Holidaying in France means more than just the Eiffel Tower

France is one of Europe's most popular destinations for a wide range of holidays for the whole family to enjoy.

Fascinating French Chateau

France has tens of thousands of hotels and B&B's, in fact there are more hotels in Paris than any other city in France, as this is such a popular destination for a short weekend break. But for a break with a difference, how about staying in one of the many chateaux that have been converted into prestigious hotels with the ultimate in luxury, or perhaps you would prefer a travel inn near to one of the attractions like Disneyland Paris or Futurescope.

There are also absolutely thousands of camping sites all over France, where you can pitch your own tent, go touring with a caravan or motor home, but for more convenience you could even hire a chalet already on site.

You can normally find campsites with excellent facilities that include swimming pools, shops, clubs, bars, entertainment, playgrounds, etc and are ideal for a family holiday. Some even offer other activities such as tennis, fishing, French boules, cycles for hire, and even games rooms with pool, snooker, etc, which can make for an ideal self-catering holiday at very little expense.

However, for those that are into adventure, you will not be disappointed with the range of activities on offer in France, such as canoeing, paragliding, abseiling, kayaking and rafting, horse riding, hiking, etc.

France is also a country that is extremely enthusiastic about cycling and they have made it ever so easy to explore the countryside and cities on two wheels.

For a cycling holiday, France is a great location for people with all levels of ability. Gentle rolling lanes and dedicated cycle paths for family cycling holidays, along with mountains for the cycling enthusiast and those that require a bit more strenuous activity whilst on holiday.

Travel To The French Countryside

With all the rich heritage, extraordinary landscapes and the gastronomic delights you can really appreciate these more whilst cycling, especially because of the extensive national network of veloroutes, which will take you along canal towpaths, quiet country lanes and converted railway lines as well as getting you into the heart of the countryside by using "voies vertes", also known as green ways, which are specially designated tracks that are completely shut to motorised traffic.

France also has two main ski areas, the Pyrenees and the Alps, both with many ski resorts and without a doubt, some of the best and most extreme ski areas in the world. It also has some of the biggest ski resorts such as Les Trois Vallees, which is made up of three valleys and includes resorts like Courchevel and Meribel. There are well over 1000km of pistes for skiers of all abilities and experience, so there is enough choice for everyone.

France has everything you could possibly wish for in a holiday, and forgetting things like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, there are numerous other landmarks to experience, such as the Canal du Midi, which is the oldest canal in Europe, thermal springs, National Parks and wildlife reserves, caves, the Millau Viaduct, which is the tallest traffic bridge in the world, The Dune de Pilat, which is the largest sand dune in Europe, plus the Cirque of Gavarnie in the Hautes-Pyrenees that surprises all by its colossal size and its cascade, and being the highest in Europe you will not fail to be impressed!

So for your next holiday to France why not start planning to see more of the real France, with all of its history, culture, landmarks and heritage, you will not want to go home!

About the author:

Martyn Davis, European Traveller, Author and Business Development Manager.

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