Diary
With summer just around the corner, you may be dreaming of a holiday get-away with your family. This year why not discover a little corner of paradise in France? With so many wonders nearby, it would be a shame to miss out! Join us for a virtual walk through some of the most beautiful, hidden villages in France !
Barfleur, Brittany: a seaside village for the entire family
Direction Brittany, the Cotentin peninsula, and the magnificent port of Barfleur where you’ll enjoy a colorful parade of fishing and pleasure boats. Follow the old footpath to the Gatteville lighthouse, the second tallest lighthouse in Europe measuring 75 meters high. For those who love to wake up with the birds, there’s nothing like watching the procession of fishing boats as they return to the harbor! And for an unforgettable lunch experience, stop by a port restaurant for a true taste sensation, the famous Blonde de Barfleur mussels; you won’t regret it! After the tide goes out, children love to explore the beach to collect shellfish and seashells. For those who prefer water sport, there’s no shortage in the area -- sailing, canoeing, kayaking, wake boarding, you name it, they’ve got it!
Gerberoy, Hauts-de-France: a secret treasure located less than two hours from Paris
In need of a get-away not far from Paris? Don’t miss Gerberoy, the village of a thousand roses! This charming village, located in the Picardy region of Hauts-de-France, where roses are the centerpiece of every home. In 1901, the painter Henri le Sidaner settled in Gerberoy, creating an enduring love affair with roses, eventually encouraging each villager to plant a rose tree in front of their house. In 1928, he organized the first Rose Festival, which continues to this day. As you meander through the village, be sure to visit with the local artists and craftsmen. In the workshop/boutique of Stéphanie, the town’s potter, you’ll discover beautiful artisanal creations: from dishes to home décor, jewelry and sculptures. Stéphanie will be happy to show you around, and, if you’re lucky, she may even invite you to participate in one of her many classes. There is so much to discover in Gerberoy, you won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind village!
Bargème, Provence: a medieval village set in a national park
If you are passing through Provence this summer and want a break from the crowded coast, step into the quiet of nature in the enchanting village of Bargème. Located in the Verdon Natural Park, this "precious gem set in a rock", as the locals call it, is nestled at an altitude of 1100 meters, the summit of Var. Bargème is a medieval village adored by those who love nature and wide-open spaces. Whether enjoying one of the many hiking trails or cooling off in the Artuby river, there’s something for the nature lover in all of us. And if you enjoy unique, eco-friendly accommodations, the educational farm of Saint-Pierre de Verdon won’t disappoint, offering stays in tepees, caravans and, even, huts. A paradise for young and old alike, spend the day wandering through the farm and its organic vegetable garden, visit with the many farm animals (chickens, geese, peacocks, turkeys, turtles, rabbits, donkeys, llamas, sheep, ponies, horses...), and the kids are sure to love the pony and donkey rides.
Mortemart, New Aquitaine: a hidden gem in the heart of Limousin
While you likely have never heard of the village of Mortemart, located in the Haute-Vienne, it’s classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The Carmelite convent, built in the 14th century, welcomed pilgrims passing through the region. Today, these people have been replaced by artists with studios you can visit. The old market hall, restored in 2013, attests to the historical importance of Mortemart as a commercial center, where fairs and markets were once held. Stop by "Relais de Mortemart" for a snack break before you head out for a hike, a carriage ride around the village, or a bike ride. And don't forget to visit the "Bouquinerie des Carmes" where you can buy second-hand books, in French and English, and, if the mood strikes, curl up under a tree with your book in the reading garden. Once you’ve satisfied your literary longings, try renting a bike, electric or pedal-powered, to visit the area, or why not renting a donkey for a journey on foot. In Mortemart, everything is simple! It's the haven of peace you've been dreaming of for your family!