Posts Tagged ‘beautiful landscapes’

France is a Western European country with much to explore. From world class cities to beautiful landscapes, every turn is filled with memorable sites, delicious food, fine wine, and friendly people. For those who like to venture off the beaten trail, Besancon, capital of the Franche-Comte region, offers a good place to begin a France vacation. Located southeast of Paris, it is less than a half-day by SNCF (French National Railways). If you plan ahead, a rental car can be waiting upon your arrival at the Besancon train station.

After securing a room at one of the many hotels around town, explore the city’s historic sites, such as the Citadel of Besancon, parts of which date to the Middle-Ages, or the Opera Theatre, designed by the chief architect of the Ancient Regime, Claude-Nicolas Ledoux. Stroll down the cobble stone streets, or along the Doubs, the river that cradles the town. Then, settle in for an evening at a street side caf. Relax with a glass of Le Vin Jaune and sample the region’s many specialties, which include Comte cheese, country stew, and trout.

After a good night’s rest take an auto tour, via the Route de Besancon, southeast along La Loue, a tributary of the Doubs. You will soon arrive at Ornans, home to the renowned French realist painter of the 19th century, Gustave Courbet, whose painting of his Uncle’s funeral has immortalized the city. Like his Uncle, Courbet has departed, but his house, now a museum, remains. Trace La Loue further down the road to Ouhans, where you will discover the river’s source dramatically pouring from a cave on the side of a cliff. At the end of the day, return to Besancon or continue on to any number of wonderful places that await you on your France vacation.

Tours in France

Author: Julie Bowman
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Make PCB Assembly

Over 82 million tourists travel to France each year, making it the hottest spot on the map. By itself, the Eiffel Tower brings in 6.2 million visitors per year. However, aside from the cultural value and historic past of Paris, the nation also provides beaches, beautiful landscapes and skiing.

France is recognized all over the world for it fine cuisine; finding a place to dine out is never an issue, as the variety and selection of choices in foods are so diverse and always affordably priced. When you get your restaurant bill, the service charges and taxes are incorporated into the total.

France is the wine cradle and truly a paradise for wine lovers who visit. Only the finest in quality and variety are offered, but it is important to be cautious with drinking prior to driving, as the French authorities are strict when it comes to drunk drivers. Beer is a common drink as well, particularly in northern parts.

French hotels rank from one to four stars, as authorized by the Ministry of Tourism. This rating is demonstrated upon all hotel entrances on a blue crest. By decree, any and all hotels are required to show or make visible their prices outside of the building, but don’t hesitate to go in and ask about the best price.

A beneficial choice would be to book a city center hotel, as they are generally very small and quiet. Be sure to verify your parking procedures, particularly in the larger urban areas.

The chambres d’hotes, otherwise called Bed and Breakfasts, are common rural establishments which can be found in rural areas. These work on a nocturnal basis, as do the motels that are located adjacent to the roads.

If you travel to France for an extended period, you might want to rent a home, villa or apartment from a website of good standing. If several of you are traveling in a group, this would serve as a good choice.

Author: Mark Thomas Walters
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Beading Necklace