France has long been the world’s favourite tourist destination, and it doesn’t take a much imagination to understand why. It has some of the highest mountains, the most dynamic cities, the best beaches and a treasure trove of the some of the world’s most famous artistic, cultural and historical artifacts. The wide open spaces and impressive mountain ranges of the French countryside allow for a vast scope of outdoor activities to thrill even the most adventurous traveller. Those seeking more of an urban adventure won’t be disappointed by the vast range of clubs, shops, fashion and music provided by France’s cities in abundance. Combine all of these riches with the most sumptuous culinary scene in the world, and you may be planning your next trip to France before you even head back home.
La Baule-Escoublac – formerly known as La Baule – is a popular resort on the west coast of France. Boasting one of the most beautiful beaches on the country’s Atlantic coastline, La Baule-Escoublac is a chic and sophisticated place with plenty of activities on offer, as well as a range of upmarket accommodation options. The town boasts boutique stores, a golf course and the popular Casino Barriere, while away from the seafront you will discover pine forests and 19th-century villas, some of which can be visited on guided tours. However, it is the nine-kilometre Plage de la Baule that is the centre of activity, with boating, yachting and sailing available, while the gentle slope of the shore makes the beach a great swimming-area for children.
Saint-Martin-de-Re is an atmospheric port town and the historic capital of the French island of Re. The town boasts a rich heritage, fun outdoor activities, and a vibrant array of restaurants, shops, and art galleries, making it a top contender among holiday destinations in the area. Must-see historic sites include the sixteenth-century timbered house of Vinatieri, the Vauban citadel and fortifications, and the L’Hôtel de Clerjotte (the Ernest Cognacq Museum). Climb the hill to the town’s church and bell tower for the best views of the impressive fort design. Gorgeous sandy beaches, alluring cycle paths, and the idyllic Barbette Park make the town perfect for families and sun-worshippers. The idyllic port, vibrant markets filled with locally sourced fresh produce and hand-made crafts, and friendly boutiques add appeal for travellers who seek leisurely pursuits.
A picturesque bucolic landscape of peerless beauty, imposing chateaux, moat-encircled castles, and centuries-old wine-making traditions, the world-renowned Bordeaux Wine Region is a prestigious wine-making terrain centred around the port city of Bordeaux. The region boasts 7500 producers creating over 10 000 different blends of Bordeaux wines. Visitors come from near and far to sample the variety of wines, 90% of which are red, including a vast selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The legendary châteaux such as Haut-Brion and Château Pape Clement are the eminent vineyards at the top of the Bordeaux hierarchy. The bustling port city of Bordeaux is a UNESCO-listed Old Town with wine-related activities in the city—the modern Cité du Vin museum is a gleaming monument to the area’s famous industry.
Resting on the southern banks if the Vezere River, the small village of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, also known as Les Eyzies, is set in the heart of the Vezere Valley in southwestern France. It is known for its archaeological treasures and prehistoric wall art. Visitors can pick up some local souvenirs along the main street which is filled with interesting shops and tourist stalls, visit the Museum of Prehistory, and view the centuries-old Castle Commarque. Highlights include visiting the prehistoric caves such as Font-de-Gaume, home to some of Europes most famous examples of prehistoric cave paintings. Other popular activities include: hiking, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking and horse riding.
