France is such a diverse place; it would be somewhat inane to simply ask whether one has "visited France". The bohemian streets of Paris are worlds apart from the glamorous Cote D'Azur and the opulence of The Alps is a million miles from the Breton countryside. For those of you who are yet to experience your own version of a French holiday, there really is something for everyone. Here are 5 completely different types of holiday that can be enjoyed in beautiful, eclectic France.
1| Skiing Holiday: The Alps
The prestigious ski resorts of Courchevel, Val d'Isère, Tignes, Morzine, Chamonix and St Martin-de-Belleville are magnets for the rich and famous. Even royalty such as Prince William and Kate Middleton have been spotted skiing in the French Alps. Every little detail - from the VIP butler service available in your chalet to the Michelin starred chefs cooking in the resort restaurants - makes skiing in the French Alps an utterly luxurious, exclusive experience.
2| Cycling Holiday: Brittany
Far away from city life; incredible coastlines, pristine forests, medieval towns and fairytale castles carve the magical region of Brittany. Like something straight out of a storybook, the famous Breton countryside is nothing less than sensational and cycling is one of the best ways of exploring the natural and historical sites of the region. There are so many routes to choose from amazing things to discover along the way; Fort la Latte and the walled town of St. Malo, Suscinio Castle in Sarzeau, the 8th Century abbey of Mont St. Michel, and the medieval town of Dinan.
3| Beach Holiday: Cote Vermeille
The French Pyrénées-Orientales, which is close to the borders of Spain, is one of the most spectacular places to enjoy a beach holiday. With the Mediterranean climate and a laidback pace of life, there's no better place to wind down. Less supercilious than the Cote D'Azur, holiday makers can really kick back and it's very family-friendly. One of the finest beaches in the Cote Vermeille is La Grand Plage in Biarritz and a day trip to Spain's Costa Brava is easily achievable.
4| Sailing Holiday: French Riviera
There's no doubt about it; the Cote D'Azur is the most stylish destination in Europe if you have cash to splash. Filled with the rich, the famous, and super famous, the French Riviera is scarily glamorous. If you don't own your own million dollar yacht, book a crewed yacht with a charter company and set sail on the impossibly azure blue waters. When you're back on land, the places to see include Monte Carlo, Antibes, Nice, St. Tropez and the hilltop village of Roquebrune Cap St. Martin.
5| Gastro Holiday: Burgundy & Rhone
When it comes to Michelin quality dining and the finest wines, move away from the coast and come inland to central France. Burgundy and Rhône are two key regions where food and tipple excel above the highest standards. Stay in the vibrant city of Dijon, the affluent wine capital of Beaune, picturesque Cluny, or the sleepy hilltop village of Vezelay where time seems to slow down. Be sure to try the famous Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin - and winos will be thrilled to know that bad wine simply does not exist here.
