10 things you have to see and do in France
- 1. Paris Galleries and Museums.
Paris is more than just the Louvre and the Musée D’Orsay. Seek out some of the less well known museums. You’ll find Asian treasures, medical and anatomical exhibits as well as a wine museum. - 2. Paris flea markets.
It may still be possible to find genuine bargains in many of Paris’ markets. Try the markets at Montreuil and Porte de Vanves or the more, these days, upmarket Puces de St Ouen. - 3. Lascaux.
The caves of Lascaux are the site of France’s most famous set of cave paintings. Discovered in the 1940s this magnificent collection comprises over 600 animal figures being 15,000 to 17,000 years old. - 4. Loire Valley Castles.
These are a group of 42 spectacular castles visited by more than 3.3 million tourists every year. Many sit impressively on the banks of the river in almost fairytale settings in this beautiful part of France. - 5. Vineyard Tours.
Touring a winery or two can provide a fascinating insight into France’s national beverage. - 6. Cycle tours.
What better way to see France than by bike and there are some spectacular routes, ranging from the gentle like along the banks of the Loire to the more strenuous in the foothills of the Pyrenees. - 7. Surfing.
The West Atlantic coast from Brittany right down to the Spanish border provides some fantastic opportunities for surfing and some amazing beaches. - 8. Trips to the Iles.
Just off the northern coast you’ll find the Iles Chausey a very small but inhabited island where bird watching and shellfish gathering are the order of the day. Boat trips leave from Granville. - 9. Dune du Pilat.
Europe’s largest sand dune just has to be climbed to appreciate the views of Cap Ferat. - 10. Normandy Cider trail.
Normandy is renowned for its cider and there’s a 25 mile (40K) route east of Caen offering the chance to sample some of the best along with other apple-based beverages like Pommeau and Calvados.