La Esencia de Francia: Normandía, Bretaña y Valle del Loira

About the destination: Paris, situated on the river Seine, is the capital and largest city in France. It is one of the most iconic cities in the world and it is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities, so much so that is has been dubbed the City of Love. Paris offers historical sights, monuments, a pleasant atmosphere, lovely cafés, parks and museums to satisfy any traveler. A large part of this City of Light, including the River Seine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to some of the greatest old building in the world such as Le Tour Eiffel, Notre Dâme, Sacre Coeur, L´Arc de Triomphe, Palace of Versailles, the Moulin Rouge or the Hotel des Invalides. There is no ending of the list of things you have to see in this city, but Le Louvre, one of the finest museums in the world of art and culture, should not be missed. Paris remains vastly influential in the realms of art and design and is home to some of the most impressive modern buildings such as La Défense, the Centre Pompidou, the Institut du Monde Arabe or the Stade de France. Paris is a city of immense vitality and beauty and it is an amazing and fascinating destination. With its history and architectural patrimony, Paris is the city everyone wants to see.

About the destination: Versailles is a city in the Yvelines département in the Île-de-France region, renowned worldwide for the Château de Versailles and the gardens of Versailles, designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Located in the western suburbs of the French capital, 17.1 km (10.6 mi) from the centre of Paris, Versailles is in the 21st century a wealthy suburb of Paris with a service-based economy and a major tourist destination as well. According to the 2008 census, the population of the city is 88,641 inhabitants, down from a peak of 94,145 in 1975. A new town founded at the will of King Louis XIV, Versailles was the de facto capital of the Kingdom of France for over a century, from 1682 to 1789, before becoming the cradle of the French Revolution. After having lost its status of royal city, it became the préfecture (regional capital) of the Seine-et-Oise département in 1790, then of Yvelines in 1968. It is also a Roman Catholic diocese. Versailles is historically known for numerous treaties such as the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolution, and the Treaty of Versailles, after World War I. Today, the Congress of France – the name given to the body created when both houses of the French Parliament, the National Assembly and the Senate, meet – gathers in the Château de Versailles to vote on revisions to the Constitution.

About the destination: Paris, situated on the river Seine, is the capital and largest city in France. It is one of the most iconic cities in the world and it is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities, so much so that is has been dubbed the City of Love. Paris offers historical sights, monuments, a pleasant atmosphere, lovely cafés, parks and museums to satisfy any traveler. A large part of this City of Light, including the River Seine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to some of the greatest old building in the world such as Le Tour Eiffel, Notre Dâme, Sacre Coeur, L´Arc de Triomphe, Palace of Versailles, the Moulin Rouge or the Hotel des Invalides. There is no ending of the list of things you have to see in this city, but Le Louvre, one of the finest museums in the world of art and culture, should not be missed. Paris remains vastly influential in the realms of art and design and is home to some of the most impressive modern buildings such as La Défense, the Centre Pompidou, the Institut du Monde Arabe or the Stade de France. Paris is a city of immense vitality and beauty and it is an amazing and fascinating destination. With its history and architectural patrimony, Paris is the city everyone wants to see.

About the destination: Giverny is a small town in Normandy, an hour from Paris. This beautiful place makes it possible to be inside a Monet painting, it is one of those places that remain as if stopped in time and give off a magical halo that captivates everyone who visits it. Here, in the middle of the large field of flowers that covers the town, the Impressionist painter Monet lived for 40 years, and it is for this very reason that this small town is famous throughout the world.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Normandy region, Les Andelys is a charming commune that beautifully encapsulates the essence of rural France. A tranquil haven adorned with lush landscapes, it offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Les Andelys is known for its remarkable historical attractions. The most notable among them is Château Gaillard, an imposing fortress built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. Perched on a limestone cliff overlooking the Seine River, the ruins of this medieval castle provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A visit here is like stepping back in time, offering a fascinating insight into the region's rich history. Les Andelys is also home to the enchanting Saint-Sauveur Church, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate stained glass windows. The town's narrow, winding streets are lined with quaint, half-timbered houses, traditional French bakeries, and charming boutiques, offering plenty to explore. For nature lovers, the serene River Seine is perfect for leisurely boat trips, while the surrounding countryside offers numerous walking and cycling trails. The beauty of Les Andelys also lies in its verdant landscapes, with orchards and farmlands stretching as far as the eye can see. Of course, no visit to Les Andelys would be complete without sampling its gastronomic delights. The town is famous for its local produce, including apples used to make the region's renowned cider. From cosy bistros serving traditional French fare to elegant restaurants offering gourmet cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, Les Andelys offers a unique blend of attractions that make it a must-visit destination in France. With its tranquil charm and rich heritage, Les Andelys promises an unforgettable journey of discovery and relaxation. Come and experience the timeless beauty of Les Andelys – a true gem in the heart of Normandy.

About the destination: Rouen is the capital of the French region of Upper Normandy and situated on the River Seine, approximately 90 minutes’ drive northwest from the center of Paris. The city has a population of 110,000 and its metropolitan area includes some 520,000 inhabitants. It is where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, but the main reason for visiting is its incredible cathedral that inspired Monet to paint over 30 canvases. Rouen was the home of the author, Gustave Flaubert.The most important places to visit in Rouen are: Rouen Cathedral, a stunning building that dates back to the 4th Century and is a wonderful mixture of various architectural styles, the birthplace of writer Gustave Flaubert, which has been converted into a museum of his life and the Big Clock, located in the middle of the rue du Gros Horloge. Climb to the top for a beautiful view of the city.

About the destination: Deauville is a commune in the Calvados department and in the heart of Normandy. Deauville also offers a wide range of hotel services, luxury shopping and numerous leisure facilities (thalassotherapy, golf, sailing, horse-riding, etc.), as well as many entertaining, cultural and athletic events throughout the year.

About the destination: Caen is the capital of Lower Normandy and of Calvados département in northern France and has a population of 115,000. Caen is a college city and thus very active. In summer, tourists gather in Normandy for Second World War remains and the Memorial for Peace. Caen is a modern city, four-fifths of which was demolished in 1944 and rebuilt in the 1950s and 1960s. However, some old buildings remain, especially churches.The most important places to visit in Caen are: the Memorial for peace, a modern museum focusing on Second World War and the Cold War, the Caen Castle, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe and the Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames, a wonderful example of Romanic architecture. Caen is close enough to the D-Day sites to act as a base from which to explore the D-Day sites.

About the destination: Arromanches-les-Bains or simply Arromanches, is a commune of France within the department of Calvados in the region of Normandy. It is located on the coast, in the center of the place where the Battle of Normandy took place, during the Second World War.

About the destination: Le Mont-Saint-Michel is an island commune in Normandy, France. It is located about one kilometre (0.6 miles) off the country's northwestern coast, at the mouth of the Couesnon River near Avranches and is 100 hectares (247 acres) in size. The island has held strategic fortifications since ancient times and since the 8th century AD has been the seat of the monastery from which it draws its name. The structural composition of the town exemplifies the feudal society that constructed it: on top, God, the abbey and monastery; below, the great halls; then stores and housing; and at the bottom, outside the walls, houses for fishermen and farmers. The commune's position — on an island just 600 metres from land — made it accessible at low tide to the many pilgrims to its abbey, but defensible as an incoming tide stranded, drove off, or drowned would-be assailants. The Mont remained unconquered during the Hundred Years' War; a small garrison fended off a full attack by the English in 1433.The reverse benefits of its natural defence were not lost on Louis XI, who turned the Mont into a prison. Thereafter the abbey began to be used more regularly as a jail during the Ancien Régime. One of France's most recognizable landmarks, visited by more than 3 million people each year, Mont Saint-Michel and its bay are on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.[3] Over 60 buildings within the commune are protected in France as monuments historiques.

About the destination: Saint-Malo is a port city in Brittany, in northwestern France. Tall granite walls surround the old town, which was a bastion of corsairs (pirates authorized by the king). In the center of the old town is the Saint-Malo cathedral, Romanesque and Gothic, with stained glass windows that represent the history of the city. Nearby is La Demeure de Corsaire, a museum located in the house of an 18th-century corsair.

About the destination: Dinan is without doubt one of the most attractive and best preserved small towns in Brittany. With its 1.8 mile (3km)-long ramparts, half-timbered houses, attractive port and cobbled streets filled with art galleries and craft shops, it’s worth a day of anyone’s time.

About the destination: With its 60,000 students, the regional capital of Brittany is a dynamic and cultural city. Its superb medieval quarter includes narrow, winding streets, two royal squares, imposing public buildings and numerous palaces with a solemn elegance. Vieux Rennes is the old town that survived the great fire of 1720. Numerous old houses, dating back to the 15th century, still stand proudly showing its corbelled floors. Particularly noteworthy are the streets of Saint Michel, with its wooden houses, rue de la Psalette and rue du Chapitre, where we find the Brie and Blossac palaces, as well as the Freslon de la Freslonnière palace, located at rue des Dames. St-Pierrre cathedral is distinguished by the richness of its interior. Rennes attracts tourists by its unique architecture and amazingly beautiful natural landscapes. At night, this student city has no end of lively places to pop in for a drink and its restaurants are also superb.

About the destination: Saint-Nazaire is a commune in the Loire-Atlantique department in western France, in traditional Brittany. The town has a major harbour on the right bank of the Loire River estuary, near the Atlantic Ocean. The town is at the south of the second-largest swamp in France, called "la Brière". Given its location, Saint-Nazaire has a long tradition of fishing and shipbuilding. The Chantiers de l'Atlantique, one of the largest shipyards in the world, has constructed notable superliners such as SS Normandie, SS France, RMS Queen Mary 2 and MS Symphony of the Seas, the largest passenger ship in the world as of 2018.

About the destination: Cozy and attractive, Nantes bears many resemblance with Paris: Wide boulevards mark the boundaries between administrative district and opulent architecture testifies to a wealthy past. The historical capital of the Dukes of Brittany and 18th century France's foremost port, is today an artistic city, a major innovative industrial center and a spirited university town. Nantes’ Cathredrale St-Pierre is an example of the full-scale construction found only in large and prosperous cities. Its Gothic vaults soar higher than the arches of Notre-Dame. Nearby, the city’s fortified 15th century château is surrounded by a rich green moat and an emerald-green strip of lawn. The chateau accommodates two of the city’s top museums: The Musée des Arts Populaires Régionaux, will allow you to take a look at the traditional Breton culture and the Musée des Salorges, an interesting nautical museum. Surrounding the chateau are many elegant buildings dating back to the 18th century, the city’s period of great wealth and expansion. Enjoy the city’s specialties, such as the Muscadet, a local white wine, or a delicate fish prepared with a butter sauce, while admiring the river Loire in one of the city’s warm and trendy bars. Or relax in the city’s numerous green spaces. Nantes is one of the greenest cities in the world, so much so, that it was awarded the European Green Capital prize in 2013.

About the destination: Angers is a medium sized French city which is the capital of the Maine-et-Loire department in the northwestern region of Pays de la Loire. It offers the traveler a mixture of a typical French night-life, historically rich streets and great shopping opportunities. The town also features many floral displays. Angers is positively obsessed with flowers, bringing a fine splash of color to the town and some parks and gardens, fountains and statues that bring areas of calm into this bustling modern city. The historical center also contains numerous impressive townhouses dating from the 16th-19th centuries. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS House of Adam The medieval ‘House of Adam’ (‘Maison d'Adam’), which has a collection of sculptures depicting the tree of life and the David of Angers Gallery, dedicated to one of the most famous sculptors of France and creator of busts and sculptures that adorn the main historical monuments of France. The castle of Angers It is a castle in the city of Angers in the Loire Valley. Founded in the 9th century by the Counts of Anjou, was expanded to its current size in the 13th century. It is located overhanging the river Maine. Now open to the public, the castle of Angers is home of the Apocalypse Tapestry. Terra Botanica Terra Botanica is an amusement and botanical park in Angers where all the family can enjoy. It is the first thematic park dedicated to the flora. In Terra Botanica you can find more than 40 attractions and offers more than nature spectacles in his 110.000m2 of gardens.

About the destination: This elegant and spirited town is located in the heart of the Loire Valley, which make it a convenient base for exploring the Touraine region. Notable for being an economic and cultural core, the city draws more tourists than any other Loire town. Tours treasures a beautiful old town. Châteauneuf neighbourhood emerged in the Middle Ages around the Basilica of Saint Martin and Plumereau square. St-Gatien cathedral has beautiful 13th century windows and a quiet cloister with unusual buttresses. Above tall and simple arches lend a look of incredible height to the nave. Appetizing restaurants abound in the old quarter offering regional specialties. Tours may be the ideal starting point to unravel the secrets hidden within the Loire. Its valley, described as 'The Garden of France’, boasts unparalleled architectural heritage, with its impressive and lovely castles. The declaration as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO of this area confirms the crucial importance and the enormous interest that this destination has for travellers.

About the destination: Azay-le-Rideau is a commune in the Indre-et-Loire department in central France. The château of Azay-le-Rideau was built from 1515 to 1527, one of the earliest French Renaissance châteaux. Built on an island in the Indre River, its foundations rise straight out of the water. It is one of the best known of the châteaux of the Loire valley. There is a church dedicated to Saint Symphorien near the château that is interesting for the number of architectural periods incorporated in its design. While the newest portion dates from 1603, the current façade incorporates an older 9th century façade in the Carolingian style. The original carved figures are still visible, though an added window destroyed part of the second row. The rest of the church is of a Romanesque style. It was built between 1518 and 1527. Azay-le-Rideau is the centre of the Touraine Azay-le-Rideau AOC for white and rose wine. Azay-le-Rideau is twinned with Croston in Lancashire, England.

About the destination: The castle of Chenonceau (in French, château de Chenonceau), also known as the "castle of the ladies", 1 is a residential style castle of the sixteenth century located in the French commune of Chenonceaux, in the department of Indre and Loire , and that is part of the series of castles commonly known as ;castles of the Loire.; Chapel. La Tour des Marques, the only surviving part of the primitive pre-Renaissance castle. On the other hand, it is the most visited Private Monument in private hands of all France, and includes several gardens, a park and a wine plantation. The castle, which replaced a previous one, not only has importance as a work of art, but has also enjoyed an active presence in the history of France.

About the destination: It is often said that Amboise has the most Italian flair of all the Loire Valley cities. The presence of many tourists from the other side of the Alps is a cheerful reminder of what the Italian Renaissance brought to the area five centuries ago. Amboise is a serene, easygoing town, true to the image of splendour that characterised that blessed era. Pedestrians will appreciate the shopping areas as well as the esplanades located along the riverbanks of the Loire, the best place to take in fantastic views of the river. Must-see attractions in the area include the royal castle, Clos-Lucé (where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last days), and the Chanteloup pagoda. The city is also home to one of the largest markets in the area, every Friday and Sunday morning.

About the destination: Blois is a city and the capital of Loir-et-Cher department in central France, situated on the banks of the lower river Loire between Orléans and Tours. Château de Blois The Château de Blois, a Renaissance château once occupied by King Louis XII, is located in the centre of the city, and an 18th-century stone bridge spans the Loire. As Blois is built on a pair of steep hills, winding and steep pathways run through the city, culminating in long staircases at various points. To the south of the city, the Forêt de Russy is a reminder of the thick woods that once covered the area. The house of magic La Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin is a museum fronting on the Château. As a museum of France, it is the only public museum in Europe which incorporates in one place collections of magic and a site for permanent performing arts, and is directly reflects the personality of Robert-Houdin.

About the destination: Cheverny is a commune in the Loir-et-Cher département in central France. It lies in the Loire Valley, about 10 km (6.2 mi) southeast of Blois. The commune is the site of the Château de Cheverny.

About the destination: Immerse yourself in the majestic splendor of Chambord, a charming destination in France that is brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. As you venture into the heart of the Loire Valley, Chambord stands as a testament to the grandeur of French Renaissance architecture, all set amidst a pristine forest reserve teeming with wildlife. Be prepared to be mesmerized as you approach Château de Chambord, the centerpiece of the town. This castle is one of the most recognizable in the world due to its distinct French Renaissance architecture which blends traditional French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures. With its intricate façade, expansive gardens, and opulent interiors, it is a stunning symbol of the luxurious lifestyle of the French monarchy. Take your time to explore the castle's 440 rooms, where each corner reveals a new piece of history. Do not miss the double helix open staircase that is the centerpiece of the château. It is a marvel of architecture, thought to have been influenced by Leonardo da Vinci. As you ascend, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the estate's grounds and beyond. However, Chambord is not just about the castle. The town is nestled amid a vast woodland reserve, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The Chambord forest is a vibrant ecosystem, home to an array of wildlife including deer, boar, and numerous bird species. Embark on a nature trail or try a horse-drawn carriage ride. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the wildlife in their natural habitat. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine. Chambord offers a variety of gastronomic delights, from the finest French wines to mouthwatering dishes featuring local produce. Savor a glass of crisp Loire Valley wine, paired with a hearty game stew or a delicate fruit tart. From its awe-inspiring architecture to its lush landscapes, Chambord is a destination that captivates the senses and feeds the soul. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, this French gem has something to offer. Experience the charm, the history, and the natural beauty of Chambord, and discover why it is truly a treasure of France.

About the destination: Orleans is the capital of the Centre-Val de Loire region of north-central France, located some 120 km south-west of the French capital Paris. The main reason to travel here is not the city itself, but the many castles in the area. Some of the most famous and beautiful 'Chateaux' in the Loire Valley are: the 'Chateau de Chinon', the 'Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau', the 'Chateau de Langeais', the 'Chateau de Villandry', the 'Chateau de Chenonceau', the 'Chateau d'Amboise', the 'Chateau de Chaumont sur Loire', the 'Chateau de Blois', the 'Chateau de Cheverny' and last, but definitely not least, the 'Chateau Royal de Chambord'. This latter one, probably, is the most famous Castle in France. Visiting it, is not only recommended, but compulsory. A visit to Orleans would not be complete without a visit to the Cathedral. With a similar design to Notre Dame in Paris, the Cathedral can been seen above the buildings from most of the town. Another major attraction of the city is the House of Joan of Arc, the heroine of the city. The best way to get to know Orleans is to walk around the center of town, or along the banks of the river Loire and visiting some of the city's great boulangeries.

About the destination: Chartres is a small city in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, approximately an hour south-west of Paris by train. Population is 42,000 although that rises to 100,000 when the surrounding towns are taken into consideration. The main attraction for most visitors to Chartres is the 12th century cathedral, considered by many art historians to be the finest surviving example from the High Gothic period. In the last couple of years a new mayor has overseen the modernization of the center of the town. There has provoked both positive and negative reactions from the "Chartrains", but there is no doubt that the town is undergoing a certain renewal. After you've seen the cathedral, take time to visit the rest of the town. There are other lovely churches and several museums. Chartres has charming narrow streets an interesting fruit and vegetable market and a general feel of warmth about the place. Most people come for the Cathedral and stay for the rest of the town.

About the destination: Paris, situated on the river Seine, is the capital and largest city in France. It is one of the most iconic cities in the world and it is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities, so much so that is has been dubbed the City of Love. Paris offers historical sights, monuments, a pleasant atmosphere, lovely cafés, parks and museums to satisfy any traveler. A large part of this City of Light, including the River Seine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to some of the greatest old building in the world such as Le Tour Eiffel, Notre Dâme, Sacre Coeur, L´Arc de Triomphe, Palace of Versailles, the Moulin Rouge or the Hotel des Invalides. There is no ending of the list of things you have to see in this city, but Le Louvre, one of the finest museums in the world of art and culture, should not be missed. Paris remains vastly influential in the realms of art and design and is home to some of the most impressive modern buildings such as La Défense, the Centre Pompidou, the Institut du Monde Arabe or the Stade de France. Paris is a city of immense vitality and beauty and it is an amazing and fascinating destination. With its history and architectural patrimony, Paris is the city everyone wants to see.