Guides

The French region of Poitou-Charentes is located in the west of the country. Only formed in 1956, Poitou-Charentes is one of the newer regions. Famed for its warm summers and mild winters, the area has some of the best weather in France. With its high proportion of hot, sunny days, it makes a great destination for a summer break. The Poitou-Charentes region consists of the central portion of the French Atlantic plain and the hilly inland area behind. The region also contains the foothills of the impressive Massif Central mountain range. Much of the area is agricultural and, in the south in particular, there are many large vineyards. The local grapes are used to produce Cognac... Read more

The Dordogne region of France makes a great destination for a family holiday. There are plenty of attractions for children of all ages and lots for mum and dad to enjoy, too. A largely rural region, with much of the land given over to agriculture, the Dordogne is perfect for a relaxing holiday filled with nature activities. There are numerous self-catering gites scattered about the region and many of them have their own private pool, essential for cooling off in the height of summer. Here are some of the most popular family activities in the Dordogne: Bergerac Aquapark Situated on the Bergerac - Bordeaux road, this picturesque aquapark is a wonderful place to spend a day. Surr... Read more

Midi-Pyrenees is the largest region in France and covers an area larger than the entire country of Switzerland. As you'd imagine, there is plenty to see and do in the area. Bordered to the south by the magnificent Pyrenees mountains, the region provides an alternative to the gites in Alsace which tend to be popular with those wanting to holiday in a mountainous region of France. The region of Midi-Pyrenees only dates back to the last century so many of the towns retain the character and traditions of the regions they previously belonged to.Major Towns and CitiesThe spectacular historical city of Toulouse is by far the largest urban area in Midi-Pyrenees and around one-thir... Read more

The French region of Centre is well-located for exploring central France. This huge region contains rural tranquillity, huge, vibrant urban centres, renowned vineyards and a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. A self-catering holiday offers the freedom to explore as much of Centre as you like and you'll find charming accommodation scattered all over the region. Whether you decide to stay in one of the plentiful rural gites in Burgundy, the neighbouring region, or prefer to stay in the heart of Centre, you'll always be within easy reach of many attractions. Centre is home to the spectacular Loire Valley, often known as the "Market Garden of France". The Loire Valley... Read more

The northern French region of Brittany is the setting of some of the continent's best-loved festivals and celebrations. The Breton calendar is packed with local events and fetes so whenever you go, you're likely to find something going on. If you have your heart set on one of the larger festivals, however, it's a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance as some events draw large crowns. Brittany has a host of self-catering holiday options on offer so there is plenty of choice. From the luxurious villas of the larger resorts to the charming rustic gites in Guebernez and other rural villages, there is something for every taste. Here are some of the main events Brittany... Read more

The Pas-de-Calais region is located in the north-west of France and is ideally situated for a self-drive holiday or long weekend away. Just a short drive from the Calais ferry terminal, you will find yourself transported to a different world. Pretty villages, historical towns and spectacular beaches prevail in this part of France and the fact it's so easy to reach from the UK makes it even more appealing. If you fancy a stay in an idyllic rural gite Pas de Calais has plenty to choose from, meaning you can enjoy the true French experience just a short distance from home. Pas-de-Calais is a very scenic region and much of the area remains unspoilt. The north of the region has a ... Read more

The Lorraine region of France is known for its rich farmland, fast-flowing rivers and dense forests. It is also famous for its food, like so much of the country. Local produce takes centre stage and the numerous markets throughout Lorraine are great for sampling the regional delights. Situated in the north west of the country, the region makes a convenient holiday destination for British tourists and is perfect for those wanting a taste of the "real" France. If you like the idea of staying in a rustic gite Lorraine has plenty to choose from. Many gites are ideally situated within easy reach of countryside walks and pretty towns with their bustling markets. The Food and Drink of ... Read more

The Limousin region is popular among French and international walking enthusiasts due to its varied countryside walks. The area provides some of the best walks in France and is the perfect location for a walking-based self-catering holiday. There are numerous gites in Limousin, many perfectly located for a walking holiday. The Creuse region is one of the most popular walking destinations and is generally considered to have the wildest terrain, with rugged countryside and dense forest areas dotted with tiny, picturesque villages and towns. The Ambazac hills offer some stunning countryside walks and the cool, dark forests offer respite from the hot sun during the summer months.... Read more

From short-stay accommodation for one to long-term rentals for large groups, there is a French gite to suit every traveller or holidaymaker. Rural Gites These are the most popular type of French gite and are the ones most people will stay at. A Rural Gite is generally rented by the week, but some owners will offer shorter stays as well. As its name implies, this gite is usually located in a rural setting, although some will be in or near small towns. Many Rural Gites will have their own pool, making them popular with families and anyone who intends to spend a lot of time at their rental property during the course of their holiday. Camping Gites These gites offer an outdoor exper... Read more

Food and drink is taken very seriously in Corsica, making the French island the ideal destination for those who like to indulge on holiday. Rich meats dishes and light desserts combine to offer the complete Corsican dining experience. The popular local spirit, eau de vie features heavily in Corsican cooking, adding a kick to traditional dishes. Staying in a gite is the ideal way to sample a different restaurant each night of your holiday, rather than being tied to one hotel. With the plenty of gites listed by the tourist body gites de France Corsica has a wide range of self-catering properties to choose from. This article highlights some of the most popular dishes served on this... Read more