Summer in the Creuse Confluence: An authentic and tranquil rural French idyll
Right at the very centre of France you’ll find the Creuse, an under-explored region of charming villages and abundant wildlife. The pace of life here is slow, and that’s exactly what’s so appealling. Perfect for walking and and cycling, it’s an idyllic location for slow mornings on cafe terraces and enjoying the excellent local produce. Sandwiched between the pancake-flat agricultural plains of the Val de Loire and the volcanic peaks of the Massif Central sits La Creuse. This quiet department of rolling hills and unspoilt market and spa towns is relatively unknown within France, let alone outside it. And herein lies a big part of its charm. There is something…
Camping Le Monteil review: Magical glamping on the fringes of the Massif Central
Discover a spectacular glamping site in an exceptionally tranquil and biodiverse region of France in this Camping Le Monteil review. Practical perfection coupled with charming character makes this a truly special campsite for anyone looking for something a little off-the-beaten path this summer. Nestled amongst the rolling hills and meandering lanes of the Creuse lies Camping Le Monteil, a campsite with a difference. Although campsite somewhat undersells it. This is glamping at it’s very best. Here you’ll find a handful of pretty bell tents buried amongst lush hedgerows, a huge golden sandstone barn and the sort of peace and escapism that’s increasingly hard to find in France these days, or…
Delft city guide: A stepping stone to the Southern Netherlands
Compact, characterful and bursting with canals, cobbled streets and cafes, Delft is a Dutch city that punches well above its weight. Discover its highlights – including outstanding green spaces and memorable days out – in my Delft city guide. Think of the southern Netherlands and chances are big cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and the Den Haag (The Hague) might spring to mind. But, as is so often the case, there is much more to this vibrant, characterful region than its major urban areas. Sprinkled between these cities are diverse towns and small cities that offer an authentic taste of Dutch life and culture. Delft is one of the very…
Vakantiepark Delftse Hout: Unexpectedly excellent glamping in the southern Netherlands
The best place to stay in Delft isn’t all what you might expect. In this compact city, trade the historic centre for glamping in smart cabins nestled in a lush woodland setting full of fairytale wildlife. Discover more in my Vakantiepark Delftse Hout review. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Den Haag … it’s no surprise that the southern Netherlands is a hotspot for those seeking city breaks packed with culture, gorgeous architecture and a laid-back atmosphere (that makes pulling up a chair in a cafe or bar completely irresistible). But what never fails to surprise me is that there are many different ways to shape a city break here. You can stick to…
Combloux in summer: Family-friendly perfection in the French Alps
Looking for the perfect family-friendly summer destination in the French Alps? Discover Combloux, an alpine gem hidden in plain sight. Stunning mountain views, traditional Savoyarde charm, infinite hiking for every ability and a jaw-dropping swimming spot you’ll never want to leave. Discover more in my guide to this accessible and authentic mountain escape. The secret to holiday planning is finding sweet-spots. Locations that are lively enough to fill streets and terraces with atmosphere, yet not overcrowded. Views that fill the horizon with beauty, yet not so close you have to crane your neck to see anything. Destinations packed with plenty to explore, but not so many options you’re overwhelmed. Weather…
How to spectate at the Tour de France
The Tour de France is the largest free-to-spectate sporting event in the world, and takes over the roads and mountains of France every July. Whilst it’s an unmissable event for sports lovers, regardless of whether they follow cycling, it’s also a fantastic French cultural phenomenon that I’d recommend to anyone wanting to experience a slice of the real France.
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