France

Three French highlights

1. The French Riviera: Stunning architecture and exotic gardens, hilltop communes and secret coves – as you travel closer to the Italian border, the French Riviera is enchanting. In the artists’ town of Menton, visit the Jean Cocteau museum, and in the mountain town of Sospel, take lunch at the Place Saint Michel.

2. The Alps. The magnificent Alps are marked by huge glaciers, cliffs and waterfalls, and massive snow-clad summits. As you zigzag up the valley, forests take over, before thinning away to reveal the mountains. The pretty town of Chamonix tends to be the base for those wishing to explore mighty Mont Blanc. In the summer, trek through sweet-smelling pastures; in winter explore the snowy wilderness by snowshoe. 

3. The Loire Valley: Admire the UNESCO World Heritage-listed chateaux that dot the countryside as you take a leisurely ride through the beautiful countryside of the Loire Valley. Feast on deliciously ripe tomatoes and crusty French bread, and some of the best wine that France has to offer.