Guides

Languedoc has more than its fair share of stunning beaches but if you are a family with children, it is hard to beat Argells-Plage. If you are lucky enough to be staying in one of the countless gites in Languedoc this summer, grab your beach towel and head for this seaside paradise. Not far from Perpignan and Le Boulou, the beach is popular with locals and holidaymakers alike and provides a friendly, fun atmosphere for families.Boasting over six miles of golden sands, Argells-Plage has space for everyone. Although the busiest parts get crowded in summer, if you head north, you will find a beautiful undeveloped beach and plenty of peace and quiet. This part of the beach backs... Read more

Uzerche is a small but beautiful town located in the Correze department of the Limousin region. Uzerche is often described as "the pearl of Correze" and, once you're lucky enough to spend a bit of time in this picturesque town, you'll see why. With only 3,200 inhabitants, the town is small enough to retain a village charm and enjoys a beautiful setting on the VVzzre River. The surrounding countryside is lush, green and tranquil, making a trip into Uzerche the perfect day out for those staying in one of the many rural gites in Limousin.The town has an incredibly rich heritage and many of its historical buildings remain today. Sections of the 13th Century ramparts that originall... Read more

The largest celebration of Celtic culture in the world takes place in the Brittany city of Lorient every August. If you're lucky enough to be staying in one of the many gites in Guebernez, Dinan, Morbihan or any other Brittany area at the time of the festival, it's well worth a visit to join in the celebrations. The festival lasts for ten days and this year runs from the 2nd to the 11th of August. Performers, artists and spectators from all Europe's Celtic regions flock to Lorient to celebrate, entertain or just soak up the atmosphere. This year, there are countless performers from Britain, including Rivers, Gria, the Keltica Highland Dancers, Kemper Celli and many, many more. S... Read more

Limoges is the capital of the Auvergne region and is probably most famous for its ceramic production. Situated on the river Vienne, the city is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in history, art or culture. The birthplace of the painter Auguste Renoir, Limoges has strong artistic links and this is apparent throughout this fascinating and attractive city. If you're staying in a French gite, you'll probably arrive in Limoges by car. Don't miss the fantastic Benedictins Station, though. Its Art Deco stained glass windows are stunning and, along with other architectural features, make this one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. The Bishops' Palace Museum displays ... Read more

The Pays de Loire city of Nantes was recently named one of the most 'liveable' cities in Europe and if you pay a visit, you will see why. Awarded the title of 'Green Capital of Europe' by the European Commission, Nantes is known for its biodiversity large number of green spaces and excellent and environmentally friendly public transport system. There's another reason to visit, though. Nantes has some excellent restaurants, cafes and bistros, so if you are staying in a gite Pays de la Loire, take advantage of your proximity to this lively city and enjoy a meal out or two. Brasserie La Cigale ( visit site ) Probably the best-known eaterie in Nantes, this traditional brasserie is f... Read more

For those who love the French countryside or just cannot get enough delicious local produce, the open farm network of Aquitaine is not to be missed. The Bienvenue la Ferme organisation is going from strength to strength and welcomes thousands of happy families every year. A network of around 1,000 farmers throughout the region work alongside each other to provide unforgettable experiences on working farms. There are currently 655 farms in Aquitaine which are open to visitors and each offers a unique experience. If you are staying in one of the many rustic gites in Aquitaine, be sure to schedule in a day or two at your nearest members of the farm network. Some farms are open all ... Read more

As one of the most famous champagne producers, Moet & Chandon's name is known all over the world. If you are staying in one of the rustic gites in Champagne, you will no doubt want to pay a visit to at least one producer of this most luxurious and decadent drink. Moet & Chandon offer a polished experience and provide a fascinating insight into the history and traditions surrounding champagne. The cellars at Moet are the largest in the entire Champagne region and cover over 17 miles. On a visit to Moet you will get to explore the atmospheric cellars yourself. The cellars are located some 10 - 30 metres underground and the temperature remains consistent all year round. Lev... Read more

Corsica is famous for many things, its food, its wine, its beaches and having one of the most difficult walking routes in the Med. The GR20 route stretches over 100 miles from Calenzana to Conca and poses a challenge to even experienced walkers. You probably will not manage the entire route in one holiday, but there are several sections suitable for less dedicated walkers. If you do decide to tackle the entire route, you might want to book one of the idyllic rural gites in Corsica for a nice, relaxing break after your undertaking. It is estimated around 17,000 walkers attempt to walk the entire path each year but only around a third of them complete it. Split into 16 stages,... Read more

As the largest region in France, the Midi-Pyrenees has a population of over 2.5 million and attracts many hundreds of visitors each year. Situated between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, the region enjoys a warm climate and is a popular summer holiday destination among French and European tourists. The Departments of Midi-Pyrenees Eight departments make up the Midi-Pyrénées: Tarn, Aveyron, Lot, Tarn-et-Garonne, Ariège, Haute-Garonne, Gers and Hautes-Pyrénées. Midi-Pyrenees is largely rural and the countryside is dotted with charming gites de France which fill up with holidaymakers during the summer months. Getting to the Midi-Pyrenees tends to be easiest by car or by ... Read more

One of the most popular attractions in the whole of France, the Palace of Versailles is a must-see for anyone staying in one of the gites in Ile de France. It was built when Versailles itself was nothing more than a small, rural village. The spectacular Palace is worth a fully-day visit in order that you can fully explore all it has to offer. The Palace has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for over 30 years and attracts visitors from all over the world. The site on which the Palace stands was originally used as a hunting lodge by Louis XIII. His son, Louis XIV expanded and transformed the property and, in 1862, moved the government and royal court into Versailles. Between the... Read more