Fantastic France: The home of modern romance

Wednesday, January 16th, 2008

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As the epicenter of western culture and style, the allure of France has been reeling in tourists for over two millennia. For many it has been nothing but a dream, but finally it is affordable to make your dreams come true with our vacation rentals at destinations throughout France. Offering accommodations from The Alps to the French Riviera, we’ve got something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking the romance of Paris or the tranquility of wine country, you’ll find the perfect match in one of our beautiful villas at bargain prices. You can select from any of the regions listed, which are all unique and present visitors with something special that will help to make your dreams come true.

The Alps

The French Alps are as romantic and adventurous as they are beautiful. The French Alps are a world famous destination for skiing and hiking, boasting Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc, reaching 4,807 m (15,771 ft)! The Alps are littered with spas, history-rich cities such as Grenoble, and picturesque views from many vantage points such as the Bastille. The tourism industry is well established here, but still much of the Alps remain remarkably undisturbed. Much of the area is populated by the unique and independent Ski your way through beautiful mountain scenery, sip the local wine at one of the many quaint villages, then take a rest at the spa and soak it all in. Experience the beauty and serenity that made “Sound of Music” so unforgettable!

Aquitaine

 Seated comfortably in the southwestern corner of France, Aquitaine borders Spain and shares a coast with the Atlantic Ocean. It’s home to, The Côte d’Argent, one of the most famous coasts throughout all of France. This region’s culture is the epitome of the French countryside. There are many lakes with golden beaches that you should enjoy during your stay, as well as community tennis courts and fishing areas. Full of seafarers and beautiful vineyards, this region is sure to give visitors more than just a taste of the beautiful countryside lifestyle.

Ardeche/Cevennes/Gard

This amazing region is covered by mountains, lakes, rivers and forests. The lowlands are home to olives and chestnuts as well as dilapidated castles overlooking quaint villages. The beautiful landscape slowly evolves from mountains into rolling hills dotted with beautiful towns nearly as old as France itself. One should explore the many countryside paths and pony stables which will bring the atmosphere full circle. Additionally, bike and kayak rentals are plentiful as well as opportunities to take a dip in the river, with many shallow areas great for kids. For those looking for something unique, take a ride on one of the steam trains; this is a great way to take in all the beauty in the area. Whether it’s simply exploring the countryside, ponying your way through one of the many forest paths or enjoying the view from the train, it’s certain to be an unforgettable experience!

Burgundy

There is something here to suit all tastes with many water features including the ‘Canal de Bourgogne’. Nearby there are droves of sprawling vineyards, while further away to the west you will find wide open spaces as well as many hills and lakes. To the south you’ll encounter hills and lesser known but just as beautiful areas such as the Nièvre region. Surrounded by beautiful Romanesque architecture, visitors will enjoy swimming, walking, and biking as well as tennis and fishing. During May visitors can take part in the national wine fair or partake in the monthly folklore festival held on the first Sunday of each month! Get the most out of Burgundy in the early summer and fall when there are fewer tourists and beauty abounds!

Charente/Vendee

Enjoy the countryside of Charente with its glorious views and notorious small canals surrounded by trees. The wooded banks of the river Charente meet with many towns and villages to create a pleasant waterfront atmosphere. Widely known as the Atlantic Riviera, this region has the highest sunshine record on the west coast of France. Travelers will enjoy the area’s many pastimes such as tennis and riding as well as half or full day boat trips along the Charente river.
With its 300 miles of coastline covered with pristine beaches as well as three gorgeous offshore islands, this region is an absolute paradise.

Cote d’Azur

Widely known as the French Riviera, this coast was first ‘discovered’ by the Greeks more than a millennium ago, leaving behind traces of their settlement which can still be found. The enduring influence of the subsequent Roman colonization is more prominent, leaving ruins such as the arena at La Turbie. This region is, like much of France, is rich with culture and history, while still maintaining its own unique identity. Coastal activities are prominent, however one can enjoy themselves thoroughly by simply visiting one of the town centers and watching some of the locals take part in various games such as ‘boules’. Relax your cares away in the shade while sipping on glass of local wine, sample the delectable cuisine riddled with local olive oil and sumptuous garlic, and enjoy the spectacular views and diverse landscapes as you traverse the rolling hills and learn the ins-and-outs of French living!

Dordogne/Lot

This region is characterized the by beautiful Dordogne river flowing downstream from Souillac to Limeuil, eventually flattening out into yet more of the standard French vineyards. Smaller tributary rivers to the Dordogne are surrounded by small valleys with picturesque scenery which is some of the best in all of France. Stretching out from the riverbanks you’ll find more rugged terrain eventually widening to accommodate vineyards and quaint villages. Visitors will want to hire a canoe and make the pleasant trip down Doedogne river, stopping here and there on the beautiful beaches to enjoy the atmosphere and catch a noon-day picnic. Don’t forget to sample the local wines, especially those from Bergerac and Cahors, which are some of the most famous in the region. Boasting some of the richest history in France as the home of the Hundred Years’ War, visitors will catch glimpses of medieval castles perched upon hilltops throughout the region. Apart from Paris itself, this region is the quintessential French destination. There is much to be enjoyed here, and if you take the time to explore a little bit you can discover the new adventures that await!

Languedoc

Languedoc-Roussillon is full of olive groves and vineyards, which is the norm for the Mediterranean coastal region. This region stretches from Spain all the way to the Western edge of the Rhone river. Here you can experience the wonder of an other-worldly volcanic crater, as well as the granite Caroux Mountains. With tiny villages throughout the rugged cliffs, this area is wholly unique and extremely beautiful. Find your spot on one of the amazing beaches, explore the amazing limestone caverns, or just golf the afternoons away. Here in Languedoc visitors will have virtually endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure!

Paris and surroundings

As the most popular tourist destination in the entire world, Paris is home to 11 million people, including suburban residents. Located in the north of France on the Seine river, Paris has made a reputation for itself the world over. Some say Paris is the birthplace of romance, while others flock to the city to study the history and culture that still influences much of the world’s art and fashion! With more than 30 million foreign visitors annually, this is the destination of choice for most foreigners seeking a glimpse of the stereotypical France. Enjoy one of the many cafes seated on the banks of the Seine, have your portrait sketched in the city center, or just sit and marvel at the traffic buzzing about near the Arc de Triomphe. Paris is absolutely the most amazing city throughout all of France. The beauty and charm far surpasses what visitors expect based on what they have seen in movies or television. There is nothing that can compare to seeing the Eiffel Tower up close or walking through the sanctuary at Notre Dame de Paris; it’s simply marvelous and should be one of the cities you not only visit, but frequent throughout your lifetime!

Provence

Comfortably nestled between the Rhone and Durance, this landscape is overshadowed by the massive Mont Ventoux reaching high at 6,273ft. One can find signs of ancient cultures throughout the area. Of these, the Romans have left the strongest presence, leaving behind monuments such as those at Orange and Vaison-la-Romaine. The hillsides are sprinkled with olive trees, cypress, cedars, and pine, which interweave to present the eyes with a beautiful array of color and variety, as well as emanating with scents of fresh herbs and enchantment. Aside from hiking, walking the beautiful paths, or swimming, travelers have the opportunity to catch the occasional opera or ballet at the Papal Palace at Avignon. Experience the true charm of France at Provence and you’ll never want to leave!

With so many choices it’s definitely difficult to pick just one region to enjoy, but we hope that this information will help you to pick out the region in this beautiful country that suits your dream vacation! Our rentals are placed throughout these beautiful areas so as to provide visitors with the maximum opportunities to really feel like a Frenchman, if only for a short time. Allow us to make your dreams come true and book today!


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