Central France, made up from 5 regions, is considered by many to be one of the best places to visit in the world with a wonderful choice of self-catering holiday villas. The landscape is a wonderful mix of volcanic landscapes and mountain ranges, wild untamed wilderness mixed with undulating more relaxing countryside.
Auvergne is one of Europe’s most under populated regions so perfect if you want to get away from it all and indulge in rural France. The area has recently reinvented itself with ambitious art projects and an exciting choice of wild adventures but hasn’t lost its original charm and charisma. You can add to this ancient towns and villages plus some of the most delicious food and drink in the country.
Most famous for its wine Burgundy also offers typical French countryside with vineyards steeped in history. Meet friendly locals, visit picturesque towns and villages taste mouth-watering food and local wine, you will be delighted. The capital is Dijon, of mustard fame, with a rich provincial centre and a great base from which to explore the area. Rural Burgundy is blessed with renaissance castles, medieval abbeys with a colourful history to be discovered.
The relaxing countryside and attractions outside France’s capital are just as impressive as the city itself. The Isle-de-France is made up of 8 departments with Paris in its centre attracting millions of visitors a year and boasts a rich culture, world famous cuisine and stunning gardens along with iconic landmarks. To the south west of Paris is Versailles which is one of the world’s grandest palaces surrounded by beautiful grounds. On the River Seine is Fontainebleau, a magnificent castle set in the middle of a fragrant pine forest.
Limousin is mainly agricultural and covers part of the Massif Central mountain range. It is best known for its beef farming and the distinct Limousin Cattle. The principal city is Limoges which is home to the splendid Gothic cathedral Saint-Etienne. The city has produced fine porcelain since the 19th century and many pieces are displayed at the Adrien Dubouche ceramics museum.
Finally we have the Loire Valley with a lush landscape, France finest castles plus some gorgeous river cruises. In contrast there are great beach holidays on the sandy golden Atlantic coast in the west of the region. The central part of the Loire Valley between Le Maine and Sully-sur-Loire was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 2000. The area has a feeling of old France with many medieval architecture as well as lots of wild unspoilt country side with a diverse variety of wildlife.
