PLACES TO GO

The magic of Blois is obvious from the moment you see the Château de Blois. There’s art, architecture, science, nature and (yes, quite literally) magic.

Sète is a seaport in the southern region of Occitanie. It’s known as ‘the little Venice of Languedoc’ due to its position between the Mediterranean and the beautiful Etang de Thau (Thau Lagoon) and because of its extensive canal network. Sète is for stunning views and seafaring history; and Sète is for seafood.

Next time you throw an orange peel into the rubbish bin, spare a thought for two brothers from Brittany who used those peels for a more sublime purpose.

Step over the border from Provence, and find Nîmes. It’s often referred to as ‘the ‘French Rome’. It’s the third largest of Occitanie’s cities. Visit for a day, from Avignon or Arles, to see the major sites. But stay longer if you can. Nîmes is a brilliant place to look and learn. There’s plenty to do and enjoy. You’ll also find answers to the age-old question: What did the Romans ever do for us?

The best wine from Beaujolais is luscious and fruity. The Gamay grape, which thrives in the region’s granite-based soils, produces wines light in body, high in acidity and with explosive fruit flavours. These wines are often characterised by fresh and juicy red fruit flavours, such as cherry, raspberry and strawberry,…

Toulouse is often called ‘The Aerospace Capital of Europe’. It’s home to giant aeronautical companies but there’s a lot more to see and do in the city.

Amiens is on the banks of the Somme River. Its picturesque landscapes and charming towns saw some of the worst conflict of WW1 and can tell a story of winning and losing. Now, though, Amiens is the prize of Picardy.

Step one: plan to see the best bits of Bordeaux first. Step two: plan to see the rest. Hang on, they’re the best bits, too. Step three: plan for a longer stay. You’ll love your time in Bordeaux.

Experience Mont Saint-Michel, one of France’s most famous landmarks. It’s a beautiful and captivating island location that has intrigued visitors for centuries.

The ancient Romans said Bourges was one of the prettiest cities in Gaul. You’ll agree. It is indeed ‘Beautiful Bourges’ and there’s plenty there to see and do.