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PortoCity/Region: Corsica
The small seaside resort of Porto is watched over by the 16th-century Genoese Tower standing guard over the fishing harbor, and although crowded in summer, retains a certain charm. It is an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding countryside and spectacular coastline. The Gorges de Spelunca, a spectacular ravine, is popular for its rocky pools, Genoese bridges and hiking opportunities, while the Forêt d'Aïtone is one of the island's most beautiful forests with waterfalls and numerous walking trails.
LourdesCity/Region: Basque Country
Not strictly Basque
country, but part of the nearby Bigorre region, the town of Lourdes is situated in the Hautes-Pyrénées and has been one of the great Roman Catholic pilgrimages since the Virgin Mary allegedly revealed herself to a shepherd girl, Bernadette Soubirous, in 1858. Over five million pilgrims visit the town each year, particularly in August, from the Catholic nobility to the poverty-stricken sick and ailing. Pilgrims are sometimes offended by the commercialization of the shrine (there is a very good trade in candles and Lourdes water) but miracle cures have been documented by the church so it can be assumed this exploitation does not affect the healing properties of the spring in which the afflicted bathe in a grotto. The Virgin is said to have appeared 18 times at the Grotto of Massabielle and mass takes place here every day. The town itself is ancient, and includes several sights of interest. The Fortified Castle was successively a military fortress, a state prison and, in the 16th and 17th centuries, the residence of the counts of Bigorre. There are wonderful panoramic views of the town and the sanctuary from high on the fortifications. Since 1921 the castle has housed the Musée Pyrénéen, which exhibits the art, traditions and history of the Pyrénées. There are some interesting churches in this religious town. The Upper Basilica of the Immaculate Conception was built in 1854; the inside is as impressive as the magnificent exterior. The oval Basilica of Pius X is one of the world's largest churches, its enormous underground chamber can hold as many as 20,000 people. International masses are conducted in six languages, including English, every Wednesday and Sunday at 3.30pm from April to October. The Musée Ste-Bernadette is nearby, as is the house where Bernadette was born which, along with the home of her parents, has become a shrine.
BiarritzCity/Region: Basque Country
Situated in the very southwest of France, Biarritz became famous in the 19th century when Empress Eugenie (the wife of Napoleon III) fell in love with this part of the Basque country and built a Palace on the beach (which is now the world class Hotel du Palais) and a center with natural springs at Eugenie les Bains. The resort became popular with aristocracy from all over Europe - Queen Victoria came here regularly over a period of 30 years, Edward VI stayed in the Hotel du Palais days before his death and in the 1930s Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson were regular visitors. Until the revolution in 1917 the Russian nobility wintered here and built the magnificent Orthodox Church next to the Palace. However, the days of being reserved for high society are long gone and today Biarritz is an affordable, vibrant and cosmopolitan town with magnificent beaches. There are a couple of interesting museums including the Musée de la Mer, which houses 24 aquariums of fish native to the bay; try to visit during the seal feeding time (10.30am and 5pm). The town has good sporting facilities including some excellent golf courses and the best surfing in France. Each summer surfers from all over the world come to ride the waves at the annual Surf Festival. Those after more gentle exercise opt to stroll along Biarritz's principal promenade, Quai de la Grande Plage
.BayonneCity/Region: Basque Country
The capital of Basque country, Bayonne is a beautifully preserved cathedral city, offering narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, small enough to explore on foot. It is divided by the Nive and Adour rivers and is set between the mountains and the sea a few miles up the coast from Biarritz. It is a busy port and commercial center sporting an interesting medieval town center with ramparts and quays and lively markets and festivals. The Bayonne Festival takes place every year for five days from the first Wednesday in August and is an explosion of activity with cow races, bull fights in the Roman arena, candle-lit processions and marching bands. It has two museums: Le Musée Basque, which showcases the traditions, architecture, and decorative arts of the Basque region and Le Musée Bonnat, which displays thousands of drawings and paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries, including works by Rubens, Greco and Ingres.
Saint Jean de LuzCity/Region: Basque Country
A popular seaside resort and active fishing port just above the Spanish border, Saint Jean de Luz is a lively and cosmopolitan town. The lovely medieval town center has been influenced by Spain and the Moors and has a mix of architecture among the narrow streets. Around the main square are some of the best seafood restaurants in the region, as well as other bars and terraces from which to see and enjoy the regular musical events in the square - including a Basque Choir every Sunday morning (summer months only). The newer, more commercial end of town is littered with chic shops and boutiques and a casino.
PauCity/Region: Basque Country
Pau is situated 50 miles (80km) inland, high above the Gave de Pau River, and is a good base from which to explore the Pyrénées and the picturesque little villages of the Bearn region. This year-round resort was popular with the English in the early 19th century (at one time 20 percent of the population was from England) and many customs were imported from across the Channel to become entrenched, including fox hunting and afternoon tea. The town is home to 85,000 people and is the most cosmopolitan city in the western Pyrénées. Panoramic views are to be had from a stroll along the Boulevard des Pyrénées. Worthy sightseeing excursions include the 12th century Chateau de Pau, containing some interesting contemporary artifacts including a crib fashioned from a single tortoise shell. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is worth a peek with a collection of European paintings by the likes of El Greco, Degas, Zurbaran and Boudin. The people of the Pau and the Bearn region are very proud of their language (a variation of Occitan) and heritage and have indulged in friendly rivalry with the Basques of Bayonne for centuries.
St MaloCity/Region: Brittany
The lively resort town of St Malo boasts a colorful history as a fortified island citadel that was once run by corsairs who declared it a republic. Today this port on the English Channel swarms with tourists, its streets choked with tour buses in the summer months and its natural harbor acting as a busy ferry terminal for those crossing between Britain, France and the Channel Islands just to the north. Because of the town's medieval charm many visitors opt to spend a night or two here before their ferry crossing, and are rewarded with a pleasant sojourn behind old city walls in a quaint collection of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. Just a hop and a skip away are some vast clean brown sandy beaches, ideal for family fun. Stroll the ramparts of the great city walls as the sun sets and it is easy to realise why this ancient city is now the most popular tourist destination in Brittany.
DinardCity/Region: Brittany
Opposite St Malo, sitting atop a rocky headland above the Rance, Dinard was a popular spot with the British in Edwardian times; they still visit today for the bracing sea air and a stroll along the promenade. The seafront is lined with Victorian buildings, which ensure the town still retains its elegant and sedate old world character. The main beach is La Grande Plage, a strip of sand between the two peninsulas that define the edges of the old town. It is popular with families and is crowded on hot days. Smaller and more isolated is Plage de St-Enogat, a 20-minute walk east through the village of St-Enogat, or Plage du Prieuré, just a 10-minute walk from town. There is a great difference between high and low tides, and swimming pools along the Grand Plage and the Plage du Prieuré beaches catch seawater during high tides for those who opt not to make the trek along the salt flats during low tides to bathe in the sea.
QuimperCity/Region: Brittany
Brittany's oldest city beckons those who need nothing more from a few days' break than cobbled streets to wander through, a lazy river to cruise gently down, or a wide selection of cafes and bars to sample. The idyllic town of Quimper, spread around the junction of the Steir and Odet Rivers on the western edge of Brittany, serves the purpose well. Fortunately it was spared the bombs of WWII and has escaped too much modern development, so the medieval character remains intact with old buildings overhanging narrow lanes and footbridges. If you can bestir yourself to investigate the local interests take a tour of one of the pottery studios that has been turning out internationally renowned Quimperware for centuries.
CarnacCity/Region: Brittany
One of Brittany's most modern and happening holiday resorts is, ironically, alongside one of Europe's most important, ancient and mysterious archaeological sites at Carnac on the south coast of Brittany, in the Bay of Biscay. Just north of the seaside town hundreds of massive standing stones, even older than Stonehenge or the pyramids of Egypt, are aligned in rows in a field, their original purpose unknown. The nearby Musée de Préhistoire complements these fascinating relics with displays of collections dating as far back as 450,000 BC. The family resort of Carnac Plage is bright and breezy, sporting a sand-duned peninsula, a lovely stretch of beach, plenty of entertainment and fun in the sun facilities.
NantesCity/Region: Brittany
Attractively situated on islands in the estuary of France's mighty Loire River, the solid city of Nantes exudes an air of importance and historical significance. Although not officially part of Brittany any longer, this city has always been regarded as the Breton commercial and maritime center, once a springboard for exciting colonial expeditions, shipbuilding and trading. Today it remains a wealthy industrial port, its architectural heritage reflecting its past achievements, from the medieval remnants in the narrow streets of pedestrianized Bouffay near the castle of the Ducs de Bretagne to the magnificent stained-glass windows of its impressive cathedral. The city also has some good museums including the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which has a fine collection of sculpture and paintings from the 12th to 19th centuries, and Musée de Jules Verne that contains memorabilia of the famous futuristic novelist who was born in Nantes.
La BauleCity/Region: Brittany
Just west of Nantes, La Baule is Brittany's most fashionable and expensive resort. Like most Breton seaside towns, it was the Victorians that first flocked here to play and promenade in the balmy air. Today it is favored by the French rather than foreigners, a popular holiday destination for the Parisian upper-middle-class when they need to unwind. La Baule's inviting five mile (eight km) stretch of white sandy beach provides the perfect place to acquire a summer tan and show off designer beachwear while frolicking in waters warmed by the Gulf Stream. The town itself provides the other holiday necessities: a casino, plenty of shops and boutiques and some excellent bars and restaurants.
AjaccioCity/Region: Corsica
The capital of Corsica, Ajaccio lies in a calm bay on the west coast of Corsica, set against a backdrop of wooded hills. It is a relaxed rather than lively town and visitors come here to enjoy its wealth of cafés, restaurants and shops. The sights here mainly revolve around Napoleon, who was born here. The town's main sights are the magnificent cathedral where Napoleon was christened, the Bonaparte residence and numerous statues and street names related to his family. Corsicans themselves are not particularly proud of the island having spawned Napoleon and many consider him deridingly as a jumped-up Frenchman. Locals in Ajaccio are, however, willing to boast about the Musée Fesch, which contains the art collection of Napoleon's maternal uncle, Cardinal Fesch. The collection of Italian paintings is considered to rate second only to that of the Louvre.
BastiaCity/Region: Corsica
Situated at the northeast of Corsica, Bastia is the island's major commercial center. Despite this the old town has retained its charm; opulent Baroque churches and crumbling pastel houses line the maze of tightly packed streets and alleyways. The Vieux Port is the most photogenic part of town, where old houses tower above the harbor and the reflections from colorful fishing vessels ripple on the water. The citadel perched high on the headland dominates the other side. The harbor comes alive in the evening when tourists fill the waterside bars and restaurants. The pebble beaches below town tend to be very crowded in summer and sun seekers are advised to head further south where a sandy shore extends for miles down the east coast of the island.
Cap CorseCity/Region: Corsica
North of Bastia is Cap Corse, a 25-mile (40km) peninsula edged with quiet and quaint fishing villages. The peninsula is divided by a narrow spine of mountains, which rise over 3,000ft (914m) above sea level. On the east side of the mountain spine a series of small villages cuddle into coves, while on the west coast the settlements cling precariously to rugged cliffs battered by wild waves. The peninsula's best stretch of sandy beach is Plage de Tamarone, near Macinaggio. A favorite with visitors is the picturesque village of Centuri, while hikers head for the many walking trails like the well-known Sentier des Douaniers. Make sure the camera is loaded for visits to the panoramic viewpoints of Capo Grosso, Moulin Mattei and the Tour de Seneque, above Pino. The vineyards of Patrimonio are renowned, particularly for their muscat, and most wineries welcome visitors for wine tasting. The wine route, or 'route des vins', is signposted from St-Florent.
BonifacioCity/Region: Corsica
The ancient town of Bonifacio at the very southern tip of Corsica dates from 833, but there is nothing old-fashioned about the tourist trappings and commercialization of this buzzing haven that attracts huge crowds, particularly in summer. The visitors come for the magnificent setting, for the town sits atop a narrow limestone peninsula, the bright white cliffs plunging into the cerulean blue Bouches de Bonifacio strait which separates Corsica from Sardinia, just seven miles (11km) away. The most scenic way to approach Bonifacio is by boat, through the channel, almost a mile long that protects the town's beautiful natural harbor. No wonder that the buzzing marina attracts yachts from all over the world, as well as ferries and passenger boats packed with tourists from Sardinia and elsewhere. Alternatively you can fly in from Marseille or bus from the other Corsican towns. The Italian-flavored town boasts quaint medieval architecture, offset with the requisite cafes, restaurants and boutiques catering to the tourist trade. The old town and citadel, built in the 12th century by the Genoese conquerors, is reached up a long, steep flight of steps. The citadel has been put to use in modern times as headquarters for the French Foreign Legion, which was based here between 1963 and 1983. There are diversions aplenty in the town and surrounds, ranging from watersports of all sorts to be enjoyed at the nearby Plage de Piantarella, to some splendid golf courses and boat trips to the offshore Archipel des Lavezzi island group.
CorteCity/Region: Corsica
For a change of pace on your island holiday pack some hiking boots along with your swimsuit and head for the dramatic Corsican hinterland. Corte lies marooned in the center of Corsica surrounded by dramatic granite mountains. This independent and proud town has long epitomised Corsican nationalism - for a short time in the 18th century it was the capital of Pascal Paoli's short-lived Corsican state. Now a university town, it remains dominated by the Haute Ville (upper town) and its forbidding citadel, site of the Musée de la Corse, the islands premier museum. It easy to spend a morning here wandering around the narrow cobbled streets or soaking up the atmosphere in one of the many bars and cafés that line the main street. Corte is an excellent base for exploring the island's wonderful mountain scenery. A few miles to the southwest, near Bergeries de Grotelle, walkers will find a number of glacial lakes and around Valée de la Restonica are a series of stunning natural gorges and basins with refreshing swimming spots. Buses and trains connect Corte with Ajaccio, Bastia and other towns on the island.
BalagneCity/Region: Corsica
The inland area along the northwest coast of Corsica has been renowned since Roman times as an orchard of olive, fig and orange trees and the breadbasket of the island, crisscrossed by a network of narrow, winding roads. Tiny villages such as Sant'Antonino and Speloncato perch high above the countryside built around rocky outcrops, while others along the Artisan's Route, like Pigna, proudly display their traditional crafts such as pottery and stringed instruments. Set beneath a wall of imposing jagged mountains that remain snow-capped until July, the rocky coastline of the Balagne area shelters a string of stunning white sand beaches and an old fishing settlement now turned into one of the island's most popular resort towns at Calvi. In the shadow of its citadel built by the Genoese, Calvi bathes in the legend of Christopher Columbus whose birthplace it is said to be. It was during an attack on Calvi that another famous mariner, Lord Nelson, lost his eye. Not far away from this historic and compact gem can be found another port town, Ile Rousse, founded by Pascal Paoli in direct contrast to Calvi, which he felt was too Genoese. Many of the settlements along this coast have been developed into busy holiday villages, however the stunning scenery and idyllic beaches more than compensate for the crowds. Trains connect Calvi and Ile Rousse with Ajaccio and Bastia. Buses are also available.
CannesCity/Region: Côte d'Azur
Today it is hard to imagine that the quintessential glamorous French Riviera resort of Cannes was for centuries a simple, sleepy fishing village whose only visitors were monks and wealthy pilgrims who came to visit the monastery on the nearby Island of St Honorat. All this changed in 1834 when Lord Henry Brougham, former British Chancellor of the Exchequer, arrived and established the city as a popular up-market holiday resort for the British upper classes. Soon the French and later the Russian aristocracy also flocked to Cannes to while away their summers. Each May the world's press flocks to Cannes for its annual Film Festival, which draws the world's celebrities and super-stars along with the paparazzi and expectant fans hoping to glimpse the rich and famous at the Palais des Festivals. Cannes may be synonymous with the annual Film Festival, however hundreds of less exceptional international conferences take place here each year, making rooms hard to find and restaurants hard to book for much of the year. Cannes is busy all year round, frequented by hosts of business travelers off-season and besieged by tourists in the summer, when the long sandy beaches, glitzy nightclubs, chic shops and the famous promenade are abuzz with beautiful people flaunting the latest designer wear. Despite the city's pretensions and massive over-development, Cannes is still an international city of charm and good cheer.
St TropezCity/Region: Côte d'Azur
St Tropez has long held the reputation of being the 'black sheep' of the renowned French Riviera resort towns, where anything goes, the more sinful the better. Sexy starlets were flaunting themselves topless here back in the 1930s, long before the beautiful people dared disrobe elsewhere, and St Tropez' reputation as a kinky carnival town attracting the more bohemian members of the 'in' crowd continues to this day. The fairly inaccessible fishing village of St Tropez, sited on a peninsula, was 'discovered' late in the 19th century by a bunch of reprobate writers and artists, and its reputation as a flamboyant and fashionable resort quickly spread. There is little left of the medieval Provencal atmosphere of the original town, but behind the rows of yachts fronting the terraced cafes of the waterfront are some narrow, picturesque streets full of shops. The hub of the town is the Place aux Herbes, a busy enclave of fish, fruit, vegetable and flower stalls, where the tourism office is located.
Aix-les-BainsCity/Region: French Alps
Aix-les-Bains is a popular and fashionable family resort and spa town located on the eastern side of Lac du Bourget, the largest natural freshwater lake in France. Although the lake is icy cold, you can sail, fish, play golf and tennis, or picnic on the parkland at the water's edge. The main town of Aix is two miles (3km) inland from the lake and has been built around its thermal springs. Many small hotels line the streets, and streams of visitors take to the baths each day; in the evening, for a change of pace, they play the slot machines at the casino or attend tea dances.
Evian-les-BainsCity/Region: French Alps
Évian, on the southern end of Lake Geneva, is famous for its famous mineral waters, which have been bottled since the early 18th century. Many of the French have second homes in Évian, but visitors come to this chic resort principally to enjoy the creature comforts and spa facilities of its deluxe hotels.
AnnecyCity/Region: French Alps
Situated 80 miles (129km) east of Lyon, Annecy has a magical setting on the shore of Lake Annecy at the foot of the Alps. It has been called the Venice of the Alps because of the web of canals that cut through its old town. Annecy is probably the best base for touring the Haute-Savoie region. Just six miles (10km) to its west is Gorges du Fier, a dramatic river gorge. A gangway takes visitors through a narrow gully that has been cut by a torrent of water over the eons; you can hear the roar of the river below. Emerging from this labyrinth, you'll be greeted by a huge expanse of boulders. The site is closed to the public between mid-October and mid-March. Visitors can also take a cruise on the ice-blue lake for which the town is famous.
MegeveCity/Region: French Alps
Megève exudes old-world charm; the small village is huddled around the old church, a medieval tower and the town hall. Among the narrow streets and small squares are antique shops, crowded bistros and old-fashioned butcheries and bakeries. Unlike many French resorts it has remained fairly exclusively French; the upper crust make Megève their winter home when the
mistralforces them to leave the Riviera. Furs are the coats of choice for strolling past the trendy boutiques and excellent restaurants. For skiers Megève is fairly uninspiring but Chamonix and Argentiere are within striking distance.
Val d'IsereCity/Region: Ski Resorts
Val d'Isere is one of the true European ski Meccas; it has some of the best, and highest, on and off-piste skiing in the world. The resort is linked with Tignes, and between them they have about 193 miles (310km) of marked runs for every level of skier. Both resorts were developed, rather badly, in the 1970s, and large square hotels dominate the town, although recent developments have succeeded in creating a more attractive feel. However, Val d'Isere remains popular with the English due to the great skiing and busy nightlife. There are also plenty of good French restaurants to choose from. The village is becoming increasingly busy in the summer when tourists flock there for walking or paragliding.
Trois ValleesCity/Region: French Alps
Le Trois Vallées is the largest ski area in the world and is made up from the linked valleys of Courcheval, Meribel, Les Menuires and Val Thorens. Courcheval is actually three resorts named after their heights, Courcheval 1850 and 1650 are the most exclusive and expensive in the Trois Vallées. Meribel is the middle valley and is the most popular option with families; the slopes here are easier to navigate. It was founded by the British, and English is spoken everywhere. Val Thorens has the highest skiing slopes but it is an ugly resort with large grey apartment blocks providing the background; however it is the favored destination of many German tourists. The combined ski area comprising the Three Valleys is excellent for beginners and experts alike. There is also a good variety of off-piste skiing when the conditions are right.
La PlagneCity/Region: Ski Resorts
La Plagne is a vast ski resort with an enormous vertical drop of 6,562ft (2,000m), double that of Aspen for example. One of Europe's largest resorts, La Plagne is made up of 10 different 'villages', six purpose built and four traditional that are connected by public conveyances and a lift system. As such it can boast the largest ski area of any single resort in the world, and its linked trail system (Paradiski) with Les Arcs means there are now 261 miles (420km) of trails and 144 ski lifts. This high altitude resort centers on apartment life; there are few hotels and its convenience makes up for its lack of charm. The highest complex at Aime La Plagne is 6,890ft (2,100m) is considered to be the most convenient with many of the best apartments, while the lowest mountain village, at 5,906ft (1,800m), is the neo-Savoyard Plagne 1800. The largest complex with the liveliest atmosphere is the original Plagne Center, one of the first villages in Europe to be built catering specifically for the skiing season. The lifts are near to the accommodation and you can generally ski to your door. For beginners and intermediates, this is the best of the European ski resorts.
ToursCity/Region: Loire Valley
Located at the junction of the Loire and the Cher Rivers, Tours is a great base for exploring the valley. The town was badly bombed during the last war and many buildings were replaced with ugly apartment blocks. The town however is surrounded by magnificent châteaux and is a fun place to spend the evenings; the streets and bars are filled with locals and tourists and the huge student population adds to the vibrancy. Within the city the Cathedral is worth a visit. Its flamboyant Gothic façade is flanked by towers dating from the 12th century, inside are some glorious 13th-century stained-glass windows and the handsome 16th-century tomb of Charles VIII and Anne de Bretagne's two children. There is also a fine provincial museum, in the Palais des Archevêques, with a number of Old Masters works' including those by Degas, Delacroix, Rembrandt, and Boucher.
AngersCity/Region: Loire Valley
Angers straddles the Maine River towards the west of the Loire Valley and is a popular base from which to explore the local sites and the surrounding châteaux country. It is a busy regional center and university city with an air of sophistication. Like Tours, Angers was badly damaged during World War II. Much of it, however, has been lovingly restored and it remains a pleasant, amiable town with a lively atmosphere. Top sights include the intriguing museum, Musée Jean Lurçat, which is known for its famous tapestry
Le Chant du Monde,and the Cathedral with its beautiful 12th-century nave and famous stained-glass windows, also dating from the 12th century. However Angers' most prominent attraction is the Château d'Angers.
OrléansCity/Region: Loire Valley
Orléans was badly damaged during World War II and is now a shadow of its former glorious self. Its long history stretches to a time before the Romans but its most famous event was Joan of Arc's deliverance of the city from the English in 1429 that is remembered most fervently with Joan of Arc Day celebrated each year on the 8th of May, when the town makes merry with street parades in medieval style.
BloisCity/Region: Loire Valley
Much of the historic ambience of medieval Blois remains preserved in its white-washed houses and narrow cobbled alleys, but modernity has impacted quite severely on this, the noble former seat of the dukes of Orléans. Tourists still flock here, however, to visit the magnificent chateau, now encircled by a traffic-laden highway but none the less spectacular for this infringement. This beautiful castle witnessed the murder of the duc De Guise by Henri III, and is renowned for its awesome 13th century hall. Those into chateaux can make excursions from Blois to some other gems in the nearby countryside, including the well-known Chateau de Chambord.
AmboiseCity/Region: Loire Valley
On the banks of the Loire, 20 miles (32km) east of Tours, is the Renaissance town of Amboise. Historic and beautiful it attracts tourists by the busload but this doesn't detract from its charm. It has been the favorite residence of Leonardo de Vinci, Charles VIII and Mick Jagger, who owns a nearby château. Charles VIII's château dominates the town and is an impressive fusion of Renaissance and Gothic styles that is built on a rocky spur separating the valleys of the Loire and the Amasse. The original 15th-century entrance opens onto a terrace with a panoramic view of the river. The castle fell into decline after the revolution and less than half of the original structure still stands. However many grandly furnished rooms remain, including the Kings' apartments, which are open to visitors. Leonardo da Vinci was invited here by François I to encourage the French Renaissance. He made his home at the Clos-Lucé, which is now a museum to his work with 40 models based on his drawings on display - including flying machines and a wooden tank. To the east of Amboise are some children's museums, including the Mini-Châteaux, a two-hectare (five-acre) park with models of the great Loire château. An excellent aquarium is also situated nearby.
DeauvilleCity/Region: Normandy
Deauville is the only Norman resort to have any delusions of grandeur. It is at the heart of the Norman Riviera, which in the late 19th century was particularly popular with elite Parisians. It is still known as the 'lady' of the French coast, and it was a very fashionable lady, in the form of Coco Chanel, who launched both her own career and the quality status of Deauville as a seaside town when she opened a boutique selling her avante garde pill-box and cloche hats to Edwardian ladies bowed under the weight of huge, elaborate millinery creations. Although the town is overrun with tourists and the Edwardian splendor is fading, some of Chanel's stylish elegance survives in Deauville. The town hosts numerous events including regattas, race meetings and polo tournaments and offers many diversions in the form of casinos, golf courses and exclusive shops. There is a strip of beach, the Plage de Deauville, which on warm days is packed with sunseekers. Nearby Trouville is a smaller and less glamorous version of Deauville.
Les ArcsCity/Region: Ski Resorts
A modern, purpose-built ski resort, Les Arcs comprises four resort villages situated above the town of Bourg-Saint-Maurice, all linked by a free shuttle bus. Named after their respective altitudes, Arc 1600, Arc 1800 and Arc 2000 are built with glass and concrete apartment buildings, purposefully designed with convenience in mind, while the latest addition to the resort, Arc 1950, has a more traditional guise and a typically European village style. The large and diverse network of well-groomed pistes more than make up for any lack of charm however, and the highest station at Aiguille Rouge Peak (10,584ft/3,226m) guarantees excellent snow conditions from December to April. Its vast trail system has been linked to that of La Plagne making the combined Paradiski area one of the largest interconnected ski and snowboard areas in the world. Arc 1800 is the biggest and most popular resort, consisting of four villages, and is the most conveniently situated for all levels of skiers and non-skiers, while just below, Arc 1600 is smaller, and suited to young families, although it can get crowded on weekends (direct funicular link to the town of Bourg Saint Maurice). More devoted snow enthusiasts prefer to head to the highest resort, Arc 2000, situated at the foot of Aiguille Rouge in the next valley, where the emphasis is on skiing and snowboarding rather than apres-ski facilities. It has easy access to the glacier and is linked to Arc 1950 by a free cable car.
RouenCity/Region: Normandy
The capital of Normandy, Rouen is a center of industry and commerce; it is the fifth largest port in France and the closest one to Paris, split, like that city, into a right and left bank area by the River Seine. Rouen is also one of France's most historic cities; William the Conqueror died here in 1087 and in 1431 it was the stage for the trial and execution of Joan of Arc. She was burned at the stake in the Place du Vieux-Marché (the Old Marketplace); the position is still marked by a huge bronze cross. Allied bombing largely destroyed the city; all of its bridges and many of its great churches were ruined, however substantial investment has been focused on restoring parts of the city to its former medieval glory. The great Cathédrale Notre-Dame, immortalized by Monet, remained fairly unscathed and is well worth a visit for its wonderful stonework. Especially interesting is the Chapelle de la Vierge, where the heart of Richard the Lion-Heart is entombed as a token of his affection for the people of Rouen. The chapel also contains the Renaissance tombs of the cardinals d'Amboise. There is no shortage of attractions in Rouen; dozens of churches and some fine museums can be explored including the Musée des Beaux-Art, which is one of France's best provincial museums and includes the works of great French artists such as Veronese, Velasquez, Caravaggio, Rubens, Poussin, Fragonard, and Monet (including several versions of his Rouen Cathedral).
Aix-en-ProvenceCity/Region: Provence
Marseille may well be the dominant metropolis of Provence but Aix-en-Provence, just 15 miles (24km) inland, is arguably the cultural and tourism capital of the province. Historically and socially the two cities are, however, at odds. Aix (pronounced 'Ex') is a stunningly beautiful university town whose riches are based on agriculture and academia rather than on heavy industry. The residents of Aix are sophisticated, regarded by their counterparts in Marseille as being snobbish on a par with Parisians. Aix was founded in 122 BC by the Romans and became the capital of Provence, then an independent country. The famous King René of Anjou (1409-80) ruled during this period. He was well known as a patron of science and the arts and was very popular for his love of wine and festivities. After the union of Provence with France and until the Revolution, Aix remained the judicial and administrative headquarters of the region. The town has been the inspiration to many great writers and painters including Guigou, Stendhal, Mistral and Zola. Most famous of all is undoubtedly Paul Cézanne, who was inspired by the Provence countryside to produce his masterpieces, some of which can be seen in his hometown at the Musée Granet, in the Quartier Mazarin. Visitors can also call at his studio close to the town. Aix possesses a wealth of superb architecture that has been carefully preserved and restored. Walking through the Cours Mirabeau and the Rue Gaston de Saporta visitors can admire the private mansions with their sculptured doors and windows and the intricate ironwork on the balconies. On the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance is the ancient Cathedral and in the neighboring archbishop's palace is the Musée des Tapisseries.
AvignonCity/Region: Provence
Situated on the River Rhone, Avignon is famed for being the Vatican of the 14th century; six successive Popes resided here from 1309 making it one of Europe's largest and most important cities of the time. The papacy retreated back to Rome in 1378, but this was just the beginning of a battle between the Italian capital and Avignon for control of the Church's riches and power. Altogether Avignon was the seat for nine Popes, until the last, Pope Benedict XIII, fled into self-exile in 1409. Without the Pope, the city went into a decline that has been exacerbated ever since by floods, fire, the plague and the Le Mistral, the harsh wind that whistles down the Rhone valley in winter. Avignon supposedly was named by the Celts who gave the area the name 'Avenio' or 'the town of violent winds'. Despite all this, Avignon has one of the best-preserved centers in France. Piercing the skyline are the beautiful spires of the Palais des Papes, and along the cobbled streets are countless richly decorated buildings, ancient churches, and spectacular monuments and museums. Imposing medieval walls, built in 1403 by Pope Benedict, enclose the old town. The yearly Avignon Festival draws performers and art enthusiasts from all over France every July. Despite the huge influx of tourists, which double the town's population of 100,000, this is a wonderful festival and a must-see for anyone in the area.
ArlesCity/Region: Provence
Arles sits on a low hill where the Rhône River branches in two parts to the sea. The town dates back to the 7th century BC and is best known for its amazingly well-preserved Roman arena, Les Arènes, (which is still used and can seat 20,000) in the heart of the city, but there are also many other interesting Roman and medieval ruins. The sites are unique in that they are integrated into the houses and buildings of the town, rather than sitting apart as they do in other towns. The palatial 17th-century Hôtel de Ville, on Arles' central Place de la République, was inspired by Versailles. Its vast entrance hall is built on top of Cryptoporticus du Forum. This vast, dark, dank and wonderfully spooky underground gallery was built by the Romans, possibly as a barracks for public slaves. Across the Place de la République is the Cathédrale St-Trophime whose doorway is one of the most magnificent examples of 12th-century Provençal stone carving in existence. The center of Arles is truly medieval in character, with its narrow streets winding between the ancient buildings. Van Gogh spent a year in the city in 1888 and produced almost 200 paintings of the town and surrounding area during one of his most prolific periods. Arles is a rather sedate town with little to offer in the way of excitement. Its busiest time is during the Saturday market.
CourchevelCity/Region: Ski Resorts
Courchevel is made up of five separate resorts, all within the Trois Vallées ski area, which also incorporates Meribel and Val Thorens. The main resorts are named after their heights - Courchevel 1850, 1650, 1550 and Le Praz 1300. La Tania is another, small purpose-built resort situated on a ridge between Courchevel and Meribel. Courchevel 1850 is the smartest and most expensive of the resorts; it has the best restaurants, nightlife and access to the slopes. Courchevel 1650 and 1550 are quieter, more suited to families, and Le Praz is a pretty village with narrow streets, but due to its altitude has less reliable snow.
MeribelCity/Region: Ski Resorts
Meribel is in the center of the Trois Vallées, which also incorporates Courchevel and Val Thorens. Together they form the largest ski area in the world. Unlike most French ski resorts, Meribel has retained an atmosphere of the traditional skiing village, despite having grown enormously in recent years. Meribel-Mottaret is situated two miles (4km) up the valley and is better suited for the skiing, but not the nightlife. The resort was founded by the English early in the last century and is still very popular with Brits.
Val ThorensCity/Region: Ski Resorts
At over 7,500 feet (2,200m), Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in the Alps and offers guaranteed ski-to-door accommodation. Along with Meribel and Courchevel it forms the famous Trois Vallées ski area. Val Thorens is a fairly ugly purpose-built resort, but its exceptional snow reliability and wide choice of skiing makes it hard to beat for the ski enthusiast.
ChamonixCity/Region: Ski Resorts
Chamonix sits in the shadow of Mont Blanc and offers some of the most challenging skiing in Europe. The town is in the center of a string of villages spread out along a valley cutting deep through the Alps; the village of Argentiere is six miles (10km) up the valley, beneath the renowned Grands-Montets slopes, and Les Houches is a small resort a few miles below. The huge variety of on- and off-piste skiing in Chamonix attracts ski bums and serious weekend skiers (the town is only 50 minutes drive from Geneva) and this is reflected in the sportive atmosphere in the bars and restaurants.
TignesCity/Region: Ski Resorts
Albeit a purpose built resort with unattractive architecture, Tignes is one of Europe's highest resorts and offers the best snow conditions in the Alps with excellent snow cover and a place to ski almost year round thanks to the high-altitude Grand Motte glacier. An excellent lift system links the resort to its neighbor Val d'Isère and together they form the vast ski area known as Espace Killy, with 193 miles (310km) of lift-linked trails and an area that is regarded as one of Europe's best and most beautiful ski areas. Tignes is made up of three villages: Val Claret is the highest and is situated at the foot of the glacier; Tignes Le Lac with its stunning setting on the lake is the largest, and the modern Tignes Le Lavachet is further down. Two small villages below, Tignes Les Brévières and Tignes Les Boisses, are directly linked to the ski area and provide a more traditional atmosphere with charming chalets, narrow streets and picturesque churches. All five villages are connected by a free bus service.
MorzineCity/Region: Ski Resorts
The traditional mountain village of Morzine is situated in the middle of one of the most extensive ski areas in the Alps, the Portes du Soleil, which links 14 ski resorts in France and Switzerland, and offers hundreds of miles of off-piste terrain and groomed slopes, and runs up to seven miles (11km) long, spread across 14 valleys. It is a great family resort with traditional chalets, special childcare services, and plenty of beginner and intermediate slopes in the vicinity, as well as family-orientated activities. Advanced skiers and boarders will also find endless off-piste opportunities and ample challenges on the black slopes. About a mile higher up the slope is the purpose-built resort of Avoriaz, which is a popular base for trips across the border to the Swiss resorts, and its treeless slopes offer powder snow and great boarding.
FlaineCity/Region: Ski Resorts
Probably because it was purpose-built, Flaine is one of the most user-friendly ski resorts it is possible to find: compact, with easy access to the pistes, and a location that ensures exceptional snow conditions. Consisting of concrete apartment blocks built on three levels along the slopes, at an altitude of 5,250ft (1,600m), in the center of a natural bowl, this, the youngest resort in the French Alps, may not sound particularly appealing. Flaine may not present the archetypical image of the Alpine village, but it has been architecturally designed for comfort and convenience, and visitors are amazed at how the buildings blend in with the limestone of their surroundings. The three levels, Flaine-Foret, Flaine-Forum and Flaine-Front de Neige, are connected by elevators and pedestrian trails. The center is car-free, with restaurants, bars and services grouped around two central shopping plazas. All activities are either close and easily accessible, or in the resort center. There is also a cultural center where classical and jazz music events are scheduled, a library and art gallery. Children are particularly well catered for. Flaine is situated beneath Mont Blanc, near Geneva, at the gateway to 'Le Grand Massif', one of the best ski and snowboard areas of France. From the nursery slopes, to an easy glide on the 8.5-mile (14km) blue Cascade run or the off-piste challenge of the Combe de Gers, Flaine is a trend-setting family-orientated resort that caters for all levels of skiers and boarders.
Disneyland ParisCity/Region: Paris
The blueprints for Disneyland may have been developed in the United States, but the world's favorite theme park concept has transported exceedingly successfully to Europe. Situated 20 miles (32km) east of Paris, Disneyland Paris (also known as EuroDisney) is a vast complex of hotels, restaurants and shops together with the exciting theme park. Fundis have it that Europe's Disneyland is actually better than its US counterparts, boasting more modern technology and existing in the ambit of less control and different safety regulations. Then, too, EuroDisney has also unavoidably picked up a European flavor which adds charm and intimacy to the entire experience.EuroDisney actually consists of two theme parks. The Disneyland Park, based on California's iconic Magic Kingdom, boasts 42 awesome attractions. The other, the Walt Disney Studios, is more recent and follows the trend of the Disney MGM Studios in Florida, USA, using movie-like settings for its thrill rides and experiences. Adults and children alike become enchanted and enthralled as they explore fantasy neighborhoods bristling with Disney characters, and stop to take in the spectacle of the day and night parades.Most visitors come to EuroDisney on a package deal that includes hotel accommodation on site and passes to enjoy the shows and attractions. At least two days are required to make the most of the Disney magic, and there will still be plenty left for a second visit!
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