Horse Riding

We highlight here some of the more popular activities, attractions and places to visit in the Loire Valley region. BALLOONING A relaxing and picturesque way to view the châteaux and river valleys from above; it’s as if the...

A unique way to experience the sublime scenery, cuisine, and history of the region known as "the Garden of France."

1. Faire la fête The south of France is blessed with a glorious summer climate and the locals make the most of it, at festivals which are spread throughout the season. Arts and theatre aficionados are...

The city of Tarbes, in south-western Frances’s stunning Hautes-Pyrénées département, boasts a time-hallowed equestrian tradition. This devotion reaches fever pitch for a few days every summer, during the Equestria festival. A far cry from...

Travellers seeking a laid-back beach experience tend to shy away from the Riviera. Yet, to the west of the glittering towns lining the Côte d’Azur lies a more tranquil counterpart that remains under the...

Home to the largest nature reserve in France, the Vercors's dramatic rockscape and patchwork of rugged valleys are ripe to be explored on foot or by bike – unless you fancy a canter? HIT THE...

Explore the département’s history, heritage, museums, festivals and outdoor activities Related articles: Calvados in Normandy: Tales from the Parisian Riviera Not-to-Miss Remembrance Sites in Calvados, Normandy HERITAGE AND CULTURE As the birthplace of William the Conqueror, Calvados is...

Just 50 miles south of the ferry port of Caen/Ouistreham, Orne lies in the lesser-known Basse-Normandie, awash with rich pastureland, fragrant apple orchards, dense forest, small villages and market towns. 1. THE VERSAILLES OF THE...

Good things frequently come in small packages, but the historic Royal City of Loches would seem to have more than its fair share of goodies. Despite a population of just 7,000, this enchanting town on the banks of the Indre...

Night was falling quickly and, having just navigated the breathtaking, and breathtakingly treacherous, roads over Provence’s jagged Mont Ventoux, I was anxious to reach our destination before dark. Not until the GPS announced two kilometres ahead did tiny Montaulieu appear, a hilltop...