Gîtes in France

Susan Roscoe
( Travel Expert)

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Gîtes in Aquitaine (Dordogne)

Bordeaux is the capital of Aquitaine.  The region has a mild climate and boasts 180 miles of white, sandy Atlantic shoreline and the cove beaches of the Atlantic coast.  Along with the beaches, Aquitaine has freshwater lakes bordered by the largest pine forests in Europe and vineyards producing world renowned wines.

There are many holiday resorts along the Aquitaine coast, along with lots of cycle paths built away from the roads and pretty rambling paths.  The area also features the pretty Dordogne Valley, known to the French as 'Perigord'.  This area is divided into four regions: Black, Purple, Green and White.

The most visited area is the Black Perigord famed for its beautiful rivers, pretty stone villages, fabulous chateaux and prehistoric caves.  It takes its name from the dark colour of the oak trees.  The Purple Perigord takes its name from the vineyards that cover the hills, the Green Perigord is named after the emerald forests and the White Perigord after the grey and white limestone present in the area.

Gîtes in Brittany

Brittany is one of France's most popular holiday destinations for both the French and foreigners alike - many of whom choose to rent traditional French gîtes for their stay.  The town of Rennes is the capital of Brittany and also its largest city, with Brest coming a close second. St-Malo has ancient city walls and is a popular destination on the north coast, next to the picturesque seaside towns of Dinan and Dinard, whilst on the south coast Quimper is one of the more visited towns in the region.  Twenty five per cent of France's total coastline is in Brittany - the north coast comprises pretty harbours and secret coves; the south coast has stretches of sandy beach and wide estuaries; and the west coast is rocky with striking cliffs. The inland areas of this region are made up of lakes, moors, woodlands and fields, allowing plenty of opportunities for taking walks, cycling through quiet country lanes or sampling some of the local delicacies and fine wines.

Gîtes in Normandy

There are plenty of things to see and do if you rent a gîte in Normandy, especially if you're keen on art and history.  The Bayeux tapesty, which depicts William the Conqueror's victory at Hastings is held here and the Musée Américan in Giverney contains numerous works by American Impressionist painters.

The Normandy coastline is very varied - points of interest include the famous D-day landing beaches (Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach and Sword Beach) and the overdeveloped seaside resorts of Trouville, Deauville and Fécamp. Alternatively take a trip to the pretty towns of Honfleur, Barfleur or the seaside resort of Le Touquet, which blends English charm with classic French style.

Gîtes in Burgundy

The city of Dijon - famed for its mustard - is the capital of Burgundy and a large university town that mixes student lifestyles with medieval and Renaissance buildings.

Burgundy is famous for its rich cuisine of red wine and good quality beef - the famous dish 'boeuf bourgignon' comes from this region as well as snails - so it's no wonder so many visitors choose to stay in self catering gîtes here! Walking and cycling are popular activities in this region and you can follow trails right through the wine-producing areas of the Côte d'Or, or cycle along the miles of canal paths.

Gîtes in Ile de France (Paris)

Paris is the world's most visited capital.  Situated on the River Seine, there is nowhere in the world quite like it.  Whether it's a short break or a romantic weekend for two, there is something to suit everyone with it's neo-classical architecture, many museums and galleries, great shopping and its lively nightlife.

Gîtes in the Loire Valley

It's easy to see why so many tourists choose a relaxing gîte holiday in the Loire Valley.  There are so many places of historical and cultural interest along the Loire River that the whole Loire Valley has been named a World Heritage Site.  Check out the chateaus, mansions, palaces and fortresses as you cruise along the river - but don't be disappointed if you don't get to see everything, as the river stretches for 628 miles. You might just have to go back for another holiday!

Gîtes in the Cote d'Azur

With celebrities and the rich and famous flocking to this area year after year you may be surprised to hear that you don't need a private yacht moored in St Tropez to experience the region's many attractions. With a variety of accommodation in the area, including traditional French gîtes, there is something for everyone who is captivated by the beautiful blue seas of this coastline. 

For some glitz, glamour and amazing people watching go to Cannes and Monaco, but for some peace and tranquility check out  Antibes, St-Raphaël and Fréjus. To enjoy unspoilt coastline and breathtaking scenery head west of St-Tropez where you'll find a variety of cliffs, coves and sweeping sands.

Towns such as the capital Nice, and the old port town of Marseille make an interesting alternative to the round of sun, sea and sand along the coast, where you can dine at excellent restaurants and do a spot of shopping.

Gîtes in the French Alps

The Alps is one of France's most popular tourist resorts and is Europe's largest mountain range.  The mountain range spreads over France, Italy and Switzerland, with the highest peaks being on the eastern edge and forming a natural barrier with Italy. Mont Blanc stands in this range and is the tallest mountain in Europe.  The scenery in this area is magical and aside from the seventy or so ski resorts in the Alps, including the prestigious Chamonix and Meribel resorts, there are endless possibilities for other activities including white-water rafting, canoeing, caving, climbing, hiking and mountain biking.  Definitely an area to visit if you love the outdoors!

Gîtes in Alsace Lorraine

Officially, Alsace and Lorraine are two separate regions joined only by a common border in the Vosges Mountains. They are often referred to in the same breath because they share a lot of history and were much fought-over by France and Germany before being returned to France after WWII. Both the Alsace and Lorraine regions are known for their cuisine. In fact, Alsace has more Michelin restaurant stars than any other French region. Lorraine has famous Moselle wines and quiche, whilst Alsace produces celebrated white wines and half of France's beer.

Popular activities in these regions include cross-country skiing in winter, hiking, horse riding and mountain-biking in summer. If you love great food and wine, then a self catering gîte in this area is for you!

Who do we recommend?

With so many companies to choose from, we have researched the market to find those with a wide range of choice as well as some that are more specialist. Browse our list below to find the right company for you, then click through to their web site for more information and how to book. It couldn't be easier!

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