Guides

Calvi: The Jewel of Corsica

The Corsican town of Calvi has a long, rich history but today is best known for its excellent food and drink and tourist attractions. If you're looking for traditional rustic gites de France Corsica has plenty to choose from. The size of the island means that it's easy to get around. No matter where you're staying, Calvi will be accessible by either car or public transport and the town is well worth at least one visit during your stay. For the best views in Calvi and possibly in Corsica, a visit to the citadel is a must. Standing on top of a steep hill, the citadel isn't easy to reach but it's worth the effort. Try and avoid walking up the hill in the midday sun if you can as... Read more

Cycling Holidays in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a wonderful choice for a cycling holiday. There are trails and paths suitable for all levels of ability, fitness and experienced. From short, lakeside bike rides to whole days cycling over rough terrain, there is something for everyone. If you're traveling light, you can hire bikes for adults and children from many agencies throughout the Loire Valley area. Many Loire Valley gites are situated near to popular cycling routes so if you're lucky enough to be staying in one of these, you can leave the car behind and explore the surrounding areas entirely by bike. The Massif Central mountain range dominates the Loire region and the lower reaches of the mountains... Read more

An Introduction to the Pays de la Loire

The Pays de la Loire region is located in western France and is one of the more densely populated areas of the country. With lots of towns and villages, there are plenty of attractions and amenities for visitors, making it a popular holiday destination. For those who enjoy holidaying in a gite Pays de la Loire has an abundance of gites and there is accommodation for all budgets and tastes. The historical city of Nantes is the capital of the Pays de la Loire and is a popular day-trip destination. Narrow, winding medieval streets provide shade from the summer sun and the banks of the River Loire, which runs through the city, provide a pleasant setting for al fresco dining and p... Read more

Picturesque Villages and Towns of the Languedoc-Roussillon Region

Languedoc-Roussillon is home to some of the most beautiful towns and villages in France. Many of them date back to medieval times and still have their original narrow streets and half-timbered houses. A car is a must on a holiday here if you want to properly explore the pretty villages and stunning countryside so if you're not driving to France; it's a good idea to hire a car locally. There are countless gites in Languedoc so the region is great destination for a self-catering holiday. Uzès  Uzès is a beautiful town with a history stretching back as far as Roman times. Known for its stunning architecture and picturesque town squares and courtyards, Uzès is a wonderful plac... Read more

The Beautiful Médoc Peninsula

The French region of Aquitaine is famous for its spectacular coastline. The Atlantic Ocean provides some excellent swimming, surfing and water-sport opportunities and with around 150 miles of beaches, there is the perfect stretch of coastline for everyone. The Médoc Peninsula in particular is home to some of best beach resorts in France and is the perfect place for a day out if you are staying in one of the fabulous gites in Aquitaine . The Médoc Peninsula is located to the north and west of the Bordeaux area. As well as its beaches, it's known for its fine wines. Home to many famous vineyards, the region produces some of the world's best-known wines. Away from the vineyar... Read more

Things To Do In Reims

The city of Reims in France's beautiful Champagne region is full of things to see and do. Strong historical connections and wonderful food and drink make this one of the most popular destinations in northern France but it still retains its very French charm. There are many charming gites in Champagne and most are within easy reach of Reims.Notre Dame CathedralBuilt in the 13th Century, this spectacular cathedral is a must-see for anyone staying in one of the gites in Champagne or the neighbouring regions. The structure was seriously damaged in World War I but was lovingly restored back to its former glory in subsequent years. The Palace of Tau next-door to the cathedral is... Read more

The Annual Festivals of Picardy

If you're thinking of holidaying in Picardy this year, why not time your break to coincide with one of the many festivals or celebrations the region plays host to? There are many fantastic events celebrating the food, culture, music and history of the area and, with all the welcoming gites in Picardy, there is never a shortage of places to stay.La Fête Jeanne d'ArcThe Picardy summer season kicks off with the Joan of Arc Festival. The festival takes place in the town of Compiègne and re-enacts Joan of Arc's last visit the area before she was captured in 1430. A local woman plays Joan of Arc and attends a church mass in character before leading a procession through the tow... Read more

A Laid-back Holiday in Languedoc-Roussillon

The Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France is the perfect spot for a relaxing break. Less packed with tourists than the surrounding regions, it is a low-key and affordable area in which to holiday. Its location on the south coast means it enjoys long, hot summers and mild winters so the weather is pleasant for most of the year. Fewer tourists mean more space on the beautiful beaches, on the regional roads and in the local restaurants, even during peak season. The coastline is far wilder here than in neighbouring regions so it's ideal for those who like a more rustic holiday. The bright lights of Nice, Marseille and Toulon are within easy driving distance if you fancy s... Read more

The Best Vineyards in Provence

Provence is one of the most popular tourist regions in France and visitors flock there for the scenery, the countryside, the food and the wine. There are hundreds of gites in Provence and most are within easy reach with at least a handful of vineyards. There are many prestigious vineyards in the region and most are open to visitors. A vineyard tour is a great way to sample new wines and make big savings on bottles and cases. Even if you're not a connoisseur, you might discover a new wine you love. Here are some of the best vineyards in Provence. Domaine de Trevallon Located near St. Remy, Domaine de Trevallon produces some truly original wines. The vineyard consists of north-fac... Read more

Auvergne's Volcano Regional Park

The Volcano Regional Park is the largest nature park in France and covers almost 400,000 hectares of stunning countryside. The central feature of the park is, of course, its volcanoes, but there are also a range of activities on offer. The park is particularly popular with hikers due to its extensive mountain trails and varied scenery. The Volcano Regional Park is located in the region of Auvergne, on the edge of the Massif Central mountain range. The park has four separate chains of volcanoes, all extinct and is a hugely popular destination for French hikers and nature-lovers. The park is 5 miles long so it's always possible to find a quiet, peaceful spot, even in the height... Read more

Holiday Gites and Villas in France - Book Direct

Charente is perfect for family holidays
Mont St Michel, Brittany
Taking the ferry to France is quick and convenient