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Must see and do – France
Notre-Dame de Paris
One of the oldest, grandest and most famous cathedrals in the world, Notre-Dame de Paris (“Our Lady of Paris”) recently celebrated it’s 850th birthday, and has been a pivotal element of the character of Paris throughout its history. Situated on the Île de la Cité, arguably the oldest part of Paris with a history of settlement going back to the 2nd century BC, construction of Notre Dame began in 1163 and the building replaced an even older cathedral that dated from the 4th century.
Saint-Chely-du-Tarn
One of the most fairytale-like villages in the Gorges du Tarn would have to be Saint-Chely-du-Tarn. Nestled on the steep banks of the Tarn river in southern France, clinging onto and between the rocky outcrops of the gorge, Saint-Chely-du-Tarn has all the charm and melancholy of a French village hundreds of years old with all the modern amenities required by the modern tourist.
Gorges du Tarn, southern France
If a quiet afternoon drive in southern France, exploring a peaceful, winding river through a stunning natural gorge sounds like your idea of a relaxing break, then then Gorges du Tarn may just be the ticket. For those with an historical bent, there are countless ruins to see, including castles, villas, and other buildings. For those that prefer to get a little more physical, the Gorges du Tarn is one of the most popular places in France for hiking, kayaking, climbing and abseiling.
Pont du Gard
Some of the best reminders of the scope, grandeur and brilliance of the Roman Empire are in France, and the Pont du Gard (Bridge of the Gard) is one of the best (and most intact) remaining examples of Roman architectural engineering anywhere in the world.
Pont Ambroix
About half way between Nimes and Montpellier in southern France is the old Roman fortified town of Ambrussum, which today is an archeological site in the middle of French farmland. A mere one hundred metres east of the northern end of the fortified wall lie the remains of Pont Ambroix – an arched Roman bridge across the small Vidourle River.
Carcassonne
Of all the medieval and fortified towns throughout southern Europe, the Languedoc town of Carcassonne is easily one of the most famous. While officially founded in the fifth century there remains evidence of Roman occupation even now under the main buildings. Recalled for its pivotal role in the Albigensian crusades and the history of the Cathars, today the old fortified town is one of the biggest and most unique tourist drawcards in France.
Jardin du Luxembourg
Parisians love their gardens, they love relaxing outdoors, and they love mingling. It’s no wonder then that the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are so popular with the locals.
Monet’s Garden, Giverny
Not many people could claim to have arguably the most famous garden in the world, but one look at the idyllic lily pond and you know you recognise this scene. You can thank the brilliant French impressionist painter Claude Monet (1840-1926), who not only painted this gorgeous garden scores of times, but also built the garden very nearly from nothing.
St Paul de Vence
Amongst the many acclaimed medieval hill-top walled villages in southern France, St Paul de Vence enjoys an esteemed place. Increasingly popular not only amongst international travellers, this quaint and mostly intact stone settlement is also adoringly frequented by the natives of south-east France. Today it is the most visited medieval village in France.