FRENCH ACTIVITY GUIDE 2017 Activity Guide 2017


Retrospective amusement park Parc le Bournat turns 25 this year


CYCLING AND WALKING For many, there’s nothing more satisfying than an outdoors adventure. From ribbed vineyard landscapes and plum-coloured lavender fields to the sparkling, beach-fronted Côte d’Azur, France boasts a diverse geography befitting any nature lover. Two of the most popular ways to get around are cycling and walking, exemplified by an impressive offering of towpaths and hiking trails. In particular, the country’s many waterways carve out perfect routes for cyclists and pedestrians. One of the loveliest (and perhaps underrated) is in Mayenne, Pays de la Loire, where the towpath runs alongside the river for 85km. It’s the model scenic route, taking you through tunnels of trees and past old


140 ❘ FRANCE TODAY Apr/May 2017


windmills, villages and more than 40 locks. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the area’s native wildlife, including tree frogs, grass snakes and dragonflies.


Of course, there’s a myriad of rivers, canals and accompanying towpaths across France waiting to be explored. Established organisations like Belle France are well-versed in helping to cut down planning time so you can start pedalling – or strolling – sooner. Specialising in self- guided cycling and walking holidays since 1986, the company provides customisable itineraries in some truly iconic areas, including Provence, Burgundy and Alsace. And with a hotel, regional cuisine and wine list available every night, travellers are guaranteed regular chances to unwind.


Take a ski lift up an Alpine slope before coursing downhill by mountain bike


IMAGES © ASSOCIATION DU PAYS DU PÉRIGORD NOIR, ROBBIE DAVIES,


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