Archive for 'Hiking in France'

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.

Those who find a vacation rental in Brittany will quickly discover that the reputation of the region’s stunning coastline has not been exaggerated and, in fact, perhaps is even more impressive in real life. There are endless truly gorgeous beaches, views, towns, tourist attractions, and sights of unparalleled natural beauty to be discovered all across Brittany. However, even among this illustrious list of extraordinary gems, there are some particular stand-outs and Belle-île has to be one of the most notable. A beyond picturesque island, quite literally named for being a beautiful island, it makes for a brilliant day trip for anyone who decides to book a holiday rental in Brittany and begin delving into the immense loveliness of this land. And, with a mild climate year round, Belle-île is a brilliant place to visit no matter when you find yourself on vacation in Brittany. 

Exploring the windswept, beautiful, and dramatic landscape of the region is an absolute must for those who have found a vacation rental in Brittany. It is an utterly picturesque part of the world that rewards those who venture out without any real plan and simply drive or walk and take in all that is around them. However, if you prefer to know for certain what sorts of gorgeous scenes you might take in on your travels, then it is worth taking note of a few different landmarks in the area. There are many worth mentioning in this impossibly scenic part of France, of course, far too many to cover in any single article, but a particularly lovely spot that we think you should take in as you explore Brittany has to be the Phare du Petit Minou, or the Petit Minou Lighthouse, in the commune of Plouzané, facing the Fort du Petit Minou.