France; a country that just screams sophistication and decadence, from its chic capital city of Paris to the glamorous beach resorts of the French Riviera.
Flocked to by people from all across the world, Paris is one of the most romantic and elegant cities on the planet. With iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, the must-visit Louvre museum, long streets lined with designer shops and quaint little cafes filled with trendy locals, Paris is always a good idea – as the famous saying goes.
But if you can drag yourself away from the grandeur and twinkling lights of Paris for a while, there are plenty of other fantastic things to do in France too.
Visit the luxury beach resorts of the French Riviera which have become renowned as the playground for Europe’s rich and famous (try Sainte Maxime as an affordable alternative to St Tropez), explore the many fairytale castles of Normandy and the Loire Valley, or go wine tasting in the vineyards of Provence, Bordeaux or Champagne which produce some of the world’s finest wines.
Plus don’t miss the opportunity to taste France’s world-famous cuisine.
Start your days with a freshly baked pastry, sample as many varieties of cheese as possible – it’s estimated that there are between 1,000-1,500 distinct types of French cheese – then finally treat yourself to dinner at an elegant Michelin-starred restaurant – did you know that France has the most Michelin stars out of any country in the world?
From the sandy beach of the Cote d’Argent to the historic pink city of Toulouse, here’s some France travel inspiration from my travels to help you start planning your next trip.
The Cote d’Argent is a 230-kilometre stretch of pure sandy beach – the longest (and damn sight finest) in Europe. It sits in the southwest corner of France on the Atlantic coast famous for surfing, holidaying, outdoor activities and eating. Locals will tell you that Napoleon loved it here and was the one to initiate … Read more
When people think about the South of France, most would picture the beautiful beaches and resort towns of the French Riviera. But did you know there’s so much more to this amazing region? In particular, the beautiful city of Toulouse, the capital of the South West region of France. Toulouse is an intriguing mix of … Read more
When you think of the ‘French Riviera’ what do you imagine? For most people, it would probably be the glamorous beach resorts of Cannes, the super yachts lining the Port of St Tropez and the prestigious upscale casinos of the micro-state of Monaco. It’s fair to say that the Mediterranean coast of Southeastern France, or … Read more
I love wine. And I especially love Bordeaux wine. How could I not? Bordeaux is one of the finest wine producing regions in the world. But what if you don’t want to go wine tasting in Bordeaux? Or your kids have tagged along (as toddlers are prone to do). Or you’ve ticked off all your … Read more
I’m the kind of person who will find any excuse possible to sup on something bubbly – “What? My second cousin, third removed just found out she doesn’t need a root canal? That requires a celebration.” POP. Whether you’re a woman (or man) after my own heart or whether you prefer save the popping of corks … Read more
When I want to take a trip, I book a ticket, pack a bag (a small one at that) and go. And then I look at my friends with children and watch in awe at the planning, packing, cajoling, refereeing and excitement containing that goes on when they, likewise, take a trip. And that’s not … Read more
It seems a little premature, but as I saw blossom sprouting on the trees this weekend I couldn’t help but feel that spring is in the air and if, like me, that prompts thoughts of travel, perhaps for a short break, I have just the place in mind: Montsoreau in France’s beautiful Val d’Loire (Loire … Read more