ascent) for a panoramic view that makes the pilgrimage feel complete.

   🔄 BACKUP: If hiking is impossible, the memorial is visible from the village and equally meaningful.

   🍷 Log Memory

Insider Tips

• ✦

  45 minutes detour from the main Aube trail

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  Closed Tuesdays - plan accordingly

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  The grave simplicity is intentional - De Gaulle refused state honors

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  The memorial museum is modern and well-done

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  Combine with Clairvaux Abbey if doing both on same day

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  French schoolchildren visit constantly - expect groups