Archive for 'Activities in France'

Have you always wanted to try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing? Have you been browsing our incredible array of villas in Provence? Then, why not combine the two during a dream holiday in this amazing part of France?

Giens is a peninsula located near Hyères in the Var department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region that is an especially stunning stretch of the coastline and is a prime location for all sorts of adventures. Made up of what is essentially a narrow and hilly island connected to the mainland by two sandy strips of land, the peninsula has marshlands and vineyards and is home to lovely sandy beaches, lots of little bays and ports, and a hiking trail along the south side of the island. 

Biarritz is best known as a hot-spot for surfers and anyone who spends time in one of our amazing vacation rentals in Biarritz will see plenty of surfboards being carried down to the coast, skilled experts tackling impressive waves at some beaches, and those just learning to master the sport at the more beginner-friendly strands. So, of course, outdoor-lovers who like to surf will have lots of excellent options in the area but those who want to enjoy the coastline and stay active outside of the water as well will have another great way to explore this part of the world: hiking. In fact, despite this enchanting seaside town being best known as the, “surfing capital of Europe,” there are an array of excellent hiking routes to choose from. So, pack your swimsuit and your hiking books and come enjoy an adventurous getaway in a stunning part of France with a holiday rental in Biarritz...

In the last post, we were discussing the appeal of Biarritz as a seaside town of immense beauty that gives travellers easy access to the wonders of nature from the mighty Atlantic, to pretty beaches, to rocky formations, and much more besides. Many who enjoying getting outdoors and getting active will likely try surfing while in the so-called, “surfing capital of Europe,” but others might want to explore the area on foot as well as while riding waves. If this is the case and you have found a villa in Biarritz, then you are in luck as this wonderful stretch of the Basque Coast is also ideal for those who like to hike. In the previous installation in this guide we introduced some easy and pleasant little hiking trails but if you are looking for more a challenge then the following are some better options:

Art and design lovers will likely already have France down as one of the destinations that can best serve their interests. The unimaginable wealth of museums, design stores, vintage shops, galleries, and more across the country means that there will always be something incredible to see or even buy and bring home with you. And if you have a particular interest in pottery, you’re in luck as many different regions and towns of France have famous pottery traditions. Say, for example, if you were to book a villa in Brittany, then you could head to the captivating town of Quimper...

When one thinks of the French Alps, most likely it is images of winter getaways and ski breaks, hitting the slopes, getting cosy by the fire afterwards, enjoying that après ski lifestyle, and generally atmospheric surroundings that are snow-capped and dramatic. Of course, a ski break in the French Alps is, in fact, a wonderful experience and a great idea. However, this is not the only kind of vacation that you can have in the area and winter is not the only time that this part of the world has an array of incredible charms to enjoy and uncover.

If you plan a vacation in the French Alps come spring or summer or even early autumn you can discover that those same stunning landscapes are equally striking and lovely even when they are not under a magical blanket of snow. Take, for example, the world-famous and beloved Chamonix. Best known as a ski haven it is also a breathtaking and adventurous place to enjoy a holiday during the somewhat warmer months.

But what is there to do if not ski, you might ask? Well, lots, to be honest! However, if you are looking for some inspiration, here are our picks of the best things to see and do if you find a villa in Chamonix and are planning a getaway this spring or summer.