France in the Winter
The wonderful thing about France in the winter is the incredible variety it can offer. If you are indeed looking for a winter sport holiday, then you can find this in the Pyrenees or Alps mountain ranges, or the Jura landscape. Ski resorts in these places cater to all types of skier, whether you are an absolute beginner or an experienced veteran. Alternatively, if you would rather someone else had all the exercise but still want the freshness of snow around you, you can head for Megève, an Alpine resort that hosts a snow polo event in January.
If you have had a strenuous year, you may feel that you deserve a little pampering. If so, France can accommodate your wish for it has many spa towns boasting luxury facilities. Aching muscles can be soothed by the hot waters heated by thermal vents at Les Bains de Saint Thomas, located in Fontpédrouse in the Pyrenees. If mountains are not quite your thing but you still want a stunning view to look out upon, you can head for the classic spa found on the shores of Lake Geneva, Évian-les-Bains.
Of course, just because it is winter does not mean that shopping fun is out of the question. France has a tradition of holding a multitude of Christmas markets, and if you are looking for festive presents that cannot be found anywhere else, Alsace and Lorraine are the areas to head for. Just remember you will look out of place if you go walking among the stalls without a glass of wine in your hand.
France also holds several winter festivals, including music (classical and jazz), equestrian shows, and food. Head to Avignon in January to see the Cheval Passion horse riding show, while in Champagne and Burgundy, wine lovers can indulge their passion at dedicated shows.
France is commonly held to be the seat of culinary excellence, and they certainly do not stop serving up delicious food during the winter – it just turns more comforting. Every region has its own speciality, so in Alsace, tuck into fruitcake, known as kugelhopf; in Aquitaine, sup on oysters; or go all 70s-style anywhere by dipping into fondue.
One thing that France is not short of is charming accommodation for the visitor. Treat yourself well by staying in nothing less than 3 star hotels in France, where you have modern facilities and conveniences in typical French fashion. You can be sure to find hotels in France that offer great deals during the winter months.
Turn your back on long-haul flights and tedious waiting in airports by nipping across the channel to France to enjoy an unforgettable winter holiday!
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