Holiday in the Dordogne » French Holidays

The incredible, swirly gardens of Marqueyssac

Elizabeth Smythe — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 09:38:21 +0000

If you are looking for a Dordogne attraction that stays open throughout the year – as let’s face it, not everyone can take a French holiday in the peak summer season – then you can’t beat spending a day at the Marqueyssac gardens.

Located south-west of Sarlat, near Vezac in the central Dordogne region, the Jardins de Marqueyssac are a delight and possibly the only gardens worth bringing children along to.

Wrapped around a 17th century chateau, the gardens comprise a wild woodland, a picnic area with swings and the fascinating, bubbly designs of manicured boxwoods, rosemary and santolina. They are all situated on cliffs, high above the Dordogne river.

The gardens, one of France’s listed ‘Jardins Remarquable’, were designed over 300 years ago by the protégé of Andre Le Notre, who created the gardens at the Chateau de Versailles.

In the 1860s, new owner Julien De Cerval planted and clipped the boxwoods into the aesthetically-pleasing rounded shapes that exist today. He added cypress, pine and cyclamen from Italy and redesigned the terraces. He reportedly wanted to create a romantic experience in which visitors could lose themselves.

Sadly, the gardens and chateau were not much lived in and fell into disrepair in the latter part of the 20th century. However, fortunately the current owner restored both to their former glory back in 1996 and the gardens have been open to the public ever since. Just four gardeners maintain the amazing plants – by hand.

Described as “one of the world’s most magnificent landscapes”, the elaborate swirly gardens must be seen to be believed. The plants have been trimmed into crazy whorls and swirls that you just want to touch. There are now over 150,000 plants, some of which, the children will be amused to see, resemble herds of sheep.

There are also five kilometres of walking trails, which are pushchair-friendly and open out on the picnic ground. This area will keep children entertained with a play park and on certain days in the summer, children over six can try their hand at rock climbing.

The woodland walk takes visitors winding through an overhanging garden which overlooks the river, 130 metres below. The views, naturally, are stunning.

If you and the family are getting a bit peckish, there is a terraced restaurant and a tea shop that you can stop at.

On Thursdays, while it is light and warm in the evening, the gardens are lit up with candles – giving them a magical quality – while musicians play at various spots. Sometime, there is animation and other entertainment for the children. Known as Marqueyssac aux Chandelles, the experience is quite lovely.

This is one of the few gardens, in fact one of the few attractions full stop, that you can visit without a guide, free to wander where your feet and heart take you without being rushed round.

It is recommended that you spend a the larger part of the day here – perhaps arriving for a picnic lunch – followed by exploration of the gardens, a drink at the tea shop and then the gardens at dusk.

Reviews unanimously urge visitors to the region not to miss the gardens, hailing them a highlight of their trip. Make sure they form a highlight in your holiday, too.

Cycling in France’s Aquitaine region

David Howells — Wed, 25 May 2011 16:09:06 +0000

France and cycling have gone hand in hand for generations, with the world famous Tour De France establishing the country as a forerunner for travellers on two wheels.

But when cycling in France, it’s not just about the rigorous, muscle pounding three weeks of hellish exhaustion that the Tour De France offers, there are decidedly more gentle options available to the more fair-weather cyclist on a French holiday.

In stark comparison to Britain, France boasts extremely quiet roads, offering any cyclist a tranquil and safe ride. When coupling this with the fact that cycling is seen by the French to be part of their national character and heritage gives some idea as to the way cyclists are treated by French pedestrians and motorists alike.

But it’s not just about road-cycling, especially in the Aquitaine region. The entire Atlantic coastline can be travelled from one end to the other on a bicycle, with specifically designated tracks taking the rider through all manner of scenery from beautiful pine woodland to the coastal areas that gave the region its worldwide fame.

The Medoc Coast plays host to 141km of cycling tracks, running south from their start point at Pointe de Grave, offering the rider glimpses of lake-dwelling wildlife and the surfer’s paradise of Lacanau. The trails around the scenic Bay of Arcachon, meanwhile, takes cyclists on a route that follows the trails of the former tree-tappers of the area - offering a much more historic route that deals with more than just scenery.

Lastly where coastal trails are concerned, the Landes trails offer riders 154km of cycle tracks that take in beaches, lakes and the Atlantic ocean, as well as quaint small towns that seem a million miles from the traditional tourist trail.

But cycling in the Aquitaine region is not all about coastal paths. Aquitaine is one of the most scenically diverse areas in the whole of France, offering the cyclist – or indeed anyone at all who makes the journey – a wealth of different sights, sounds and smells to take in on two wheels.

For those competent enough to manage the hill climbs, the foothills of the Pyrenees are accessible by bicycle, giving those who manage to make it to the top a panorama of magnificent views. But unlike some other bicycle journeys in other countries, however, it’s not all about reaching the summit. Bicycle tours in the Pyrenees take the rider along some virtually traffic-free roads through sleepy villages and rolling hills, plus if you can take your eyes away from the scenery for long enough, you may be lucky and see an eagle or vulture flying overhead.

Indeed if ornithology is the main attraction then you may not have to go as far as the foothills of the Pyrenees, with an array of wild birds easily visible around the Parc Naturel Regional Perigord Limosin. Featuring an impressive array of bird-life including the barn owl, black woodpecker, honey buzzard, jackdaw and nightingale - as well as being on the Dordogne’s doorstep and easily accessible by bicycle - the Parc Naturel Perigord Limosin is the perfect option for cyclists who want to take in what France has to offer without too much travelling or strenuous cycling.

With such an array of sights on offer, all within easy cycling distance, it’s little wonder that when it comes to cycling holidays, France and its Aquitaine region is a hugely popular choice.

Brits spend £168k on holidays over lifetime

Deborah Bates — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 13:58:58 +0000

Research has shown that the average Brit will spend around £168,000 on holidays within their lifetime, World News has reported.

That’s according to a survey undertaken by an independent holiday provider, which confirmed that on average, Britons will indulge in 121 holidays – equating to around two trips each year.

These could be anywhere, with the public taking an American, Italian or French holiday to relax and recover from the everyday stress of life. The survey suggested that for honeymoon vacations, most couples head to Barbados or the Maldives, and for family trips, Florida is a popular choice.

Furthermore, those in their 20s tend to head to the party resort of Ibiza, and the 60-somethings will choose long-haul trips to Australia as their bi-annual vacation.

“Holidays are increasingly being used to mark important milestones in people’s life,” said one representative behind the holidays, Victoria Sanders, in The Daily Mail.

“There are more people travelling for stag and hen weekends, to get married overseas or celebrate ‘big zero’ holidays. It is a growing trend in the travel industry.”

Sanders added that the travel industry was becoming much more responsive to each person’s needs; tailoring vacations and creating bespoke holidays for everyone from teenagers to the recently retired, looking to see the world.

“An ageing population means that we are travelling for longer and we can fit much more of the world into a lifetime than ever before,” she concluded.

French accent considered second-sexiest

Elizabeth Smythe — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:32:27 +0000

Those looking for love and romance might well be booking a French holiday soon, after a Lonely Planet survey revealed that the French accent is considered the second-sexiest in the world.

The independent travel publisher asked its Facebook fans from across the globe to rate their favourite languages, and analysed over 700 responses.

The myriad responses to Lonely Planet’s survey – captured from users of its website – included: “French is the sexiest ever and always will be in my opinion,” from ‘Kimberley’, and: “Don’t they call French ‘the language of love?’ Very smokey,” from ’10bz’.

Reports have suggested that the feeling is reciprocated. French people like the varying British accents too, according to students on education site, ToLearnEnglish.com: ”I really love the accent of British English, it sounds so beautiful,” said one, and: “It’s sophisticated and powerful,” claimed another.

To really impress, British travellers might consider brushing up on their real French language skills, but don’t need to worry if they can’t master that Gallic charm; as their own accent might do the trick.

The news came shortly after a study by OnePoll.com found that three-fifths of women admitted they had in fact been seduced by someone – purely because of their alluring accent.

Summer holidays account for almost one-third of Brits £5.1 billion spend

Deborah Bates — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:11:00 +0000

It seems as if Brits are done with tightening their purse strings, as the nation spent a whopping £5.1 billion online throughout January.

According to figures released by Capgemini, UK shoppers went wild in January, perhaps investing in a French holiday or getaway to many other destinations – which accounted for 31 per cent of the money spent.

Furthermore, the average price of holidays booked came to £886, which was the highest-recorded amount seen since winter in 2008. Other areas contributing to the upturn in spending were clothing, home and garden and alcohol.

“It seems that the British consumer is looking ahead to sunnier times and taking full advantage of the big new years’ sales,” said a spokesperson for Capgemini, Chris Webster.

A representative of IMRG (who collated the figures in partnership with Capgemini), Tina Spooner, told The Press Association: “Sales of travel were strong during January, particularly after the severe winter weather in December.”

“Clearly Britons are not tightening their belts where holidays are concerned, with the index recording the highest average spend in this sector in over two years.”

She added that the figures were even more encouraging as the figures came off the back of January 2010′s disappointing results; which saw the lowest-ever annual growth reported, at just 4.6 per cent.

Brits want to propose abroad, report says

David Howells — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 12:39:36 +0000

Following a rise in marriage proposals after Prince William and Kate Middleton’s engagement, research has suggested that more and more Brits are choosing to pop the question abroad.

Prince William proposed to Miss Middleton on holiday in Kenya last year and the news has seen a rise in those opting to follow in the Prince’s footsteps and propose when on holiday.

Research by foreign exchange company Travelex said that in a study of 3000 British men, more than 60 per cent said they plan on popping the question in a foreign country. The report goes on to suggest that a rise in French holidays could be imminent as Paris pulled in 29 per cent of the votes for destination of choice.

Director of Travelex, Peter Davis told Planet Talk, “The growing number of British Romeos planning on proposing overseas will be pleased to learn that a last minute trip to romantic eurozone locations such as France are far better value for money compared with this time last year.”

The news follows the report that an increasing number of stag and hen parties are taking place in foreign countries too, as the number of European city breaks sees a marked rise on the figures for 2009 by as much as 55 per cent.

Stag and hen party organiser Ian Lucas told responsesource.com, “Weddings are planned so far in advance, hen and stag weekends continue to be in demand. With Europe very accessible, [it] creates a cocktail of escapism splashed with a new found sense of adventure, sunshine and fun.”

Holiday extras should be taken advantage of

Deborah Bates — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:13:00 +0000

Those jetting off on a French holiday throughout the upcoming half-term break could save up to £632 on their holiday expenses.

That’s according to research undertaken by an independent holiday price comparison site, which revealed that by shopping around for car rental, parking, travel insurance and currency, families could save a significant amount.

The research showed that by pre-booking their parking at the airport, around £146 could be saved for short-term stays; with around £110 up for grabs on long-term visits. Furthermore, by comparing the different travel insurance avenues, around 78 per cent could be snipped off the final price.

According to IWantSun.co.uk: “Holidaymakers are becoming increasingly savvy and shopping around to get the best deal, and a growing number of travellers are looking for value for money when choosing their holiday destination.”

“Booking a car and arranging travel money ahead of departure can also save travellers considerable amounts of money.”

The advice was echoed by ThisisMoney.co.uk, which advised tourists with more long-term holiday dreams to “book 11 months before you’re due to travel.”

“The flights have just been released and there’s plenty of cheaper seats available.”

Other top tips provided included entering into a house swap, sharing the cost with family members or friends, signing up to websites that can provide special offers, and flying during the week – when the cost of flights can be considerably cheaper.

Adult-only flights on the horizon

Deborah Bates — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 13:50:05 +0000

Brits heading off on a French holiday to the Dordogne this summer may be able to book an adult-only flight, if proposed plans are taken on board by major flight carriers.

It is thought some major carriers, such as British Airways, Emirates and Virgin Atlantic may introduce flights wherein children are not allowed, leaving only adults to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing journey. Recent research found that around 75 per cent of people travelling on business class flights were irritated by noisy children, finding themselves disrupted when trying to complete important work.

The Daily Mail reported that the proposals had been met with mixed views, with many championing the idea, but some worrying where it could lead to if implemented. “Where would it end? Banning fat people, roping off anyone that has smelly breath?” asked travel editor Frank Barrett. “Much as I hate being kept awake by a grizzling child, I think that starting to introduce passenger apartheid might be a dangerous step.”

Barrett’s concerns could be soothed by the news that utilising double decker planes, such as the Boeing 747 model, could rectify the issue. It is thought that one level could be reserved for those who would prefer a quiet flight, and the other for families with young children.

However some are fully in favour of the plans, with the Daily Express printing the opinion of one travel journalist: “It would work well on high-frequency routes, so that families could be accommodated on other services. On long-haul routes, I might look to more innovative airlines such as Virgin Atlantic, Emirates or Etihad to consider taking this on board.”

Easybus coming to France, says Stelios

Deborah Bates — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:36:44 +0000

Famed easyJet founder, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou has announced plans to expand his orange empire into France, as his low-cost airport transfer service, easyBus, begins its venture into Europe.

According to the multi-millionaire, those off on a French holiday to places such as the Dordogne may be able to take advantage of what the company calls “probably the cheapest and most convenient way” of travelling from main cities to their local airports.

The announcement was first published in the Sunday Telegraph, which confirmed that the service would be launched in Spain, Germany and France, and reports have suggested that he will fund the investment by potentially launching a new stock market listing on the junior AIM market.

Potential advisor’s for the £20 million flotation include Peel Hunt and Liberum Capital, both mid-market investment bankers that could provide the second publicly-funded venture by easyJet. However although no firm decision has been made, the Telegraph reported that “the news highlights the scope of his ambition for the brand.”

“It would be an interesting choice, given that the entrepreneur has not always had the easiest of times dealing with boards and public investors, and is protective of the ‘easy’ brand.”

After easyBus was established back in 2003, with an initial service running from London to Milton Keynes, it began to expand into the other London airports. The service now boasts customers numbers in the UK of around 2.5 million, according to The Press Association.

Superferry joins P&O at Dover

Sarah Howard — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:30:41 +0000

Final preparations are being made to a new ferry which is about to launch on the UK’s busiest route to France.

From tomorrow the new 2,000 passenger ’Spirit of Britain’ will be operating P&O’s Dover-Calais service and will be the largest ever passenger ferry to operate on this stretch of water.

At 49,000 gross tonnes and 213 metres in length, the ship can handle over a thousand cars in 2.33 miles of parking space. It has double the freight capacity of the ferry it’s replacing.

It is the first of two Finnish-built vessels coming into service this year, with sister ship Spirit of France due for delivery in September.

The total cost of £302m for the pair is the largest investment ever made by P&O Ferries, and is intended to further its competition with the Channel Tunnel and low-cost airlines. The company believes greater capacity now puts it in a good position to benefit from the growth in the freight market as well as the lucrative holiday business.

Travelling by sea is still a highly poplar way for tourists to get to their French holiday despite the rise of cheap airfares and the speed of the Eurotunnel. Many industry analysts predicted the death of the ferry when the rail service made it’s first 35-minute crossing in 1994. But despite rising overheads, the ferry has continued to maintain its competitive fares.

Irish Trucker reports that the “impact of the new larger vessels will be closely watched” due to a price war between Dover Straight operators.

The new pair of ships are replacing the Pride of Dover and the Pride of Calais, and will follow rival operator Brittany Ferries who have already made several investments in their passenger fleet in recent years.