family cruise vacation ideas
Adventure, culture and relaxation, all in easy reach of the UK. Take your Family to Brittany this summer for the stunning scenery, visit Mont Saint Michel, Carnac, Cote de Granite Rose and many, many more places. Book your siblu holiday at Domaine de Kerlann on www.siblu.com
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Whilst on the way to Biot, we drove along the promenade and we saw 3 HUGE Cruise Ships in the Bay. This view is from the back of the Palm Beach Casino. The ships are: – P&O Cruises “Ventura” – Celebrity Cruises “Celebrity Summit” on it’s 10 Night Western Mediterranean…
If you are bored with the same old ocean cruise, perhaps it is time that you considered river cruises in France. You can have the opportunity to explore this beautiful and passion-filled country with an enjoyable and bustling river cruise.
Essentially, a western Europe cruise allows passengers to travel on a small riverboat or barge, up and down the canals and rivers of a specific country, or countries. It is a great opportunity to take in some sights that would otherwise have passed you by. Small villages are often on the itinerary sheet which gives passengers the chance to see how the residents truly live. Of course, the riverboats can also access many of the famous cities and towns where you can visit the major tourist attractions and activities on offer. Just imagine cruising along at a delicate pace and being able to admire castle ruins, ripening vineyards and stunning woodland scenery. Taking any of the river cruises in France really means experiencing the very best that this country has to offer.
Generally, there are two main ways to see the hidden treasures of France. Cruise companies will either offer a trip along the River Seine or along the Rhone and Saone Rivers. Whichever waterway you choose, you will encounter numerous idyllic landmarks and breathtaking scenery to escape into. It is sometimes possible to transfer from one option to the other if you fancy giving both waterways a go.
Many of the cruises can be tailored to certain themes. For example, you may enjoy cooking and some cruises have classes where you can brush up on your culinary skills. A family theme will have lots of activities on board for the children to enjoy and may have activities such as pony trekking and treasure hunts when the boat docks.
The cabins on board riverboats and barges are as luxurious as any large cruise liner. Some cabins may have a balcony or large French doors so you can enjoy the spectacular views as and when you wish. Many ships have facilities such as hairdressers, laundry services, steamrooms and gymnasiums. The dining areas are superbly kept and offer a great range of tasty food and drink.
River cruises in France offer a variety of duration, so no matter how long you have to relax, you can take advantage of many things that this beautiful country has to offer. Many companies that offer a western Europe cruise are flexible when it comes to the duration and itinerary of your trip and so you can be sure that you will find a break that suits your needs.
Sourcing and reserving river cruises in France is a straightforward and hassle free process and can usually be done on the internet or over the phone. It is paramount that you read all of the conditions and terms of service before making your booking as some companies may charge extra for items such as single supplements and internet access aboard the boat.
It is normally the case that when you start to book a western Europe cruise you will need to provide certain details to ensure your reservation is kept. This may include details such as how many people will be travelling and what you insurance details are. You may also wish to mention any special requirements you need at the time of making your booking.
If you are ready for a change in cruising experience and want to embark on an exciting adventure then river cruises in France are definitely worth a look. Who would pass up the opportunity to discover the hidden treasures and people of this interesting and passionate country?
No site but EuroRiverTravel.com gives you all the tips and info on and related subjects. Whether you are new to the subject or an expert, make sure to check out by following the links above !
Camping holidays in France are the ideal time to visit some of the country’s war museums and memorials. Learn more about the major sights from both World Wars.
War Memorials and Museums to See When Camping in France
If you like to experience some local history whilst on your camping holidays, France is the ideal destination for you to visit. Not only is it populated with top quality campsites, it is home to some of the world’s most moving war memorials and museums. The two World Wars were defining events of the 20th century and, in both cases, France was at the centre of the conflict. The wars have left their scars behind them in France, but they have also left some fascinating historical sights as well.
Here are a few of the highlights for you to see if you are a history buff who is camping in France…
World War I
From 1914 to 1918, the French, German and British forces were locked in a bloody stalemate on the battlefields of France, and during your camping holidays in France you can often visit numerous sights nearby that are reminiscent of that time.
Of the numerous cemeteries, Lorette and the Etaples British Memorial stand out. Lorette is the largest cemetery in France, and contains 40,000 graves. The Etaples British Memorial, as the name suggests, is one of the major cemeteries for British soldiers. Both are very important places for those who wish to pay their respects.
The underground caves near Arras were used for the British Army HQ, and have been preserved in impressive fashion. The major battlefields, such as Flanders Field and Passchendale, both have major museums nearby which recreate the experience of the trenches and feature many historical artefacts. Finally, one of the most dramatic sights is the Vimy Ridge Memorial. Dedicated to the Canadian soldiers who fought and died to secure Vimy Ridge, this towering monument is one of the most spectacular First World War memorials in existence.
World War II
There are just as many fascinating and moving World War II sights to see whilst on a camping holiday in France.
The Normandy Beaches are perhaps the most significant of these, the place where the Allies invaded France and began the liberation of Europe. Over 100,000 soldiers died in the fierce fighting at Normandy, and today you can take guided tours of the beaches where the battles were fought, visit the outstanding D-Day Museum at Arromanches, or go to the converted German bunker near Audinghen that has now become the Musée du Mur de l’Atlantique.
There are also excellent museums to see at Dunkirk (in memorial of the evacuation that took place there) and Calais (where the German Navy was based). For a further insight into the Nazi war machine, you can also head over to Le Blockhaus d’Eperlecques, the largest bunker built during the war and which was used as launch point for the fearsome V2 rockets that rained down on London. Today, it is largely unchanged, and is a fascinating slice of World War II history. Another former V2 base can also be found in St Omer, called La Coupole.
If you go camping in the north of France, you are bound to be near some of these fascinating historical sights, all of which make for excellent day trips.
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of . With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.Article Source:
Articles MO “Hotel” New hotel classification in France
A reform of the hotel classification assessed in the news for more than a year ago, in fact, until now there was no five-star hotels in France, but from the beginning of 2009 Update: Hotel, one of five volunteers to be stars for a minimum period of three years and a maximum of five years. The evaluation will be done at the expense of volunteers. In addition, evaluations must be approved by the French
For this new classification is simply to mix the different approaches and understand the standards and better meet the needs of customers are better on the criteria of comfort, of a “must have” and other criteria that may be available for customers.
The move was, of course, by the French government whose aim is to put tourism at the heart of economic growth, “by establishing a new plan for the politics of tourism:” Destination France 2020 The issue was discussed this summer Assisses Nationale du Tourisme, which occurred this summer.
The challenge is to support tourism, which is the first industry in France: With globalization and the changing needs of the customer, France has become competitive with other destinations, behaviors and needs of customers. (There is a rating of five stars is a serious obstacle to the consideration that the client does not always know that France is the highest class of hotel “four star luxury”).
Objectively speaking, what is going to be different about this new classification? First, it is interesting to note that for the first time in twenty-two years is that the classification is changed as a grid: And indeed, much more customer twenty-two years have changed!.
The new classification introduces significant changes to meet the customers: – no stars disappear Hotel: hotels, volunteers are all Star One, in order to classify a fifth star was added to replace the “four star luxury” designation. This is useful, hoteliers, which enables the hotel to France to be competitive compared to hotels in competing countries. – The new classification system promises more demanding: We do a little comparison with the old classification
Old criteria for grading new classification for an initial evaluation of 30 criteria were needed for first voting: 61 policy for a two-star 30 have been two stars: 68 criteria for three stars were necessary criteria required 30 Three-Star Hotels: 75 were the criteria for a four star 33 required criteria needed four stars: 94 criteria for a score of 33 luxury four star required criteria are needed, a five-star hotel: 124 needed policy
The classification will also arbitrary points: every hotel, get the volunteers will be reclassified to the possibility of having all the problems, these optional criteria to give companies the opportunity to differentiate themselves from their competitors and customers to show the diversity of French Inn (The optional criteria will not be imposed, will be), hotel manager, select it. Let’s take a moment and understand that this new classification: Hotel must be delivered to meet the following requirements: – to be compatible with a range of agreed criteria (see above) – must be compatible with a number of optional criteria
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Camping in France at Christmas may be slightly in the chilly side, but you will find the spirit of family and generosity that surrounds you will warm you up in no time. Whilst the celebrations are different in every region, each is as spectacular as the next. Though all regions celebrate Christmas Day on the 25th December as per tradition, for many in France, celebrations start with La Fete de Saint Nicholas on the 6th December.
La Fete de Lumieres
Held by the inhabitants of Lyon on the weekend closest to the 8th December, with the climax of the festival happening on the 8th itself, La Fete de Lumieres is a splendid Christmas tradition. This renowned festival of lights is when the Lyonnais pay homage to the Virgin Mary, by lighting a candle in each of their windows. These candles light up the village, and give off a wonderful homely and festive feel. One of the main focal points of this festival is the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere, where the impressive stained glass windows are lit up with different coloured lights. Over at the Place des Terreaux in the very heart of the town, various shows are held, using bright-coloured, moving beams of lights and images to tell the story of Christmas. The Fete de Lumieres is a fantastic way to welcome Christmas while you’re camping in France.
La Messe de Minuit
If you are wondering when you will get a chance to join in with the community and celebrate Christmas with prayers and carol singing, then you should ensure that you go to midnight mass while you are camping in France. Held on Christmas Eve, this is an important tradition in most regions in France, though it is often held between 7 and 10 in the evening, rather than at midnight. Services tend to be broad and the sense of community and Christmas spirit to be found often attracts both non-practitioners and people of different faiths. In many churches, a nativity display is set up at the front of the church, and a statue of the Baby Jesus carried to it in a procession at the beginning of the service. Whether you are a church-goer or not, the traditional midnight mass service cannot fail to get you in the festive mood, ready for Christmas Day.
Don’t Forget To Put Out Your Shoes
All over the world on Christmas Eve, children hang up their red stockings with white trim in the hope that Father Christmas will come. However, in France it is their shoes rather than their socks that they leave out in anticipation. Preferably wooden, a pair of shoes should be left by the fireplace just before the children go to bed, and in the morning they will have filled the shoes with presents. Though it is unlikely that the tent, caravan or mobile home that you are staying in while camping in France will come equipped with a real fireplace, shoes left by the door may still fill up with gifts! Why not break with tradition for a year; replace stockings with shoes and get a visit from Pere Noel rather than Father Christmas.
Camping in France at Christmas, you will get to experience a whole new set of festivities. With family, tradition and fun being the key ingredients of a French Yuletide, there really is no better place to get into the Christmas spirit.
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of sites for . With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.Article Source:
Many people might consider themselves to be fair-weather campers, believing that camping holidays should be saved only for the sunshine of the summer months. But camping in France can make for a fantastic holiday all year round, with each of the four seasons offering something different.
Autumn
Everyone associates the autumn with the leaves turning a wonderful colour, before they eventually fall from the trees completely. It’s also seen by many as the last opportunity to go camping in France, before the colder weather really sets in. Areas such as the Ardeche are simply full of forests, and can promise some fantastic autumn walks, kicking up the leaves as you go. However, why not make the most of the trees becoming bare by attempting some of the forest trails up in the trees at Vert-Tige Parc. Safely harnessed, you can take to the trees and tackle any one of the five trails that feature cargo nets, rope bridges, zip wires and various other obstacles. Where better to view the forest at its autumnal best than up in the trees themselves?
Winter
Perhaps the quietest of the seasons in terms of camping in France, winter is actually an ideal time to take a camping holiday. With the campsites less busy, you can pick your favourite pitch and enjoy the peace and quiet. If you particularly enjoy a good snowfall in the winter months, head towards the Alps where you will find skiing and the opportunity for snowball fights galore. Close to the ski resort les deux-Alpes, lies the sleepy little town of Venosc. This mountain side town is well known for its crafts and is the perfect place to get in some early Christmas shopping. There are plenty of walks to take around the nearby mountain lakes but if you would rather enjoy the view the easier way, the Venosc cable car will take you up to the heart of les deux-Alpes, where you can enjoy the spectacular snowy scenes looking down on the slopes below.
Spring
Spring is an exciting season, with all manner of things that hibernated over the winter coming back to life again. Camping in France is a great way to witness nature waking up, as well as getting yourself back into the swing of going on holiday after a cold and busy winter. To witness spring’s delights fully, head over towards Dordogne to Limousin for a visit to the Parc Animalier de la Colline Enchantee. Set in 12 hectares of greenery, this animal park on the enchanted hill is the perfect place to witness the coming of spring. With a number of farm animals including sheep, cows, goats, swans, chickens and geese, you are sure to see some newborns. As well as farm animals, the park is also home to less traditional species such as kangaroos, ostriches, camels, emus, bison, porcupines, yaks and racoons. A great day out for all the family, a visit to an animal park is a great way to see the spring in.
Summer
The arrival of summer invariably means the arrival of holidaymakers. The number of people going camping in France is no exception to this, but with many areas enjoying warm weather and sunshine during the summer months, it is no surprise that so many people head to France for their summer holidays. For many, summer means the opportunity to enjoy the water that is too cold during the rest of the year. If this is true for you, then head to Lake Annecy. One of the more famous lakes in France and surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, this lake is the best place for several different water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and diving. For those who prefer to relax out of the water, pedalos and boat tours are also available. For those who prefer the sea, the lake is encircled by beaches where you can while away hours in the sun.
If you enjoy camping in France, there is no need to leave your visit until the summer. With plenty to do all year round, it is worth braving the elements to see some of the more special things that the seasons have to offer.
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of sites for . With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countriesArticle Source:
A holiday camping in France is all about embracing the culture and traditions of the French. And what better way to do this than to spend a few days wandering through the stalls and traders of a traditional French market? In many other European countries, the tradition of the market is one that has been revived after dying down for many years. However, markets have been an integral part of life in French towns and villages for many years. Full of hustle and bustle, and wonderful things to buy, food and drink bought from a market really is the best way to eat when you’re camping in France. A market is also the best place to pick up those essential souvenirs and gifts to give to those back home. Here are a few of the smaller, yet delightful markets to be found in France.
La Trinite Sur Mer Fish Market
Trinite Sur Mer has long been known as a fisherman’s favourite location. For centuries, sailing races have been held between fishermen in this small and sheltered harbour. However, the real appeal of this quaint little harbour town is the wonderful freshly caught fish. Dine out in any one of the fish restaurants lining the waterfront, or for a real taste of camping in France, buy some fresh produce from the local fish market and cook over a campfire. Oysters are the pride of the markets, but the stalls are covered with many different varieties of freshly caught fish and shellfish. If you’re up early enough, you might just see the fishermen dropping off their catch first thing in the morning – knowing the fish is freshly caught gives it an even better flavor.
Revels Saturday Morning Market
Very close to the Languedoc Roussillon region in France, you will find the Revels food and local produce market. The market itself is situated in a 14th century covered square, and presided over by statuesque bell tower, giving it a particular sense of tradition. The square is lined with permanent shops and cafes, and during the week is virtually empty. However, once the weekend arrives, it fills up with any number of food stalls. Whether you are looking for some fresh vegetables, you fancy sampling one of the many, and often particularly smelly, French cheeses, or would like a taste of the local ham, there are many stalls that will capture your senses and leave your mouth watering. The light-hearted banter floating between stall-keepers all around the market gives it a wonderful atmosphere and the real taste of the French market custom.
Nice Bric-a-Brac Markets
If you spend your time camping in France in the Cote D’Azur area, be sure to drop in at one of the famous Nice markets, which are different every day. With a different selection of produce being displayed on the stalls each day you will never get bored. On some days, the outdoor markets are bursting with bright coloured blooms, as the flower marketers take over the Cours Saleya. Other days, you will find an incredible selection of arts and crafts goodies that will make you want to don a beret and pick up a paintbrush. If you’ve finished your holiday read and are looking for a good book for the ferry journey home, be sure to take a trip to the used and antique book market – you’ll be able to pick up some beautiful, old books and you never know, they might just take the one you’ve finished off your hands for you! Last but not least, if you haven’t gotten around to sending your postcards just yet, why not have a wander around the antique postcard market held in the Place de Palais on the fourth Saturday of every month. Whatever your interests, there is a market to suit everybody in Nice.
One of France’s most enjoyable traditions, the markets, are a fantastic way to fit into the French lifestyle. Be sure to visit at least one market while you are camping in France and make the most of the bustling banter, the wonderful food and drink, and the chance to buy some special and authentic souvenirs.
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of . With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.Article Source:
With a grand total of 28,000 kilometres of cycle routes, France is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for cycling. Dedicated paths meander through both town and countryside, and vary in terms of difficulty. You don’t have to be of Tour de France standard to enjoy cycling while you’re camping in France. Whether you are looking to push yourself in an endurance ride through the mountains, or to take the whole family for a jaunt through the countryside, there is a bike ride in France made for you.
The Loire Valley
A loop of the Loire Valley is one of the most popular cycling choices in France. Taking between four to six days, this well-travelled route covers approximately sixty miles of the Loire Valley, and explores the renowned Chateaux of the region. There are few routes that include so many worthwhile sights in such a concentrated area. Steeped in the history of conflicts, these feudal fortifications have seen many battles between Kings, powerful nobles, and even religions. Take a break from your bike ride to wander through a castle on foot, and explore the grounds; with many of the fortifications kept well preserved, you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. Back in the saddle, you can enjoy both peace and some gentle exercise as you cycle on the banks of the River Loire itself. Roads in this region are not only incredibly picturesque, but also relatively empty. Any cycling that you do whilst camping in France’s Loire Valley will be relatively safe and stress-free.
Vendee
The Vendee is one of France’s most well-organised regions in terms of cycling. A network of 765 kilometres of cycle track has been designed not only to ensure safety for cyclists, but to take bike riders past the best natural attractions that France has on offer. Cycle tracks have been well-signposted and are lined with picnic areas and scenic viewpoints.
Where ever in the Vendee you choose to stay whilst camping in France, you are likely to find yourself close to one of the 23 marked cycling routes.
The first main route, ‘The Sentiers of the Haute Bocage’, is a 280 kilometre track that takes you into the countryside and uses mainly agricultural roads. You will cycle deep into the rural areas of the Vendee and along 27 kilometres of now unused railway track. This route is relatively easy going and suitable for the whole family.
The second route, ‘The Coastal Sentiers’, spans 285 kilometres of coastline. As you make your way along the coast, you will find the routes provide easy access to many impressive beaches and seaside towns, where you can enjoy an ice cream and a paddle before getting back on your bike. During this ride, you will pass all manner of fascinating coastal scenery, from sand dunes, to rocky outcrops, and even marshlands, but be prepared for some uphill climbs.
Finally, the third route in the Vendee, ‘The Sentiers of the Marais Poitevin’, consists of 200 kilometres of track, which eventually merges with ‘The Sentiers of the Haut Bocage.’ This track starts at the coastal town of l’Aiguillon-sur-mer, and continues all the way to Reaumur, but with many detours along the way it is essential to take a map with you. Incorporating canals, marshlands and several very quaint little towns, this route allows you to observe the subtlest of changes in the French landscape.
Les Grandes Alpes
For those who enjoy a more strenuous bike ride, a trip into the Grande Alpes is essential while camping in France. If you’re a keen cyclist and an avid spectator of the Tour de France, you will no doubt harbour ambitions to cycle through the mountains, taking in the spectacular scenery as you go. However, for a slightly less ambitious ride, you may wish to take the route of the Etape, the amateur stage of the Tour de France. A 187 kilometre ride, this track begins in the picturesque town of Gap, and ends on a high note at the summit of Alpe d’Huez. With three peaks to be scaled along the way, this may be an amateur route but it is not for the faint-hearted. However, the stunning mountain scenery along this route makes it a ride to be remembered.
Whether you are a cyclist seeking a challenge, or a family looking for some light-hearted fun, cycling is a fantastic way to see the country while you are camping in France. With well-maintained cycle tracks, that include spectacular landscapes, and friendly towns and villages, there is nothing like a good bike ride in France.
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of sites for . With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.Article Source:
No matter which region you visit when you go camping in France, there is always a chance that it might rain. But what should you do when those black clouds begin to form? Here are a few ways to keep the kids entertained if and when the heavens do decide to open.
The Haribo Museum
Located in Languedoc, the Haribo Museum not only provides you with shelter from the elements, but will be your children’s idea of paradise. On entering the museum you will be given a bag of sweets and treats in exchange for your entry fee. This bag also includes tokens that can be used in the various sweet making machines that you will encounter on your way through the museum. With interactive displays guiding the children through every step of the sweet-making process, there are hours of fun to be had. Displays such as ‘the marshmallow lady’ will fascinate the entire family. At the end of the trip, watch the children’s faces light up as you enter the gift shop, but be sure to keep them active for the rest of your time camping in France, in order to burn off all that sugar!
La Rochelle Aquarium
There are better ways to enjoy water than in the rain when camping in France, such as experiencing a whole world of water at the aquarium in La Rochelle. With a reputation for being one of Europe’s most impressive sea life centres, the La Rochelle aquarium does not disappoint. You will enter the attraction via an elevator, which creates the impression of travelling deeper and deeper into the ocean. From the elevator, you will continue into a tunnel surrounded by water; marvel as creatures from the smallest of fish, to stingrays and small sharks swim over and around you. The most impressive part of the aquarium however, is the central core shark tank. You will pass this tank three times during the course of your visit, allowing you to view the sharks from above, below and then close-up at eye level. With an astounding selection of sea life, La Rochelle Aquarium will not only educate you and your children, but will keep you all intrigued for hours, or at least until the rain passes.
Parc du Futuroscope
A theme park that will stun every one of your senses, Futuroscope is packed with thrills, shows and encounters. The park, based around audiovisual and cinematographic attractions, lets you see the world in a new light, showing you everything in 3D, and even letting you see what the future might hold. See dinosaurs, fly to the moon, dance with robots and even step into the jungle to see what the wildlife of the future will look like; there are over twenty fantastic experiences that will leave you entranced. You might also like to take in a show on one of the park’s enormous, 3D cinema screens. Films show daily and include magical fairy tales, space travel, scientific phenomenon and even magic shows. With attractions to suit every member of the family, the rain will well and truly be forgotten while you’re at Futuroscope.
Everybody who goes camping in France worries that their holiday will be spoilt by the weather. But camping can be fun come rain or shine. With some of the most exciting attractions to be found indoors, there are plenty of ways to keep the family’s spirits up as the rain comes down.
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of sites for . With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.Article Source:
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