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Skiing in France

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Ski Resorts in France

French Ski resorts after all remain a favourite for snowboarders and skiing enthusiasts the world over, and whilst last year the snowfall was not as good as had been hoped for, there is a good reason why these reports continue to remain amongst the most favoured destinations for international visitors.

 

Resorts typically are in one of two categories, the first being more modern high altitude resorts that have been purpose built to provide skiing facilities, giving them a more modern feel, great services and a warm atmosphere to accompany the skiing facilities. The contrasting option is the more traditional skiing village, which are usually at lower altitudes and offer a more traditional experience.

 

France has some of the best ski resorts in the world, offering services that are appropriate for skiers of all levels and preferences. Since the country is already famous as a tourist destination, it is hardly surprising it becomes a preferred destination for skiing during the winter.

 

If you are planning on taking a ski vacation to France, you should be aware that what the country has to offer in terms of destinations are both varied and diverse.

 

Ski resorts in France fall into four distinct areas, all of which are linked to each other. France has created large ski areas that are usually covered with a single pass. All resorts feature modern lift systems which make the areas easy to navigate and access.

 

Check out the below video of Meribel skir resort by Top Snow Travel to see what it can be like.  

 

It should come as no surprise that the main ski areas in France are centred around the French Alps, which provide a diverse landscape, and offer the perfect backdrop for anyone wishing to take a ski vacation. The region is well known for getting extremely cold during the month of January. Despite this fact it remains the ideal ski destination, with snow cover guaranteed between November and April.

 

Avoriaz is in the heart of Les Portes du Soleil: This particular resort is actually an area in between Switzerland and France and is shared by both country. Every year Avoriaz aside from its fantastic skiing, provides plenty of other entertainment options, that promise to brighten your skiing vacation.

 

Families perhaps may be interested in a resort such as Les Gets, which is considered one of the most family friendly resorts in all of France. There is an entire area devoted to children and is completely free of charge. 

 

If you are a sports fanatic however, you may prefer Tignes or Les Deux Alpes. The latter offers a variety of sporting activities, such as snowmobiling and paragliding amongst other things, another favourite is bumper car rides on the ice. 

 

Tignes, which is the highest ski resort in Europe, offers skiing all year round, and it is even possible to ski up there during the middle of summer.

Self Drive Skiing Holiday In France

If the English Channel is closest to you, then simply jump aboard a Dover to Calais ferry or a Dover to Dunkirk ferry for a chilled, relaxing crossing, then scoot off onto the nearby motorway which will take you straight to the Alps.

Alternatively, perhaps a Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry provided by Stena Line would be better if you are more westerly based. 

If you are coming from Ireland, then Cork to Roscoff ferry would be your best bet.

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£ 68 From
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  • Up to 30 daily crossings
  • No baggage restrictions
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Book Dover Dunkirk
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  • Up to 24 daily crossings
  • Pet friendly
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France is one of the world’s most popular self drive ski holidays, with people travelling from all over Europe to experience all the exhilaration a week on the piste has to offer. 


Along with all this, the other major reason many people choose to drive is the lack of baggage restrictions, which means you can bring exactly what you want with you (even if it is that extra pair of jeans you know you’ll never wear!). 


On top of that you can bring up to 9 people per car, and with prices starting at just £68, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing to visit the Alps with their car than ever before.

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Bruges Christmas Market

christmas market

Christmas time is the time of the year when your life gets back all the colour, light, fun, and laughter. You get busy throughout the year in your own life; this is the time when you get some downtime to spend with your family and friends. You meet your old friends and make can make new ones.

Some of us go abroad for Christmas and you can revel in some countries that have a unique warmth of Christmas. If you want to spend your Christmas in a completely different way than any other year, you can plan for a trip to Bruges at this time. Along with mini-cruise to Bruges, you will find lots of new reasons to come again at this place in every Christmas of your life.

Why do people get so much attracted to spend Christmas in Bruges? Bruges still has the essence of Medieval Europe which tourists like to cherish. There are horse-drawn carriages on the cobblestone streets, the lanes and streets are decorated with fairy lights, and you can also find the famous Belgium chocolates shops on the roadside.
To spend a warm and fuzzy Christmas, plan your trip to Bruges now. How to celebrate Christmas in Bruges? Read on to know more.

Celebrate Christmas in Bruges in the Mini-Cruise

There are lots of exclusive ways to enjoy Christmas in Bruges. Going on a mini-cruise to Bruges is one of the most attractive methods of all. You can get along the cruise anytime in December, but you need to go for an early booking to avoid the crowds.

Onboard Experience Can Be Rocking!

Your onboard experience can be full of excitement once you can experience the fabulous performance of Glam45 who will present the decade of the seventies through their rock music.
Also, you should not miss the performances of JingleTown who will entertain you with old as well as new songs. These performances won’t let you sit and one place; instead you will start grooving with them.
The performance of Glam45 will take you back to the seventies with their rendition of music and guitar, and their presentation is unique as they appear in those glamorous costumes on stage. You can enjoy the performance and the other activities with your friends and family on the cruise.

Treat Your Taste Buds!

If you get tired of dancing and want to celebrate Christmas with a delicious platter on this mini-cruise, you will find handsome arrangements for that too. For a superior a la carte meal, you can visit The Brasserie, where you can find the best cuisine in the world.
Also, you can visit the sophisticated bars where you can enjoy the best drinks of your choice before heading toward your lavish suit.

1. Celebrate Your Christmas with Cups of Hot Chocolate

After all, you are in the capital of hot chocolate, and it is Christmas! Forget about gaining calories, and jump on to the cups of hot chocolates while you are in Bruges. There are lots of joints where you can find your favorite cuppa that you can enjoy with freshly baked cakes and gingerbread. What more do you need to celebrate Christmas?

2. Go for a Carriage Ride

Bruges still has the flame of the medieval period, and Christmas is the best time to get the traditional warmth of this city. You can book a horse carriage and roam around the city to get the best experience of it.
Are you on a honeymoon trip? Having a romantic and cozy carriage ride will make this Christmas eternal in your life. Visiting the city squares, decorated with Christmas trees and fairy lights and listening to the clip-clop sound on the cobblestone street will make you nostalgic.

3. Visit the Christmas Market

It is one of the most important things you need to do while you are in Bruges during Christmas. There are several types of Christmas markets throughout the city where you can find different shops.
Visit the traditional food market to taste the local dishes. You can also visit the Christmas ornament shops to buy memoirs. There are numerous restaurants and chocolate shops to visit. Also, you will find an ice skating rink to have the most fun and excitement.

4. Enjoy Christmas with Your Favourite Drink

To boost up your Christmas spirit, you need something more than delicious food. How about looking for the best breweries and enjoying the winter with your favourite beer? You will find a family brewery in Bruges where you can have fun with your family while enjoying your favourite beer.

So here you get an overview of spending Christmas in Bruges this year.  Book early, you don’t want to miss the opportunity!

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Best Christmas Markets in Europe

christmas market

How many times do you see the same old entries in Christmas market lists? Here are 5 different ones, a bit further afield but most interesting things are.

Christmas is the time of the year when you get a break from your life, and you fill it up with fun, excitement, and merriment. It is the holiday season when Europe is dressed in its most beautiful attire of fairy lights, Christmas trees, wooden figurines of elves, and obviously, Santa Claus.

Winter is at its full bloom, and the snow-covered streets set up the right mood for welcoming Saint Nicolas on the 25th of December. The atmosphere of Christmas seems to start earlier every year and across Europe this is no exception.

To make Christmas even more celebratory happening in Europe, there are lots of Christmas markets established this time to add the oomph factor to your Christmas vacation. The chilling weather is appropriate to set the mood of the festival in Europe, while the burning spirit of these markets can drag local people and tourists from any part of the world.
So if you want to get the warmth of the most happening Christmas markets in Europe, here are the top 5 of them to visit now.

 

1.Tallinn, Estonia

estonia christmas market

While talking about the best Christmas markets in Europe, you can think of visiting Tallinn in the first place. According to lots of visitors, this market really holds the spirit of Christmas.
Kids will love this place where they can collect candies and gifts from Santa Claus from his little hut by reciting verses. They can also enjoy carousels and lots of other fun activities.
While you are here during this time, pay a visit to the handicrafts’ stores and also buy fabulous winter wears. Also, you should not miss the Christmas unique roasts and gingerbread from restaurants and eateries.

Website: http://christmasmarket.ee/en/
Opening Dates: 15th November to 7th January

2. Old Town and Wenceslas Square, Prague, Czech Republic

If you are in Prague during Christmas, you should not miss the ethos of this market at the Old Town and Wenceslas Square. Once you are here, you will be mesmerised by the gothic architecture of the buildings.
Visit the stores of mulled wine and enjoy the market with your favourite drink. There are lots of attractions in this market, but what you should not miss is the traditional dishes of pork and a dessert—“Trdelnik,” rolled pastry in sugar and cinnamon. Remember, you should wear enough winter wear as the weather is shivering this time.

The website is a bit ancient but has good information: 
https://www.pragueexperience.com/places.asp?PlaceID=594
Opening Dates: 1st December to 6th January

3. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, Germany

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt

Do you want to get the traditional feel of the Christmas market? Then you have to visit this place once in Germany where you can get the feel of the Christmas market of the sixteenth century.
You will find lots of stalls of gingerbread that you can enjoy with mulled wines. The primary attraction of this market is Zwetschgenmannle, which is a figurine made of prune. It comes in 350 varieties. You can also enjoy the vibrant Christmas spirit of the city by taking a traditional stagecoach tour.
Opening Dates: 29th November to 24th December

4. Zagreb Advent, Croatia

Zagreb Advent christmas market

It is another Christmas market in Europe that has been voted as one of the best of its kind by people around the world. Once you visit the place, you can know the actual reason.
The entire city hums with the fun and excitement of Christmas while this market adds more. You can enjoy lots of rides and kids have also different rides for them.

The shops of local crafts and the roadside eateries are always booming up with the crowd. Visiting the market only once won’t be enough to enjoy the festivity.

Website: https://www.adventzagreb.hr/?lang=en
Opening Dates: 26th November to 7th January

5. Bolzano Christmas Market, Italy
Bolzano Christmas Market

While listing the top 5 Christmas market in Europe, there is nothing better than this one, which is the largest market in Italy. This market was set up thirty years ago in Bolzano, and the surprising fact is, the organizers still manage to maintain the vibe throughout all these years.
You can buy wonderfully crafted wooden toys from handicraft stalls. Also, you will find musical instruments, straw stars for decoration, aromatic and decorative candles, and obviously, varieties of foods, like spiced cakes, gingerbread houses, etc.

If you are traveling with kids, they will feel happy while visiting the puppet theater and riding the merry-go-round.
The website is only in Italian or, naturally, German: https://www.mercatinodinatalebz.it/

Opening Dates: 25th November to 6th January

Special opening hours

Opening 24.11.2022 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
24.12.2022 10:00 a.m.-02:00 p.m.
25.12.2022 closed
31.12.2022 10:00 a.m.-06:00 p.m.
1.1.2023 12:00 p.m.-07:00 p.m.

On 25.12.2021 the Christmas market is closed

 

So these are the top 5 Christmas markets in Europe that are different to the usual lists. The list is difficult to end as there are lots of other places which are vibrant. So if you are in Europe during Christmas, along with visiting the sites of attractions, you can visit any of these markets and enjoy the festive season at its best.

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5 Best Things To See In Paris

sunset picture of paris from above

Things to See in Paris

The French capital offers a plethora of sightseeing excursions: A vast collection of scenic routes, boundless historical sites and quaint mini villages wrapped up in the glorious bustle of the city that captures so many hearts and minds.

With so much to do and see in this city, it can at times be a daunting task to sift through all the possible landmarks and cultural experiences you wish to immerse yourself in.

To experience the finest of what Paris has to offer, we handpicked 5 things you must see when planning your trip.

To get to Paris, you could book a Dover-Calais route with either DFDS or P&O.

The Louvre /Musée du Louvre

The Louvre first opened its doors in August 1793 and attracted about 15,000 visitors each day. Most people recommend pre-purchased tickets online to avoid a long wait.

The world’s most beloved and visited museum is the highlight of many visitors’ trip to Paris. Bestow your eyes upon the most prolific and celebrated artworks in the world.

  • Address: Rue de Rivoli
  • Opening Times: Every day from 9 am to 6 pm (except Tuesdays)
  • Entrance Fee: Online Tickets – €17 (quick entry), Tickets purchased at the museum: €15
  • Time Required: Half day to a full day
    https://www.louvre.fr/en
the louvre in france on a cloudy day
the louvre pyramid lit up reflecting in water
blue-sky-louvre

Versailles Palace / Château de Versailles

The former seat of power, a world-renowned palace of grandeur and opulence, was home to King Louis XIV from 1682 until his fall from grace in 1789.

The extravagant palace, as we see it today, had a much simpler appearance when King Louis XIII first set eyes on the residence. It is said that he favoured the site for its hunting potential and at first, built only a modest stone lodge until expansions took place later on.

The sprawling property attracts millions of visitors each year and will most certainly take your breath away with its captivating splendor.

  • Address: Place d’ Armes, 78000, Versailles, 20 minutes southwest of the city center of Paris.
  • Opening Times: Every day from 9 am to 5:30 pm (closed on Mondays).
  • Entrance Fee: Plenty of price points including free.
  • Time Required: 1-2 days

en.chateauversailles.fr/

versailles-3
versailles-1
versailles-2

Paris Catacombs /Les Catacombs de Paris 

During the 18th-century, Paris faced a predicament with overpopulated cemeteries, and this lead to the construction of subterranean ossuaries that became one massive grave to over 6 million people.

As macabre as it may sound, there is something quite intriguing about leaving the beauty of the city behind for an excursion that might send a tingle or two down your spine.

  • Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
  • Opening Times: Every day from 9 am to 6 pm (except Tuesdays)
  • Entrance Fee: €13 / €11 (reduced rates) Quick-access ticket online: full rate with audio guide, €29.
  • Time Required: 1 to 2 hours
    catacombes.paris.fr/en

Dome of Sacre Coeur Basilica /Basilique du Sacré-Coeur 

Sitting atop the Montmarte hill, you will find another Parisian landmark in the shape of a Roman Catholic Church and was built after the Franco-German war of 1870.


The second-most visited religious site in France not only offers an interesting glimpse into the church that was meant to expiate the sins committed by the French people during the war, but it also delivers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

 

Sacre-Coeur-1
sacre-coeur-2

Palais Garnier Opera House /Opéra Nationale de Paris

Palais Garnier, an opulent 19th-century opera house, seats 1,979 people and served as the inspiration for Gaston Leroux’s epic novel, The Phantom of the Opera.

 

Construction began in August 1861, and the Palais Garnier opened its doors officially on the 5th of January 1875. Inside, you will also find the Paris Opera Library-Museum. Be sure to take in the outstanding beauty of the 7-ton chandelier situated in the central area of the auditorium.

 

Plan your visit so that you can enjoy a concert, recital, a ballet or opera performance.

 

  • Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris
  • Opening Times: Every day: 10 am to 5 pm
    17 July – 11 September: 10 am – 5:30 pm
  • Entrance Fee: Adults: 10€.
    Youth (less than 25) and students: 6€.
    Children (less than 10): free entry.
    (Free entrance with Paris Pass)
  • Time Required: 1 to 2 hours of sightseeing, performances subject to the show schedule.

https://www.operadeparis.fr/en

palais-garnier-outside
inside-palais-garnier
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Top Things To Do In France As a Foot Passenger

Each year, millions of tourists flock to France for holidays, the stunningly beautiful landscapes, dramatic alpine mountains, luxurious meadows, and the country’s gorgeous seacoast. Forever sparkling under the light of culture, performing arts and gastronomy, France has plenty of compelling holiday attractions to offer those who want to explore her in her full glory.

 

If you’re a foot passenger, having sailed via P&O’s foot passenger ticket and you are looking for the most exciting things to do in France, you can now stop scrolling through random sites and pause right here.


Whether you’re in love with the quaint countryside, the serene coast, or the bustling city, we’ve put together a list of some of the most interesting activities you’ll find in French culture. From art, to shopping, to exploring different landscape, this list is sure to appease all appetites!

Why We Love Paris

Paris is both the heart and capital of France. With its iconic infrastructure, artistic pedigree, gustatory delights and shopping avenues, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with Paris and its sense of grandeur. While Paris is filled with culture, it’s still a city with plenty of contemporary activities to offer both residents and tourists. This includes everything from live concerts, world-famous museum tours, and cruises that allow you to explore the city even further

 

Not only is it one of the most famous structures in the world, the Eiffel Tower stands at a whopping 984 feet tall! Both history and pop culture have demonstrated that the Eiffel Tower has become a symbol of love. The Iron Lady has been home to many proposals and is regularly featured on postcards that depict Paris.

 

Beware – the tower has notoriously long waiting lines to buy tickets. We suggest you buy your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Tickets are available at the East, West, and South of the Pillars of the Tower. Many people love climbing to the top of the tower to catch the spectacular skyline view!

 

For the true romantics, the Tower looks more magical under night lights.

At the famous Louvre Museum, you’ll findLeonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa painting. This museum houses prehistoric Greek and Roman sculptures and modern objects. The Louvre also the most visited museum in the world. Like The Eiffel Tower, The Louvre is also known to have long waiting lines, especially on the weekends.


Our advice is to go early and avoid the wait.. This will make your gallery trip much more pleasurable!

 

Paris is synonymous with style, fashion, and food. You can buy designer clothes, and shop for homeware, books and more. You can stroll  across the bustling street markets, eat pastries from boulangeries (bakeries) and fromageries (cheese shops).

 

Lyon is a mostly undiscovered tourist itinerary in France. Drafted in the UNESCO heritage list, Lyon houses impressive cultural heritage. The ancient ruins in Lyon reflect French elegance Musée des Beaux Arts is the next best museum to the Louvre. The fine-arts museum treasures Europe’s largest art collection. From antiques, paintings and sculptures to modern art, Musée des Beaux Arts exhibits the entire range of exceptional artwork. You will be swept away by the works of the finest European artists including Géricault, Delacroix, Rubens, and Poussin.

 

When you are exhausted by the beauty of the historic art pieces, you can head to the museum’s cafe-terrace restaurant for a savoury meal.If you want to take a relaxing stroll and post amazing pictures for your Instagram profile, then you must visit Quartier Saint-Jean. You can feel free to explore the city’s ambience through the narrow lanes.

 

Along the way, you can find shopping stalls, restaurants and cafes.
If you like watching plays, then go to Quartier Saint-Georges. At the puppet theatre, you can watch French plays. Check the schedule of the plays before attending.

 

The historic neighborhood, Colline de la Croix Rousse has a collection of traboules. You can lose yourself in the labyrinth of ancient French streets. Amble along the charming streets, and discover hidden traboules. Be mindful, however, because the  traboules are only open to the public during certain hours .

 

You can also check the House of Silk Workers – Maison des Canuts. Watch hand-weaving demonstrations and silk production techniques.

Many fun activities and games can be enjoyed at Lyon besides the cultural tours. Huge shopping hauls are also available to satisfy your love for shopping. Go on a walking tour to Vieux Lyon and Old Town. Many tourists loveLyon and consider it the perfect holiday visit, as there are a variety of things to do nearby.


France is a diverse country. Nearly all of its  cities serve as major tourist destinations. The above are the top cities of France where the next big thing can be visited on foot. If you ever visit a city there, try to visit all these places.

 

Thank us later!

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How to Spend Awesome Summer Holidays on the Ferries

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There’s nothing worse for a globe-trotter than a summer holiday wasting away. If you have nothing planned for this summer, we have an exciting plan for you. How about spending a summer break on a ferry?

When it comes to ferries, there’s plenty of choices but the Channel has the most frequent crossings, perfect for impromptu breaks. France is the most popular choice, for food, culture, architecture and of course French beaches are legendary.

Take a car, jump on a ferry and drive through France across a 3 or 5 day break, booking Airbnb’s as you need them, maybe camping, be adventurous!
If you are catching one of the ferry services to France such as Newhaven to Dieppe, gone are the days when the ferries consisted of packet-sized cabins, which were claustrophobic enough to make anyone sea sick.
Now, you can laze around on your comfortable bed on the cabin. You can snooze while the cruise takes you places. This is just the tip of the iceberg that why people are ditching their highly-priced business class comforts to go via ferry.

Let’s explore one by one why summer ferries are way better than flying.

While an airplane just take from you one place to another in shorter time, a ferry will give you a more wholesome experience. There’s something very romantic about seeing the sky and sea roll past as you travel to your destination.

Ferries also allow you to bring your pets if they have a valid pet passport. So in case you don’t want to leave your furry friend behind, there can’t be another option than ferry. Instead of leaving your pets at kennels, take them with you. Isn’t that great?

What’s better than being able to stretch your legs on a comfy bed while travelling? This facility is possible only if you travel by business class that burns a hole in your wallet. Or it can be made possible if you travel by a ferry on the longer routes.

Ferries are Comfortable

You can laze around in your cabin or catch a film; everything can be explored on a ferry. There are a number of restaurants as well as on a ferry to feed you with your favourite sumptuous cuisine.

If you don’t want to get down on your destination tired then ferry is the option. If you are sailing from Dover to Dunkirk or Dover to Calais, the ferry journey is less than 2 hours. If you’re on the longer routes such as Portsmouth to St Malo you can enjoy a good night’s sleep in your cabin and rush to some sightseeing on your arrival.

This way, you can make the most of your holiday. Air travel is mundane and most of the flyers hate flying for the obvious reasons. Unless you’re travelling in a business class, there’s not much to do in an aircraft. Lack of comfort is another reason why flying leaves you tired.

There are no hand luggage rules with the ferries and you don’t need to fill your body wash in 100ml bottles while travelling in a ferry.

You can bring along anything you want except explosives! Eggs, ginger ale, mojito, anything’s game on a ferry.

On a ferry, you get to spend more quality time with your family. On a plane, the seating arrangement is not conducive enough to start conversations or play board games. But in your ferry cabin, you can enjoy the travelling while spending time with your loved ones.

How about taking your motorbike or bicycle? Yes, even that’s possible. What’s better than having your own wheels on holiday? You don’t have to rely on expensive car hires or public transport for sightseeing.

What Next?


Have a think about where you would like to go and decide on what route would be best. It’s not uncommon for travellers in the North of England to drive down to take the Dover ferries – they can be considerably cheaper – and make their way to France from there.

There are a number of cheap Airbnb’s around the Dover area that can make this a little bit more of an adventure.

Whichever way you go, have fun!

 

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Top 10 French Beaches You Must Not Miss

beach near Ajaccio

When in Rome, do as Romans do, but when in France don’t miss out on these super cool beaches that the paradise boasts about. Apart from the French wine and perfumes, there’s something else that France is famous about and that’s its beaches.

If you happen to be in France and wish to explore the beauties the French Riviera has to offer, then don’t forget to find the inner treasures. France has been blessed with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and we’ve no doubts about it.

The credit goes to its coastline which borders the Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic Ocean and the English Channel. From photography lovers to surfers, from hikers to loners, the French beaches have something to offer to everyone.

While it’s too hard a task to dish out 10 best beaches among the many, we have tried our best to collate a list for you.

1.  Crozon Morgat, Brittany

Crozon-Morga

If you’re seeking some rugged landscape and unexplored scenery, then Crozon Morgat is just for you. It is a lively sanctuary surrounded by emerald waters with white sandy beach. There are coves that are one of the major attractions of the beach. You’ll see the clearest of waters at Morgat’s pebble beach.

2. Palombaggia, Corsica

palombaggia, corsiaa

Remember Corsica? This is certainly one of the most popular and most visited beaches in France. The beach stretches for 1.2 miles with white soft sand, perfect for a barefoot stroll. On top of that, the beach is lined by fragrant pines and pink granite rocks that add to the aesthetics of the beach. During the peak season, you can see a nice crowd flocked at the beach to enjoy their summer making it a popular place for children.

3. Pampelonne, Saint Tropez

Pampelonne beach

By name it might seem like a tropical beach, but this beautiful beach is actually situated in the popular Cote D’Azur. The beach stretches for just over 3 miles straight and you will find plethora of beach clubs mushroomed along it. The beach is identified by its peculiar boho ambience.

4. Calanques National Park, Marseilles

Calanques National Park

This beach consists of stunning rocky inlets carved out of limestone rocks between Cassis and Marseilles. The wild and rocky landscape is now converted into a national park which is popular among the hikers. You can go to the spectacular Calanques by following the hiking trail Sentier du Petit Prince. You can also take a boat to the location.

5. Porquerolles Beach

Porquerolles Beach

Looking out for your little heaven? Then Porquerolles is the perfect place for you. The best part is that it is located just 20 minutes from Hyeres on the south coast of France. The state purchased the island in the 70s and converted it into a national park to conserve the flora and fauna. Even cars and cigarettes are not allowed in the area. What else do you want? Just clean air and sound of waves.

6. Etretat, Normandy

Etretat beach

You can find the famous chalk cliffs of Etretat at the beach that look exactly like the White Cliffs of the Dover. The beach is lined with pebbles that are perfect for barefoot walks. The three arches on the beach is known as L’Aiguille which is “the needle” in French.

7. Paloma Beach, French Riviera

If you prefer the swanky Hollywood style beach, Paloma Beach will give you exactly what you desire. The Island was named after Paloma Picasso, owing to the family’s affinity towards the area. Many Hollywood celebrities flock the beach during holiday season. The beach is a perfect family holiday destination as well.

8. Ajaccio, Corsica

beach near Ajaccio

Envying France already? Undoubtedly, France is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world. One of them is Ajaccio, Corsica. The blue waters are lined by white sand and big boulders. One of the beaches around Ajaccio known as Plage de Mare e Sole is renowned for its super-clear water and powdery sand.

9. Kerlouan, Brittany

kerlouan beach

For the photography lovers, the wild dunes and the rock formations are the muses. The Plage de Boutrouilles in Brittany attracts many photographers every year due to its pristine beauty. The granite boulders are natural art in themselves.

10. Deauville Beach

DEAUVILLE BEACH You’ll see the colourful umbrellas stretch out as far as the eye can see. The golden sands of Deauville, soft underfoot is one of Normandy’s best beaches. Walk along the promenade and you’ll see famous actors and directors with their names adorned on beach huts which celebrate the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, including the American Film Festival.
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Top 10 Things To Do In Dunkirk

cassel

Day trip or long weekend, family holiday or couple’s cultural excursion, Northern France is a safe bet. With a comfortable, affordable ferry ride separating Dover to Dunkirk, this historical town is readily accessible. Dunkirk still conjures images of war; the sobering words of Churchill linger on the beaches: “we shall not surrender…” Yet, nearly a century on, there is more to see than you might expect in the famous French town. Most tantalisingly, it’s all within reach. A short ferry journey from Dover to Dunkirk and the world (well, France) is your oyster. 

1. Visit the beaches

dunkirk beach

Naturally, people from all over the world are drawn to the haunting coastline of Northern France due to its rich war-time history. Wrap up warm, grab a coffee and stroll across the sandy plains that seem to stretch on to the horizon. Breathe the sea air and picture the battles fought here.
There is a palpable sense of what happened at this place and the experience can be quite moving, so it is a must for budding historians or those with a fascination with warfare.
In other news, there’s a string of quaint little shops where you can try French classics, such as mussels or French fries, and refresh yourself with an ice cream while kids play on the pedal-karts along the waterfront. 4-seater karts are to be found and this would be an opportunity for making fond family memories.

2. Musée Portuaire

musee portuaire

A converted 19th-century tobacco factory now operates as a museum, close to the sea. Housing evocative stories of the past that delve deep into the port’s whaling and cod industries and Icelandic expeditions, expect to be transported back to centuries gone before.
Close by, you’ll spot the 3-mast heritage ships moored at the water’s edge, including the hundred-year-old Duchesse Anne, the only tall ship you can board and explore in France.

Website: https://www.museeportuaire.com/en

3. St Eloi Belfry: UNESCO site

st eloi belfry

An extraordinary building now stands in place of a 1400’s watchtower. This site has seen many battles and watched the surrounding town burn to the ground, so it has truly stood the test of time. If history and panoramic views are your ‘thing,’ then look no further. Climb all 60 metres to the top and breathe in that fresh Dunkirk air, the smell of freshly baked pastries rising up to meet you from the markets below.

Website: https://www.dunkirk-tourism.com/touristic_sheet/saint-eloi-belfry-dunkerque-en-2899372/

4. Operation Dynamo Museum: Bastion 32

operation dynamo

In 1874, just after the Franco-Prussian war, Bastion 32 was built to fortify France’s border. Historically, the Allied Forces’ Operation Dynamo – the plan to evacuate 300,000 soldiers from France – was hatched here in 1940. Today, it is a museum and gallery, sharing everything worth knowing about the incredible operation and the dramatic events of World War 2 that took place locally. If you want to bring those wartime stories to life, it’s well worth visiting.

Website: https://www.dunkirk-tourism.com/things-to-do/dunkirk-1940-operation-dynamo/dunkirk-war-museum/

5. LAAC: modern art

Just across from Bastion 32 you’ll notice an arresting building covered in white ceramic tiles, housing all sorts of modern art and including Warhol’s work. Have a snoop around the sculpture garden in which the gallery is situated and try to make sense of the abstract shapes! Everywhere you look there is something of beauty, intrigue or thought provocation.

Website: https://www.dunkirk-tourism.com/things-to-do/contempory-art/laac-contempory-art-and-action-museum/

6. Experience the carnival

dunkirk festival

The prime time to be in the town is during the 3 days leading up to Ash Wednesday when 40,000 colourful carnival-goers paint the town red (or glittery pink) in celebration of Trois Joyeuses. People wearing yellow hats and coats parade through the streets and the mayor famously throws smoked herrings into the crowd to commemorate the old fishing trips to Iceland. *Warning: you might smell of fish*

7. Bury your feet: La Dune Marchand

dunkirk dunes
If you’re fond of sand dunes…. Perfect for nature lovers and the conservation conscious, these endless miles of beach and dunes stretch right up to the border of Belgium and support protected wildlife. There are many beautiful birdsongs to be heard amongst the foliage, interesting plants, flowers and animals. This stretch of sand makes the ideal spot to kick off your shoes and doze the afternoon away in the sun after your journey from Dover to Dunkirk.

8. Platier d’Oye

Keep your eyes peeled for signs to a glorious nature reserve while en route to Calais. This network of wetlands is known as the first feeding grounds for birds migrating south for colder months and if you can spot the flocks landing to replenish themselves from the rich lagoons, flooded by the River Aa, it can be quite a sight. It is essentially the first services these birds come to – their equivalent to a Costa on the M4!

Website: https://eden62.fr/

9. Jardin du Mont Récollets

cassel

If you have a taste for the finer things in life, head over to this beautiful rural farmhouse with enclosed gardens, box hedges, topiary and incredible flora. Stroll through the grounds, lose yourself in the house’s history and don’t forget to bring Mr. Darcy!

Website: http://www.cassel.fr/commerce/jardins-du-mont-des-recollets/

10. Food!

french food

When in France… A jewel in the crown of European cuisine, France is full of flavour. You should absolutely make the most of the dishes on offer and perhaps push your gustatory boundaries. Explore the independent restaurants serving deliciously authentic French food, wander around the markets, following your nose, and gorge on freshly baked pastries. The best way to get a taste of France is to eat it (not literally).

Getting to Dunkirk

DFDS is the only ferry provider to offer a ferry service to Dunkirk. Catch the ferry from Dover in South-East Kent and you will set off on a relaxing two-hour ferry journey. Prices can be as low as £24 per person and you can take as much as your car can carry.
DFDS offers up to 24 departures a day.

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National Ferry Fortnight

National Ferry Fortnight

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2018 National Ferry Fortnight Offers

The much anticipated National Ferry Fortnight is finally here. Britain’s annual National Ferry Fortnight (NFF) which is scheduled to hold from 14th to 28th April 2018 is run by Discover Ferries, the industry body for the Ferry Sector. Now in its tenth year, the National Ferry Fortnight is designed to showcase Britain’s extensive 75-plus ferry routes and the benefit to travel by sea.
The campaign theme for this year’s National Ferry Fortnight is “take your passion with you.” Discover Ferries explains that it aims to highlight that ferry travel is an enabler for people to follow their passions even if it involves taking their motorbikes, pets, a large group of friends or families, golf clubs, skis, caravans, pets, and motorhomes overseas.
As an added advantage of the ferry travel, wildlife lovers can spot marine wildlife from the deck of the ferry. Food and wine lovers need not worry as they can get a vehicle full of wines, boutique, gins, craft beers or gourmet delicacies. During the two weeks event, Discover Ferries is expected to share advice about taking vehicles or equipment on holiday as well as inspirational trips for great journeys.
Deals by Ferry Companies for the 10th National Ferry Fortnight
According to records, more than 38 million passengers journey by Ferry every year. As is custom, Discover Ferries’ members at the 2018 National Ferry Fortnight have published great deals for holidays on Ferry routes to Belgium, France, Holland, within London, Spain, Ireland, Isle of Wight, Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly and Scottish islands. Here are the great deals offered by the member companies.

  1. DFDS

For the National Ferry Fortnight, DFSD offers three deals to passengers. One of the deals is that you can get a £7 off one way and £15 off return crossings to France for a car and up to 9 people each way. Passengers who want to travel to Holland can also get £20 off one way and £40 off return crossings to Amsterdam.
Offers also exist for short breaking crossing to help you save up to 50% compared to regular fares. DFDS’s deals are available for booking until 30 April.

  1. Steam Packet Company

To encourage more people to discover the pleasure of travelling by Sea, Isle of Man Steam Packet Company partnered with Manx National Heritage to make a National Ferry Fortnight offer. This offer allows for a car plus two people for £90 each way, to stay for any duration at Isle of Man. Passengers will also get two Manx National Heritage (MNH) Holiday Passes (each worth £25) included the price. The offer is available until the April 28th and the booking should be done with the special fare code ‘FERRY’.

  1. Stena Line

Stena Line offers a free upgrade to their Flexi Fare when you book an Economy Ticket. The offer is available on the Holyhead to Dublin or Fishguard to Rosslare routes. To get this offer, passengers must book before 28 April using the offer code ‘FREEFLEXI’.

  1. Brittany Ferries

Parents with kids can grab the “Kids go free to France” offer as it allows up to three children (15 years and under) to travel for free with them in the same vehicle. The offer is specifically available on day sailings from Sundays to Thursdays, to and from France. Bookings must be done by midnight 29 May 2018.

  1. Condor Ferries

To celebrate this year’s National Ferry Fortnight, Condor Ferries offers a deal to people who think they need a short break. The offer allows passengers with their cars to save £70 on the sailing to island of Jersey or Guernsey. To get this offer, you must book before 20 April, 2018 with the promo code ‘BREAKAWAY’.

  1. Irish Ferries

Irish Ferries offers a deal for passengers to explore Ireland from £79 one way as fare for you and your car. With this deal, you can travel on its night cruise ferry departures for Midweek sailings (Tue &and Wed.) However, you must book minimum 41 days in advance and the offer has limited availability with no specific deadline.

  1. Isle of Scilly Steamship Group

This company offers a Scillonian Day Trip for 2 adults, plus up to 3 children all for £69.50. The day trip sailing offer is available until November with exclusions of Saturdays. Offers must be booked in advance only by calling the Travel Centre on 01736 334220 and quoting ‘DAYTRIP 2018’.

  1. NorthLink Ferries

NorthLink Ferries offers a ‘Kids Go Free’ deal that saves families up to 12% on their bookings. The offer allows children to travel for free on direct Lerwick to Aberdeen and Aberdeen to Lerwick routes. However, it can only be booked by phoning 0845 6000 449 or by visiting a NorthLink Ferries office.

  1. P & O Ferries

P & O Ferries offers a deal that can save passengers up to £7.50 each way on their trip to France when they book directly with them. To book this Dover to Calais offer, book with the code ‘GB18SPRING’ before 30 April.

  1. Wightlink

Wightlink offers a journey to the Isle of Wight. Booking a short stay offer will give you (maximum of 4 nights and 5 days) a £25 off while booking a long stay (maximum of 364 nights) will give you £30 off. This offer is valid only between 17 April and 25 May and can only be booked online.

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