Learn a new skill on an upholstery course in France with an expert – and enjoy a relaxing break in a gorgeous mansion in the Loire Valley.

May 2025: your date with a new hobby

There’s a particular joy you get from an experience holiday that lasts much longer than the time you were away. Indulge yourself on a residential Upholstery Skills Retreat and you’ll have skills that stay with you long after your vacation, enabling you to take on a whole range of projects and broaden your upcycling horizons. This five-day retreat runs from Saturday 18th May to Thursday 22nd May 2025, and it’s a great way to combine learning with relaxation, working in small groups and a laid-back atmosphere.

Learn upholstery skills from an expert

This exclusive retreat is taught by Jacqui Jackson, an expert in traditional upholstery who specialises in French antique furniture. After gaining her qualifications at the London College of Furniture, Jacqui pursued her upholstery passion and now has 25 years’ experience to share with like-minded enthusiasts.

A respected professional in the industry, Jacqui repairs, upholsters and sells French furniture via her website, and her expertise is in demand from private clients and interior designers across the world. Her company, Essentially French, specialises in sourcing unique items from brocantes and village fairs in France, then bringing out the best in each piece, restoring, reupholstering and painting them so that they can enjoy a new life as a treasured piece in someone else’s home.

If you’re a fan of French elegance, shabby-chic, vintage gems and stylish upholstery, Jacqui is sure to be a source of wisdom and a great inspiration for you.

The programme of this upholstery residential also includes a trip to a fabulous French Flea market in Chinon, where you’ll get an introduction to ‘how to shop at a brocante’, particularly when it comes to sourcing items to reupholster. And you’ll be able to browse the stalls and look for a few new – or possibly very old – pieces to fall in love with.

Upholstery course in France – the details

Whether you’re a first-timer fresh to the world of upholstery or you have some knowledge and want to improve and finesse your existing ability, this residential workshop will be a haven of hands-on teaching. The small, exclusive groups mean that you can get one-to-one guidance, boosting your skills in a short time while surrounded by supportive individuals.

The retreat is designed to be suitable for all levels of upholstery, from complete beginners to those who are more experienced. Jacqui is also happy to speak with you beforehand to discuss your skill-level and your current project so that you can get the most from your time.

An inspiring location

The location for this retreat is La Maison Trumeau, a period property dating from the 1850s. This elegant townhouse feels like a château inside, thanks to its impressively high ceilings, tall windows and grand proportions. It has been lovingly restored by Mandy Murphy, your hostess, and is decorated with beautiful pieces of furniture and architectural details such as marble fireplaces, wainscoting and cornices, enhanced by chandeliers, fabulous bedsteads and flowing voile drapes. In such a setting, you can’t help being creatively inspired!

La Maison Trumeau is in the heart of the stunning Loire Valley, which has earned a global reputation for delectable wines. While you’re here, you can take a trip to the nearby vineyards to enjoy a wine-tasting or two (Mandy jokes that this holiday could be called “sip and stitch’), visit some French châteaux and soak up the photogenic landscapes.

Your accommodation is located right in the heart of the city of Saumur, within walking distance of boutiques, shops and superb restaurants. No doubt you’ll be tempted to extend your stay so that you can spend time strolling along the banks of the famous River Loire, sipping an espresso in one of the pavement cafés or tracking down your own antiques in one of the brocantes.

This area is also famous for significant historical sites, from the 14th-century Château du Saumur to the neolithic standing stones that date back to prehistoric times. In the surrounding areas, you can also tour the fascinating maisons troglodytes, houses built into the rocks that are still lived in today.

A relaxing break

When you arrive on Saturday, you’ll have time to unpack and unwind from your travels, settling into your elegant surroundings. On Saturday evening, you’ll meet your fellow guests and enjoy a 4-course meal that will set the tone of relaxation and enjoyment for the rest of your stay.

Every morning you’ll be served a healthy and hearty breakfast inspired by French traditions, and you can look forward to a good lunch to reward your morning’s work. For those who truly enjoy feeling immersed in French culture, you’ll have the option of a glass of wine to accompany your daily lunch, and an apéritif each evening: a glass of sparkling wine served with delicate snacks.

With its balance of learning, socialising and exploring, previous participants have especially appreciated the hands-on teaching, the fabulous food, and the conversation and laughter that flows through every day’s activities.

Visit La Maison Trumeau’s website and check out the details of this unique upholstery retreat in the Loire Valley: lamaisontrumeau.com

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Provence is one of the most sensual, enchanting and intriguing regions of France. Fields of blue lavender sweep gently towards the horizon, sleepy olive groves and vineyards provide welcome relief on a hot day and ancient villages gently climb the slopes towards the mountains. Every view seems to be peppered with the bright pops of colour of poppies, sunflowers, mimosas and bougainvillea and the region’s rich history still echoes through the streets of its many towns and villages.

Provence stretches along the Mediterranean from the banks of the Rhône to the Italian border and is famous for its Roman architecture, abundant produce and lively cultural heritage. With so much to explore, it can be difficult to know where to start but if want to discover the real Provence and what makes it tick, take a guided tour with idreamProvence and discover three of the most historic and picturesque towns.

Aix-en-Provence

About 30 kilometres north of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence was once the capital of the region and dates back to the Roman period. By the 5th century, it had become a focus of Christianity and by the 12th century, it was a centre of power and known as the City of Counts (after the erstwhile rulers of the region who made it their home).

Today, you’ll find a vibrant and beautiful city of two halves. Head to the old town and discover a delightful melee of Medieval buildings, the remains of the Medieval ramparts, narrow cobbled streets and brightly coloured markets that fill the air with sights, sounds and smells of the region. Lavender, garlic, truffles, sweet, sticky local honey and calissons (candied fruit sweets) are all hard to resist while the weekly flower market is bursting with colour.

Turn a corner and you might find the incredible Cathedral of Saint Sauveur built and rebuilt from the 5th to the 17th century in a heady mixture of Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque styles. Or you might stumble across the remains of the Roman thermal baths.

Cross the sophisticated Cours Mirabeau (a wide avenue lined with impressive 17th and 18th century buildings and plane trees) and head towards the Mazarin Quarter. Order and elegance replace the jumbled old town here. In the 17th century, the Mazarin Quarter became the place to live for the wealthy and influential, and grand houses gather around impressive squares each showcasing one of the many ubiquitous fountains.

Paul Cézanne lived in Aix-en-Provence and you’ll follow in his footsteps to discover the places associated with him, like his studio, The Musée Granet or the family hat shop. 2025 will see the city host a major celebration honoring Paul Cézanne’s life and legacy, making it a remarkable year for art enthusiasts. Key highlights include a comprehensive exhibition at the Musée Granet from June 28 to October 12, showcasing over 100 of Cézanne’s works—paintings, watercolors, and drawings—sourced from prestigious international collections. This special exhibit will explore Cézanne’s techniques, themes, and inspirations, particularly from the local landscapes he cherished, like Mont Sainte-Victoire.

There are at least 12 significant sites to visit in Aix en Provence which is also a city of festivals, folklore, museums and music. There are hidden cafés and restaurants and great local wine, and your guides will be very happy to share the secrets with you.

Arles

Stretching along the banks of the Rhône, Arles is one of the oldest cities in France. It dates back over 2,000 years to its zenith as a Roman city when it was home to a theatre, amphitheatre (that still dominates the city centre), cryptoporticus (subterranean galleries), a necropolis, Roman baths and a circus as it enjoyed frequent visits from the Roman emperor.

Arles is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits right on the edge of the Camargue (famous for its white horse and cowboys). From the elegant and central, Place de la Republique, explore the cobbled streets, the 11th century, Romanesque Cathedral of St Trophime and then why not follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh who stayed in Arles between 1888 and 1889 and was inspired by the town.

Markets are always central to life in Provence and in Arles, you’ll see the colourful Camarguaise personalities in action selling Fougasse (a sweet almond filled brioche), fruit tarts, jams, lavender, Garrigue honeys, olives, garlic rouille and Gardiane de Taureau (a local beef casserole).

There are eight significant Roman sites in Arles to discover as well as museums and art galleries, and the Medieval ramparts from Arles’ second heyday in the 11th and 12th centuries. And when you’ve finished exploring the city with your expert guides, there are still the surrounding salt marshes of the Camargue and vineyards of Provence to explore.

Next to Arles is where we find a true haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. where flamingos, majestic herons, and other rare birds can be seen, all while surrounded by the stunning landscapes that make the Camargue so unique. It can be explored on foot, by horse-drawn carriage, or on horseback, you’ll feel immersed in the beauty and peace of this protected reserve.

Avignon

The third city that is synonymous with Provence is Avignon. Here the Medieval ramparts give way to a maze of back streets, elegant squares and tales of intrigue and power. Climb Rocher des Doms for views across Provence, visit the seat of power at the Palais des Papes and walk to the centre of the Rhône across the famous World Heritage Site Saint-Bénézet Bridge, your guides will show you all the very best places to experience this beautiful, historic city.

The best way to discover Aix, Arles and Avignon

All three cities represent a unique aspect of Provencial life. And the best way to get the most out of each city as you start to explore is with a small, personalised tour.

I Dream Provence tours are hosted by a local couple who speak English and French and know the secrets of all three cities: the most authentic local cafés, the best vineyards and the stories behind the architecture from the fountains of Aix-en-Provence to the great cathedrals and Roman ruins.

Their small group tours will ensure you see all the most important sites but can also be tailored so that you see, what you want to see. With their expert, insider knowledge of your tour guides, you get a chance to discover the real Provence.

For more information and book your guided tour at: idreamprovence.com

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Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is an unspoilt part of the Dordogne Valley with wide-open skies, tranquil woodlands, river valleys and deep gorges. The stunning natural landscapes are made all the more picturesque thanks to medieval castles, traditional half-timbered houses, and golden stone and decorative Renaissance architecture. It’s also the perfect place for a relaxing stay in a gorgeous gite and for fabulous walks – from charming riverside strolls to challenging hikes up to panoramic viewpoints.

“Beaulieu-Sur-Dordogne is about 250km inland from Bordeaux, right near the border between the Corrèze and the Lot, so it offers two very different landscapes,” explains Emma Curtis, who has lived in the village for several years. “On warmer days, heavily wooded trails give plenty of shade and often follow meandering rivers, leading to waterfalls and lakes, which are wonderfully refreshing; on cooler days, there are dramatic limestone cliffs, interesting geology and perched villages clustered on cliffsides. There’s always something incredibly picturesque to enjoy as you walk.”

Emma and her husband Richard run La Chabanaise gîtes in Beaulieu-Sur-Dordogne. Set on a former farm, three beautifully renovated gites (two 6-person, one 2-person) are a perfect base for discovering the Dordogne Valley.

Whenever the couple have some free time, they love to walk their dogs and explore the region, “this is ideal countryside for walking and hiking for everyone from couples to groups. And there are beautiful onsite meadows to explore with short walks starting from the property.” says Richard who is always happy to recommend great places to walk and hike in the area.
The best months for a walking holiday are May (and take in Beaulieu’s famous strawberry festival on the first Sunday in May), June, September and October.

WALK ONE: AUTOIRE

“One of our favourite places to walk is around the village of Autoire, which is officially classified as one of the prettiest villages in France, and just 20 minutes from our gîtes. Autoire is nestled in a steep sided valley that used to be a cave millions of years ago. Over time, the roof collapsed, which explains the cliffs on either side and the fact that the valley head stops abruptly with a fabulous, impressive waterfall. This in turn feeds a small river that makes its way through Autoire and is just one of the reasons why this picturesque village is so appealing!

“For a half-hour outing, start at the carpark, take an easy stroll to the waterfalls then head back. For a slightly more challenging walk, a circuit takes you around the side of the waterfall and over a small bridge at the top where you’ll get beautiful views over the village below as well as the panoramic show of surrounding hills and valleys. From the top of these cliffs, you can also follow a longer walk over the limestone plateau to Loubressac, which is another pretty medieval village with the turrets and beautiful chateau-style architecture so prevalent in this area.”

WALK TWO: SENTIER DE BEAULIEU-SUR-DORDOGNE

“The Sentier de Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne walk leads through fields and trees with views over the Dordogne valley, past the Chapelle des Penitents and the beautiful Saint-Pierre Abbey, which you can take time to visit. In the section by the waterside, you can try to spot the famous sculpture of an otter, reclining on a stone near the river. The circuit is 5.8 km, which takes around 1 ½ hours and, as with most walking trails in this area, you can download the map online or pick up a copy from the tourist office.”

WALK THREE: CHÂTEAU DU DOUX

“Just across the river in Altillac is the starting point for the longer but still moderate Château du Doux trail, which is about 10 km and takes just over 3 hours. You’ll get beautiful views over the Lot and Dordogne valleys and the trail takes you past the impressive Château du Doux that was built in the early 1900s and is now privately owned. Although it’s a small village, Altillac has nearly a dozen châteaux from different eras, as well as two churches, but the views and the landscape are still the real stars of this walk!”

 WALK FOUR: AUBAZINE

“Aubazine is renowned for its 12th-century Cistercian abbey and the 1.5km Canal des Moines, a canal that was built by monks to supply the monastery with water and has some spectacular vantage points.

“There are several other walks to choose from here, starting from the lavoir – the old wash-house – in Route de Tulle. One of these heads east to Le Coiroux, a circuit of just under 10km that takes around 3 hours, leading through the beautiful village of Rochesseux with its walled gardens and traditional architecture, up to the placid lake of Le Coiroux, then back past the Bordebrune mill and views over wild gorges before bringing you back to Aubazine.

“This is a lovely walk on a warm day as it has plenty of shade from the trees, and you’re accompanied by the sounds of babbling streams along the way.”

 WALK FIVE: THE BIG ONE!

“Serious hikers will enjoy choosing part of the Dordogne Valley Trail, which covers a total of 82 km. You can start in Beaulieu village and follow the trail to Saint Céré or even hike as far as Rocamadour, a medieval village famous for its clusters of terracotta-topped buildings that seem to cling to the side of a cliff. It’s an important point on the pilgrimage trail known as the Santiago de Compostela or the Way of Saint James and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

“Or you can drive to and start from Rocamadour as the roads have quite glorious views. Once on site, you can choose a walking route either up the steep streets of the cliffside town or heading into the surrounding countryside, which will give you amazing views of the architecture and make you wonder how anyone built these houses hanging off the cliffside!”

WALKS FOR NATURE LOVERS

“Coming here was a big surprise, as I was used to the Guernsey’s limited wildlife,” says Emma. “We sometimes hear the melodic song of the Golden Oriole, a shy, bright-yellow bird who usually arrives in early May and stays for summer; you can also spot buzzards, red kites, woodpeckers, black redstarts, booted eagles, firecrests and spotted flycatchers – not to mention the roe deer, pine martens, foxes and badgers.

“If you’re out walking on a warm day, don’t be surprised to see little lizards soaking up the sun on the path, then quickly dashing out of the way as you approach. You’ll also spot dragonflies, tiger moths and a whole range of beautiful butterflies from meadow browns to purple emperors and swallowtails. The only problem is, with the surrounding landscapes being so eye-catching, you might not always notice the wildlife along the way!”

After a long walk you can relax at your gorgeous gite, watching the damsel flies flitting amongst the reeds and lilies of the natural pool and after, enjoy an evening playing pétanque on our terrain. With lovely airy rooms, excellent kitchen facilities for self-catering, and just a short stroll from the historic village of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, this is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday.

Book your gite at: correzegite.com

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France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. It’s a fact. Around 90 million people visit France each year – an astonishing number, way more people than actually live in France (about 68 million people). We take a look at the top attractions in France and the secret places close by – the best of both worlds!

Main attractions of Paris

Paris is the most popular tourist city destination of the world with around 30 million visitors each year and it hosts many of the most visited places of France including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

Less busy (usually), the Musee d’Orsay, a museum in a former train station, has the most wonderful collection of impressionist art and art nouveau furniture, there are entire rooms complete with wood floors and wood panelled walls, and it also has a gorgeous restaurant. And if you’re into photography there’s a grand old station clock, it’s enormous, about 20 feet high, which looks out over the Seine and the Louvre palace – a great place to take a photo.

Wander in Montmartre which is always popular and pop into the little museum in rue Cortot where Renoir once lived, with Paris’s secret vineyard next door. Stroll the grand boulevards, sip hot chocolate listening to the church bells of Notre Dame, and peek into the past in the Latin Quarter.

Secret Paris

But I think one of the most memorable visits for me is the Saint-Chapelle. It’s a small church, older than Notre Dame and next to the Conciergerie building where Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned before losing her head. It’s astonishing to be in this church and know that more than 800 years ago, King Louis 9^th sat here looking at the glorious, stained windows. There are 15 of them each 15 metres high depicting 1,113 scenes from the bible.

When the sun shines through them, it’s mesmerizingly beautiful, like standing in a jewel box. It’s not a working church now and in the evenings classical music performances are held there and it’s quite magical to sit listening to Handel or Vivaldi’s music as you look at the stained glass, the gilded angels popping out of the walls, the glorious artwork that covers every inch of this incredible building…

That’s the thing about Paris, there are the really well-known parts, but there are also so many secret parts and you can see the city’s past right before your eyes – the great Gothic churches, the medieval buildings, Renaissance, Baroque, Haussmanian, Belle Epoque, Art Nouveau and contemporary – there is something to please everyone.

Quirky museums and hidden ateliers, workshops of artisans and artists like Lubin perfumery. Opened by Pierre-François Lubin who was trained from the age of 10 by Queen Marie Antoinette’s favourite parfumier and beauty products maker Jean-Louis Fargeon, supplier of perfume. Lubin created a pair of scented gloves for her using hyacinths, violets, musk jonquils and carnations and when the Queen was in prison at the Conciergerie near the Louvre, Lubin would take her parcels of her favourite toiletries.

Later Empress Josephine Bonaparte used to hang out at Lubins – it’s still there… And then there’s Patisserie Stohrer on rue Montorgeuil,  the oldest cake shop in Paris and opened in 1730. It’s entirely possible that Marie-Antoinette may have indulged here, the shop was opened by her father-in-law’s pastry chef. And there are shops where Picasso, Renoir and Degas went to for their art supplies.

There are also the shopping galleries like Galerie Vivienne, they were created around 200 years ago, and they are full of boutiques and cafés, and look just as they did all those years ago, the architecture is exquisite.

Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy

When we talk of great architecture, I think we must mention Mont-Saint-Michel, the island with an abbey off the coast of Normandy, right on the border with Brittany – so close that sometimes people think it is in Brittany.

It’s said that in 708, Aubert, the bishop of Avranches dreamed that he had an encounter with the archangel Michael, who instructed him to build a church on the little island. But the bishop took no notice. Three times the archangel instructed him to build the church and finally, it is said, he burned a hole in the bishop’s skull to drive home the merits of obedience. Ouch… And guess what – the bishop built the church!

I think I’d built it too if an angel stuck his finger in my head and burned my skull. Well, the abbey you see today is not the same church, one was built over the top in the year 1023. Way before William the conqueror went to England, builders completed the creation of the Romanesque nave. It’s astonishing isn’t it to stand there now and know these things, it gives me goosebumps!

I took my dad there once, he didn’t want to go, he moaned about having to go and see as he put it “another bloody monument – France is full of them” he said. I dragged him there moaning the whole way but when we were a couple of miles away and he saw it looming on the horizon topped by a golden angel, as French writer Victor Hugo once said, ‘like a pyramid in the sea’, he was captivated and so was my dad.

Mont-Saint-Michel captivates a lot of people – 3 million people visit this island every year. And rightly so. It’s unique. If you want to see it without feeling a bit like a sardine in a tin, go out of peak season – not in July or August, and get there early before the tour coaches arrive, or later in the evening when they depart… You’re welcome.

And wear comfy shoes because the medieval streets are cobbled. And if you want to eat one of the famous omelettes at the Mere Poulard restaurant take lots of money – they’re expensive! They are made to the same secret recipe and cooked on an open fire in front of customers as they have been since 1888, a taste that’s been loved by many – including Ernest Hemingway and Marilyn Monroe.

But the best thing is to just wander the little streets that wrap round the island and lead to the abbey. Be aware that it is a steep climb up 350 steps, a couple of paramedics were stationed halfway up the stairs when I was there! It’s worth the effort to get to the top but don’t even try to if you have any heart problems or medical issues. When we reached the top, we stood in the abbey and looked out through the grand open arched windows looking out to the sea and over the land. It is one of those special moments for sure.

Secret Mont-Saint-Michel

And if you go to Mont-Saint-Michel, but you want to visit a less crowded, more secret place afterwards maybe the Marine Train (le train marin) will interest you. It’s a little tourist train which runs around the Mont Saint Michel Bay. It takes you on a 2-hour guided tour on land and in the shallow waters, and you’ll discover the local fishing culture, and get a really unique view of the island. It’s a great activity.

Versailles

We have to talk about the palace of Versailles when we’re talking about top sites. You can take a train from Paris, it’s easy to get to. It was a hunting lodge until Louis 14^th decided to renovate and then some. His aim was very much “look at me, I am the greatest, only the greatest man in the world could have a home as beautiful as this.” So, in the mid 1600s, the simple – by royal standards at least – hunting lodge became the most luxurious home in the world.

It wasn’t exactly cosy though, several hundred people were squeezed in, the most important aristocrats of France were all required to be on site where the King could basically keep an eye on them. It literally glistens – there’s so much gold involved from the gates to the ceilings and the walls the door fittings, the mirrors.

And then there’s the gardens of the palace. The palace was built on swamp land and the swamps had to be drained and then the area was filled with soil and stone so that the grand gardens could be created. And the king wanted fountains, lot of fountains. Obviously. But there was no river nearby, so underground and aerial aqueducts were built to bring water in, they pumped it from the River Seine!

But it was still hard to keep the fountains flowing so basically the fountain operators used to just turn the fountains on when the king went by – everyone else could go without!

Louis was a bit of a control freak, well a lot of a control freak. Under his rule etiquette became everything, there were dress codes for every event including walking in the garden! And if you didn’t have the right kit, you could rent it at the entrance to the gardens!

Secret Versailles

And talking of walking – Versailles itself is a fabulous town for a walk, glorious old mansions galore, the Kings vegetable garden, the potager du roi,  is close by, which for me is a must see, Louis had a brilliant gardener who innovated and experimented and was able to grow tropical fruit – in the north of France – and even coffee beans. Louis used to take guests there and boast about it like “Look what I’ve done” even though he did nothing!

And for another less well-known part of your visit to Versailles – head to the market. Marche Notre-Dame is one of the best I’ve ever been to. Its’ been there since the 1600s it has beautiful stone halls that were built hundreds of years ago, like miniature mansions for your fruit and veg! It’s very lively and very lovely. The halls of the market are open daily (except Monday) and the open-air market which spreads out over a huge square is on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings.

Disneyland Paris

Ok a bit of a change in the type of attraction that’s most popular in France now – Disneyland Paris! Not very French, but French people love it too. I’ve been twice! The first time I took my kids, and the characters were on strike! So French. We had to go back because the kids really wanted to see Mickey Mouse!

Well, everyone probably knows a lot about the Disney parks, so I won’t say too much, but it’s the most visited theme park in Europe and it’s easy to reach from central Paris. And of course there is a Sleeping Beauty castle! And we like castles.

Chateaux of the Loire

Talking of castles – let’s head to the Loire Valley known as the Valley of the Kings in France because there are so many castles there. Chenonceau, Chambord, Villandry, Usse, Azay le Rideau, Chinon, Loches, Blois, Amboise…

Chambord gets almost one million visitors a year, but it never really feels crowded because it’s so huge. This was another case of “look at me, I am the best king in the world”, though it was 150 years or so before and built by King Francois 1^st who was known as the Renaissance King. He spent an absolute fortune on this place, it was an obsession, he pretty much gave up everything else to get this done including delaying paying a ransom to an enemy who had captured his young sons… and yet, he only spent 40 nights here!

This monumental palace had 426 rooms and 83 staircases – and to try to keep it warm it had 282 fireplaces, but it was so big it was always cold and that made it largely uninhabitable. Extraordinary. It’s an amazing place to visit with gorgeous gardens and a little village at the bottom with great shops where you can buy Chambord the liqueur and local biscuits and treats.

Secret Loire Valley

And if you want to visit somewhere close by, that’s a little less known, head to Blois where there is another fabulous castle, plus in the town there is a museum of magic. And don’t miss the pretty town of Amboise where there are two castles – one lived in by the Kings including Francis 1^st and the other lived in by his favourite artist Leonardo da Vinci who travelled here from Italy on a donkey carrying the Mona Lisa!

Francois used to keep the painting in his bathroom! I love that he used to sit in the bath and look at the painting. It’s in the Louvre now – the world’s most visited museum, and a former royal palace!

Lavender Fields Provence

And now let’s head outside for some fresh air and one of the most alluring aromas in the world – lavender! Provence is famous for its beautiful hilltop villages, historic cities like Avignon where the Popes once lived and for its lavender fields. It’s a sight that makes your soul soar from around mid-June to the start of August – miles of purple lavender, and the scent fills the air – it’s a must see…

Some of the best lavender fields are in the department of Vaucluse. They surround little towns and sit next to apricot, cherry and olive orchards. One of my favourite places is Sault which is where some of the most beautiful lavender fields can be found.

There is a legend that the lavender comes from the tears of a blue-eyed fairy called Lavandula. She was flying around in France – like you do – looking for somewhere special to call home, and she had a notebook where she made drawings of the places she liked the looks of. Yes really this is the legend! And she was really proud of her drawings but when she saw the page with Provence and the Luberon area in Vaucluse, it looked so dry that it made her sad and she cried purple tears from her big purple eyes.

The tears stained the book and she tried to wipe them away and it stained the whole page violet, so she coloured the fields a beautiful shade of blue so that her mistake wasn’t so obvious – and ever since, the lavender has grown in Provence!

Secret Provence

There are plenty of not well-known pickled in the past or pretty as a picture villages in Provence. Two of the most lovely are Brantes which has a “land that time forgot feel to it, and Vaison-la-Romaine. Once inhabited by the Romans, with plenty of evidence of their time there, with a lovely upper town of cobbled streets, as well as a dazzling lower town full of cosy cafes, art galleries and one of the best patisseries I’ve ever had the pleasure of!

Janine Marsh is the author of  several internationally best-selling books about France. Her latest book How to be French – a celebration of the French lifestyle and art de vivre, is out now – a look at the French way of life. Find all books on her website janinemarsh.com

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When you drive around northern France you cannot help but notice the dozens and dozens of military cemeteries, some large, some tiny, whose rows of identical white headstones surrounded by impeccably kept lawns and well-manicured flower-beds mark the final resting places of the tens of thousands who gave their lives in Word War I.

Amongst the bigger ones is the 11,100m² cemetery which contains 2,800 tombs in the small town of Loos-en-Gohelle, just NW of Lens. A ferocious battle was fought here from 25 Sept-8 Oct. 1915 in which 59,247 men lost their lives trying to take Hill 70, including Rudyard Kipling’s only son, 18-yr old John (although he is not buried here but at St. Mary’s Advanced Dressing Station Cemetery in Haisnes, just 3.8 kms north of Loos).

But when 120 identifiable remains were found by the mine clearance company preparing the terrain just over Hill 70 where the new Lens hospital is being built, it became clear the existing military cemetery was too small to be able to bury them alongside their comrades-in-arms. So, for only the second time since the end of WWII, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), which maintains war graves around the world for the governments of Australia, Britain, Canada, India, New-Zealand and South Africa, decided to open a second cemetery adjacent to the original one.

The formal opening of the Loos British Cemetery Extension with the full military burial of the remains of two unknown Scottish soldiers took place on 26^th September attended by HRH The Princess Royal, president of the CWGC, together with Dame Menna Rawlings, British ambassador to France, Geoffrey Mathon, mayor of Loos-en-Gohelle, Jacques Billant, prefect of the Pas-de-Calais and other officials.

The work of the CWGC

When human remains on these battle-scarred territories are found, work is immediately stopped and the UK’s Ministry of Defence Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) is contacted. The five members of the team, known more familiarly as “war detectives”, then get to work. One of them, Alexia Clark, told me how they go about identifying remains.

“The first thing is that the precise location and position of the remains is recorded and if there is any textile, or buttons, or insignia on or around the remains these are taken to be examined. Footwear is usually in good condition and enables us immediately to know whether we’re dealing with an officer or a soldier because the officers had better boots!”

Bone samples are taken by forensic experts sub-contracted to the MOD who try and extract DNA to help with identification. “Sometimes the forensic scientists are able to tell us that a particular casualty had a disease or had suffered previous injuries and these details are precious in helping us to identify the person with the help of historical military records, maps and service records, although 75 percent of WWI service records were destroyed in WWII which makes our life a little difficult.”

She added that “if we’re able to identify the body, our next task is to find family, however distantly related. We use genealogical tools such as Ancestry, obituaries, newspaper articles, anything that might help us. When we’ve found family we then contact them either by e-mail or letter, the latter having the advantage that we use headed note paper whilst with just the former they may think we’re a scam! Sometimes families didn’t even know the deceased existed but they’re almost always delighted to hear from us and make the effort to come to the re-burial ceremony.”

Occasionally when two bodies are found very close together it’s not always possible to clearly identify which bones belong to whom or even to separate the bodies. “In that case they’re buried together,” Alexia Clark explained “and if they’ve been identified then there is one grave with two headstones, otherwise there’s just the one headstone.”

Sometimes, as was the case with Rudyard Kipling’s son, a previously unknown soldier is identified many decades after dying. “In these cases there’s a re-dedication ceremony with a padre and a bugler,” she said.

Why are so many in Loos unknown?

Tracey Bower, head of commemoration with the JCCC, told me that “the soil where these 120 remains were found is quite contaminated by mining and other industrial activities so no exploitable DNA was found in the remains which is why we’ve not been able to identify the individuals.”

However the team was able to establish that thus far 48 separate sets of remains have been found on the hospital construction site and the many Scottish Regimental artefacts found, including kilt pins, regimental buttons and shoulder titles, indicated with certainty that these casualties were Scottish even if the individuals could not be accurately identified.

This is why the headstones of the two unknown soldiers, like those of the 46 others already buried privately earlier this summer in the new extension and 2,000 of the 2,800 in the adjacent cemetery, have no names but are engraved simply with “Known Unto God” and, in cases where their regiment is known, that is also inscribed.

One of the two unknown soldiers was identified by clothing as a Black Watch soldier and so it was soldiers of 3 Scots Black Watch Battalion who carried the caskets. The religious service was conducted by Reverend David Anderson CF, the Senior Chaplain of HQ 51 Infantry Brigade.

Work is on-going by both British and Canadian forensic experts to identify the other 72 British and Canadian casualties found so far who will also be buried with military honours in the new cemetery.

The cemetery extension

As work continues on the hospital and begins on the 185km long Canal Seine-Nord Europe from Compiègne to Aubencheul-au-Bac it is expected that up to 1,000 more bodies will be found.

Steve Arnold, the CWGC horticultural manager for Western Europe, told me that Loos-en-Gohelle was identified as an appropriate cemetery to be extended, because the 4,630 m² field between the cemetery and the Canadian Memorial on Hill 70 belonged to the municipality and was big enough for 1,200 tombs. It nevertheless took three years to prepare the field which had to be mine-cleared.

In comparison, the Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Cemetery, west of Lille, the first new Commonwealth military cemetery to be built since WWII which opened in July 2010, has space for just 250 graves.

Whilst awaiting the arrival of HRH Princess Anne I spoke to François Maréchal, wearing the red/white/blue sash of deputy mayor in charge of urbanism for Loos, who explained that the town had sold the field to the French Defence Ministry which, in turn, has conceded it in perpetuity to the CWGC. Stephan Naji, head of the CWGC’s recovery unit, specified with a laugh that “contrary to a popular myth, all our cemeteries remain French territory so you can’t seek refuge in them if you’re trying to escape French law!”

Three hundred gardeners work full time for the CWGC in France alone (about 800 worldwide) Steve Arnold told me. Princess Anne was the day’s occasional gardener when she ceremoniously “planted” a tree in the new cemetery. Although the CWGC cemeteries have a single design brief they can make suggestions to modify the plants to local soil and weather conditions “which may be accepted by the CWGC,” he said. François Maréchal remarked that in order to meet the town’s “no pesticides, no herbicides” rule for its public spaces, the CWGC has agreed that the new cemetery will have four large squares planted as flower meadows “which offer greater bio-diversity than just green lawns,” he quipped.

The ceremony

Security was very tight with streets closed off, an overhead drone scanning the area, sniffer dogs and armed gendarmes. The latter appeared to be observing their Scottish counterparts in full Highland dress somewhat enviously!

Given that space was limited to 400 people, a draw had been organised to enable at least 100 of the 6,789 Loosois and Loosoises to attend the solemn ceremony and get a rare, close-up peek of a senior member of the British Royal Family. Amongst the others at the ceremony were members of the Loos-en-Gohelle town council an of the Lens-Liévin agglomeration together with local members of parliament and secondary-school children.

As a fragment of kilt textile found with one of the bodies identified the soldier as being with the Black Watch, it was soldiers of the 3 Scots Black Watch Battalion who stood vigil by the coffins and then carried them to their final resting place and lowered them into the tomb.

Princess Anne read a psalm and Dame Menna Rawlings a poem during the ceremony which ended with a three-volley salute symbolizing respect and honour for the deceased by soldiers of the  2 Scots Royal Highland Fusiliers. Their rifle shots brought some leaves down from the lime-tree they were standing under!

A bugler then played the Last Post using a bugle that had clearly caught a cough in the early morning drizzle which had given way to clear sunshine by the time the ceremony began at 11:20. The “Loch Aber No More” Black Watch lament was then played by a soldier who marched slowly away across the old cemetery, the sounds of the bagpipe fading slowly away to complete silence. Goosebump, emotional moment as is fitting for these young men buried 109 years after they died.

By Christina McKenzie, a Franco-British journalist who writes in both English and French. Married to a Frenchman, she settled 30 years ago near Fontainebleau.

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The renowned wine and spirits warehouses Calais Vins and Olivier Vins in Calais have a special offer for British travellers: either a free ferry trip, or a complimentary case of six bottles of wine, worth €35.40 (£29.50). It’s valid from October to 31 December 2024. And it really is a brilliant offer.

Free Ferry Trip with P&O Ferries

Spend a certain amount of money on wine pre-ordered at Calais Vins or Olivier Vins – and get a free Dover-Calais return ferry trip!

Choose from

• Free Day Trip Ferry Crossing – Travelers who pre-order a minimum of €300 online will be eligible for a free return day trip with P&O Ferries between Dover and Calais.
• Free Three-Day Ferry Trip – Those who pre-order wines, spirits or beers worth €700 or more online will receive a free three-day ferry trip, allowing extra time to explore Calais and the Opal Coast.

Free crate of wine

There’s no required spend for this offer and it applies for Brits booking their trips on P&O between October and 31 December 2024.

Just pop to either Calais Vins or Olivier Vins, show your ferry hanger (the tag displayed on your rear-view mirror during the crossing), and you’ll be offered a choice of wines. This includes options for six bottles between red Embasties Malbec Rouge 2022 or White Embasties Sauvignon Blanc, or a mixed assortment.

Brilliant deals on wine, beer and spirits in Calais

In 2024, alcohol prices in the UK rose by a whopping 9.6%. Jérôme Pont, co-founder of Calais Vins says: “Our British clientele appreciates the substantial savings they can make when pre-ordering wine with us. Whether they choose the free ferry trip or the free case of wine, they are guaranteed to find high-quality French wines at a fraction of the price they would pay in the UK.”

Exceptional Wines for Less Than £10

In addition to travel savings, Calais Vins and Olivier Vins offer a wide selection of affordable French wines under £10. For example, Petit Chablis 2021 Domaine de la Motte at just €9.95, and La Petite Vigne Cabernet Sauvignon costs only €6.95. These wines, and many others, deliver outstanding value without compromising on quality. More details on these selections can be found in their Top French Wines Under £10 collection on their blog.

With more than 4000 wines, beers and spirits in both stores – there’s plenty of choice. And now’s the perfect time to stop off in Calais and stock up for Christmas. As an idea of how much savings you could make here are some examples of popular wines on offer:

How to Redeem the Offers

 To get your free ferry trip place a pre-order online for €300 or more (for a day trip) or €700 or more (for a three-day trip), and you’ll be sent a booking code by email to book your free P&O ferry trip.

For the free case of wine, simply show your ferry hanger from their P&O crossing when at one of the stores.

And there’s more

You can make even bigger savings by claiming VAT refunds through Global Blue or Skiptax.

British customers are entitled to reclaim the VAT and to make it easy, Calais Vins and Olivier Vins have set up an easy and innovative process to help their customers using either Calais ferry Port or Calais Frethun Le Shuttle. Their partnership with Global Blue and Skiptax means you’ll get a full tax refund paid directly within a few days.

With Global Blue: Collect your Tax-Free Form from the store. Scan the bar code on the form at the kiosks located at the PABLO terminal in the ferry port (in the main building after you pass through customs). Or in the passenger building for Eurotunnel. globalblue.com

With Skiptax: Download the free app and scan your passport. Shop and then scan your receipt.

Scan the bar code generated by Skiptax at the departure terminal. Receive your refund within 48 hours. skiptax.com

Book your trip, claim your wine

For more information and to book your free journey, visit wine-calais.co.uk

Useful info:

Calais Vins is located just off the A16 motorway, exit at junction 44 ‘Calais St Pierre’. A few minutes’ drive from the port of Calais and the Eurotunnel terminal.Open daily from 09.00am to 07.00pm. On Sundays and French bank holidays from 10.00am to 06.00pm. Easy and free parking in front of the shop. wine-calais.co.uk

Olivier Vins et Compagnie (previously known as Franglais), CD215, 62185 Fréthun. Off the A16 motorway, exit at junction 40 ‘Gare TGV’. A few minutes’ drive from the Eurotunnel terminal and the port of Calais.Open daily from 09.00am to 07.00pm. On Sundays and French bank holidays from 10.00am to 06.00pm. Easy and free parking in front of the shop.

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Find the details for all the public holidays in France 2025. On national holidays in France, most shops and public buildings and even tourist attractions can be shut. If you know where you want to visit, check in advance to make sure it’s open on a French public holiday.

There are special celebration days in France too, though not national holidays: Celebration days in France

Public Holidays in France 2025

• 1 January, Wednesday — New Year’s Day (Jour de l’An). Pretty much everything is closed on this day.
• 18 April, Friday — Good Friday (Vendredi Saint) – only in Alsace and Moselle, for the rest of France this is a normal working day.
• 21 April, Monday — Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) – this a major holiday with almost everything closed for the day.
• 1 May, Thursday — Labour Day (Fête du Travail or Fête du Premier Mai) – another big holiday though you’ll find some shops open for half a day (generally food shops).
• 8 May, Thursday — Victory in Europe Day (Victoire 1945) Many shops open on this day, some for part of the time.
• 29 May, Thursday — Ascension Day (Ascension) A national holiday but not a major holiday.
• 9 June, Monday — Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)
• 14 July, Monday — Bastille Day (Fête nationale, le 14 Juillet) – an excuse for a party right across France! Find out more about this important day in France, what it’s all about and how to celebrate in our Bastille Day Podcast.
• 15 August, Friday — Assumption of Mary (Assomption) Not a major holiday, with many shops open but an important day off for the French – it’s summer!
• 1 November, Saturday — All Saints’ Day (Toussaint) Plenty of shops open, some part time. This is a day of remembrance for loved ones lost and it’s traditional to place chrysanthemum plants at graves.
• 11 November, Tuesday — Armistice Day (Armistice 1918) A very important day of remembrance right across France. At 11.00 everything stops for a moment’s silent contemplation.
• 25 December, Thursday — Christmas Day (Noël). The night before is often the big deal with it comes to the Christmas meal with a long lingering dinner.
• 26 December, Friday — Saint Stephen’s Day (Saint Étienne). Only in Alsace and Moselle, the rest of France goes back to work.

When a national holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday in France, it is usually celebrated on that day not held over to a week day as in some countries – and there is no extra day off.

For the French 2025 is a great day for national holidays, only one falls on a weekend, the rest are generally perfect for “pont” weekends. Pont means bridge so where a national holiday falls on a Thursday or Tuesday, it’s common in France for people to take the Friday or Monday off to create a 4-day weekend!

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Explore the most beautiful parts of the Loire Valley by e-bike with knowledgeable local guides (in English). No need to worry about hills, speed, fitness or anything else. Just enjoy the gentler pace of two wheels and the sights, sounds and delights of one of the most charismatic corners of the Loire. This one-day e-bike excursion takes you at an easy pace through Medieval villages, along riverside paths, up winding cycle routes to a stunning troglodyte village with caves cut into the cliffs and to ancient vineyards on the plateaux above. Along the way, you’ll discover local history and legends, enjoy a lingering picnic and, of course, try some of the famous wine of the region. This is slow tourism at its best and a chance to experience and enjoy some of the more hidden gems of this beautiful region.  

A Day in the Loire to Savour

Candes St Martin is wonderfully pretty and is classified as one of the ‘beau village de France’ (one of the most beautiful villages in France). Dating back to the 12th and 13th century and built at the confluence of the rivers Loire and Vienne, here you’ll find narrow, cobbled streets and buildings made of pale tuffeau stone gently climbing the hill towards the impressive Medieval church.

This is where your day starts with an introduction to your guides and your e-bike and some time spent exploring the village. Originally a river port, Candes St Martin is in the very heart of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine natural park and the Loire Valley, although the river’s sleepy waters make it hard to imagine what a bustling place it must have once been as local products were transported downstream.

You’ll learn about some of the fascinating local history including the story of Saint Martin after whom the town is named. The history behind this small village revolves around the story of St Martin and the miracle lead him into the Christian church and eventually become the Bishop of Tours.

And it’s hard to resist snapping photos of the traditional river boats that you may see moored here knowing that boats like these having been plying their trade for hundreds of years. By the time you’re ready to saddle up and cycle, you’ll already be a little bit addicted to the slower pace of life in the Loire.

Cycle past cliffs and castles

Leaving Candes St Martin behind you, cycle along the banks of the grand river Loire passing cafés, tabacs and creperies, all under the watchful eye of the 15th century, Renaissance style Château de Montsoreau – set on the cliffs above, and the only Chateau on the Loire which has foundations in the river. The chateau was built between 1443 and 1453 and was once the gateway to the Anjou region. These days it’s home to the impressive Museum of Contemporary Art which has one of the largest collections of Conceptual Art.

The village of Montsoreau is another ‘beau village de France’ with pale limestone buildings and narrow streets and which during the summer is decked with an abundance of pretty flowers. The village was made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ La Dame de Monsoreau and it is also home to Maison du Parc, the main information centre of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine natural park.

Troglodytes and Turquant

Cycling on west via pretty lanes and cycles paths, you’ll arrive at Turquant and one of the smallest wine appellations in the Loire Valley. Turquant is a traditional troglodyte village with a 12th century church and distinctive troglodytic shops, cafés and homes carved into the cliffs in the extraordinary local style. It’s also known for its skilled artists and craftsmen and women, and you’ll find jewellery, woodwork, glass and art in cave style workshops and studios.

By now, you’ve probably built up an appetite and Turquant makes a great place for a leisurely picnic lunch. Tuck into homemade quiche and salads and reflect on the day so far. This is the stuff that memories are made of as you’ll rarely have a picnic in a more charismatic and distinctive place!

Wine and wow factor

Then prepare for the wow factor as you head up to the plateau above with its spectacular views of the Loire Valley laid out before you. This rocky viewpoint is where you’ll find the vineyards of the Saumur Champigny appellation (wine region). Vines were first planted here in the 11th century by the monks of Saint-Florent and overlooking the valleys, it has a great sense of time, history and place.

These days, the Saumur Champigny appellation has about 130 winegrowers and wine estates and the region is known for its red wine produced predominantly from Cabernet Franc grapes and then bottled and aged in the cool of the caves below. With such a distinct terroir (the environment in which wine is grown), it’s the perfect place for some wine tasting at a small family run vineyard and a rare chance to learn about the distinct aromas and notes of these wines in the company of the producers.

You may not want to leave, but the good news is that your e-bike will gently carry you back to base as the day reaches its close. The Loire Valley is an incredible region and by exploring by bike, you’ll have experienced a little bit of its soul and had a chance to see some of its extraordinary beuty.

Book your brilliant one day e-bike tour at: loirebrakes.com

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The French bring an unparalleled elegance to their winter celebrations, from the sparkling silver lights of Paris to the warm reds and golds of traditional Christmas markets, and an entire culture that has developed around themed table-settings for an end-of-year dining experience with the best wines and incredible gastronomy. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the magic of festive France, there’s no better time to make that dream a reality.

Having grown up in France before moving to California, Stephanie Burtin started her company, Osprey Boutique Travel, to help others discover all the delights of French culture by creating luxury wine themed tours with every detail taken care of from accommodation to travel, restaurants, tickets for attractions and more.

“Nothing beats Christmas in France,” says Stephanie, “and to share that experience with others, I’ve created the ‘Magic of the Holiday Season’ tour, which includes the most enchanting sights of Paris in winter as well as Alsace, which has to be the most festive French region.”

Wine & Magic Tours of Alsace in December

Located in the east of France, Alsace is famous for organising Christmas markets that are like a living fairy tale: the streets are lined with hundreds of wooden chalets bursting with handmade crafts and delectable goodies, live bands play joyous music and the scent of cinnamon is in the air. It’s the perfect place to find truly unique gifts for loved ones, and browsing the stalls of an Alsace market will turn the process of Christmas shopping into an unforgettable activity that becomes a special memory.

As well as perusing the markets and medieval towns of Alsace, your ‘Magic of the Holiday Season’ tour will include gourmet dinners featuring regional specialities, and a visit to prestigious winemakers. Here, you can sample the local Riesling and Gewurztraminer wines, with personal recommendations by Stephanie, who has over 20 years’ experience in oenology and will ensure that your days and nights in Alsace become a treat for the tastebuds. Thanks to her local knowledge and expertise, you’ll soon see why this region is famous for its wine, deliciously hearty dishes, historic towns and festive warmth.

And the magic continues in Paris

This holiday season tour takes you to Paris, always the last word in elegance and sophistication! The nation’s capital, clothed in shimmering lights for the winter season, presided over by the iconic Eiffel Tower is magical in December. Imagine seeing for yourself those breath-taking views from the top floor of the Tower, sharing an unforgettable moment with a loved one or friend as you toast each other with a glass of champagne.

You’ll have time to browse streets that you’ve seen in countless movies, visit the reopened Cathedral of Notre-Dame (from December 8), admire the River Seine and be wowed by the dazzling displays of chic boutiques on the Champs-Elysées, from Lacoste, Louis Vuitton and Guerlain to Cartier and Tiffany & Co. As every aspect of your holiday tour has that personal touch, Stephanie will also include a private shopping experience in Paris, exploring the city’s renowned boutiques and luxury stores, so you get to experience the very best of this City of Lights.

At the end of each day on your tour, you’ll return to a charming, 5-star boutique hotel where you can relax and unwind in style, reliving every moment of your day. Stephanie prides herself on thoroughly checking and vetting every establishment that you visit and every hotel that you stay in, so you can simply relax, enjoy the happy anticipation of your trip, knowing that every last detail has been personally ticked by Stephanie herself.

Luxury wine, gourmet and culture tours of the best of France

If you’re not able to join the ‘Magic of the Holiday Season’ tour in December, you’ll have plenty of other opportunities, as Osprey Boutique Travel organises trips throughout the year.

Wine and gourmet tour of France

Why not consider a ‘Wine & Gourmet’ vacation? This 8-day tour takes you around Champagne and Burgundy, including an exclusive VIP tour of prestigious Burgundy vineyards and Champagne houses, enjoying a gourmet picnic among the vines, and a private cooking class complemented by Grand Crus and Premier Crus wines.

Wine and chateau tour of France

The ‘Wine & Majesty’ 8-day tour is all about French culture and history, taking in some of France’s most photogenic chateaux, as well as a private cooking class with a Michelin-starred chef and a gourmet dining experience in an historic castle. The cherry on top is the resplendent Palais de Versailles just outside Paris, where you’ll be treated to an exclusive after-hours tour and access to areas that are normally closed to the public.

Wine and wellness tour French Riviera

A third option is the ‘Wine & Wellness’ tour that offers relaxation and pampering for 9 days in the French Riviera, with the stunning Mediterranean sea as your backdrop. Explore enchanting villages, colourful farmers’ markets and hidden vineyards where you can enjoy private wine-tasting sessions. Hands-on cookery classes with a French chef will teach you how to get the best from garden-picked, organic ingredients, and if you need a little extra pampering, you can join yoga sessions, spa treatments and soothing massages.

Unique Wine and Travel Journey

Osprey Boutique Travel specializes in exceptional wine and travel experiences, offering luxurious, immersive adventures that combine the best of wine with gastronomy, culture, wellness, and more. Their unique Wine Tours are designed for wine lovers, from enthusiasts to connoisseurs, showcasing the French Art of Living as its finest.

For full details of Osprey Boutique Travel Wine and culture tours, visit www.ospreybt.com.

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There’s plenty going on across France this autumn – starting with la rentrée, the big ‘return’, back to work, back to school, and back to normal after the long summer holidays. It’s the season when the arts world gets a renewed lease of life and loads of new exhibitions start. And at the end of the autumn, we’re easing into the Christmas festivities!

National events in Autumn

31 October – Halloween – not as popular in France as it is in the US, but events seem to increase year on year – especially at theme parks, major attractions from museums in Paris to chateaux in the Loire Valley.

1 November – Le Toussaint, a national holiday, a day of remembrance of those who have passed. It’s traditional to put tubs of colourful chrysanthemums on the graves of loved ones.

11 November – Armistice Day, a national holiday to commemorate the end of World War I at 11am, November 11, 1918 in Compiègne, Picardy. Every town and village will honour those lost, laying wreaths at memorials and holding services of remembrance.

Beaujolais Nouveau – third Thursday of November (November 16, 2024), when the first wine of the season is released at 12.01 a.m., celebrated in France and beyond.

What’s New?

Photo cheese museum

Musée du Fromage, Paris – yes, cheese lovers, the first cheese museum in France opened in June – what could Brie better?!

23 November 2024 – reopening of the Matisse Museum in Cateau-Cambresis, northern France

What’s on in France autumn 2024?

 French Property show 19-20 October, 2024, Cheltenham, England

For anyone planning to buy a property in France or move to France, the French Property Show is an absolute must to help you make your dreams of a new life in France come true.

Rederie d’Amiens, October 6, 2024

An annual flea market that takes over the whole town with a whopping 5km of stalls. The second biggest flea market in France after Lille, which is the biggest flea market in Europe!

Honfleur, Normandy – Fete de la crevette, 12-13 October 2024

The shrimp festival held in this lovely port town is authentic, fun and charming, not to mention delicious! Sea shanties, pirate village, arts and crafts stalls, cookery demonstrations and of course seafood specialities, plus cheeses and other local produce. ot-honfleur.fr

Paris, Montmartre – Fêtes des Vendanges, 9-13 October 2024

This is one you definitely should not miss if you’re in Paris at this time. A harvest celebration of the wine made in the secret vineyard of Paris, with dance, food, fireworks and a lot of fun.

Étaples Herring Festival, 9-10 November 2024

In Étaples, Pas-de-Calais, near Le Touquet, the humble herring is celebrated. A huge street food event sees the fish cooked every which way – grilled, marinated or smoked. And it’s accompanied by a crispy chunk of French bread and a robust glass of wine. 9-10 November, 2024. www.etaples-tourisme.com

Nancy Jazz Pulsations Fest, 5-19 October, 2024

Non-stop concerts throughout the Nancy (Lorraine, northeast France) area and not just jazz despite the name: blues, rock, chanson française, electro, reggae, hip-hop and world music.

Salon du Chocolat, Paris, 30 October to 3 November 2024

The world’s leading chocolate companies and artisans will be at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. A must for chocoholics!

Coming up

8 December 2024 – reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris

Late November–December 31 – Christmas Markets take place all over France with the Paris

Christmas Paris lights likely to be switched on 24 November (TBC).

Lyon Festival of Lights 5 to 8 December, 2024 – one of the greatest light shows in the world.

The Perfect Paris Tour 6-12 April 2025 – join author (and editor of The Good Life France) Janine Marsh for a week in Paris to get to discover the most perfect, authentic and fascinating parts of the city of light.

Want more France?

Discover more fabulous destinations in France with our free magazine The Good Life France

All rights reserved. This article may not be published, broadcast, rewritten (including translated) or redistributed without written permission.

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