Hi,
my girlfriend and I will be driving through France from the 29th of May with aim of being in Pamplona on the 7th of June for the bulls. Ideally we'd like to stick to the west coast because it is the shortest route to Spain (petrol/toll concerns) but we have quite a bit of time so we are wondering if anyone has any advice for nice destinations between the two places. We are presently considering Normandy, Brittany and Bordeaux.
Another option is to go the other way through Champagne, Dijon, Lyon and then St Tropez because we have some free accom in Lyon and St P but we'll be going back through the south on our way back east after Spain and Portugal.
As you can see its bit of a tricky one. Any advice on some places to stay and things to do on either route is greatly appreciated.
Thanks a heap, Cade.
PS tips and tricks for France in general would also be helpful!
Most of the A20 autoroute is toll free and goes through some beautiful areas. But no need to take any autoroute at all if you have that much time to travel.
I suppose you are talking about 2008?
I'd recommend the Pyrennees as well as the Perigord region. It will avoid you long detours, and you'll discover superb regions. I'd suggest you avoid big cities (Bordeaux, Lyon) that are not always as fascinating as the countryside.
The food in the two regions mentioned above is very good, among the best of the country.
If you're planning to take autoroutes then I think the A20 would be a good bet as it is direct and there are some nice places en route.
If you pass by then Chartres cathedral is lovely, then dropping down to the A20 it is not very interesting for a bit, but then you get to the Massif Centrale (which includes Limousin). The "Logis de France" hotel at Eguzon is lovely, and not too far from the A20. In general the "Logis de France" independent chain of hotels is a good way to stay in "real" French hotels.
Futher south, Perigord is indeed lovely. Rocamadour is the second most popular visitor attraction in France. Don't let that put you off! It really is an impressive place to visit - and again not too far from the motorway.
Check out viamichelin for estimates of fuel/toll costs - from memory the west coast is of France is quite expensive toll-wise down to Poitou Charentes, but perhaps it is more expensive further south?
I don't know the areas further south so I can't advise... have a good trip!
i think it doesnt matter if you go to big cities
paris and lyon are both awesome places with a variety of things to do
also places like vienne and valence in the south are great
try to stay at places close to the rhone on your way to marseilles from paris and there will always be something new and fun to do
many walks to special spots,wineries,camping,fishing and beautiful food ...try a croissant or the tasty pain au chocolate with your coffee.
if you want to see the real france follow the real french...
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