Southwestern France is a major wine-growing region. Travel France: Normandy and the Atlantic Coast Southwest France

We talk a lot about discovering new wine-growing areas, and often we find new, modern wines that are trying to make themselves known in the world. Southwest France is different - it calls out to be reopened. Many of her wines are still largely unknown. Nevertheless, 700 years ago, they were better known and valued higher than Bordeaux wines. Plus, they were often used to fortify and add body to pale, tasteless Bordeaux reds.

Well, Bordeaux wines are now famous all over the world and Bordeaux is not only the greatest grape region of southwestern France, but also one of the greatest in the world. Other wines from the southwest have languished in obscurity for a long time. But they are the most special and unforgettable wines in France. While many of the southwestern winemaking traditions have been largely lost, the region has seen a gradual and welcome resurgence in activity.

The closer you are to Bordeaux, the more likely you will find Bordeaux varieties in vineyards. This applies to both reds and whites: Bergerac, Cotes du Duras and Buzet can all be considered to produce mini Bordeaux - even if quite often the quality of these wines is a clear step away from the main red or white Bordeaux wines. This means that Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot dominate for reds, while Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon for whites.

But as you move away from Bordeaux, a completely new taste begins to open up in the wine. Cahors takes Bordeaux malbec grapes, calls them oxerrois and makes strange, deep, ripe red wines. In the Cotes du Frontonnais, the negrette takes over; in Madiran, tanna plus cabernet and local fer-servado. Add new oak barrels and you have very exciting flavors.

Most of the red wines from the foothills of the Pyrenees, like Bearn and Irouleguy, are based on the tanna grape. They are more or less rustic, but the white Jurancon can be excellent and quite expensive. The grape varieties here are Gros Mansant, Petit Mansant and Petit Courbue, and they have definitely not heard of Bordeaux grapes.

Bergerac. There are nine different appellations in this area, which is actually the eastward stretch of the vineyards of Saint-Emilion. Bergerac reds are at least made with merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. However, the best Bergerac reds are much less intense than Saint-Emilion's. They are quite pungent, but lack the coarse undertones of basic Bordeaux and can have a delicious blackcurrant flavor. The best of them ripen well. Rosés can be excellent with a full, dry fruity flavor and good color.

Cotes de Bergerac. These wines have a slightly higher alcohol content. Cotes de Bergerac Moelleux may also be marketed as Saussignac, but rarely. Bergerac Sec is white, usually good, fairly full and herbaceous dry. Top producers: La Barradis, Belingard, Court les-Muts, La Jaubertie and Tour des Gendres.

Pecharmant. A tiny appellation in Bergerac, producing fine completely dry red wines that require significant aging. Harvests of good years can be easily aged for up to ten years. Top producers: Champarel, Clos Peyrelevade, Haut-Pecharmant and Tigerand.

Montravel. Mostly dry white wines from the western edge of the Bergerac region, based on the Semillon grape. They have gotten better in recent years. Cotes de Montravel semi-sweet; Haut-Montravel is rarer and sweeter. Top producers: Gourgueil, de Krevel and Puy-Servain.
Monbaxillac. The region of Bergerac's most serious sweet white wine. The grape varieties are the same as in Sauternes: Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. "Noble mold" appears in the vineyards, although rarely in the same quantities as in Sauternes. The lower prices also mean that few producers put as much effort into harvesting grapes and making wine as in Sauternes. As a result, too many wines are simply sweet, and only a very few have a rich, spicy character thanks to the careful selection of noble mold grapes. But some manufacturers still put in the effort, especially in the best years. Top producers: la Borderie, Clos Fontindoule, Le Fage, Haut-Bernasse, Flebras, Theulet, Tirecul-la-Graviere and Treuil-de-Nailhac.

Cotes de Duras. An appellation bordering the Entre-Deux-Mers region in Bordeaux and producing light, herbaceous, usually quite attractive reds and good dry white wines from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Top producers: de Conti, Cours, Lapiarre, de Pilar and Le Seigneuret.
Cotes de Marmandias. A companion of Bordeaux producing light red wines to be drunk young, some rosés and light whites. The quality is decent but not outstanding. Best Producer: Cocumont Cooperative

Buzet. This is one of the most exciting analogous regions of Bordeaux. Red wines from Bordeaux grape varieties are surprisingly good. They combine the rich sweetness of black currant with striking herbal greens. The best producer - the Buzet-sur-Baise cooperative - makes wine under the brands: Chateau de Gueyze, Chateau Padere and Baron d'Ardeuil.

Cahors. This is a city of one wine and this wine is red. It can be so good that you won't be complaining about the lack of white wine or some sparkling, because a good Cahors has a wonderful ability to combine a tough strong style with such a soft fruity taste, and it is very difficult to convince yourself to let it ripen for some time. ... What Cahors is not - it is the legendary "black" wine, the smell of which made an inveterate drunkard switch to tea. Cahors is a wonderful wine from one farm, and nowadays from a cooperative. Some winemakers produce wine to be drunk young when it is full of wonderful plum notes and fresh due to its distinct malic acidity. Winemakers assume that the wine will mature, and the shades that develop in it are often almost honey, but they remain unchanged due to the plum flavor, which becomes deeper, spicy, dark, often resembling tobacco and prunes - what a combination! But this is a new "darkness", "darkness" of deep tones, unlike almost all other red wines. Top producers: Cayrou, du Cedre, de Chambert, Clos la Coutale, Clos de Gamot, Clos Triguedina, Eugenie, Gaudou, Haute-Serre. de Paillas, de Quattre, St-Didier de Treilles and the Cotes d'Olt cooperative.

Gaillac. It is one of the more well-known southwestern wines, but most of it is too mediocre to deserve such popularity. However, there are a number of good, enterprising manufacturers out there. White wines, which can be sweet or dry, are slightly harsh and would usually benefit from some softening, although they do have an apple and licorice tone. Red wines should have a strong peppery dry flavor. They are not deep or rich, but they have ripe fruit aromas, and the flavor of ground pepper is unexpectedly strong. There are a variety of slightly sparkling wines, and some of the best made using the methode gaillacoise method - like the methode rurale sometimes used in Limoux - are simply magnificent, with tones of pepper, honey and apricot at the same time. Top producers: Boissel Rhodes, Cros, Labarthe, Larroze, Lastours, Mas Pignou, Plageoles Labastide-de-Levis and Tecou cooperatives.

Cotes du Frontonnais. The nearby city of Toulouse wisely drinks this wine in large quantities. There is rosé wine, but the most enjoyable is the red wine based on the grape "Negrette". The best wine is smooth and velvety, with a liquorice and strawberry flavor. Drink it when it's young and drink it often. Top producers: Bellevue-la-Foret, Ferran, Flotis, Montauriol and La Palme.

Madiran and Paclierenc du Vic-Bihl... Madiran is described as the best red wine in the Southwest near Bordeaux. I would disagree with that. Overall, it has a strangely vague taste. The balance is usually excellent, although the strong green apple flavor from the Tanna, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blend predominates. However, there has been an improvement in this area; there is even some interesting wine from the "tanna" grapes. The use of new oak barrels is increasing, which contributes to better aging of wines. The white Pacherenc du Vic-Bihl, made from local grapes such as Ruffiac and Courbu, is rare, but worth looking for for its wonderful pear-skin flavor. Top Producers: d'Aydie, Bouscasse, Crouseilles Cooperative, du Crampilh, Damiens, Laffitte-Teston, Montus and Moureou.

Bearn, Irouleguy and Jurancon. All of these appellations are protected by the Pyrenees Bearn and Irouleguy use the "tanna" grape for red and rosé wines. Jurancon produces sweet, semi-sweet or dry wines from Petit Manseng, Gros Manseng and Courbu. Look for wines from winemakers, both dry, with a nutty flavor, and rare, honey sweetness and flavors of peach and raisins. Top Producers: (Bearn) Crouseilles Cooperative; (Irouleguy) Brana and Mignaberry; (Jurancon) Bellegarde, Cancaillau, de Cauhape, Clos Thou, Clos de la Vierge and Clos Uroulat.

Vin de Pays... The well-known Vin de Pays OT Charentais and Cotes de Gascogne respectively from the Cognac and Armagnac regions. The light, neutral grapes "uny-blanc" and "colombard" are used, which would otherwise be used for distillation. Top producers: Grassa, de Planterieu, Plaimont cooperative, les Puts, Hugh Ryman, San Guilhem and de Tariquet.

CLASSIFICATION

There are no overarching regional appellations here. The Southwest is a captivating area of ​​local appellations, often based on interesting vintage grape varieties.

ORGANIZATION

Cooperatives play an important role here, and some, like Buzet and Gaillac, are capable of producing good interesting wines if they try, but the most exciting wines usually come from single winemakers.

READ THE LABEL

Considering that there are so many different appellations and styles of wines, look for the name of a good producer.

ABOUT THE TASTE

Red and white wines from nearby Bordeaux taste like Bordeaux "mini-wines" - reds with tones of black currant and tobacco, white herbaceous and refreshing. As you move further from Bordeaux, the wines acquire wonderful spicy or nutty flavors that are not found anywhere else in France.

GOOD YEARS

Mostly buy the crops of the current year. Some of the red wines will age, but frankly, it is unlikely that you will be offered a large selection of vintages.

HOW TO DRINK THEM?

Red wines are for the most part fat, rough and simply appealing to casseroles; whites are good aperitifs. There are also some very tasty sweet wines.

BUYER INFORMATION

WHAT AM I CRYING FOR?

Most of the wines in the southwest are not expensive, and the best of them have excellent prices - provided you are prepared for completely unfamiliar tastes. If you are looking for analogues of Bordeaux wines, you should choose Bergerac, Cotes de Duras and Buzet. The dry Jurancon is unfortunately no longer cheap, but it is good.

AVAILABILITY

It depends. Bergerac and Vin de Pays wines are not hard to find. Gaillac, Madiran, Jurancon and other appellations are more difficult to find.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Madiran 1995 (Chateau Montus) - quality 7 *, price 7 *, value 7 *.

Good years: Red wines, especially Madiran and Cahors, can take several years to develop their best qualities. Red Cotes ciu Fronntonnais and Buzet are delicious without any aging. The pink and white Vins de Pays are best when very young.

Notes on taste. Many of the old-fashioned wines have original and memorable flavors that can be found anywhere in France. Newer Vins de Pays wines and wines are mostly of high quality and can be drunk when young.

Attention, only TODAY!

Summer! Summer again! In May, when the imminent onset of summer became obvious, we thought about how to spend the vacation, which you are looking forward to and which is so short that it would not be excruciatingly painful ... (hereinafter - known). We are three persons of indeterminate age, that is, from 28 to 40. Circumstances developed in such a way that it fell to us to fly to Spain. Costa Brava. A! Near France. Last year's experience of the "savages" trip to Greece with a car rental haunted. Resolved! Three days - in Spain (for acclimatization), a week - in France by car and 3 days - the final chord in Spain. The part of the trip organization related to air tickets, visas, residence in Spain was decided through a travel agency. The car was ordered via the Internet (Europcar). Here is a subtle point. Our three suitcases! No need for smirks - they are quite standard, but they still do not pull on light travel bags ... This means that you need a car with a large trunk, but compact enough to park without problems. Came - Seat Altea! Although, the Opel Meriva would also suit ...
Morning 09.06.07. Take-off landing. We are in Barcelona! They settled in Kaleye. An hour by train from Barcelona. Hotel - Maritim. Everything is quite worthy! We only needed a hotel for an overnight stay, and here it even exceeded our expectations: the plumbing is decent, clean, the room is spacious enough, the food is ok, the sea is nearby! Back in Moscow, I was worried about the presence of a railway running along the beach. But, those who advised these fears to "bury" were right, as well as many travelers, whose notes we read so enthusiastically before leaving! These are completely different trains !!! The close proximity to them did not give us any inconvenience!
In the morning we swam and sunbathed. The "afternoon" time was spent in Barcelona! We were so carried away by this city that we were constantly hopelessly late for dinner at the hotel, and realizing this, we continued to selflessly get acquainted with the culinary merits of the city ... I will not describe the sights. It was done magnificently before me. I can only join the chorus of rapturous voices!
But now the car is received! Almost new - only 9000 km mileage. We also bought super insurance. I know French parking lots! We drove to our almost native Kaleya in the middle of the night, practically without a map (as they say, a pack of Belomor). Of course we got lost. But the rare people we met (refuellers at gas stations, controllers at toll booths, late motorists) willingly helped us. And it doesn’t matter that we didn’t know a word of Spanish (except "Thank you"), the sign language is clear to everyone! And it's not true that Spaniards don't understand English. They just don't speak it ...
06/12/2007 (Tuesday)
Caleia - Figueres (86km; 1.5h) - Carcassonne (174km; 3h) - (Toulouse) (95 km; 1.5h)
Figueres. House-Museum of Salvador Dali.
It is difficult to compare with something and find analogies. Both the house itself and its contents are impressive. I liked the mirrored staircase the most. Of course, Dali is a genius. His work is amazing. But I like his games with the shape and volume of objects better ... I really liked the city itself! Cozy, so benevolent!
Next, we move to the French border. Of course, they saw the border, but did not feel it (when we drove back through the mountains, we didn’t see it, and didn’t feel it.)
Old Carcassonne is a labyrinth of towers and fortress walls. Colorful. Beautiful castle... Inside, of course, there are shops and restaurants. The place is very touristy. The fortress in our concept is a remake, but everything is done very reliably. The city is graphically lined with narrow streets into rectangular cells. The old stone houses just hang over, but, oddly enough, do not press. Very beautiful Basilica Saint Michel.
Toulouse at night did not make a positive impression. Basically - because of the long search for a place to sleep. Having settled down with difficulty in a perfect hole, we fell asleep. Morning changes everything. The city was fresh and welcoming in the morning. Pink city! Most of the houses are made of red and pink stone or brick. A lot of young people are a student city.

06/13/2007 (Wednesday)
Toulouse - Sarlat-la-Caneda (182km; 3h)
It was decided to leave the toll autobahns and move along the "village" paths. And from the point of view of economy - very correct! And here France finally opened up for us! Green hills, endless fields, shady roads surrounded by huge plane trees and acacia trees. Blooming acacia. For me now it is the smell of France. The first shock - not a soul around! In the fields, in the towns. Where are the French? Fortunately, rare cars, which were clearly driven by people, instilled some confidence - life IS!
Well, here is the medieval Sarla!
Whole quarters of medieval houses, armfuls of flowers, cobbled streets, ups and downs and wonderful shops with Perigord delicacies: the famous foie gras, as well as wines with a special bouquet of aromas for the liver. Inside the quarters - the perfect Middle Ages. And so it seems: the clatter of hooves on the cobblestone, the shadows of people in medieval outfit, just look - from the window onto the pavement they will splash some kind of sewage ... We spent a very nice day! In the evening we enjoyed excellent cuisine. And what kind of muffins were in the bakery for breakfast in the morning !!! Not! I can't remember calmly!

06/14/2007 (Thursday)
Sarlat-la-Caneda - Saumur (400km; 5h)
Today our prize is the city of Saumur! The town stands on the Loire and has a charming castle. We do not have time to drive through the castles of the Loire - we must visit at least one! The city is exactly from the fairy tales of Charles Perrault! The same houses that were drawn in the pictures in the book with fairy tales. About the castle - from the guide:
Chateau de Saumur
The castle is located on a hill (on the so-called emerald rock) above the city and the most beautiful view of it is from the bridge or the northern part of the city. The history of the castle is as follows. It originally belonged to Count Blois Thibault "Dodger". It was captured by Fulk III Nerra, after which the next owner - Geoffroy Gottfried Plantagenet - built a fortress. Ruins have come down to us. In 1203, Philip II Augustus joined it to the royal domain.
Louis I of Anjou, in the second half of the 14th century, turns an openly defensive and poorly habitable fortress into a comfortable country castle. In the 15th century, King Rene of Anjou renovated the interiors, of which only two rooms remain today. In 1589, the governor of Saumur Duplesy-Morne initiated the construction of a stone wall encircling the castle. And when Louis XIII ascended the throne, it was very convenient for him to turn the castle into a prison. This prison was intended exclusively for noble prisoners, who could even leave it for the city. The most famous prisoner in the prison was the Marquis de Sade.
V late XIX century the then mayor of the city began to seek the transformation of the castle into a museum and in 1906 the city buys the castle from the state. Since 1912, the castle has housed a city museum with a collection of medieval sculpture, ceramics, household items and interiors.

I remember the city in the lilac twilight. In a fabulous way - kind and mysterious.
When I was choosing the route, I did not know that here was the National Riding School, famous all over the world as the center of Cadre Noir - a special cultural phenomenon that arose from schools that teach horse riding to officers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Horses are a part of my life, and we could not fail to visit it. The friends showed due interest (I think at the beginning - as a favor to me, as the only driver, but then they recalled it as one of the most pleasant and memorable impressions!). The school is located 3 km from the city on a huge territory. There are guided tours at specific hours. We drove in without hindrance. We wandered around the stables on our own, played with the horses, talked to riders and grooms, watched a training session in the arena. Having a candidate of sciences in veterinary medicine and me, who was "sick" of equestrian sports for a long time, we did not need a guide. NOBODY chased us away from the horses, did not tug or express any other discontent. Everyone smiled, greeted, readily posed in front of the camera. The riders look very impressive: black hat, black vest, gold spurs. The whip is adorned with three golden wings.

In general, Saumur has a lot of interesting things: a museum of mushrooms, a museum of dried apples (!), Wine cellars, a troglodyte trail, Chateau de Breze with a kilometer of dungeons open to visitors, and much more. We could not see much. But we visited the village of troglodytes (a museum in the village of Roshmenere). Lovely cave houses, carved into soft limestone soil. Indeed: why bother with building houses when you can dig them up? Each room was designed for a different purpose. One is for housing (with a bed, a spinning wheel, a fireplace), another is for cattle, and the third is for wine production. The troglodytes even had their own church, communal dining room and meeting room underground.
I really didn't want to leave!

06/15/2007 (Friday)
Saumur - Le Mont-saint-Michel - Saint-Malo (370km; 4.5h)
After walking around Saumur, we went to the famous Mount Saint - Michel. I confess that I was looking forward to this meeting with some apprehension - I had read a lot of rave reviews on the Internet. After Versailles and Eiffel tower is the most visited place in France.
So, Saint-Michel, "the castle of the fairies, erected in the middle of the sea." The characteristic silhouette of the monastery on the top of a high cliff appeared somehow unexpectedly. Appeared and never let go. The road spun, made loops and Saint-Michel went left, then right, then turned out to be right in the direction of the car. Mont Saint Michel - Mount Saint Michael rises in the middle of a flat plain. At the top of the mountain is a very old abbey, which seems very massive, but at the same time, as if floating in the air. According to legend, the abbey was founded in 708 by the local Bishop Aubert, after three times in a row Saint Michael dreamed in a dream with an insistent request to build a church in this place "... The first church and the building of the abbey, which still stands today, were built here in 1000. At that time, the Gothic had not yet conquered Europe, and the abbey was built in the Romanesque style: thick walls, barrel-shaped columns and relatively low long halls. Then the abbey was completed until the 17th century, when on the southern slope of the cliff , a small town was built behind the wall of the abbey.
In the 19th century, a prison for revolutionaries was set up here, and in 1874 a museum was opened here. "
Mount St. Michael rose lonely among the marshes at the mouth of one of the many local rivers at its confluence with the English Channel. In the eighth century, there was some kind of natural cataclysm, and the sea rushed, unrestrained, into the plain, flooding the swamps. The mountain became an island. And since then, twice a day, a real attraction has been taking place here. At low tide the sea recedes for many kilometers, and at high tide the wave rushes at the speed of a galloping horse and just before our eyes floods everything around. There remains only a road on the dam, which connects the mountain with the "land". The maximum level of water rise occurs at seven to eight o'clock in the evening and seven to eight in the morning. We stopped probably 800 meters from the monastery on the road, like the vast majority of tourists. Closer parking is also available, but it seems paid. Still, this place has a powerful energy charge. No photograph can convey it. The mountain fascinates and attracts! We arrived exactly at 19 o'clock - the sea was actively advancing on the space around the monastery. It seems that a huge crane was opened somewhere, and the valve was completely unscrewed ... You can get inside the mountain through the only gate, which is located a little to the left of the road. Inside - a narrow street, lots of shops, hotels and restaurants. there are three museums, including the wax museum. Entrance to them is one ticket. We did not have time to reach the abbey, as a small rain, which followed us on the way, turned into a downpour. The abbey itself was already closing and we took refuge under some kind of arches. They stood for a long time, but the rain persisted, and when it calmed down a little, they went down. The water flowed down the steep steps just like a river. Soaked to the skin. The stove was turned on in the car. And they continued to admire the majestic silhouette of the monastery with a sharp spire against the background of the leaden sky! The rain ended as suddenly as it started ... and a rainbow appeared! Fantasy!
But it's time to think about an overnight stay, and we drove to Saint-Malo, booking a hotel there on the way (I really didn't want to waste time settling in). But either the boy at the gas station did not understand us, or we gave him the wrong address, but we left in a completely different direction. It was getting dark, as our satirist says ... It started raining again. Bumped into the first hotel we liked. There were no places. But the friendly uncle-porter, seeing the name of the street at which we pointed our fingers at him, trying to find the damned hotel, was horrified, got into the computer and found us a refuge in the next street. Why is he a great MERSY! By the way, in this way we were often helped by the hotel receptionist, where we wandered, but where there were no free rooms. True, they were always men ... And we spent the night in a real French attic!

06.16.2007 (Saturday)
Saint-Malo - Cancale - Saint-Nazare
In the morning we went for a walk around the city. Saint-Malo is an old pirate town (in the past) located at the mouth of the Rance River, on the banks of the English Channel. And it was from here that the French set out to discover Canada. He introduced himself to me as a kind of windswept Breton sailor, with a potato nose and a pipe in his teeth. Surprisingly, I saw just such a fridge magnet later in the souvenir shop! After walking around the old town and its walls, we decided to go to Cancale for lunch. I really wanted to try the famous Cancale oysters!
Oysters are sold there right on the waterfront. The price is set for a dozen. Oysters are numbered by shell size in descending order. 0 are the coolest. We didn't see it on sale, but the sink from them (shells are thrown right there) was oh-oh-very impressive - like two palms! We took the 3rd room at 4 euros for a dozen. At first, they impudently spied on an uncle of a clearly aboriginal appearance - as they were, none of us knew. Uncle ate molluscs calmly and methodically. We started our meal with caution - the oysters seemed slimy and ... But the reality turned out to be wonderful - they are very tender and pleasant to the taste! We did not become their fans (senseless), but we appreciated the taste!
Meanwhile, time was moving inexorably, we were godlessly out of schedule and had to say goodbye to Bretonne. Despite the occasional rain, at times quite strong, she firmly settled in our hearts! I hope to return there again, because we simply did not have time to see so much!
Saint-Nazar was chosen as the place to spend the night. Just because he was on the way. There is not a word about him in the guidebook. We didn't expect anything. We arrived at 9 pm. We settled without any problems in the first hotel we met. The number was the most ridiculous in the whole trip! Imagine: a small room on THREE, and right there behind the flimsy screen all the "amenities", and even above the screen to the ceiling is absolutely open space ... But we were too tired and did not want to look for anything else. Having dined traditionally with cheese, bread and wine, we fell asleep.
But the city surprised us in the morning! It is located on the shores of a large bay. And across the bay - a bridge. Extraordinary and beautiful. That is - extraordinary beauty... When he grew up in front of us, everyone gasped in surprise! Its silhouette can be compared to a huge roller-coaster ride, then it straightens up and rushes like a straight arrow to the opposite bank. Not even an arrow, but a lance!

06/17/2007 (Sunday)
St-Nazare - Cognac (300km; 4h) - Bordeax (100km; 1h)
"Cognac is a proper name. For some, it's a lifestyle! For some, maybe even its goal. But in fact, this is just a small town on the banks of the Charente River, widely known for the products of local cognac houses." The locals are: Camus, Otar, Hennessy, Martel, Remy Martin. Only five houses - that's all that can, by birthright, be called COGNAC! The inhabitants themselves call this drink - "Water of Life". There are guided tours in each of the houses. We chose "Otar" because it is located in an old castle of the 15th-16th centuries. It was there that Francis I, the future king of France, was born. The tour costs 4 euros with tasting. Not in Russian, we went to English, but when we watched the film, they made Russian subtitles (very nice, right?). But it all started literally from the "doors". Tickets are purchased at the store at home. Upon entering, you immediately feel the powerful scent of cognac. The truth can be exaggerated by using the word "powerful". But I am not a fan of spirits, and for me it was that way. And around - mountains, mountains of cognac bottles, barrels and glass showcases! Very beautiful! The excursion itself is divided into two parts, as it were: historical (around the castle) and production-cognitive (the method of cognac birth, its maturation, etc.) They are intertwined, since the cellars are located in the castle itself. Amazing experience! Now I will no longer be confused in the designations of this drink (V.S. or V.S.O.P., etc.). Only here I found out that "Napoleon" is one of the designations of the cognac's age (and, accordingly, taste!). In general, I listened to the excursion, periodically watching my jaw, which constantly drooped :-))
But another drink became a discovery for us. Thanks to the travel notes I read online! This is Pineau des Charentas! Naturally, it is produced only here and I have not met it here. It is produced by mixing 75% grape must and 25% high-quality cognac spirits with further aging in oak barrels. Cognac is added to grape juice so that it kills the yeast and thus prevents fermentation from occurring.
"... The result is a 17-degree mistelle, a white or pink drink with a captivating aroma and unique taste. White Pinot de Charente has an ancient gold color and an oily sheen. It is made from white grape varieties: Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, Colombard , Semillon and some others. It is aged in an oak barrel for at least three years, and this gives it a unique aroma of vanilla. Also in its bouquet the aromas of nut kernels, prunes, quince marmalade, honey, almonds and plums are combined. (foie gras) and Roquefort cheese, it also goes well with sea bass, scallops, mussels and other seafood, as well as fish and poultry.It is excellent as a dessert with pineapple cake.
Pink Pinot de Charente is made from red grapes (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc) and has the color of mahogany and copper. Its aroma combines the scent of fruit marmalade, blackberries, black currants, light tobacco, licorice, cinnamon and roasted almonds. Rosé Pinot is recommended to be consumed with fresh goat cheese, red fruit salads or plum pie, fresh fruit, dessert. Experts say that the combination of pink Pinot with chocolate cake is especially excellent. "
Well, not a song? The taste was really wonderful! And the aftertaste and sensations are like after a sip of brandy.
After all the tastings we got to Bordeaux with difficulty - we really wanted to sleep. We were reminiscent of the famous troika from the "Caucasian Captive" when, after the injections, they raced in a car. The same agonizing yawning, and the car - at a speed of 140 km per hour. I really asked the girls to entertain me in every possible way :-))
Big cities were not our goal, and in Bordeaux we intended to spend the night and in the evening walk a little along the embankment. Bordeaux met with bustle and a large number of cars, from which I have somewhat lost the habit. I had to call on my metropolitan experience. After a few bites in a small restaurant, and meeting there a girl named Anna from Moldova as a waitress, we went in search of accommodation. Naive! Something did not work out for us: more often there were no places, and where they were, it was very expensive. Apparently - they were looking for it in the wrong place. Having rushed around the city, we decided (on the advice of one of the porter) to go to the other side, closer to the countryside. Thus, we just drove along the embankment, but appreciated its beauty! It was not just getting dark, it was getting dark! There were no hotels! Stopping passers-by every 500 meters, tortured them about the hotel. In response - an indefinite movement of his hands: "The devil knows him! And where are you from? Russia? Oh! The hotel is on the other side!" And wave your hand into the distance. Already at the very exit, behind McDonols, there was a motel. Very decent! But! The room is only one and for two! While we were pensively smoking on the porch, who would have to spend the night in the car, a downpour gushed out. Real, almost tropical! And then hail fell !!! The size of a large sweet cherry! The boy-porter, who before that stood to death "not supposed to be three", himself came up, brought a cot, a mattress, linen and so on to the room. The price for the room was clearly overpriced - 128 euros for three, but we were happy!
What I really regret is that we didn't stop over at Bordeaux for the winery, which would be a very typical overnight stay in this French region. But either we didn’t notice the signs, or we were racing too fast - we didn’t have to! (but in the morning, when we left the city from the other side, there were plenty of opportunities!) We hope that next time in France we will be able to try such nice options.

06/18/2007 (Monday)
Bordeax - Dune-du-Pilat (65km; 1h) - Tarbes (350km;)
In the morning, after wandering a little around Bordeaux, we went to a supermarket, bought a lot of goodies for lunch and went to the famous Dune. By the way, during the trip we often bought goods in supermarkets and simply in shops. Food prices are comparable to ours (except for wine - everything is much nicer here), but the quality is excellent, the choice is varied. Salads are always fresh and tasty! Many were quite exotic for us! And the savings are on the face. For three of us, a huge basket of cheese of various sorts, bread, a baguette, some meat snacks, a couple of bottles of wine, fresh juice, water, salads cost 40 euros. This (except for salads) lasted for several days.
So Dune du Pyla!
The French claim it to be the tallest and most voluminous moving dune in Europe. Perhaps this is so. The height of the mountain is 115 m, length is almost 3 km, width is 500 m. During the year, according to experts, the dune moves several meters to the east.
Leaving the car in a paid parking lot at the foot of the dune in the shade (3 euros per day), we went to conquer this mountain of sand! From above the spectacle is amazing !!! Far ahead stretches a huge ridge of sand, very fine and white, on the one side - the ocean (the water from above seems to be unusually saturated blue), on the other side - as far as the eye can see, a pine forest! We went downstairs (very dashingly, I must say, they would have known what it would be like on the way back!) And swam and sunbathed to complete exhaustion, making up for the last days of vacation. The water is very warm, slightly yellowish near the sand. There they dined with the stored provisions. I really wanted to go to Arcachon - a town nearby. The interest was selfish - now I wanted to try the Arcachon oysters, which came here in ancient times from Portugal. Compare, evaluate. But, after a short hesitation, we decided to continue relaxing on the beach. Some fatigue from the road probably affected. We met there, for the first time in our entire trip to Western France, two Russian families. I will not describe the way back up the mountain, I remembered the unforgettable film "White Sun of the Desert" ... But we overcame that too!
The end point of today's route was the city of Foix, not far from the Spanish border. But the time was spent in Bordeaux and on the beach, so it was decided to go until it got dark. It got dark in the area of ​​the town of Tarbes, and there we spent the night in some roadside hotel.

June 19, 2007 (Tuesday)
Tarbes - Monsserat (358km; 4.5h -5h) - Calella (106km; 2h)
The last day of our stay in France. Although a little tired, but very, very sorry to leave her. But - there is a big stretch ahead! We decided to go on a toll road to save time. When leaving for it, they managed to slip through the barrier (it was open, by God!), Without taking a card for payment. After 2 hours, we tried to explain to the checker at the payment with gestures where we entered (to the right of the city or to the left), but nothing happened. By the way, it’s a pity that they didn’t stay in Foix, it turned out to be a very nice town with a lot of hotels! We entered Spain through the mountains near the city of Puigcerda, as we passed the border, we simply did not notice. Having rode along a cute serpentine road (I remembered Greece), we reached the Monserat Monastery. We have already written about the monastery many times, I will not repeat myself again. Everything is very cool! We sat in the monastery courtyard, approached the Black Madonna, touched her hand, made a wish (such is the legend), climbed cable car even higher into the mountains. The views are amazing! "The whole world is in the palm of your hand ..."
Well, here's Kaleia! This time they did not stray any more :-)) After unloading their belongings famously near the hotel, such a gypsy crowd rushed in to move in at about 7 o'clock in the evening.
Now - 3 days of deep rest! We went to Barcelona again: to hand over the car and see the city again. By the way, in Kaleye itself there is a Europcar branch. The result is 3000 km in seven days and a lot of impressions!

A little bit about different things.
About the car.
The car showed itself only on the positive side! It is stable, the steering wheel is sharp, the fuel consumption is very humane (about 4.5-5 liters on the highway), and considering that we had a diesel engine, it is even more pleasant (fuel is cheaper). The trunk is large, roomy. The only thing is there is some kind of trick in the fuel tank plug. Well, she didn't want to open up. It turns and that's it! I had to call men at the gas station. They did everything in the best possible way (albeit not immediately). I just looked into the hands of one trucker, and then asked to explain HOW? To which he said: "I myself do not know!" And then, with purely French condescending negligence, he threw out: "Seat .."
About hotels.
Last year's Greek travel experience played a cruel joke on us. In Greece (mainland) we had absolutely no problems with the settlement. There were many options! We chose carefully. The rooms, in the overwhelming majority, turned out to be for three, although then two of us traveled.
In France, everything is different. Our appearance a-la-troi caused confusion and confusion in the ranks of the receptionist. The time spent looking for free places in hotels was spent immensely! Especially ungrateful is this occupation in any big cities! In short, for your own convenience and peace of mind, it is better to book in advance (long live the Internet!). Room prices ranged from 40 to 128 euros.
About the roads.
Roads in France are a fairy tale! Like a mirror! Everywhere - a village, a city, country, national - no difference! The car goes like clockwork! On tracks with constant monotonous traffic, it terribly lulls - at least some pothole! The markings are clear. But you need to get used to the location of the signs. They often point in very ambiguous directions, especially at intersections! At intersections, interchanges are mostly circular. It turned out to be very convenient. I made circles while the girls figured out the direction :-))
About the language.
This means communication with the local population. What did we have in the asset? Spanish - absolutely nothing (greeting-goodbye - doesn't count!), English - more or less, I studied French at school, but that was so long ago that it doesn't count either! Now add to this the Spaniards' ignorance of English and the persistent prejudice of the French against the British. So what? But nothing! Communication was lively and easy. I was struck by the constant willingness to help, friendliness and responsiveness. Each of our people knows French: bonjour, tujour, orevoir, merci boku, and even about the famous Filipovka: "Monsieur, madam, it's not mange pas zhur", I generally keep quiet. This turned out to be almost enough. In the process, we learned right-left-straight, traffic light, turn and a little more. Sign language is international! Of course, it is disgusting not to know the language of the country you are traveling in, but ... it happened so, and curiosity attracted and beckoned ...

WESTERN FRANCE

Normandy, Brittany, Loire Territories (Loire-Atlantique)

Introduction

France ... A huge number of travel guides have been written about this country, which is attractive for Russian tourists. However, the authors took the risk to tackle new variant books for travelers. In no way claiming to be exceptional, they offer the reader their own view of the western region of the country.

If a few years ago tours under the code name "Gallop across Europe" were very popular, today more and more travelers prefer a thoughtful study of the country to a superficial glance. This is why the authors suggest (and imply) independent travel by region.

The structure of the author's guide is compiled according to the centric principle: each region is represented by several large cities, from where route lines are stretched to the nearby neighborhoods, which can be reached either by public transport or by car. It is up to each reader to decide whether to go there or not. The authors tried to find their own flavor in each town, for the sake of which it is worth visiting.

A full cycle of guidebooks involves the inclusion of several volumes. However, the beginning was laid in the western region: Normandy (Upper and Lower), Brittany and the Loirelands. Why this choice? Last but not least, the authors' personal attachment to this region of France plays a role. Having visited most of the cities described in the guide, the authors can competently talk about their merits and attractions. In addition, many inveterate travelers have already visited major cities in France, fell in love with this region, and now want to see and learn more. The authors have chosen the most attractive points for a visit, expanding and complementing the standard excursion tours.

In the modern world, most of the information comes to us from the Internet. Therefore, all addresses also have a link to the respective website. After all, it is there that you can get the most relevant information. This is especially true of tariffs and operating hours of attractions - what was relevant at the time of writing the guide does not always coincide with the realities of life.

Historical overview

France as a state is divided into 27 regions, 22 of them are geographically located in the country itself, 5 - in overseas territories. Each region is divided into departments, which are assigned a serial number.

Normandy was recently divided into "Upper" and "Lower" - in 1955, when the administrative division of France was renewed.

During the Roman era, the territory was divided among numerous cities. The Romans drew roads on the territory of their province and pursued a policy of active urbanization of the population. In the 5th century, the lands were captured by the Franks and became part of the kingdom of Neustria. New conquerors came from the north, and the constant raids of the Normans ravaged the region. In 911, Rollon of Normandy became the owner of the territory to which he gave his name - Normandy.

One of the subsequent dukes of Normandy became king of England - it was from here that William the Conqueror set off across the strait to conquer new territories. Because of this, the territory of Normandy was for a long time the subject of territorial disputes between England and France, especially during the Hundred Years War the citizenship of the subjects was unstable. In 1498, the Norman territories became part of the royal domain. The question of England's claims to the lands of France was closed only in the 16th century, when the English queen Mary Tudor lost the last city on the territory of France - Calais.

The post-revolutionary period was marked by an active growth in industry. The Second World War passed through Normandy, and on June 6, 1944, the Allied forces began landing in Normandy, thereby opening the Second Front in Europe during World War II.

Regions sites: www.hautenormandie.fr and www.region-basse-normandie.fr.

Brittany and the Loirelands are also closely related to each other. Historically, the Loirelands were not a single region, its modern territories belonged to neighboring provinces. It was created in 1955 to strengthen Nantes, which was the center of the historical region of Brittany.

Brittany is the most ancient of the regions of modern France, its history began even before the Paleozoic era in. In the 5th century BC. e. the peninsula was conquered by the Celts, who left impressive monuments of their culture. During the heyday of the Roman Empire, Brittany was one of the Roman provinces, then the peninsula was inhabited by the Britons who came from the British Isles and called their new homeland "Little Britain". In the 9th century, the Duke of Nominoe created the Duchy of Brittany, which more or less retained its independence until 1532, when the annexation to France took place, which was more or less painless - through the marriage of the kings of France with the heiress of the Duchy of Breton. The problems began in the 17th century, when Louis XIV began to abolish the privileges of the regions. However, for Brittany, the period from the 15th to the 18th century is favorable in the development of trade and economic relations. The French Revolution deprives the province of all privileges, numerous uprisings shake the cities. Today Brittany is a special province, carefully preserving its national isolation. The Loire lands are often confused with the historic Loire Valley region, part of which is now located in the Center region.

Regions sites: www.bretagne.fr and www.paysdelaloire.fr.

UPPER NORMANDY

Upper Normandy (fr. Haute-Normandie) is made up of two departments - Ayr (27) and Seine-Maritime (76), named after the rivers flowing through the Norman lands - Seine and Ayr. The capital of the region is Rouen. The area of ​​the territory is 12 317 sq. km. In terms of population, it ranks 13th among the regions. The region's flag features two Norman leopards against a red background.

Upper Normandy is an industrial region in France: plastics and lubricants are produced here, as well as a third of all French cars. Due to the outlet to the Atlantic Ocean, it is widely developed international trade... Most of the region's territory is occupied by agricultural land.

Main cities:

Rouen (capital)

Rouen, 106,000 inhabitants

Location: Seine-Maritime department, 130 km north-west of Paris. Capital of the Upper Normandy region.

How to get there:

By train: from Paris from Gare St-Lazare, travel time 1 hour 30 minutes, ticket price 22.30 euros.

By car: from Paris along the A13, travel time 1 hour 50 minutes, fare 14 euros.

The tourist office is located at the Cathedral Square (place de la Cathédrale), 25. It is open from May to September - at 9.00-19.00, on Sun. 9.30-12.30 and 14.30-18.00; from October to May - 9.00-18.00, on Sun. 10.00-13.00. Site: www.rouentourisme.com .

Business card

Rouen is:

capital of Upper Normandy;

the city of the cathedral of Claude Monet;

city ​​of Jeanne d "Arc.

Story

During the construction of the city metro, archaeologists discovered fragments of a Gallo-Roman settlement of the 3rd century. It arose precisely in this place because the ancient engineers could not connect the banks of the river with a stone bridge downstream of the Seine. This is how Rouen developed - as the first city from the mouth with a bridge over the Seine. In addition, the tides are still felt here, which allowed heavy-loaded ships to navigate the river in those ancient times. This advantageous location has made the city one of the largest trade, religious and cultural centers. Even at the very beginning of its existence, when the town bore the Roman name Lugdunensis, it was already the main city of the Gaul province. In 841 it was conquered by the Normans, and just 50 years later Rouen became the capital of Normandy. It was annexed to France in 1204, although there was a period in Rouen's history of belonging to England - from 1419 to 1449. In the 16th century, more than ¾ of its population left the city - these were the Huguenots, who were subjected to total persecution throughout France after the abolition of the Edict of Nantes in 1685.

The Huguenot wars in France (also called "religious wars") are a series (historians identify 10 wars) of long confrontations between Catholics and Protestants (Huguenots) that tore apart France from 1562 to 1598. At the head of the Huguenots were the Bourbons and Admiral de Coligny, at the head of the Catholics were Queen Mother Catherine de 'Medici and the Dukes of Guise. The country's neighbors also tried to participate: Elizabeth of England supported Protestants, Philip of Spain - Catholics. The wars ended with the accession to the throne of Henry of Navarre, who changed Protestantism to Catholicism, and the publication of the Edict of Nantes, which recognized freedom of religion.

France is a state of Western Europe, which includes 96 departments, including the islands of Corsica, Saint-Pierre, Miquelon, the overseas territories of the French Antilles (Guadeloupe, Martinique), Reunion and French Guiana, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, the Wallis Islands and Futuna. In France, familiar to us, there are 22 provinces, the most famous of which are Normandy, Burgundy, Povans, Champagne and some others. The capital of France is Paris, the main cities are Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Bordeaux, Nice, Toulouse.

France is washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Natural landscapes are not uniform, the relief is dominated by flat lands that occupy the entire area of ​​the northwestern part of the country. The French Alps are natural borders with Italy and Switzerland. Divided into Northern and Southern Alps. The most famous peak of the Northern Alps is Mont Blanc (the most high point Europe) in the area of ​​the ski resort Chamonix.

France is one of the few countries in which a wide variety of landscapes are concentrated - from sandy golden beaches to the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. This is partly why France is perfect place for relax. The tourist potential of the country is huge and diverse: excursion tourism, beach holidays on French Riviera, ski holidays, water sports, hiking.

Current time in Paris:
(UTC +1)

Every time you travel to France, you discover something new and unique. The country medieval castles with its mysteries and history, culinary masterpieces from the best chefs, expensive resorts with the best service and beaches, a country of world culture, theater and film premieres - cannot but surprise and delight.

How to get there

Airplane

The easiest way to get to France is, of course, by plane.

Direct flights

Moscow - Paris: Air France, Aeroflot.

Saint Petersburg - Paris: Air France, Russia.

Moscow - Marseille: Air France.

Connecting flights

How to fly with a docking to the capital of France, you can read in the chapter "How to get to Paris". As for non-capital cities, first of all, most of them can be reached by Air France with a transfer in Paris. In addition, you can fly to some French cities with a transfer at another European city... This is especially convenient for tourists not from Moscow, since they can fly to certain cities in France with just one change. Below we list the cities of arrival in France and options for connections from Moscow and other Russian cities.

• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main
• Austrian Airlines (Vienna
• Brussels Airlines (Brussels): Moscow.
• Norwegian Airlines (Oslo): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• SAS (Stockholm and Copenhagen): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Swiss (Zurich): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Estonian Air (Tallinn): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• TAP Portugal (Lisbon): Moscow.
• AlItalia (Rome): Moscow, St. Petersburg.

• Norwegian Airlines (Oslo): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• TAP Portugal (Lisbon): Moscow.

• Czech Airlines (Prague
• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Perm, Rostov-on-Don, Samara.
• Brussels Airlines (Brussels): Moscow.
• Air Malta (La Valletta): Moscow.
• TAP Portugal (Lisbon): Moscow.

• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main
• Austrian Airlines (Vienna): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov-on-Don, Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Sochi.
• Brussels Airlines (Brussels): Moscow.
• Air Malta (La Valletta): Moscow.
• SAS (Copenhagen): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Swiss (Zurich): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• TAP Portugal (Lisbon): Moscow.

• Air Malta (La Valletta): Moscow.

• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Perm, Rostov-on-Don, Samara
• Brussels Airlines (Brussels): Moscow.
• Air Malta (La Valletta): Moscow.
• TAP Portugal (Lisbon): Moscow.

• Czech Airlines (Prague): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Barnaul, Irkutsk, Kemerovo, Novosibirsk, Omsk, Rostov-on-Don, Samara.
• Lufthansa (Frankfurt am Main): Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Perm, Rostov-on-Don, Samara.
• Brussels Airlines (Brussels): Moscow.

A train

There is a direct railway connection between Russia and France on the routes Moscow - Paris and Moscow - Nice.

A direct carriage goes from Moscow to Paris, but by December 2011 a full-fledged train should appear, which will eliminate the need to spend 12 and 7 hours when connecting cars in Berlin. The Moscow - Paris carriage departs on Thursdays and Saturdays at 8:00 a.m. Belorussky railway station, arrives on Saturdays and Mondays at 9:23 am, respectively. Return departure - on Mondays and Saturdays at 20:20, arrival in Moscow on Wednesdays and Mondays at 20:35. Travel time to Paris - 51:23, to Moscow - 46:15. The cost of a ticket for an adult passenger is from 333 euros one way.

There is a direct train from Moscow to Nice, which departs from Moscow on Thursdays at 18:18 and arrives in Nice on Saturdays at 17:44. Travel time - 50:26. The return train leaves Nice on Sundays at 19:43 and arrives in Moscow on Wednesdays at 0:17. Travel time - 49:34. The cost of a ticket for an adult passenger is from EUR 306 one way.

More information about the routes Moscow - Paris and Moscow - Nice can be found on the Russian Railways website.

Bus

By bus you can only get to the capital of France - Paris. At the same time, a bus trip is one of the budgetary methods of travel, but also very time consuming. Direct flight Moscow - Paris is operated by Ecolines, a round-trip ticket costs about 250 euros. You can get from St. Petersburg to Paris (with transfers in Europe) by buses of the transport company Eurolines.

Automobile

To get from Moscow to the capital of France by car, you will have to cover a distance of about 3000 km, while crossing the borders of several countries. If you follow to the north of France, for example to Paris, then these will be the borders of Belarus, Poland (or the Czech Republic), Germany. If you go south, for example, to Cannes or Nice, you will need to go through Belarus, Poland, Czech Republic (or Slovakia), Austria and Italy.

A visa for motorists is issued in the same way as for other tourists. In addition, autotourists will need an international registration certificate and driver's license, car insurance ("green card"), and a medical policy.

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Climate and weather in France

The climate in France is varied, but in general it can be described as temperate. Most territories, especially Paris, have cool winters and warm summers.

On the Mediterranean coast and in the southwest there are mild winters and hot summers, with significant rainfall observed in the southwest. Mild winters (with rains) and cool summers in the northwest (Brittany). Cool and cold winters, but hot summers - on the border with Germany (Alsace).

In the Rhone Valley, a strong, cold, dry northeasterly wind sometimes blows, known as the mistral. In the mountainous regions of the Alps and Pyrenees, winters are quite cold.

Cities and regions

France includes 27 regions (of which 5 are overseas), each of which, in turn, can be combined into 7 main "cultural regions" that have common characteristics. These are Ile-de-France, Northern France, Northeastern France, Southeastern France, Western France, Southwestern France, Central France.

Ile de France

Ile-de-France is a region to which 8 departments belong: Paris, Seine and Marne, Yvelines, Esons, Haute-de-Seine, Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-de-Marne, Val-d'Oise. The region, amazing in its beauty, also attracts with its history, rich culture and established traditions. Translated from French, Ile-de-France means "the island of France", and the island itself is located between the rivers Seine, Esons, Oise and Marne. 80% of the Ile-de-France region is agricultural land.

There are several ways to get to the Ile-de-France. Almost all transport goes through the main city of the region - Paris. There are several airports (the main ones - and), serving all directions; Railway, the main branches of which are connected with Belgium, Germany, England, Switzerland, Italy and other countries; bus service with all major cities in Europe.

The main tourist attractions of the Ile-de-France: Château de Versailles, Rambouillet, Fontainebleau, Aquaboule.

Northern france

Northern France with Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Picardy and Upper Normandy regions. The harsh, but quite picturesque nature of Northern France is not to everyone's liking, so this part of France can be safely called little-studied by tourists. However, there is a lot to see and do here. The most famous tourist area in the region is Normandy.

Nor- Pa- De- Calais(Nord et Pas de Calais)

Nord-Pas-de-Calais is a region of the three departments of Flanders, Boulogne and Artua. Most of the resort's population is young, so it is lively and fun throughout the year, despite the fact that the sun of Nord-Pas-de-Calais is not as hot as, for example, on the French Riviera. Festivities with festivities and fairs are a frequent occurrence for Nord-Pas-de-Calais.

Picardie

Picardy is a historical region of the country. The calm and very picturesque province is famous for its centuries-old history. The main style of urban architecture is Gothic. The most striking examples can be called cathedrals(there are 6 of them) and castles that belonged to the royal family.

Since ancient times, Picardy has inspired the minds of famous French writers - Hugo, Proust, Racine, whose greatest works are kept in local museums.

Upper Normandy (Haute-Normandie)

Located 2-3 hours from the capital of France, Normandy has always attracted the elite and creative people. The Normandy resorts of Deauville, Trouville and Honfleur are quiet and attractive for families.

Upper Normandy is the northern region, the capital of which is Rouen. With its rich past and present, Rouen is one of the most important cities in France. The names of great figures and folk heroes are associated with the city - such as Jeanne d'Arc, Gustave Flaubert, Claude Monet and others.

Rouen, located 350 km from Paris, is not difficult to reach by plane, express or taxi. The high-speed train from Paris to Rouen leaves every 30 minutes from Saint-Lazare train station.

Major tourist attractions in Northern France: Baie de Somme, Church of Jeanne d'Arc, Church of Saint-Maclou, English Channel, Parc Asterix, Big Clock (Rouen), Chantilly Castle.

Northeastern France

Northeastern France is an area that includes Alsace, Lorraine, Champagne-Ardenne and Franche-Comté. It shares borders with Germany and Switzerland, as a result of which the French culture closely overlaps with the German one.

Alsace

Alsace is a small region of northeastern France, however, it is famous even outside the country. The area attracts tourists from all over the world thanks to the production of wines and beer. More than half of French beer is produced in local breweries near Strasbourg.

Lorraine

The French region of Lorraine is located at a European crossroads, which will certainly have an impact on the culture and rich history of the area. The central cities are Metz and Nancy, whose architectural values ​​bear witness to an extraordinary history dating back to the Halo-Roman period.

Champagne-Ardenne

Champagne-Ardenne is the most famous region of France. It is famous, first of all, for the birthplace of sparkling wine (champagne). Any excursion or wine tour is not complete without visiting grape plantations and tasting delicious champagne.

The region's main attractions include the Cathedral, listed as a cultural heritage site, and the Basilica and Museum of Saint Remy. All sights can be seen by traveling along the tourist route, combining sightseeing with a walk through the picturesque countryside and lakes.

Franche-Comte

Franche-Comté is one of the most picturesque corners of France. On the territory of the region are the natural parks of O Jura and de Balon de Vosges, immersed in fir and spruce forests. Since ancient times, the inhabitants of the region have been using the fertile land, growing grapes and making cheeses and sausages.

The main tourist attractions of Northeast France: Vineyards (white Alsatian wines), Upper Koenigsburg Castle, New Year's Fair, Saint-Nicolas.

Western France

Western France - Brittany, Normandy, Western Laura and Poitou Charente - all these maritime provinces are united and at the same time distinguished by a centuries-old history that has created a special image and style of Western France. On the territory of most regions, balneological resorts are concentrated, the hotels of which complement the exquisite image of the provinces.

Brittany

Brittany is a peninsula in the West of France with a favorable maritime climate. Due to the close proximity to the ocean, there is practically no winter here, and a cool breeze blows in summer. Ebb and flow are frequent, so the tourist season depends on the state of the sea. The Saint-Malo region is popular with surfers with the highest waves in all of Europe.

Lower Normandy (Basse-Normandie)

Normandy is a "green" region, which is washed by the waters of the English Channel. Manche, Calvados, Orne, Ayr and Seine-Maritimes are the provinces of Normandy, the population of which increases especially during the holidays and summer vacations. Normandy is loved by tourists for its picturesque areas, historical architectural monuments and the hospitality of the locals.

Normandy can be reached from Paris by train or car. Travel time from 1 hour, depending on the place of departure and method of travel.

West Laura (Pays-de-la-Loire)

West Laura is a flat area with rivers and fertile lands devoted to agriculture. Consists of the provinces: West Loire, Maine-et-Loire, Maenne, Sarthe and Vendée.

Among the cultural heritage sites are interesting natural and construction caves created as a result of the work. The quarries formed during construction and located along the swampy shores near the ocean now serve as tourist routes.

Kilometers of beaches are typical for the province of Vendée. Scattered along the coast are campgrounds and holiday homes, which alternate with wilderness fishing grounds and yacht harbors. Poitou Charente is perhaps the sunniest area in the Western Atlantic.

You can get to the province on the A10 highway on road transport or by railway line, which is connected to the main cities of France.

The notable beaches of Royan, Fouras, Saint-Georges-de-Didonne and some of the islands are great for families and water sports.

Among the most interesting and exciting excursions are excursions to ancient bastions that served as defensive structures. The most popular water fortress is Boyar Fort near Aix Island.

Major tourist attractions in Western France: Vineyards, Loire Castles, Puy du Fou, Historic Parks, West Loire, Medieval castles and estates, Mount Saint-Michel, English Channel, Monet's Garden at Giverny, Beaches, Dolmens, Anglo-Channel Islands.

Central France

Central France - regions of the Loire Valley, including the picturesque Auvergne region, are mainly occupied by agriculture and agriculture... There are many small historical towns in central France, the main attractions of which are castles and medieval buildings.

Contemporary culture is represented by concerts, traditional festivals and other events. The most famous annual events are Spring in Bourges, Orleans Jazz, musical festivals in Touraine.

In addition to music festivals and international exhibitions, the region is famous for its protected areas. Natural parks Perche, Brennes and Loire-Anjou-Touraine are protected areas.

And a whole chain of gardens and parks, both artificially created and natural, belongs to the real heritage of France. More than 90 parks, the most famous of which is Villandry, amaze with their sophistication and unusual design.

You can get to Central France by almost any transport. The road network is connected by highways A10, A11, A71, A20.

Auvergne

Auvergne is a region whose main city is Clermont-Ferrand. The area of ​​scenic landscapes is famous among tourists tired of the beaten track. You can get to Auvergne from different provinces of France by train, plane, or car.

Health tourism is popular among vacationers. Thermal springs and curative mud (including the legendary Vichy) - the basis of healing techniques and procedures.

The most popular natural attractions in the area are the Sancy Hills, the Cantal Massif, the Puy de Dome and the Cheng de Puy volcanoes.

The main tourist attractions of the Center of France: Loire, Vineyards, Medieval castles, Chambord, Villandry, Amboise, Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, Valley of the Kings, Jacques Sjor, Dam de Touraine, Vichy waters.

Southwest France

Southwest France includes the Southern Pyrenees and the famous Aquitaine region.

The rich history of Aquitaine is reflected in the fairytale castles on the tops of the mountains, medieval buildings - now the most famous restaurants in France. Picturesque nature with sandy beaches and steep banks creates good conditions for rest and relaxation.

Aquitaine is a famous province where wine has been produced for centuries. Fertile lands and mild climate create all conditions for growing grapes and further wine production.

The main tourist attractions of Aquitaine: Atlantic Ocean, Mountains, Vineyards (Bordeaux wines), Southern Channel, Pyrenees, Rivers.

Southeast France

Southeast France - Rhone-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Cote-d`Azur, Languedoc-Roussillon and the island of Corsica (Corse). Most tourist area after Paris. The region includes the Mediterranean coast and the French Alps in the east.

The main tourist attractions of Southeast France: Mediterranean Sea, Vineyards, Beaches, Mountains, Arena Arles, Alps, Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Menton, Monte Carlo.

Overseas possessions of France

Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Mayotte and Reunion are overseas departments of France. Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Wallis and Futuna, and French Polynesia - overseas communities. Clipperton and New Caledonia - overseas administrative-territorial entities with a special status.

Guiana's impenetrable rainforests are protected. Most of the territory belongs to the Amazonian forests, which are considered the main attraction of the overseas territory of France. Especially for the curious, there have been developed tourist routes through protected areas with interesting excursion program, thanks to which everyone will plunge into a new world, unlike the usual France.

Mayotte is another overseas department of France, located in the western Indian Ocean, in the Mozambique Channel near the island of Madagascar.

Mayotte consists of several islands. The main island is Grande Terre (also known as Maore). The smaller island is called Petit Ter (or Pamanzi). Several other islets are quite small. Geographically, Mayotte belongs to the Comoros.

Sun, picturesque beaches, Cote d'Azur, volcanoes, natural waterfalls- Reunion Island does not get tired to amaze the views of tourists. Fabulous place will bring a lot of adventure experiences. And engaging in active water sports will diversify your stay in a picturesque place.

Notre Dame Cathedral of Chartres (80 km from Paris, Ayr and Loire) was built in the 12th century and is one of the main Gothic cathedrals in France. Today the cathedral is functioning, it is a Catholic church and a place for excursions. On the site of the existing church there was a Romanesque basilica, which burned down in the middle of the 12th century.

Located near Paris (20 km), Versailles was founded in the 17th century. The luxurious palace in the past served as the summer residence of the French kings, as well as a place for solving important state affairs. Today Versailles is a popular tourist destination. The armory square and the garden with fountains, which were once the subject of delight and even envy of some rulers, are noteworthy.

Many (according to some sources 300, according to others, only 42 are considered traditional castles of the Loire) castles on the banks of the Loire River are a popular place among residents and guests of France. Of extraordinary beauty royal castles as on the pick lined up along the Loire coast. Each of them has its own story, and a lot can be written about each.

The most famous and well-preserved of the castles are:

• Amboise
• Aze-le-Rideau
• Blois
• Shatodan
• Cheverny
• Chaumont-sur-Loire
• Chinon
• Langeais
• Saumur
• Valence
• Villandry

Carcassonne - medieval town in the province of Languedoc Roussillon. The city is home to one of the main sights of France - an ancient fortress, which is the largest in Europe. The length of the fortification walls is more than 3 km, and the number of towers exceeds 50. A major achievement of military defensive architecture reflects power and strength. The ancient fortress can accommodate several castles - such sizes have amazed travelers, soldiers, and merchants at all times.

Built in the middle of the rocks, Rocamadour is the religious center where St. Amadour was buried in ancient times. Tourist route through the Grand Escalier Staircase to the city or via the Way of the Cross to the 14th century central castle. The main symbol stone city is the statue of the Black Madonna, which rises above the rock. Rocamadour is famous for a large number of shrines, including the Notre Dame Chapel, Amadour's Tomb, Saint-Sauveur Basilica and others.

The city of Avignon, located in the province of Vaucluse ( Southern france), famous primarily for the Papal Palace. The palace was rebuilt and completed several times, as a result of which it became the largest among the Gothic buildings in all of Europe. Excursions to the Palais des Papes are held constantly, almost all rooms are open for visiting, wine lovers will be interested in the wine cellar and tastings of the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

North-east of Paris, in the Champagne-Ardenne province, lies the magnificent Gothic Reims Cathedral. The cathedral appeared in the 13th century on the site of a previously burnt building. During the existence of the cathedral, 25 French persons were crowned here. The cathedral belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Rouen and its famous cathedral are two hours west of the French capital. Rouen Cathedral is crowned with a spire, which is the tallest in the entire country. Tour Lanterne, or spire with a lantern, was built in the 19th century and is notable for its lacy bronze trim. Inside the spire there is a small bell tower, the top of which is adorned with 56 bells.

The natural garden of Villandry Castle, dating back to the 16th century, is very important in terms of garden art. Dr. Joachim Carvallo is the last owner of the gardens to recreate the abandoned area in an exact manner. The picturesque gardens are located on the hillside with small terraces. This construction of the park is typical of the Renaissance. The entire garden can be viewed from the balconies or the tower of Villandry Castle. There are three levels of gardens in total, which are arranged in six groups: vegetable garden, love garden, herb garden, musical garden, mosaic garden and water garden. All gardens are unique in their aesthetic design and colors. On the territory of each garden there are signs with information about the group of plants.

The city of Giverny is famous for the garden of Claude Monet, who at one time was passionate about gardening. In the 19th century, the great artist bought a house in Giverny and began to tend the local garden. He read special literature, created an artificial pond, planted lilies and other flowers. Giving space to the plants, Monet created a motley carpet of a variety of colors - no geometry and clear lines, the whole range of colors intertwines and merges in different colors. Here the artist drew inspiration, many of Monet's paintings depict the very lilies on the pond. Today the garden is open to the public. On the territory of the beautiful garden there are also rare plants brought by both Monet himself and his friends. For example, Japanese peonies and bamboo were brought especially for the artist.

The Perfume Garden is the name given to Christian Dior's garden. It is located in Grenville, not far from the place where the famous designer was born. In addition to fragrant roses, there is an informative fashion museum on the territory of the garden, completely dedicated to the life and work of the owner of the house.

Wine provinces of France

Speaking of wine, you should pay attention to the wine provinces of France - Burgundy, Bordeaux, Medoc, Provence and others.

All of these regions have museums and wine cellars where tastings of the best drinks are held. Côtes de Provence, Bandol and Côtes du Rhône, Chateau Margaux, Medoc, Pessac Leognan, Graves, Haute Brillon, Sauternay, Beychevel, Saint-Julien are tourist places that will tell about the history of winemaking and the secrets of making the drink of the gods.

The picturesque wine province of Bordeaux (Aquitaine) is surrounded by green vineyards. The vineyards stretch from the right bank of the Gironde River to the tributaries of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. In addition to wine on the territory of Bordeaux, delicious cognac has been produced for a long time.

No wine tour in France is complete without a visit to Champagne - the province that is the historical homeland of sparkling wine - champagne. Only here you can taste light sparkling wine, which is produced at local factories and is never exported outside France.

Where to go in France

sights

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Leisure

Transport

Private guides in France

Russian private guides will help you to get acquainted with France in more detail.
The project Experts.Tourister.Ru is registered.

Things to do

Being popular tourist spot France is an ideal country for practicing not only sightseeing vacations, business trips and shopping, but also beach vacations, skiing, exciting golf, as well as treatment at the best balneological resorts in France.

Beach vacation

The best resorts French Riviera France welcomes guests with the sun, the warm Mediterranean Sea, entertainment and excellent service. Among the famous resorts, the most visited are Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez and others.

A beach holiday in the edges of the Cote d'Azur is suitable for different categories of tourists - young people, couples, and vacationers with children. Along the entire coast, gradually moving east towards Nice, sandy beaches give way to pebble ones. Most of the beaches are urban and free, with the exception of those that belong to hotels. The entrance fee for private beach includes the use of sun loungers and umbrellas.

Beach holidays can be combined with nightlife and social events. Among all the prestigious resorts, Saint-Tropez stands out. This resort was loved by the elite from all over the world. The villas of many famous people are located in sunny Saint-Tropez. At the height of the season, the resort is full of real social life, and various meetings and parties bring variety to the rest on the sandy coast of the Côte d'Azur.

Youth holidays in Nice will give the most vivid and pleasant impressions. Luxurious hotels, casino entertainment, delicious food in the best restaurants and all this against the backdrop of the most picturesque nature and amazing architecture... A rare holiday is complete without visiting the Bay of Angels, the central Place Masséna and magnificent gardens and parks on the slopes and foothills of the Alps.

Golf in France

France is rightfully considered the country of golf. There are over 500 golf courses, including courses designed by the world's best architects.

Since the 19th century, golf has become a popular hobby (and for some, a sport) in many provinces of France. Golf courses with the most of varying complexity- a familiar part of the picturesque landscape of the country.

Golf competitions are held year after year, and there are all conditions for this. The most the best sites are located in the area of ​​Laura, Cote d'Azur, Brittany, Provence and Normandy. Therefore, a relaxing holiday in France can be perfectly combined with golf lessons. This game will become doubly interesting because of the fantastic conditions and the magnificent landscape, against which the fields are located.

No need to worry about equipment - everything you need, including uniforms, can be rented on site. Experienced instructors are at the service of beginners and those who wish to improve their golfing skills. They will give a master class or teach you how to play.

Ski vacation

Skiing in France is a popular winter pastime. At the same time, France is one of the main destinations for ski holidays in the world. A large number of ski resorts in France are located in the Alps: these are the world famous names of Chamonix, Courchevel, and other equally remarkable resorts.

Today, many ski resorts in France are recognized as the best in Europe. International competitions, championships and cultural events are held here every year.

Besides directly alpine skiing to the services of vacationers - snowboarding, sledges, skates, bowling, squash, parachute descents and other mountain and suburban activities.

Some ski resorts are located in the glacier zone, so the respective weather allow you to ride all year round.

Wellness holiday

Among the best health resorts in France are Biarritz, Dax, Brittany, Vichy.

The special climate and the presence of mineral salts have a beneficial effect on the development of thalassotherapy. This type of treatment helps to get rid of ailments such as a weakened immune system, joint pain, and overweight problems.

Among other things, at well-known resorts, with the help of procedures using mineral salts and supplements, they help to get rid of diseases of the kidneys, liver, intestines, as well as ENT diseases.

Patients undergo a variety of treatments, including contrast showers, underwater massages, algae and sea therapy, and mud baths.

Traveling around the country

By plane

Flights within the country are mainly operated by Air France. Other carriers also fly within the country. Arriving in Paris, you can fly to any more or less large city in France.

Air France

From Paris to Ajaccio, Avignon, Biaritz, Bordeaux, Brest, Cannes, Clermont-Ferrand, Le Havre, Lille, Limoges, Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Nantes, Nice, Perpignan, Rennes, Rouen, Strasbourg, Toulon, Toulouse.

Airlinair

From Paris to Agen, Cannes, Castres, Lannion, Limoges, La Rochelle, Brive, Aurillac.

Air corsica

From Paris, Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Clemont-Ferrand, Marseille, Montpellier, Nantes, Nice, Mulhouse, Strasbourg and Toulouse to Corsica, to Ajaccio.

Twin jet

Flies from Paris to Bergerac and Perigueux; from Toulouse to Marseille, Metz Nancy and Mulhouse.

easy jet

From Paris to Nice and Toulouse.

By car

France has a well-developed expressway system. Most of the motorways are toll roads. On some highways, there is a toll post that allows entry to a certain section of the road, on others, toll collection is carried out on an entry-exit basis. The main thing is not to lose your entry ticket, otherwise you will have to pay for the maximum distance. All toll stations accept both cash and credit cards.

French roads can be both narrow, one-way rural lanes and expressways. Most cities were built before the advent of cars, so the centers of these cities are absolutely not suitable for driving. When renting large vehicles, keep in mind that they can be very difficult to drive in these areas. Sometimes it is better to park your car and use public transport. If anyone does not know - in France, right-hand traffic.

Hitchhiking

France is the country where you can theoretically hitchhike. The drivers who stop are generally friendly and not dangerous. It is advisable to speak at least a little French.

Hitchhiking from Paris is almost impossible. It is possible to try to stop the vehicle, but due to heavy traffic and limited stopping space, this is unlikely to be successful. In this case, it is better to take the train to the suburbs, where the chances of hitchhiking are significantly increased.

Outside of Paris, it is better to brake the car around the roundabouts, as stopping the car on the highway is prohibited, and the police closely monitor this.

By train

Trains are a great way to travel around France. It is easy to get to any point by train. For longer distances, TGV (High Speed ​​Train) trains are better suited. Tickets must be booked in advance. If time permits, it is best to travel on a regular passenger train and enjoy the scenery.

The French national rail network is operated by (French National Railways). You can view the schedule of interregional trains and order tickets. Regional train timetables can be found at. (select a region, then "Carte and horaires"). You can order tickets in the first class (premiere classe), which is less crowded and more convenient, but the ticket price is 50% higher than in the second class (deuxieme classe). Please note that if the TGV train is overcrowded, call in a couple of seconds before departure, find a conductor and he will most likely find a place for you somewhere.

If the traveler makes more than two round trip trips and is under 26 years old, you should purchase a "12-25 Carte", which will help save money. It costs € 49, the validity period is one year, the discount for such a card is 50% of the ticket price.

If a ticket is ordered online on the website, it can be picked up at the station. To order a ticket on this website, the place of residence does not matter, but they are delivered only within France, and you can pick them up only at the SNCF station. At the station, just go to the counter ("Guichet") and ask for your ticket ("retirer votre billet").

To find your train, find out its number and departure time, which are indicated on the board. Way ("Voie") - next to the train number and the time of its departure. If a seat is booked on a TGV train, it is also possible to take another seat on a different train. To find out the number of the reserved seat, first find out the train number ("Voit. No"). Do not confuse track number and train number. Going down to the platform, you can see the number on the carriage screen, on the window or just near the door.

The rules for observing the numbering of places are not strict. You are not fined for moving to another free seat (if the train is not overcrowded) or for exchanging a seat with another passenger.

On main lines, TGV trains usually run in two. Here, the following nuance should be taken into account: are these two trains considered one, under the same number, or are they two different trains going together, with two different numbers (in this case, the two trains will have similar numbers, such as 1527 and 1537) ... Make sure the correct train is selected (the train number is on the screen, next to the carriage number).

If the train hasn't arrived yet, the station often has a map that indicates the location of the train and carriages. Thanks to this, you can expect a train already in the place that corresponds to a particular carriage. The transition from one carriage to another is very simple. So, if you are late, just go into any carriage of your class, wait for the passengers to take their seats, then go to your carriage, to your place.

The ticket must be validated, only then is it considered valid. Old machines are bright orange, new ones are yellow-gray. The machines are located at the exit to the platform. If the ticket is not validated, you will have to pay a fine, and it does not matter that the passenger is a foreigner who does not speak French well. Although it all depends on the guide. When boarding a train without a ticket, be sure to find a conductor and explain the situation.

You can take the night train. There are berths here: in the second class (6 bunk beds in a compartment), in the first class (4 in a compartment) and a double sleeper car with bed linen. When ordering your ticket, do not forget to indicate your gender or specify that you are traveling as a couple.

Communication

French is the official language in France, although there are local differences in pronunciation in the use of words. In Alsace and parts of Lorraine, the Alsatian dialect is widespread, very similar to German. Occitan dialect is still spoken in the south. In western Brittany, some speak the Breton dialect. In some parts of Aquitaine, especially on the border with Spain, Basque is spoken. A special kind of Italian is spoken in Corsica. In Provence, especially on the Riviera, they speak the Provencal dialect.

The French are very polite and will be cold to strangers who forget about it. In a restaurant or shop, visitors can greet each other. Do not forget to greet and say goodbye to everyone, entering or leaving small shops and cafes. It is impolite for the French to speak to a stranger (even a shop assistant or customer) without the polite “bonjour” (good afternoon). Therefore, start the conversation with basic polite phrases in French, and you will definitely be helped.

• "Excusez-moi Monsieur / Madame": Sorry (excusemua)
• "S'il vous plait Monsieur / Madame": Please (sil-woo-ple)
• "Merci Monsieur / Madame": Thank you (merci)
• "Au revoir Monsieur / Madame": Goodbye (orevoir)

If you want to know more phrases in French, then our Russian-French phrasebook will help you, which can be printed out and also saved on your phone or on a laptop.

The culture

France is a country with the richest cultural traditions. The French care about their past, love and value history, which is reflected in castles, cathedrals, towers and other structures. Residents are in awe of the provinces, restoring abandoned peasant yards down to the smallest detail. Thus, the sights are becoming even more, they help to outline the appearance of real France.

France is a country of festivals. Music, theater and film festivals are held annually in France. The most famous festival in France is the Cannes Film Festival - a vibrant cultural event in modern life.

Striving for the beautiful, the ability to turn the ordinary into the exceptional is the zest of the French. At all times, France has brought up talented artists, whose works are kept in the Louvre - the most visited museum in Paris.

Drawing inspiration and strength from great creators, the French become the best in the world of fashion. Today Paris is the center of fashion shows, and residents try to keep up with fashion trends. In their homes, there will certainly be a place for books, music discs with classical music and of course pictures ...

French culture is also multifaceted in the visual arts. Painting at all times has been closely intertwined with social life, taking a special role in art.

Continuing the theme of cultural heritage, it is necessary to highlight the French chanson. The legendary direction in music has spread throughout the world, and the French chanson performers are known to everyone.

In general, the French are adherents of traditions, in particular in music. Accordion, saxophone, guitar, violin are the backbone of a traditional French ensemble. Delicate notes are often heard in the provincial streets.

The French are a very interesting people. In addition to a huge interest in classical art, theater and opera, the French people are not indifferent to comics! Also, contemporary French writers are in demand for the spoken genre in works using "light" humor. This style is not typical for classical French works, therefore, it provides tremendous opportunities for the free use of simple, "non-literary" forms and expressions.

Kitchen

French cuisine, like art, is refined, sophisticated and endowed with a special charm.

The widespread cuisine of France (typical breakfast, lunch, dinner) is represented by cream soups, coffee, croissants, baguettes, meat baked with wine, pates, and, of course, appetizers (kir, porto, nutmeg wine).

There are many places to try French cuisine in France, from three-star Michelin restaurants to French bars and bistros that can be found on almost every corner, especially in the big cities. They usually offer a basic and inexpensive menu. More money will be needed to try more varied dishes. In general, if you want to taste unforgettable food, you need to eat where they eat locals... In most small towns and villages, these are local restaurants.

Examples include local specialty restaurants such as Bouchons Lyonnais. ("Lyon's Tavern") in Lyon or "Crêperies" ("Pancake") in Brittany. National dishes can be tasted everywhere in France. There are Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants everywhere, and North African, Greek, Italian (pizzerias) restaurants and eateries can also be found in the big cities.

Taxes in France (19.6% of the total) and services (usually 15%) are already included in the bill, so anything the client adds to the bill is an additional tip. The French usually leave a couple of euros if they are happy with the service.

The price menu rarely includes drinks. If you want water, the waiters will try to sell you mineral water (Évian, Thonon) or sparkling water (Badoit, Perrier), so ask for a decanter of tap water, which is free and safe to drink.

A typical menu would include:

• an appetizer called entrées or hors d "œuvres;
• main course called plat ;
• dessert (dessert) or cheese (fromage).

Sometimes in restaurants it is suggested to take only two out of three items, at a discounted price.

Coffee is always served at the end (although liquor may follow). Asking for coffee at mealtime may be considered odd.

Not all restaurants are open for lunch or dinner, and not all restaurants are open all year round. It is very important to find out the opening hours of the restaurant. The restaurant, which is open for lunch, usually starts at noon and is open until 13.30. Dinner begins to be served around half past seven until half past nine. Restaurants with longer service times are located in big cities or in the city center. Finding a restaurant outside the tourist center, which is open on Saturday, and even more so on Sunday, is almost impossible.

Lunch or lunch for two in a Parisian restaurant according to the menu, including wine and coffee, will cost from € 70 to € 100. The same, but with beer, in a local bistro or pancake, it will cost about 50 €. Lunch or dinner at a Chinese restaurant in Paris will cost about 10 €.

Outside Paris and the big cities, prices will be slightly lower, but a fourth course will be included, usually cheese.

Bakery products

Here one cannot fail to mention the famous baguette - long thin bread, as well as biscuits - a part of French cuisine. Breakfast at the hotel is usually light, consisting of tartini (slices of bread and butter or jam) or the famous croissants and pastries similar to a croissant but square in shape. You can buy cookies at a bakery or bakery.

Regional cuisine

Each region of France has its own characteristic dishes. These dishes match the resources of the region. Here is a small list of dishes that are easy to find in France. In general, each region has its own unique and popular dish.

• Cassoulet (southwest): beans, duck, pork and sausage
• Choucroute or sauerkraut (in Alsace): shredded cabbage + pork;
• Fondue Savoyarde (central Alps): melted cheese with liquor;
• Fondue Bourguignonne (in Burgundy): a piece of beef fried in olive oil, usually served with a variety of sauces;
• Raclette (central Alps): processed cheese and potatoes / meats;
• Pot-au-feu: beef fried with vegetables;
• Boeuf Bourguignon (Burgundy): beef stew with sauce;
• Gratin dauphinois (Rhone-Alpes): baked potatoes in the oven;
• Aligot (Auvergne): processed cheese with mashed potatoes;
• Bouillabaisse (fish + saffron) (Marseille and French Riviera): Beware of cheating! Real bouillabaisse is a very expensive dish due to the amount of fresh fish it contains. Expect to pay at least € 30 per person. If a restaurant offers you bouillabaisse for 15 €, it will most likely be of poor quality;
• Tartiflette (Savoy): Reblochon cheese, potatoes, pork or bacon;
• Confit de Canard (Lands): Duck legs and wings, fried in its own fat. This fat is very healthy, especially when combined with red wine;
• Foie Gras (Lands): duck or goose liver. Although it is usually quite expensive pate, you can find it in the supermarket for a lower price. It goes well with champagne.

Fancy food

Contrary to the stereotype, snails and frog legs are very rare in France, many French people do not like them, and some have not even tried them. Sometimes these dishes are on the menu of expensive restaurants.

Cheese

France is a country of cheese with about 400 different types of cheese. Charles de Gaulle said that it is impossible to govern a country in which there are more varieties of cheese than there are days a year.

Here is a far from complete list of cheeses that can be found in France.

Beverages

Champagne, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Rhone, Loire Valley ... France is the birthplace of wine. It can be purchased inexpensively anywhere. In France, the minimum age for buying alcohol in cafes is 16 years old (beer) and 18 years old (other alcoholic drinks). Drunk driving is strictly prohibited and carries a heavy fine.

Wine and liquor can be bought at supermarkets or specialty stores such as the Nicholas chain of stores. In Nicholas they will advise what to buy (but first determine the type of wine and its price range). In general, only French wine will be available for purchase, and it is classified by area of ​​cultivation, not by grape variety.

Never drink alcoholic beverages (especially red wine or spirits such as cognac) directly from the bottle. This behavior is associated with vagrants and alcoholics. Drinking beer from a half-liter bottle is considered normal.

Prices in a cafe depend on its location. Remember that you will have to pay not only for the drink, but also for the table. Accordingly, it is cheaper to drink at the bar rather than at the table. Cafe in tourist centers especially in Paris, very expensive. If you just want to drink, it is better to buy drinks at the grocery store, and drink in the park.

There are several mix drinks that are common in France and nearby French-speaking countries.

• Panaché (Panache) - beer (mainly shandy), diluted with lemonade.
• Monaco (cocktail "Monaco") - beer, diluted with lemonade, with the addition of grenadine syrup
• Kir (Kir) - an aperitif of white wine (better - Burgundy aligote) or, less often, champagne (then it is - kir royal, which costs twice as much) and blackcurrant, peach or blackberry liqueur.
• Pastis (Pastis) - alcoholic drink based on anise, which is more popular in the south, but you can find it everywhere. Served with a small jug of water, which is used to dissolve the drink, after which it takes on a yellowish tint.

Purchases

Connection

Telephones

Country code: 33. All numbers within France are ten digits. The first two digits are 01 - for Paris and 02/03/04/05 - for northwest / northeast / southeast / southwest, respectively. Numbers starting with 06 are mobile phone numbers. You cannot skip the first two digits, even if the call is made within the area.

For an international call from France dial: 00 + country code + local number.

To make an inexpensive call from France, use the services, or. These low cost communication services are available from all land lines in France. No contracts or registrations required. Most low-cost phone services allow you to call many countries at local rates, so you can save on phone calls. They are also available from payphones, although there is an additional charge for the first minute via France Telecom.

To call France from abroad, dial: international automatic telephone code + 33 + local number without the first zero.

Few companies provide toll-free numbers starting with 08 00, but many have numbers that start with 082, in which case the cost of an intra-city call is paid, no matter where you are in the country.

Numbers starting with 089 are subject to a surcharge. They serve some of the commercial activities whose advertisements can be seen everywhere, usually adult services.

Emergency telephones

You can also use the European emergency number 112 (suitable for those who do not speak French well). Calls to these numbers are free and you can call from almost any phone, including local payphones.

Pay phones

They can be found at train or metro stations, bus stops, near attractions. There is at least one pay phone in the village (search on main square). Due to the widespread use of mobile phones, automatic machines are becoming less and less. Most use a card (not coins). France Telecom machines accept Visa and MasterCard cards, but always with a microchip.

Telephone cards can be bought at the post office, in a café with a tobacco kiosk (identified by a red sign outside), and at kiosks selling magazines. Ask for a “carte telephonique” (phone card), but remember that they come in different prices depending on the credit units, so if you need to make a couple of local calls, buy an inexpensive card. If the card is with a computer chip, just insert it into the payphone, wait for the dial tone and dial the number. With cards without a chip, you need to dial the number, then enter the code (following the instructions in French).

cellular

France uses the GSM standard for cell phones (900 MHz and 1800 MHz), which is used in most countries. There are three companies that offer wireless connectivity: Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom. There is coverage almost all over the country, but difficulties can arise in the countryside or in the mountains. However, according to the law, one of these three companies, if technically possible, is obliged to accept your emergency call, even if you are not its client. Thus, even in hard-to-reach places, the chance of getting help increases.

For long-term stays, it is advisable to purchase a prepaid mobile phone card that can be used in any GSM phone with a frequency of 900/1800 MHz. In this case, incoming calls are free. Calls can be made from the phones of subscribers of any cellular company, but if you do not replenish your account, the card can quickly expire.

There are roaming agreements with the main Russian operators, you need to find out the prices in the office or on the website of your cellular company.

Internet

Internet access is available in Internet cafes in all cities. This service usually costs around € 4 per hour. However, with the advent of the Internet in most homes, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find Internet cafes outside of big cities.

Wireless access (Wi-Fi) can be found in many cafes labeled "trendy". The @ sign also means that you can access the Internet. One of the most popular free Wi-Fi spots in Paris is the Pompidou Center. They say that Paris will be the first European capital with free wireless access to the entire city. The coverage will also cover parks and libraries.

mail

There are post offices in all towns and villages, but their opening hours are different. In large cities, branches in the city center can usually work from 9:00 to 18:00. Most branches only work on Saturday mornings. And only one branch in Paris is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (on rue du Louvre). The mailboxes are colored yellow.

Safety

Crimes

The committed crime can be reported by toll free number 17. Law enforcement services include the Police Nationale in the cities and the gendarmerie in the countryside, and for certain issues eg parking and traffic rules, some towns and villages have municipal police.

France has a fairly low crime rate, although there are widespread crimes in large cities.

The old neighborhoods and suburbs are generally safe at any time of the day. In big cities, especially Paris, certain areas should be avoided. Youth gangs can be found on the outer ring of most cities.

When traveling alone, especially a woman, it is best to avoid public transport late at night on the lines between the city center and the suburbs.

When sightseeing, beware of pickpockets.

In France, not helping a “person in danger” is considered a violation of the law. This means you could be blamed for not stopping after seeing a car accident, not reporting to an ambulance, or ignoring requests for help. The punishment includes a fine or imprisonment. The law does not apply if help threatens your life or the life of others.

Smoking

According to the law, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public areas (this includes trains and subways, workplaces, restaurants and cafes), unless there are specially equipped smoking areas. There was an exception for restaurants and cafes, but since January 1, 2008, smoking has been banned there as well. For smoking in prohibited areas, there is a fine of 68 €.

Smoking is also prohibited on the Paris Metro and on SNCF trains. Conductors on the subway and on trains closely monitor the implementation of this law and can fine the violator. If you see smoking on the train, inform the conductor.

Since the hotels are not considered a public place, some of them offer smoking and non-smoking rooms.

Only after reaching the age of 16 can you buy tobacco products. The seller may ask for a photo ID.

Drugs

Carrying or using drugs, from marijuana to hard drugs, is illegal, no matter how much. The fine can be very high, especially if there is suspicion of spread. Trains and cars arriving from countries where drug attitudes are less severe (eg the Netherlands) are subject to special scrutiny.

Alcohol

In France, there is a fairly liberal attitude towards alcohol. Usually, no ID is required to purchase alcoholic beverages (unless you appear to be over 18, of course). However, drunken disorder is considered an offense, and may end in police custody until the detainee is sober. Drunk driving is a serious offense that carries a fine or jail time.

Health care

Pharmacies in France are marked with a green, usually neon, cross. It only sells medicines, contraceptives and cosmetics, or products related to them. The medicine must be ordered from the counter, even if it is sold without a prescription. The pharmacist will advise and help you choose the most suitable medicine.

Since the names of the companies are different in different countries Although the qualitative composition of the medicine is the same, it is better to have a prescription with international terminology, and not just the name. Prescription drugs and birth control pills are only available with a prescription.

In addition, condoms are sold in supermarkets, as well as bandages, disinfectants and other first aid supplies. Condom vending machines can also be found outside the pharmacy, in the toilets of bars.

Medical assistance can be provided by private doctors, in the clinic and in the hospital. Most specialists, such as gynecologists or dentists, are in private practice. There will be an inscription on the plate - Docteur (médicine générale - therapist). The usual price for a consultation with a therapist is € 21, although some therapists charge more. Also, doctors can go on call, but this is more expensive.

Where to stay

Below we will consider the various options in more detail.

Hotels

Hotels in France come in four categories - from 1 to 4 stars. This is a rating given by the Ministry of Tourism. Category data is on the blue board at the entrance. Fees vary depending on conditions, location, season or special events.

Since 2004, the fee for a *** hotel ranges from 70 € (cheap hotels) to 110 € (expensive hotels) for two people without breakfast. All hotels are required by law to display their prices in a prominent place. There is no bargaining in hotels, but you can always ask for a discount.

Hotels located in the city center or near train stations are often very small (15-30 rooms), which means that a room must be booked in advance. Newer hotels, which often target business travelers, are located in remote areas and are sometimes large (100 or more rooms), but can be very difficult to reach by public transport. There are motels along the highway, at the entrance to cities, but sometimes they can only be reached by car.

When visiting Paris, it is important to stay in the city. Hotels in Paris, like hotels in France in general, can be booked directly on our website.

Short term rent

Travelers should consider short-term rental villas / apartments / studios as an alternative to other accommodation options. Short-term rent can be from several days to a month. Summer rentals are usually counted from Saturday to Saturday (July and August). This type of lease is typical for individuals. A particular advantage apart from affordable prices, consists in the fact that the dwelling has a fully equipped kitchen.

Hundreds of agencies offer short-term rentals on behalf of the owner and can help you find the best one at the best price. A search on the Internet will provide a large list from which you can choose the most suitable option (an example would be the site). There are many sites in English and French. The owner of the property can be of any nationality.

Gîtes de France

The French organization has voluntarily brought together over 50,000 property owners for rent and is the first in France to offer a consistent appraisal and comprehensive description.

Despite the name, the organization also offers B&B accommodation. The average price for two, including breakfast, in a hotel of this type is 45-50 €. It can only be rented for weekends, and for a group of four or more it will be much cheaper, especially not in the summer months. There are many cottages with rents under € 150 per weekend that accommodate more than 5 people.

The organization "Gites de France" uses the Epis housing classification (equivalent to stars). The emphasis is on convenience over quality, although both are often present.

Camping

Camping is fairly common in France. Most of the campsites are located near the city and include not only tents, but also campers' vans. In addition to having showers and toilets at all campsites, many offer a wider range of services, such as bars and restaurants, launderette, swimming pools and bike rental. All campsites, with the exception of “agricultural camps”, must be registered and are also officially rated according to the principle of star awards.

In coastal areas, 3 and 4 star campsites must be booked in advance for July and August. Many people book a year in advance. In rural areas far from popular tourist destinations, you can find a place without prior reservation, especially in the case of municipal campgrounds, which can be found in most small towns.

Camping is prohibited in France:

• in the forest, natural, regional and national parks;
• on public roads and streets;
• on the coast;
• less than 200 meters from water that is used as drinking water;
• in nature protection zones;
• less than 500 meters from a national monument;
• where prohibited by local law;
• on private property without the consent of the owner.

France is a fairly large country located in Western Europe. In the north and west it is washed by the waters of the Atlantic, its southern coast is caressing the waves of the Mediterranean Sea. The most concentrated in the south big cities France, and northwest - amazing place, historical and scenic. Somewhat harsh nature, rocks, waves grinding coastal stones, winds, old castles and fortress. It is worth the closest dive into their history.

Northern cities of France

They stood for centuries, but life continues to this day in the proud architectural monuments of the secular and religious history of the north of France. For example, in Saint-Omer there is the Church of Our Lady - a pearl of ecclesiastical architecture in Flanders, a magnificent combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles. It began to be built in 1200 and finished in the 15th century.

Lille: the city of industrialists

The main city of Northern France is Lille. There are many remarkable buildings of secular urban architecture, including the grandiose construction of the Old Exchange of the 17th century and a fortress Louis XIV- a huge citadel, the construction of which took 60 million bricks and required the efforts of 2 thousand stonemasons.

Arras: dark gothic

It is known for the fact that Hamlet stabbed the old man Polonius through the Arras tapestry, and for the fact that one of the demonic leaders of the Great French Revolution, Robespierre, was born here. But even today it's pretty interesting place... The 13th century Gothic cathedral in the city of Amiens miraculously survived the bombing of two world wars. A true masterpiece is the finest wood carvings in the choir stalls by 16th century masters.

Honfleur: the city of artists

Further west along the coast of Normandy are wonderful resort towns and seaports, known to us from history. The most picturesque of these places is the bay of Honfleur. From the collection of paintings in the Museum of Eugene Boudin, one can judge that the artists Corot, Courbet, Monet and Dufy were very fond of working in Honfleur.

Deauville: floral coast

The city of casinos and trendy discos, the main resort on the English Channel, still retains the splendor that made it famous at the turn of the century. Deauville is the most prestigious seaside resort not far from Paris, nicknamed "the coast of flowers" and the "Parisian Riviera".

Rouen: memory of Jeanne D'Arc

At some distance from the coast, in Jumieges, there are the ruins of an old abbey, which was consecrated in 1067 to commemorate the conquest of England by William the conqueror. The main city of Upper Normandy, Rouen, is revered by the French as the site of the burning of Joan of Arc. Rouen is one of the largest cities in the country and a port on the Seine River since the Middle Ages. In addition to the cathedral of the XI-XII centuries, there are other remarkable sights here.

On the coast of the Calvados department, you can see the landing sites during the Normandy operation on June 6, 1944 (D-Day) - Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juneau and Sword. Behind the Utah bridgehead, in Madeleine, there is one of the museums dedicated to this action. The main exhibition dedicated to Operation Overlord is located in Arromanches.

The largest river in the north of France is the famous Seine, at the mouth of which one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, the Norman bridge, has been erected. The first largest river port in Paris, the second in Rouen. On the banks of the Seine, dividing the capital into two parts, there are:

• the Louvre, which served as the residence of monarchs for many centuries, and has now become a museum;
• the Karanavale palace;
• the colorful Tuileries Gardens;
• the famous Saint-Jacques tower and many other attractions.

Atlantic coast

Before heading to the Cotentin peninsula, blown by all the winds of the Atlantic, from which the wild Norman conquerors sailed to England, we advise you to have a sip of Calvados - a wonderful locally produced apple vodka.

Caen: birthplace of William the Conqueror

The main city in Lower Normandy is Caen. It was here that William the Conqueror lived before moving to England. Wilhelm and his wife Matilda left as a legacy to future generations two beautiful monasteries - male and female, they are located to the west and east of the center of Caen.

In the cathedral of Bayeux, you can see an old tapestry with artistically woven depictions of events from the period of the Norman conquest.

One of the most striking examples of church architecture in France, and perhaps one of the wonders of the Western world in general, is the Monastery of Mont Saint-Michel, located in a small bay south of the Cotentin peninsula. The monastery, built between the 11th and 16th centuries, stands on an island connected to the mainland by a dam. Try to get there during high tide.

Resorts in the Atlantic

Resorts of France on the Atlantic Ocean are widely represented both on the coast of Normandy, captivating with its strict beauty, and on the verdant shores of picturesque Aquitaine, and among the captivating colorful landscapes of Brittany. Even though the sea off the Atlantic coast is cool enough even in the high season, the water here is surprisingly clean, and the infrastructure is well developed and the rest is varied and comfortable.

The most famous resorts in Normandy are Deauville, Trouville, Cabourg, which have magnificent beaches. Lovers of luxury and fashionableness will appreciate the resort of Biarritz, located on the shores of Aquitaine. A tour to the city of Soulac-sur-Mer, famous for its vineyards, will attract true connoisseurs of wine.

Brittany on the map of France occupies the northwestern tip of the country. Brittany also has wonderful seaside resorts with sandy beaches. First of all, in the Dinard region on the English Channel and La Baule on the Atlantic coast. But the main attraction of this area is its rocky coastline. All the way from Plumanac to Tregastel are great bathing spots and Treburden, from where you can see the pink granite cliffs of Brittany.

The Bretons have preserved their own language (it belongs to the Celtic group) and their customs. One of these customs is the holding of religious processions, in which local residents participate in magnificent national costumes. The ancient Celtic origin of customs is evidenced, in particular, by the unusual circles made of stones. For example, in Karnak there is a place where circles are made up of 3 thousand giant stones. They were laid out by the ancient peoples of the north who inhabited Europe.

Walled city of La Rochelle

Further along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean is La Rochelle - a thriving port city, which in the 17th century, by order of Richelieu, fell victim to a brutal siege, since the population of the city was Protestants, they still live there. Today La Rochelle is the most popular port among yacht owners sailing in these waters, and the houses of the old town, especially on Palace Street, seem to transport you to the distant and glorious 17th or 18th century.

Bordeaux: city - wine label

Bordeaux also has a beautiful old part of the city, and its Bolshoi Theater is one of the most beautiful in France. But the main attractions of Bordeaux - Medoc, Margaux, Pauillac and others - are kept in wine cellars.

Biarritz: the luxury of kings

Favorite resort of Emperor Napoleon III and his wife Eugenie, as well as Bismarck and the Prince of Wales, who became King Edward VII. The atmosphere of the former greatness of France is still felt here today. A little imagination - and in the flickering of crystal chandeliers in the mirrors of the old casino, you can see the images of the most august persons of the past.

Southwestern cities of France

The southwest of the country is home to the largest number of magnificent parks, the most significant of which is the Pyrenees National Park. Southwest France is home to the rural landscapes of Auvergne, the hilly valley of the Dordogne River, and delicious Perigord dishes, which can be tasted in the cozy restaurants of such picturesque towns as Sarlat and Cahors.

Cahors: charm of the south

The city is famous not only for its excellent white wines. The sights of this place are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The amazingly beautiful Saint Etienne Cathedral, the beautiful Valentre Bridge and the ancient boulevards of Cahors make it a real pearl of the south-west of France.

The small valley of the Weser River east of Périgord, between Montignac and Les Eziers, contains the world's most amazing collection of prehistoric art.

Interesting:

The striking drawings on the walls of the Lascaux cave were carved 13-30 thousand years ago and depict animals frozen on the run, executed in three colors, using perspective and such techniques that convey movement.

Carcassonne: the walled city

To the south is the city of Carcassonne, which is of extraordinary interest to military historians. This is a real fortress, but so beautiful that it seems as if it has nothing to do with the war. A city from a fairy tale. There is no other such monument of the Middle Ages in Europe.

Albi is another great historical city, which today is better known for the fact that in 1864 the French artist Toulouse-Lautrec was born there.

A city in the south of France, glorified by many poets, the capital of these lands of Languedoc is wayward and proud Toulouse. In the old part of the city there is a grandiose fortress-church made of red brick Saint-Sernin and luxurious mansions of the 16th-17th centuries made of the same material. The museums of Toulouse are rich in sculpture from the Romanesque period. Today this city is the industrial capital of France, airbuses and "concords" are being built here.

The most beautiful cities

All France is the very charm and dream. What are the most interesting, the most beautiful cities France? Our arbitrary list:

• deservedly headed by the most beautiful capital, full of refined chic and charm. Paris captivates its guests with both views from the world famous Eiffel Tower and the splendor of Notre Dame Cathedral and the grandeur of the Arc de Triomphe;
• Nice is the embodiment of the very elegance and unique charm, famous not only for its resorts, but also for the wonderful Rossetti Square with an amazing fountain and a cathedral located on it;
• Lyon, imbued with the spirit of antiquity, famous for its beautiful Roman amphitheaters, is also considered one of the the most beautiful cities definitely worth seeing;
• Strasbourg is a city renowned for its striking architecture and rich cultural heritage;
• Marseille - sea ​​port, which has preserved the imprint of the majestic Middle Ages;
• Cannes, famous for its festivals, is a true garden city, on the islets of which there are many historical monuments from the castle and the ancient monastery to the place where the truly legendary "iron mask" was imprisoned.

The list of cities in France, from the wonderful views of which you cannot take your eyes off, is endless.

And in the following articles, we will slightly open the curtain over the mysterious events, invisible canvas permeating the story of Dan Brown about the da Vinci code, which took place in the French Languedoc in the citadels of Albi, Narbonne and Lourdes and the last refuge of the Cathars - the legendary fortresses of Montsegur and Kerilibus.

You will understand why the cult of the Black Madonna flourished in Europe and especially in France, to which more than 300 statues are dedicated in the temples on the slopes of the Mont-de-la-Madeleine mountain range. You will learn about the mysteries of Chartres Cathedral, which became the forerunner of the Gothic cathedrals in France.