Posts Tagged ‘Camping In France’

3 Small But Special Markets in France

Saturday, December 26th, 2009

A holiday camping in France is all about embracing the culture and traditions of the French. And what better way to do this than to spend a few days wandering through the stalls and traders of a traditional French market? In many other European countries, the tradition of the market is one that has been revived after dying down for many years. However, markets have been an integral part of life in French towns and villages for many years. Full of hustle and bustle, and wonderful things to buy, food and drink bought from a market really is the best way to eat when you’re camping in France. A market is also the best place to pick up those essential souvenirs and gifts to give to those back home. Here are a few of the smaller, yet delightful markets to be found in France.

La Trinite Sur Mer Fish Market

Trinite Sur Mer has long been known as a fisherman’s favourite location. For centuries, sailing races have been held between fishermen in this small and sheltered harbour. However, the real appeal of this quaint little harbour town is the wonderful freshly caught fish. Dine out in any one of the fish restaurants lining the waterfront, or for a real taste of camping in France, buy some fresh produce from the local fish market and cook over a campfire. Oysters are the pride of the markets, but the stalls are covered with many different varieties of freshly caught fish and shellfish. If you’re up early enough, you might just see the fishermen dropping off their catch first thing in the morning – knowing the fish is freshly caught gives it an even better flavor.

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Three of the Best Places to Cycle in France

Saturday, December 26th, 2009

With a grand total of 28,000 kilometres of cycle routes, France is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for cycling. Dedicated paths meander through both town and countryside, and vary in terms of difficulty. You don’t have to be of Tour de France standard to enjoy cycling while you’re camping in France. Whether you are looking to push yourself in an endurance ride through the mountains, or to take the whole family for a jaunt through the countryside, there is a bike ride in France made for you.

The Loire Valley

A loop of the Loire Valley is one of the most popular cycling choices in France. Taking between four to six days, this well-travelled route covers approximately sixty miles of the Loire Valley, and explores the renowned Chateaux of the region. There are few routes that include so many worthwhile sights in such a concentrated area. Steeped in the history of conflicts, these feudal fortifications have seen many battles between Kings, powerful nobles, and even religions. Take a break from your bike ride to wander through a castle on foot, and explore the grounds; with many of the fortifications kept well preserved, you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. Back in the saddle, you can enjoy both peace and some gentle exercise as you cycle on the banks of the River Loire itself. Roads in this region are not only incredibly picturesque, but also relatively empty. Any cycling that you do whilst camping in France’s Loire Valley will be relatively safe and stress-free.

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What to Do When it Rains in France

Friday, December 25th, 2009

No matter which region you visit when you go camping in France, there is always a chance that it might rain. But what should you do when those black clouds begin to form? Here are a few ways to keep the kids entertained if and when the heavens do decide to open.

The Haribo Museum

Located in Languedoc, the Haribo Museum not only provides you with shelter from the elements, but will be your children’s idea of paradise. On entering the museum you will be given a bag of sweets and treats in exchange for your entry fee. This bag also includes tokens that can be used in the various sweet making machines that you will encounter on your way through the museum. With interactive displays guiding the children through every step of the sweet-making process, there are hours of fun to be had. Displays such as ‘the marshmallow lady’ will fascinate the entire family. At the end of the trip, watch the children’s faces light up as you enter the gift shop, but be sure to keep them active for the rest of your time camping in France, in order to burn off all that sugar!

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