Properties in South of France
Properties in Languedoc-Roussillon
Languedoc-Roussillon
The tourist area of Languedoc takes in some of
the region of the Midi-Pyrenees and most of Languedoc-Roussillon,
and is still largely undiscovered by the British. It is one of France's
most diverse regions. Inland, spectacular mountains are cut by deep
gorges and beautiful wild valleys offering opportunities for every
type of outdoor activity. The lively cities, historic towns and
fortified villages provide more than enough sightseeing. The coastline
is mostly flat with mile upon mile of safe sandy beaches perfect
for families. Behind the coast are plains and marshes home to a
huge variety of birds and wildlife. The region borders the Pyrenees
and the Mediterranean to the south and east and
the massif central to the north. It is crossed by the Canal
du Midi, a man-made canal from Toulouse to the Mediterranean.
Inhabited by the Romans and the Cathars the area is rich in history.
Vineyards covering the slopes and plains mean wine tasting is high
on the list
Properties
in Provence and properties in the Rhone valley
Provence & The Rhone Valley
... is, for many, the most alluring region in France. Warm in
winter, hot in summer, famous for its wine and its beautiful countryside.
Drive through quiet, rolling hills, among olive groves and vineyards;
visit Roman ruins or enjoy life in the vibrant cities of the area
with their outdoor cafes and outstanding cuisine. See the landscape
and clear colours that inspired Van Gogh at Arles,
dance on what's left of the Pont d'Avignon; visit
the delta land of the Camargue with its wild horses and bulls, or
drive inland to Europe's answer to the Grand Canyon - the spectacular
Canyon du Verdun. It would take a lifetime to fully
appreciate all that this region has to offer, but start here for
a real taste of France soaked in history and warm sunshine
Properties
in the Pyrenees
Pyrenees
The western foothills of the Pyrennes begin in Aquitaine,
in Basque country within sight of the Atlantic,
rising to majestic peaks in the Midi-Pyrenees,
and ending close to the Mediterranean in Languedoc-Roussillon.
They separate France from Spain. The scenery and views are spectacular.
There is an extensive network of long distance and local footpaths
suitable for all levels of walkers and the whole area is very popular
with climbers. Ski facilities are being developed and offer uncrowded
slopes with easy access to the valley towns. Less busy than the
Alps it is the perfect mountain break in summer or winter. The Pays
Basque has green, gentle lower slopes with nearby seaside
resorts perfect for families and more spectacular forests and gorges
as you go inland. The Central Pyrenees are composed of much higher
mountain peaks with waterfalls, glaciers, mountain lakes and meadows
full of flowers in early summer. The Eastern Pyrenees are drier,
hotter and more Mediterranean, and the meadows of the high pastures
give way to the vineyards of the lower slopes. The towns of this
area have a strong Catalan influence. Nestled between the Eastern
and Central Pyrenees is Andorra,
worth a visit to take advantage of its duty free shopping
Properties
in the Massive Central
The Massive Central
... which takes in bits of the region of the Rhone and of Languedoc-Rousillon
is a spectacular region of rugged terrain, rivers and thick forests.
It centres on the Parc Naturel Regional des Volcans d'Auvergne,
three groups of extinct volcanoes and their plateaux. The area is
criss-crossed by marked footpaths and is excellent for mountain
biking. Almost anywhere in the Massif Central is
good for walking at various levels. The towns are few and pleasant
without being especially interesting, although they make good centres
for exploring. Here is the source of many of the great rivers of
France including the Loire, Dordogne
and Lot. Dotted with extinct volcanoes and the
aftermath of volcanic eruptions in the north and deep gorges in
the south this is a less populated and more unusual area of France,
with a wild beauty of its own
Properties
in Cote d’Azur
Cote d’Azur
The French Riviera boasts a combination of fine weather and sparkling
blue seas, making this area one of the most magnetic in the world.
Its mountain backdrop, exquisite light and sheer chic have drawn
a diversity of adherents, not least some of the twentieth century's
most famous artists. Travel here for smart resorts, wonderful beaches
and warm seas or escape to the quieter hinterlands and the excellent
art museums. This area is usually associated with sun, sea and sand
and there's plenty of that. But the Cote d'Azur
also has gorgeous mountain scenery only a short drive from the bustling
resorts. Medieval hilltop villages host art and craft festivals
and beautiful walks abound in the scented countryside
Properties in Languedoc-Roussillon - Properties
in Provence - Properties in Rhone - Properties in the Pyrenees -
Properties in Massive Central - Properties in Cote d’Azur |