Swoosh down the pistes, go fat biking, snowmobiling, sledging or snowshoe hiking, take a horse-drawn carriage ride and enjoy the snowy mountain peaks. In the evening, pop off your skis and have some fun! There’s so much to do in the French Alps in winter and for New Year celebrations you’re spoiled for choice.

Warm up in your cosy chalet, admire the magical scenery from a hot tub, chill out in a sauna, take a dip in a heated pool – your accommodation in the French Alps is part of the fun…

Courchevel

In Courchevel the skiing is glorious but there’s plenty more to do. Why not go ice diving at the lake of Courchevel Le Praz (1,300m above sea level). Or try your hand at driving a ski groomer in a 470-horsepower piste caterpillar, accompanied by a professional. And in the evening enjoy the festive winter nightlife. For New Year there are three days of events with entertainment including theatre, music, dance and fireworks – great for friends, couples and families (29-31 December).

Meribel

In picturesque Meribel, New Year’s Eve brings a special torch lit descent, where skiers head to the slopes by candlelight as fireworks explode overhead. This is followed by a giant party on the piste with free hot drinks, music and more fireworks. When the party’s over, winter is the ideal time to go snowboarding, snowshoeing and husky-dog sledging in the Mottaret Mountains, while the ice skating rinks in Meribel town centre will keep the whole family entertained.

Val Thorens

Like Meribel, Val Thorens ski resort hosts a torchlight parade, suitable for all ages, followed by a fireworks display to say goodbye to the old year while Place Caron rocks to the beat as DJ’s play the funkiest sounds. In the Saint-Martin-de-Bellville commune, Val Thorens is a fun winter destination with plenty of events including a rather unusual Australia Day (26 January) – with fancy dress, a giant barbecue and all things Australian!

Aravis resorts

Magical Manigod with its Narnia-like scenery, Le Grand Bornand and La Clusaz with their fabulous pistes and vibrant village life and lovely St Jean de Sixt – each part of the Aravis Massif resorts offers something different. On New Year’s Eve there’s an unmissable masked ball in Le Grand Bornand!

Go night skiing. Ogle the majestic Mont Blanc from the beautiful Beauregard Plateau. Take a cheese tasting in the village of Manigod. Go ice bumping in La Clusaz – yup,  bumper cars on ice! Whizz down the sledge run at St Jean de Sixt – suitable for all ages! Relax in a hot tub (photo La Grange a l’Ours, Manigod).

Dreamy chalets

And when you’re not outdoors having fun, you can be indoors having fun, chilling out and enjoying your best life in a gorgeous chalet. OVO Network has over 300 beautiful chalets and apartments to choose from, each hand picked for their location, style and facilities. Where you stay is as much a part of your French Alps winter holiday as the snow. There are plenty of restaurants but self-catering is also a great experience with bakeries, fromageries, epiceries and supermarkets in the towns and villages. Plus stock up at the regular markets where you’ll find great cheeses and charcuterie, and make fondue, raclette and tartiflette – perfect fuel for your Alpine adventures.

Browse OVO Network’s fabulous collection of chalets and skidaddle to the French Alps this winter for a brilliant holiday.

If you have holiday rental accommodation in the French Alps, find out more about how OVO Network can help you achieve year-round bookings.

The post Where to spend New year in the French Alps appeared first on The Good Life France.

France may not seem that big to some, after all you could fit it into Texas – technically at least. But the sheer diversity of France means that there is just so much to see and do that it’s impossible to do it all. Thankfully most of us have an idea of what we’d love to experience most – the rich history of France for instance. Or perhaps the culture – museums, art, chateaux and churches. Or may it’s gastronomy and wine, or authentic villages, Paris, Provence, the French Riviera, Bordeaux, Normandy… Or maybe all of these and more. But what if you’re not sure how to find out where to go to make the most of your visit. What if you want a handcrafted holiday…

Customised itineraries for France

Sometimes it can seem hard to know where to start when planning your dream trip. You go onto websites – and there are some brilliant websites that can help, like this one your on now. You ask friends and people you trust. You go on social media and ask there. “I’m going to Paris – what should I see? And where should I go after to get a different view of France? And what about the best chateaux in the Loire – how do I reach them? Where should I stay? Any fabulous restaurants I really shouldn’t miss? I’m travelling solo, I want to make sure that the hotel is in a good location… near a train station… I don’t want to drive – is it possible to visit all the places I want to go by public transport?” These and many more questions might pop up when you’re organising a trip that’s not with a group, or you don’t want to be guided. Well maybe a bit of a guided tour but not completely.

Tailor-made trips

Isabelle Williams at RNI Travel is the go-to authority for organising visits that tick the boxes you want, not just what’s available. She has a little black book of contacts that’s the envy of many in the travel industry. She creates bespoke itineraries for those who want to take a trip that is truly special  The places you want to go to, guided tours if you want that, hotels booked or recommendations, restaurants booked or recommendations. River cruises, bike tours, house and car rental, event tickets, entry to museums so you don’t have to queue, private wine tastings, customised experiences that aren’t in the guidebooks… it’s all taken care of.

Personalized tours

Born in France, Isabelle now lives in the US but her knowledge of her native country and neighbouring Belgium is second to none. You tell her your budget, when you want to go and where and she and her team will organise an itinerary for the trip you dream of with full service support including help with visas if they’re needed. More than just a holiday, a bespoke trip to France is an experience, with memories to last a lifetime.

Discover France at your pace, in your own way…

Find out more and book time with Isabelle to plan your dream trip: rnitravel.com

The post Tailor-made itineraries and private tours of France appeared first on The Good Life France.

Wandering cobbled streets, cruising on the Mediterranean or French rivers, discovering gorgeous little villages and historic towns and cities, visiting memorial sites, indulging in the gastronomic delights or learning to cook with a chef, visiting the markets, staying in a castle or a luxury farmhouse in the most beautiful locations. Check out our top picks for the very best tours of France in 2023 …

Best tours of France 2023

The best cruises of France

CroisiEurope are the largest cruise operator in France, and their tours are unbeatable. Sail the rivers, canals and Mediterranean Sea and discover the culture, gastronomy and cultural wealth of France. Enjoy all-inclusive life onboard with the finest food and wines and fabulous tours that take you to the heart of each destination. No stressing, no driving, no wondering how to fit in all the glorious must-see places or how to reach the off the beaten track gems, CroisiEurope’s cruises and excursions take you to the very best of France – in style. croisieurope.co.uk

Battlefieldtours and historical travel experiences

Sophie’s Great War Tours are tailor-made historical travel experiences. This family-run specialist tour operator creates exceptional WWI and WWII battlefields tours across France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Travel at your pace and explore the destinations you really want to get to know, at a time to suit you. Sophie will research the history and background of soldier so that each battlefield tour is a personal historical experience. Her team can also include additional experiences to suit you such as chateau visits in the Loire, Champagne tastings in Champagne and a classic car tour in Provence. Every itinerary is created to be perfect – for you. Sophiesgreatwartours.com

Tours for those who love the authentic

Discover the real southern France – from captivating Carcassonne to magical Montpellier, or the best of Provence and the lavender fields, Normandy, Bordeaux and Dordogne.  On these luxury, small group tours you’ll get to be a temporary local and indulge in the best gastronomy, discover the beauty and culture of France… www.tripusafrance.com

Outstanding Rhone Valley Wine Tours

The Rhone Valley is the ultimate wine lovers destination. And there’s no better way to discover this beautiful area of Provence and its vineyards than with a three day tour with a local expert guide. This is a unique chance to experience the real Provence. You’ll meet local wine makers, visit the grand domaines and famous estates. And of course, to taste the very best wines and cuisine to match. rhonewineholidays.com

Fabulous Food Tours of Dordogne

Unique and utterly scrumptious gastronomic day tours of Dordogne. You’ll be transported by 2CV through the glorious Dordogne landscape to visit the most amazing foodie destinations and taste local specialities including truffles, caviar and wine. Visit castles, breath-takingly pretty villages, vineyards, churches, manors and mills. perigourmet.com

Year round themed and bespoke small group tours of Provence

Small group tours and customized travelling to give you memories to last a lifetime. Discover the best of Provence: Lavender tours, truffle, grape harvest, and bespoke tours as well as chauffeur services for day trips or a lot longer. Emily Durand’s Private Provence tours are unique, exclusive and truly fabulous. yourprivateprovence.com

Gascony, the Basque country, Provence and southern France

Nourish your soul and unleash your spirit of adventure in Gascony. You’ll experience the famous food, wine and Armagnac of the region. And you’ll discover where to find the best antique shops and flea markets, the most beautiful villages and magnificent chateaux. From one day to weeklong tours that are customised for you. There are also tours of Provence, southern France and the Basque country. frenchcountryadventures.com

Day trips and tour packages all over France, plus brilliant shore excursions

We’ve got one thing on our mind – taking a tour or enjoying a holiday in fabulous France. Ophorus Tours are a French family run business They have huge experience of running small group tours all over France as well as shore excursions. There is a wide choice of tours from fun and informative guided walking city tours to very carefully crafted multi regional packages, wine tasting, cycling and more. Their aim is to show you France as they believe it should be shown – authentic, colourful and friendly. www.ophorus.com

‘Real’ South of France Tours

Occitanie – formerly Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrenees – is to many the real south of France. Full of hidden gems and home to captivating Carcassonne, the vineyards of Minervois and Corbières regions where some of the very best wines are produced, the historic town of Narbonne and more. The Real South of France Tours 6 and 7 day small group tours take you to the heart of this area and reveal its innermost, delicious and fascinating secrets. Discover real France with ‘Real’ South of France Tours…realsouthoffrancetours.fr

Culture & cookery tours in Provence

Cooking classes with chefs in their homes where you’ll cook “authentic French dishes, no frou frou” says host Martine Bertin-Peterson. You’ll shop at the enchanting street markets with chefs and dine at the most scrumptious restaurants in beautiful towns of Provence on this fully escorted delicious and cultural trip of a lifetime. www.goutetvoyage.com

Super Stays in France

Gorgeous chalets, villas and apartments in the Alps and beyond

Thinking of spending some winter wonderland time in the snowy Alps? OVO Network’s exclusive, handpicked and frankly gorgeous chalets, villas and apartments in stunning locations turn a holiday into a dream. There’s not much that beats sitting in a hot tub or swimming in your private heated pool as soft snowflakes fall silently around you. The Alps are brilliant way to enjoy quality time with your family, friends and even your dog (pet friendly chalets await!). Year-round gorgeous views. Always lots to do in the midst of nature’s finest. ovonetwork.com

Stunning B&B near Bergerac, Chateau Masburel

With honey-toned stone walls and sage-green shutters, the 18th Chateau de Masburel wine domaine and B&B, has a timeless, unhurried feel to it. It’s a working winery producing award winning wines. Close to Bergerac, Saint-Emilion and ten minutes from the bastide town of Sainte-Foy-la-Grande on the banks of the River Dordogne in the Gironde. it’s the perfect base to explore the area and enjoy a relaxing break. Chateau-masburel.com

Cognac no. 22 – luxury farmhouse in Charente-Maritime

A 19th century traditional farmhouse with a luxurious pool is in a tranquil village surrounded by vineyards and fields of summer sunflowers. Close to the Charente River and also the market towns of Rouillac and Matha, this gorgeous holiday rental is ideally situated for trips to the historic towns of Cognac, St Jean d’Angely, Saintes and Angoulême and the Atlantic Coast beaches. Cognac-no22.com

Gorgeous gite in a wine making village in Burgundy

La Maison des Chaumes is a bright and charming gite in the charming winemaking village of Villers-la-Faye in the Côte de Nuits. It’s minutes away from Burgundy’s crown jewel – historic Beaune. And it’s just up the hill from the famed vineyards of Nuits-Saint-Georges and Aloxe-Corton. lamaisondeschaumes.com

The post The best tours & vacations of France 2023 appeared first on The Good Life France.

Visit the British Normandy Memorial, a remembrance site commemorating D-Day, which opened in 2021.

Walking amongst the white stone columns of the British Normandy Memorial on a stunning blue-sky day, I can’t help feeling that my father would have thoroughly approved. In June 1944, the 20-year-old farmer’s son landed at Sword Beach as part of the D-Day landings that kick-started the liberation of France. He had never been out of England before and he wasn’t to see home again for nearly three years. G

They were difficult years but at least my father came back. He resumed his legal training, met my mum, and together they worked hard to build a future and a family together. Fast forward to my teens and we enjoyed many holiday road trips round France, but we never went to Normandy. Maybe there were just too many memories for a conscripted ex-soldier.

A moving memorial

But strolling around the tranquil cliff-top site at Ver-sur-Mer with its sweeping views over land and sea, I know my dad would have loved this stunningly beautiful commemoration of the comrades he left behind. He rarely showed emotion but my father was moved to tears by the television coverage of the 70th anniversary of D-Day in 2014. A month later, he slipped quietly away aged 90, perhaps to meet up with some of those who never caught the troop carrier home.

For many years, families of Allied soldiers have been able to visit memorials, museums and beaches on the Normandy coastline in the footsteps of relatives who fought for freedom in Europe. But only now is there a memorial to the British soldiers who didn’t return from the conflict, a spot where relatives can see the names of lost family members inscribed for posterity.

A long campaign

The campaign for the British Normandy Memorial began in 2015 when D-Day veteran George Batts, formerly of the Royal Engineers, pointed out to BBC broadcaster Nicholas Witchell that no national memorial in Normandy recorded the names of all those under British command who had died on D-Day and during the Battle of Normandy. As a result, the Normandy Memorial Trust was established and the project began to move forward.

In March 2017, the British government pledged £20 million towards the construction of the Memorial on farmland overlooking the shoreline codenamed Gold Beach. The site was formally inaugurated on 6 June 2019 in the presence of then British Prime Minster Theresa May and French President Emmanuel Macron, and construction work began soon afterwards. Despite delays due to the Covid pandemic, the Memorial was officially opened by video link by HRH The Prince of Wales on 6 June 2021.

‘Stonehenge by the Sea’

Carved on 160 stone columns are the names of 22,442 individuals – British personnel and other nationalities serving British units – whose lives were lost in the Normandy campaign. Also included are members of the RAF who supported the mission, and secret agents and Special Forces personnel working behind enemy lines. Names are listed in chronological order of death, day-by-day, and grouped by branches of the armed forces. This huge undertaking was greatly aided by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and supplemented by other military institutions and individuals.

But you don’t need a family connection to enjoy a visit to this special place which is easily reached by car, midway between Bayeux and Caen. Buses also run from both towns, except on Sundays, stopping outside the Memorial gate. Admission is free with just a 3€ parking charge that goes towards the upkeep of the site. Visitors will find toilets at the entrance and a picnic area near the car park, but no visitor centre, no shop, no guides, and no cafe. Nothing that detracts from the tranquillity and beauty of the site. If you need snacks, the village shops are just five minutes’ walk away.

Access to the Memorial is via a level gravel path, suitable for wheelchairs and walking aids – expect an 8-10 minute walk from the car park. Along the way, stone information panels are carved with the story of the D-Day landings, English on one side, French on the other.

As the Memorial came into view, my first thought was ‘Stonehenge beside the sea’, its uniform stone columns topped with a lattice of timber. The full beauty of the design doesn’t hit you until you get close and can see the layout, a rectangle criss-crossed by paths in the shape of a Union Jack, which flies on a tall flagpole at the centre beside the French tricolore.

A worthy memorial

More flags fly on the grass between the columns and the natural meadow that overlooks the sea, ablaze with a Monet palette of wildflowers during my June visit. I stopped to take in the dramatic sculpture of three soldiers ‘running’ in from the beach, an iconic moment frozen in time that could so easily have shown my dad.

Then I crossed the grass for a close up view of the five wrought iron panels designed by sculptor Charles Bergen, each one pointing towards a D-Day landing beach and illustrating key elements from the battle – the British soldiers at Sword beach to the east and here at Gold; the Canadian assault between the British beaches at Juno; and to the west, the American targets at Omaha and distant Utah.  On such a clear day, the floating Mulberry harbours at neighbouring Arromanches were clearly visible, and beyond them, the headland of Pointe du Hoc pinpointed the beaches of Omaha and Utah, a unique and moving panorama.

Turning my back on the waves that brought the Allied troops to France, I stopped by the tablet commemorating the many French civilians who also died in the summer of 1944 in Normandy. And to read the stirring words spoken as the assault began – the D-Day broadcast by King George VI, the address by General de Gaulle on BBC Radio, and the speech by Sir Winston Churchill.

This Memorial may be long overdue but it’s a fitting tribute to all those young men who sacrificed their futures in France. A real must-see on this beautiful stretch of Calvados coastline.

Further information from www.britishnormandymemorial.org 

For tourist information on Calvados, visit www.calvados-tourisme.co.uk

For the best battlefield and memorial tours of Normandy see sophiesgreatwartours.com

Gillian Thornton is a writer who specialises in France and lifestyle.

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There’s plenty going on throughout Winter in France – here’s our pick of some of the best and new events this season…

National Events

25 December Christmas Day – National Holiday
1 January New Year’s Day – National Holiday
2 February – La Chandeleur/pancake day
14 February Valentine’s Day

Major Events

Christmas markets

This year the Christmas markets are back in full swing in France – full of festive, fabulous fun. Be aware that as part of the energy savings plan being encouraged in France Christmas lights are generally going to be turned off earlier than usual for instance in Paris where the Christmas display lights will be switched off at 11.45 pm instead of the usual 2am.

Read our ultimate guide to Christmas in France, 2022

Fete des Dindes, Licques, Pas-de-Calais | 10-11 December 2022

A truly charming festival where turkeys are celebrated in the little town of Licques (around 30 minutes by car from Calais). There’s a gastronomic fair with wine tasting and food for all your Christmas luxuries and on Sunday morning around 11am, hundreds of turkeys are released to “rampage” through the streets accompanied by local brotherhoods and dignitaries in all their finery! paysdopale-tourisme.fr

Sarlat Truffle Festival, Dordogne | 14-5 January 2023

Indulge in truffle flavoured gourmet specialities at the big and festive truffle market on the  middle weekend of January in the enchanting medieval town of Sarlat. Music, workshops and a festive atmosphere make this a brilliantly fun sarlat-tourisme.com

Comic Festival, Angoulême, Poitou-Charentes | 26-29 January 2023

The 50th edition of the Festival International de la Bande Dessinée (Comic Festival) in Angouleme draws huge crowds of fans. Competitions for amateurs and enthusiasts, meet the professionals, watch them work and ask questions. The famous comic museum is an absolutely must see for all fans of the art. bdangouleme.com

Nice Carnival | 10 – 26  February 2023

Nice Carnival is a joyous event! Processions, flower parades and flower battles, rock, pop, fireworks and giants. Blow the winter cobwebs away at one of the most colourful and glamorous of all the French carnivals. nicecarnaval.com

Major exhibitions

William Morris: Art in Everything,  La Piscine Museum, Roubaix, Hauts-de-France until 8 January 2023

The world famous museum La Piscine presents the work of William Morris (1834-1896) for the first time in France. Roubaix-lapiscine.com

New for  2023

The 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance car race will celebrate its 100th anniversary race in Le Mans, 10-11 June 2023.

Tour de France 2023 will take place from 1-23 July starting in Bilbao in Spain and ending as always in the Champs-Elysees, Paris. The riders will pedal right across France from Bordeaux through Limoges, volcanic Puy de Dome, Burgundy and the French Alps.

The 2023 Rugby World Cup will be held in France from 8 September – 28  October 2023. 20 countries will compete in more than 45 matches hosted in nine French cities and venues. The opening match will see the home team “Les Bleus” take on the formidable “All Blacks” of New Zealand at the Stade de France, Paris.

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Can there be anywhere more magical than the snowy French Alps at Christmas? We think not!

There’s a ton of choice for festive Christmas markets but we’ve picked our top 5, plus where to stay to make the most of your magical time in the French mountains…

Annecy

Nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps” Annecy – a year-round delight – positively sparkles in winter and its Christmas Market is irresistibly enchanting. There are 80 pop-up chalets where artisans offer a range of handmade goods, and local produce. There’s an open air ice skating rink, concerts and cribs, plus seriously tempting food stalls – rustic, scrumptious raclette and tasty tartiflette – and twinkling fairy lights galore. Annecy’s festive market runs from 19^th November to 1 January 2023 and really channels the true spirit of Christmas.

Wrap up warm and wander the frosty cobbled streets of the old town. From the castle at the top of the town you’ll have great views over the surroundings. Whizz about the ice skating rink that’s set up for Christmas. Enjoy the sparkling lights. Stop for a hot chocolate at one of the many cosy cafés. Enjoy an aperitif at an outdoor café when the dusk turns velvet blue. With the snowy mountains backdrop this is an irresistible place for a festive holiday.Find out more about Annecy and the Annecy Mountains resorts at: www.annecymountains.com

Stay at: There’s plenty of choice in Annecy from apartments in the city to chalets around the lake – for couples, groups or families but we find it hard to resist the rather lovely SwansDoors. A gorgeous apartment that’s part of the old city walls with a view from the window over the Pont Perrière which crosses the Thious Canal. And it’s just steps from the stunning Palais de l’Île, one of the most stunning landmarks in a city full of unforgettable sites.

Les Gets, Portes du Soleil

They say that Santa Claus lives with his elves in Les Gets! Well it might not be true but this lovely resort does have a very festive vibe at Christmas. There’s a Christmas market, shows and fireworks. Superb pistes are suitable for skiers of all ages, including a Snow Garden for little ones. There’s also ski-joering, electric snow mobile and much more.

But it’s at dusk when this town reveals its unique magic. Alta Lumina is a sound and light show in an enchanted forest. If you ever read a fairy tale as a kid and wondered what it would be like to be “in” a land of fairy tales, this is probably how it would look, sound and feel. Trilling bird song, thousands of lights, and state of the art projection sees a hot air balloon lift off in in the forest and lead you through a story. It isn’t Disney, it has a gentle, soft, authentic vibe, drawing you into the heart of the forest, whispering of magic and bewitching tales.

Stay at: Chalet Joux Verte, a traditional style chalet with sauna and hot and glorious views, it simply adds to the magic of a stay in Les Gets.

Megève

At around 1.2km above sea level, Megève was once a medieval farming village. It’s now a charming, incredibly pretty ski destination with several Michelin starred restaurants. In winter the town puts on its Ritziest look and sparkles with thousands of lights. The central Christmas tree will be illuminated from 3 December until the end of the year and there’s a fun-filled calendar of events throughout the month including a Christmas market, parades, concerts, Reindeer visits, aperitifs in an igloo and much more. Find all the details:  megeve-tourisme.fr/en

Where to stay: It’s hard to pick as there are just so many fabulous chalets here but hard to resist Chalet Goville in La Giettaz, ticks all the boxes when you want a bit of luxury, glorious views, room for family and friends, a sauna, hot tub with a view, ski room, boot warmer and even a wine cellar. Yes, it may be hard to leave this place but just outside the door are stunning slopes…

Val d’Arly

Lying between Megève and Albertville, the Valley of Arly comprises four village ski resorts with superb skiing and snow sports, including electric moon bikes. Traditional Christmas markets take place in each of the different resorts from 18-21 December. Views of the majestic Mont-Blanc, mugs of mulled wine – the steam making patterns in the air, gingerbread and dazzling snowy peaks. It’s got the lot. Find out more at the Val d’Arly Tourist office website valdarly-montblanc.com

Combined with a stay at the rather gorgeous Chalet Sabaroc you’ll make memories to cherish forever.

La Clusaz Aravis

There are plenty of gorgeous postcard pretty Alpine villages close to Annecy for a festive and feel good visit. But don’t miss out on La Clusaz’s incredible Christmas Festival, the Pesticales du Pere Noel. The lovely resort has been celebrating this fun event for more than 20 years – the biggest family street theatre in the winter in the Alps! It’s all about celebrating in this Christmas wonderland. It’s completely free and takes place 19-31 December 2023. Find out more: en.laclusaz.com

Stay at: It’s just so hard to pick just one stunning place for a super holiday in lovely La Clusaz, but Chalet Timan is pretty unbeatable. Ski-in/ski-out, sauna and fitness area, and magnificent views. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere but lucky you, the ski bus stops just 150m away and its only a 15 minute walk to the centre of the village – you don’t need a car here!

OVO Networks superb range of chalets in the French Alps is second to none…

If you have holiday rental accommodation in the French Alps, find out more about how OVO Network can help you achieve year-round bookings.

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Head to Calais in northern France for a spot of Christmas shopping and make great savings on wine and spirits and stock up on fabulous French Christmas goodies. While you’re there enjoy the Christmas lights a festive Christmas market, and maybe even take a ride on the back of a dragon!

Yule love your Grape Escape!

Great Christmas shopping savings on wines and spirits in Calais

Wine store Calais Vins near Calais Port and Olivier Vins & Cie (formerly Franglais Wine) near Eurotunnel’s terminal, are all set to help British visitors choose the perfect wines for Christmas. And they offer great savings. Compared to UK prices, you could for instance save more than 50% on sparkling Crémant. On top of this, they offer an easy to use duty free reclaims service which means British customers can also benefit from a further 15% off the bill.

Wine and food pairings for Christmas

Ever wondered which wines to pair with turkey, roast ham, or roasted chestnuts? Or perhaps with a Christmas pudding or New Year’s Eve buffet where your Philippe Olivier cheese is sure to be the talk of the table. Calais Vins have a fabulous selection of wines to suit all tastes and budgets and are happy to give advice – just ask. For instance, Jérôme Pont advises “pair turkey with Bourgogne wines and roast ham with Bordeaux. For the veggie palate, a Beaujolais Brouilly or a Fleurie will match perfectly. When it comes to Champagne, there’s a huge choice but for just €19.90 Champagne Brut Premier Cru By Autréau is superb or there’s a superb Crémant de Bourgogne Bailly lapierre Réserve at €8.90 – both are a bit of a steal.”

There’s also cremant de Bourgogne Cuvée Elisabeth II from Château de L’Hestrange. This stunning Chardonnay based sparkling wine was served at the party for the 90th birthday celebrations of Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth II in Windsor. Perfect for raising a toast on Christmas Day and at €8.90 a bottle it’s a top of the range white wine that won’t break the bank. And don’t forget that you can get an extra 15% off all your wines and spirits in Calais Vins or Olivier Vins &Cie when you claim your VAT refund.

Great French foods for a festive meal

Jérôme Pont from Calais Vins says “Once you’ve got your wine from Calais Vins, pop next door to the famous cheese shop of Philippe Olivier, one of the most renowned cheeses affineurs of France, where you’ll find a range of sublime cheese. And on the other side of our shop is Pain et Levain where you’ll find superb bread and cakes. Wine, cheese and bread – it’s an irresistible French trio!” There are lots of great food, fashion and French produce shops in the town, and a super street market on Saturday mornings as well as street markets in nearby towns and villages every day of the week.

Tip: take bags and a cool box to carry your treats home.

Festive French fun for Christmas in Calais

Enjoy the spirit of Christmas in Calais where the Christmas lights will be on from 26 November 2022 to 4 January 2023. There’s also a Christmas village, skating rink and old fashioned carousel, a great place for Christmas gifts and to soak up the festive atmosphere with a glass of vin chaud. If you’re there for the weekend of 10-11 December 2022, Olivier Vermisse of Olivier Vins & Cie recommends you don’t miss the traditional Fetes des Dindes, the turkey festival at the nearby village of Licques, famous throughout France for its quality poultry production. “Accordeon music, a delicious lunch, grand food market and a procession of turkeys through the street – it’ doesn’t get much more French and festive than that!” he says.

And for something completely different, seek out the Dragon of Calais! The fire-breathing, eye-lid batting, 72-tonne dragon roams around the historic sites of Calais several times a day and lives in a glass lair on the beach. You can even take a 45-minute ride on the dragon’s back (kids under 3 go free).

Stop off at Calais Vins, near Dover Port, or at Olivier Vins & Cie near the Eurotunnel terminal, and pick up some great wines and spirits for Christmas, plus get your VAT refunded for extra Christmas spirit.

Find out more about how to get your VAT duty refunded, pre order through the click and collect service to save time and find out more about the fabulous wines and spirits on offer: wine-calais.co.uk 

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Maybe you’ve visited the Languedoc region before. Or maybe you’d like to visit more of the off the beaten track parts of the Languedoc in southern France. ‘Real’ South of France Tours “More Secrets” tour takes you deep into the heart of Occitainie. To its most beautiful seaside towns, enchanting villages and superlative vineyards. Visit captivating castles and caves, marvellous monuments and historic places that most visitors are unlikely to find without local knowledge. You’ll also be spoiled with the most fabulous gastronomy and wines. And a gorgeous chambre d’hôtes will be your home while you discover the authentic glory of what many call the ‘real’ south of France…

Discover the secrets of Occitanie

You’ll discover Collioure, one of the best kept secrets of coastal France. Its exquisite charm and beauty has long attracted artists – from Matisse to Picasso. Here, the light bounces off the walls and every hour of the day offers a new dazzling display. From the quays lapped by the turquoise Mediterranean sea to the top of the Citadel designed by Vauban, Louis XIV’s military engineer, and the streets of colourful houses,  this is one of the most enchanting seaside towns in France.

You’ll also visit beautiful Marseillan, home to the famous Noilly Prat Vermouth. Nothing like the similar sounding Marseille, this is a peaceful pretty port town that feels as if time has stood still. Nearby, the Étang de Thau is a string of lagoons and a protected eco-system, famous for the oysters that flourish in the salty water.

Mirepoix will cast its spell on you with its enchanting beauty. This small architectural jewel is brimming with pretty half-timbered houses. You’ll also visit Saint-Chinian on market day and stroll the cobbled streets of Elne, the ancient capital of Roussillon. And the riverside village of Roquebrun will really wow you.

The majestic and monumental 17th century Château de Pennautier near Carcassonne will take your breath away. Its pale beauty and gorgeous gardens were designed by Louis XIV’s favourite gardener Andre le Notre. Plus, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in the chateau restaurant. The 15th century Fortress de Salses is also vast, but in a completely different style. It’s imposing presence marks the ancient border between France and Spain. And dive back further in time at the Cabrespine Cavern, the oldest cave open to the public in France and whose roof is higher than the Eiffel Tower.

Fabulous Food and Wine

With 260,000 hectares, including 36% of all organic plots of French vineyards, and combining 87 appellations – the vine shapes the nature of Occitanie. The sun-drenched Languedoc is the biggest wine producing region in the world and offers an incredible variety of flavours. Languedoc’s first cru was created around the hilltop village of La Livinière. It’s from here that the cru takes its name and it’s where vines were first cultivated by the Romans. You’ll enjoy a private vineyard tour and delicious tasting in the Minvervois where families from many generations grow a great variety of wines that are hardly known outside the area. The locals say they are so good, they keep them to themselves!

And you’ll visit the beautiful Abbey of St Hilaire. It was here that the monks produced the world’s first recorded sparkling wine in 1531. And, of course you’ll enjoy a tasting of the effervescent fizz. Plus you’ll enjoy a wine tasting evening with a wine expert who will teach you the secrets of the Languedoc wines.

Relax and enjoy the tour

All meals provided on the week-long tour include local wines. Restaurants have been hand-picked for their authentic menus and delicious dishes. They include restaurants the locals love and a renowned Michelin rated restaurant overlooking the Pond du Diable in the village of Olargues, officially one of the prettiest villages in France.

You’ll stay in an award-winning chambre d’hôtes ranked among the top 25 B&Bs in France. And you’ll be transported everywhere in comfort. No rushing about. No being herded from coach to coach. Everything is taken care of by your hosts Kay and Mark. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the stunning beauty revealed in this More Secrets of Languedoc tour II.

Find out more about ‘Real’ South of France’s Languedoc II More Secrets Tour

And if you’ve not visited the area before, we recommend the ‘Real’ South of France’s Languedoc 1 Best Kept Secrets Tour.

The post Tour the secret gems of the ‘real’ south of France appeared first on The Good Life France.

There’s nothing quite as festive and fun as an authentic Christmas break in France. Wandering along charming squares and frosty cobbled streets where the breath-taking ancient architecture of historic cities provides the perfect backdrop for the twinkling Christmas lights in December is magical. Check out our ultimate guide to Christmas in France.

Warm up with a mug of spicy mulled wine and nibble sweet roasted chestnuts at the dazzling Christmas markets while you listen to the soft sounds of seasonal songs around a Christmas tree and shop at dinky, decorated fairy-tale-like chalets teeming with unique artisan-made gifts. Indulge in scrumptiously sweet cakes, wonder at the lavish Christmas decorations and sip hot chocolate in cosy cafés.

Find your perfect French Christmas match…

Guide to Christmas in France 2022

Christmas in Paris

From the end of November Paris takes on a festive look. Shops are busy with people looking for Christmas gifts, fine food stores are full of exceptional products, excited children rush to look at toys displayed in shop windows … And above all, the loveliest streets and avenues in the city are decked out in magical lights. More than ever, the capital lives up to its name as the ‘City of Light’! Be captivated by the Christmas season in Paris.

Click on the links below for loads more details:

Christmas markets in Paris

Best places for the Christmas lights in Paris

Where to shop for gifts and sweet treats in Paris

10 things to do on Christmas Eve in Paris

15 things to do on Christmas Day in Paris

Best things to do in Paris in Winter

And finally, carousel rides for kids are free on carousels across Paris from the last week of December to the first week of January!

Christmas markets in Alsace and Loraine

The French Christmas markets were started in Strasbourg in the 16th Century, it was where Christmas trees were first taken into people’s homes, and also where the Christmas bauble was invented!

Yes – those wonderful French Christmas markets we all love so much started right there in Alsace almost 500 years ago. The first one took place in Strasbourg in 1570 – it’s still going strong and the “Christkindelsmärik,” as it is known, is the oldest Christmas market in France.  Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas”.

Not surprisingly other villages and towns in Alsace followed the example set by trendy Strasbourg and now there are more than 100 Christmas markets in Alsace. Click the links below for more details:

Strasbourg Christmas market

Mulhouse Christmas Market

Colmar Christmas market

Village Christmas market in Riquewihr, Alsace

Metz Christmas market and fabulous Lantern festival

Christmas in northern France

Northern France loves its Christmas markets! The scent of roasting chestnuts, mulled wine and spicy gingerbread fills the air. Lights twinkle, the aromas from gourmet stalls offer a tantalising hint of gastronomic delights, and chairs on pavements outside cafés are full of people sipping wine or chocolat chaud and enjoying the festive feeling. Click on the links below for more details:

Lille Christmas market – 4000 shops, a great Christmas market and snow village, bucket loads of culture, what’s not to love!

Bethune Christmas market – friendly, festive and fabulously authentic

Boulogne-sur-Mer – If you like your Christmas markets cosy, authentic and utterly pretty, this one is for you.

Arras – a lovely authentic Christmas market

Le Touquet – a truly pretty Christmas market and lovely festive lights.

Licques Fete des Dindes – the quirkiest Christmas festival in France. Turkeys parading in the streets, a fabulous gourmet market and a tea dance for 1000 people!

Christmas chateaux

French chateaux and Christmas – it’s a perfect partnership! Several of the big name castles put on a show at Christmas including the magnificent Vaux-le-Vicomte where they go all out festive with thousands of lights and decorations. The Loire Valley is a wonderful place to be at Christmas – many châteaux will be dressing up in their Christmas finery, and the entire city of Blois will make merry with its Winter Festival. Click on the links below for more details:

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte goes full on glamorous for Christmas

Chenonceau, the castle of flowers  and other great Lorie Valley Chateaux at Christmas

More Christmas markets

Reims Christmas Market

Christmas markets in Pays de la Loire

Rouen Christmas market

Delicious recipes with a French festive flavour

In our guide to Christmas in France 2019 – of course we have to include some delicious dishes! Christmas in France is all about food and enjoying a meal with your friends and family. In the land of French Cuisine, where gastronomy has been recognised with a UNESCO world heritage rating, Christmas is a time to indulge and enjoy the best of fabulous French food. The focus at this time is firmly on the table.

Oeufs en Cocotte – perfect French breakfast at Christmas

Kugelhopf cake by Rachel Khoo of My Little French Kitchen

Ham hock terrine with soused vegetables by Raymond Blanc who says this is perfect for a Christmas buffet

Chocolate orange truffles

How to make a French Buche de Noel – yule log

Michel Roux’s chestnut and apple soup

Christmas flavoured classic Champagne cocktails

Christmas Paris Brest cake

Chocolate macarons by Pierre Hermé of Paris

Spiced mulled pears French style

Chocolate cake truffles

Galette des Rois – the cake of Kings, eaten at Christmas and New year and almost obligatory for 6 January, the day of the Epiphany.

Snails in garlic butter

Christmas tours

Provence at Christmas is truly special and a brilliant time to discover the secrets of Provence. The famous 13 desserts of Christmas, the pretty markets, wine and truffles, amazing food and the prettiest villages and towns decorated for the season. Find out more about Provence Christmas tours…

Ophorus host private and shared half day and day Alsace market Christmas tours including visits to nearby German Christmas markets from Strasbourg

And finally for some festive cheer – follow us on Facebook and enjoy our famous Advent Calendar photos…

The post The ultimate guide to Christmas in France appeared first on The Good Life France.

Christmas markets Paris 2019, the dates, details and locations. Take in the sight of the twinkling city of light, warm up with a chocolat chaud or mulled wine. Wander the cobbled streets, elegant squares and legendary public gardens. The Christmas markets of Paris will definitely bring out the happy in you!

The Christmas lights will be switched on in Paris on 20 November 2022 at 17h until 2 January 2023. Thousands of lights and decorations in more than 125 squares and streets will twinkle, flash and glitter. The dazzling display combines traditional lights and modern sparkle using Led technology. The lights will be on from 17h until 11.45 pm each day (switched off earlier than usual) More about the Christmas lights in Paris

Christmas markets Paris 2022

There are plenty of Christmas markets in the city. You’ll find roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, festive produce, artisan gifts and loads more to tempt you Here are just a few of the best:

La Defense – it’s the business district so not greatly touristic but the Christmas market is one of the biggest in the city. It has a great atmosphere and it’s popular with locals as they know they’ll find a really good range of gifts. La Defense Christmas market: 26 November 2022 – 4 January 2023.

Montmartre by Sacre-Coeur. Small but perfectly but very cute plus the views across the city are wonderful, the vibe is magical. If I could only go to one Christmas market in Paris, this would be it! When? 10-31 December 2022. There’s also a market at Place des Abbesses at the bottom of the hill from end November 2022 through December.

Notre-Dame, next to the Cathedral in Place Viviani you’ll find the Christmas arts and crafts market. As you listen to the bells peal in this iconic location you’ll really feel like its Christmas. Pop across the square to the lovely flower market of Paris where you’ll find shops brimming not just with beautiful flowers and plants but some really cute and quirky gifts.  When? 9-26 November, 2022

Christmas markets in parks and stations and legendary sites

Jardin des Tuileries: After closing the Christmas market of the Champs-Elysees, a new one opened in the Jardin des Tuileries in the shadow of the Louvre. 120 chalets, Ferris wheel, ice rink, puppet shows, a gourmet village and French craftsmen make this a lively and festive affair. Christmas market Tuileries 19 November 2022 – 8 January 2023.

Eiffel Tower: Chalets and activities including an ice rink that’s very popular. When?  Throughout December 2022.

Alsatian Christmas market at Gare de l’Est: A 100% Alsatian Christmas market! Find a wide choice of local delicacies: pretzels, bredele, gingerbread, fresh pasta, foie gras, charcuterie in front of the station at Gare de I’Est. Enjoy free tastings with a different programme every day from gingerbread to sparkling wine and Munster cheese. The market here is all about the gourmet traditions of Alsatian Christmas! Kougelhopf, potato pancakes, wine, choucroute etc. Gare de l’Est Christmas market: 11 November – 16 December 2022.

There are more Christmas markets in Paris than we’ve listed here, check at www.parisinfo.com for all the latest information and date confirmations.

Don’t forget to stop off for delicious hot chocolate to warm up or nip into a museum to chill out, there are some great free museums in Paris so you can save your Euros for spending on gifts!

More on Christmas in Paris

15 things to do in Paris on Christmas Day
Christmas shopping in Paris for gifts
Christmas shopping in Paris – sweets and foodie treats
The best Christmas video of Paris. Ever.
Christmas in Paris from your armchair

The post Christmas markets in Paris appeared first on The Good Life France.