Introduction to France
France is the land of haute couture and good living. A land of gastronomy, fine wines, and diverse scenery. From the beaches of Brittany to the legendary old fashioned glamour of Deauville and Biarritz, from its famously romantic capital city, to the stunning chateaux of the Loire. With the chic bustle of the Cote D'Azur and the stunning, snow capped Alps, France needs no introduction as one of the most desirable and varied countries in the world.
Cote D'Azur, ever since the Romans colonised the South of France and spent days lounging around their heated pools, has conjured up an image of glamour and elegance. It is a paradise that has a very individual appeal. Fine wines, fragrant olive oils, stunning Riviera towns - the list is endless and the variety unmatched. Some of our finest villas in France can be found along the Cote D'Azur. The rich unspoilt coastline around Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus with its dramatic cliffs, stunning coves and the fine vista of 'Belle Epoque' houses along the sea front, the wonderful 'buzzing' atmosphere of the one time small fishing village of Saint-Tropez, all provide a number of reasons why the rich and famous continue to flock to this fabulous area.
Corsica is not only exceptionally beautiful but also remains relatively unspoilt and quite intriguing. Its spectacular mountains rise steeply out of an azure sea, the refuge of medieval towns and villages, its shores are girdled by white sand beaches, and cool sea breezes blow, laden with the heady scent of the ‘maquis’ that cloaks the island, fragrances of myrtle, rosemary and juniper. The proud Corsican people, once protective of their homeland, these days welcome visitors to enjoy the beauty of its landscape, the stunning beaches, the local food and wines, and the island’s history, traditional music and folklore.
The Dordogne, traditionally beloved of the British, enjoys rich, green countryside, castles perched precariously on the top of cliffs looking down to flowing, cool rivers below, ancient monuments, and stunning, medieval towns including Perigueux, Sarlat and Bergerac. The Dordogne is the home of truffles, foie gras and walnuts, with the great vineyards of Bordeaux to the West.There are some fabulous local markets to explore, and sporting activities include riding, golf, canoeing and tennis. Bergerac is an attractive market town, and an important wine growing area, whilst Bordeaux is an 18th century architectural gem, now a vibrant city.
Provence truly is a region of warmth and light. The landscape is filled with medieval villages clustered on the tops of hills, surrounded by a countryside perfumed by fields of lavender and fragrant herbs. There are famous wines, a distinctive cuisine, ancient traditions, lively local markets and even towns and cities offering history, beauty and culture. CV Travel villas are situated through out Provence, some near the tranquil medieval villages such as Le Paradou or Maillane, others near Aix-en-Provence, protected by Mont Sainte-Victoire, painted in all lights by Cezanne, enjoying ancient squares with fountains, and shaded narrow streets, whilst others are located near to Avignon, once home to the Pope, and for a time capital of the medieval western world and famous for its art and music.
Biarritz offers the visitor a tantalising mix of different architectural styles, renowned thermal Spas, Surfing activities, and dazzling golden sandy beaches. This vibrant cosmopolitan town is extraordinarily stylish and embraces three cultures – French, Basque and Spanish. Located in one of France’s leading gourmet regions, Biarritz enjoys a vast selection of elegant restaurants, many enjoying sea views. Acres of green golf courses and renowned surf attract amateurs and professionals alike.