For many a tourist, France beings and ends in Paris – and while the city is undoubtedly the ‘star’ attraction of France, for a traveler, the French country side has much more to offer. This truly unique personalized experience will take you from the glamour of Paris, to the majestic chateaux of the Loire valley, from there on to Brittany, where medieval walled cities such as Vitre and Vannes take you back in time – then on to the stunning St. Michel and finally into Normandy – known for some of the best gastronomic experiences in France.
No other city in the world comes close to Paris in its grandeur, glamour and romance – we spend at least three full days in ville d’amour – trying to soak in as many of the sights and monuments we can, knowing fully that to fully experience Paris may need almost a year, if not more!
Take a tour of some of the largest, most extravagant and truly magnificent of the French chateaux, including the king of them all – Chateau de Chambord – all scattered like jewels along the Loire valley, which itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – an architectural treat for the eyes and the camera!
Gasp at the megaliths of Carnac – ancient granite blocks, arranged in intriguing patterns, dating back to 4000 BC
Lose yourself in the walled cities of Vitré, Vannes, Concarneu & St-Malo, and transport yourself in history to experience the medieval life
Visit and wonder at Mount St. Michel – surrounded by sea, it is one of the most enchanting sights in France
A haven for connoisseurs of fine seafood, cheese and elixirs of life – Taste some of the finest of French cheeses, which come from this region – including the most popular Camembert and splurge on the fine wines, calvados, Benedictine and the ever -so-special cidre
Live in a Troglodyte Dwelling – hotels built in caves, cut out of cliff faces
When to Travel – Like most European countries, summer and fall are the best times to travel to France – this is when the days are long, and it’s fairly dry in the areas where this itinerary takes us.
From mid-May to early-
October is recommended, although it does get a bit cool toward the end.
The backroads of France are home to many prehistoric sites, including the famous Lascaux Cave in the Dordogne region
France is famous for its medieval castles, many of which are located in the countryside and can be visited by car
Brittany has a rich folk music tradition, with instruments like the accordion and the bagpipes
No other city in the world comes close to Paris in its grandeur, glamour and romance – we spend at least three full days in ville d’amour – trying to soak in as many of the sights and monuments we can, knowing fully that to fully experience Paris may need almost a year, if not more!
Provence is famous for its vibrant markets, where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and crafts
The Basque region has a unique sport called pelota, which involves hitting a ball against a wall using a long scoop-like basket
Celebrated on July 14th, Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, marking the beginning of the French Revolution
France celebrates Mardi Gras, also known as Carnaval, with parades, music, and dancing
The Fête des Lumières in Lyon is a festival of lights, where residents and visitors create elaborate light displays
Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and have two blank pages.
Travel insurance: You need a travel insurance policy that covers the entire Schengen territory and has a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros.
Proof of accommodation: You need to show that you have a place to stay during your trip.
Travel itinerary: You need to provide a round trip reservation or itinerary with dates and flight numbers
Proof of funds: You need to show that you have enough money to support yourself financially throughout your stay
Visa application form: You need to complete and sign the application form
Passport photos: You need two recent passport photos taken within the last three months
Visa interview: You need to attend an interview in person at a consulate, embassy, or visa application center
