2013 - belle france holiday brochure

experiencethe real France

2013

2 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk

Contents

14 Picardy and the Pas de Calais

15 Picardy Pastures (4nts)

16 The Opal Coast (3nts)

17 Normandy and Mayenne

18 Mulberry March (4nts)

19 Seine Valley Secrets (4-5nts)

20 Mellow Mayenne (7nts)

21 Brittany

22 Morbihan Islands Walk (7nts)

23 Emerald Coast (7nts)

24 Breathtaking Brittany (7nts)

25 Celtic Canal Cycle (7nts)

26 Paris

27 Paris en Vélo (3nts)

28 Parisian Light (3nts)

29 Paris au Choix (4nts)

30 the Loire

31 Château to Château (6-8nts)

32 Loire en Famille (6nts)

33 Garden of France (6-8nts)

34 Loire Discovery (7nts)

35 Along the Leisurely Loire (7nts)

36 Loire Prestige à Pied (6nts)

37 Loire Prestige en Vélo (6nts)

38 Champagne and Alsace

39 Champagne Prestige à Pied (7nts)

40 Venture into the Vosges (4nts)

41 Alsatian Adventure (7nts)

42 Burgundy

43 Mâcon Prestige à Pied (5nts)

44 Wine List Wanders (6-8nts)

45 Best of Burgundy (6-8nts)

46 Classic Premier Cru (7nts)

47 Burgundy Canal Cruise (6nts)

48 Burgundy Prestige en Vélo (6nts)

49 Burgundy Prestige à Pied (6nts)

50 Charente and Limousin

51 Charente Waterways (6nts)

52 Périgord Prestige en Vélo (7nts)

53 Limousin Lakes and Castles (6nts)

54 Classic Cognac à Pied (6nts)

55 Classic Cognac Cycling (6-7nts)

56 Dordogne and Aquitaine

57 Dordogne Prestige en Vélo (7nts)

58 Drama of the Dordogne (6-8nts)

59 Dordogne Exploration (7nts)

60 Tranquil Dordogne (7nts)

61 Dordogne Prestige à Pied (7nts)

62 Canal de Garonne en Vélo (6nts)

63 Gascony Canal Cruise (6nts)

64 Grands Vins de Bordeaux à Pied (7nts)

65 Glittering Gironde (7nts)

66 Claret and the Coast (7nts)

67 Les Bordeaux Prestige (5nts)

68 Auvergne, the Cévennes and the Alps

69 Volcanoes of the Auvergne (6nts)

70 Auvergne Discovery (7nts)

71 Cantal Capers (6nts)

72 Stevenson Trail 1st Stage (7nts)

73 Stevenson Trail 2nd Stage (7nts)

74 Untamed Cévennes (6nts)

75 Secrets of Savoie (7nts)

76 Pyrenees and Languedoc

77 Canal du Midi Prestige (7nts)

78 Cathar Castles 1st Stage (6-7nts)

79 Cathar Castles 2nd Stage (7-8nts)

80 Catalan Coast (7nts)

81 Canal du Midi to Coast (7nts)

82 Pyrenean Donkey Trek (7nts)

83 Canal du Midi Cruise (6nts)

84 Provence and Corsica

85 Luberon Prestige à Pied (7nts)

86 Captivating Corsica (7nts)

87 Provençal Dreams (6-8nts)

88 Van Gogh’s Provence (7nts)

89 Luberon en Vélo (6nts)

90 Golden Islands (7nts)

91 Secrets of Luberon (7nts)

92 River Cruising (6nts)

93 Provence Prestige en Vélo (6nts)

94 Provence Prestige à Pied (7nts)

95 Breaking your journey

96 Fair trading terms

98 Pricing information

99 Ways to save

Easy Walking or Cycling

We are bringing you many new experiences of France for 2013! To help you choose, we have created certain categories (see above) with many holidays qualifying for more than one. For walkingand cycling holidays, the level of challenge is represented in the symbols and explained on pages 10 and 12. Please find more on Prestige holidays on page 8 (optional upgrade in pale gold).

Moderate Walking or Cycling

Challenging Walking or Cycling

Culture Cruise GourmetPrestige PrestigeUpgrade

3 Discover Belle France

4 Holidays with more experience

5 Your personal holiday guide

6 Charming hotels

7 A tempting menu

8 Prestige holidays

9 Simply Belle France

10 Cycling holidays

11 Our bikes

12 Walking holidays

13 Travel plans

Discover Belle FranceDelightful active holidays throughout France

What you tell us

Catalan Coast – Ms O, Dunstable

“ Perfect mix of Belle France walking and beach holiday. All the arrangements worked perfectly.All the hotels were really tasteful and punchedabove their star rating. Exceptionally good dining rooms and views. This is one of the reasons wechose Belle France.”

Loire en Velo – Mr and Mrs M, Halifax

“ Bicycles were well chosen for our heights and adjusted to suit the leg lengths that we had supplied.”

Venture into the Vosges – Mrs L, Clitheroe

“ Very impressed with your organisation of the holiday.”

“ Travel arrangements went with out a hitch.”

Classic Cognac – Ms T, London

“ Your service is great, the hotels you choose are good and there are not too many 2 stars, also there is usually an opportunity to eat out on our own rather than all HB which we prefer.”

Glittering Gironde – Ms S, Cardiff

“ We enjoyed the personal service.”

Glittering Gironde – Mr H, Leicester

“ The breaking up of the maps into bite-size chunksis particularly good.”

Stevenson Trail 1 – Mrs P, Huntingdon

“ Large bright bedroom with fabulous view. Staff were lovely and gave really personal attention.” Hotel de l’Arche, Pradelles

Cathar Castles 2 - Mrs J, Plymouth

“ A really lovely holiday with plenty of variety in the walk, the accommodation and the meals.”

Along the Leisurely Loire – Mrs D, Bermuda

“ The cycling trip really did accomplish this (child friendly and relaxing) and we are agreed that we will definitely be looking to do something similar again.”

Van Gogh’s Provence – Mr K, Perranporth

“ The narrative is good at pointing out interestingitems on the walk.”


Christina, Rod, Liz, Emma, Lorna

A Shared Experience

With more than 25 years experience, we know France better thanmost and have carefully planned and researched each holiday.

Our well-developed relationships with hoteliers, local bike shops, andtaxi drivers, means that somebody is always available to help with anyquestions and give you advice on places of interest or the best shopsand restaurants.

At the end of your day, arrive at one of our charming, family run hotels,sit back and relax with a glass of local wine and indulge in a choice ofdishes from tempting menus.

• We aim to provide a complete and trouble-free experience

• Half board basis at hotels unless stated otherwise

• Detailed notes for your holiday and local maps where necessary

• All baggage moves between hotels when walking or cyclingare included

• Bicycle hire when required, matched carefully to your height

• Our expert advice and support before, during and after your holiday

• We are fully bonded with ABTA – look forward to yourholiday with confidence

The Belle France 2013 holidays at 2012 prices offer applies to all holidays where no substantial change has

been made to the holiday as it operated in 2012. In some cases hotel changes or other substantial changes

have meant some change in price. This offer does not include canal cruises.

Holidays with more experienceWe’re with you all the way

With over twenty five years of experience of France, you can counton us to find you the best experiences this wonderful country can offer.

The beauty of the French countryside needs no explanation whether you enjoy walking or cycling through it, and for 2013, we have addedmore wonderful walking and cycling holidays giving you a chance toexplore fascinating towns and villages, along with some of the lesserknown sights and best kept secrets. Everything is designed to allowyou to discover the very best of France. Then there is Paris – take anew look at this scintillating city. We have found plenty of ways foryou to admire its beauty and have a lot of fun at the same time!

So choose a Belle France holiday this year, let us put everything in placefor you and look forward to immersing yourself in one of the loveliestcountries in Europe!

Booking your holiday with us is just the beginning….


Local RepresentativesIf you’re keen for a little extra support then we’d recommendour holidays in the Loire Valley, Dordogne, or LimousinPerigord, where a friendly and knowledgeable representativeis on hand to meet you at the station, talk you through youritinerary, transfer your luggage and basically just be there foryou. These English-speaking representatives provide extrapeace of mind whilst you’re out and about.

No bags to carryAll of our walking and cycling holidays featurethe inclusive transfer of your baggage between hotels.All you need to take with you are the bare essentials sothat you’re not humping around a heavy load, leavingyou with little more to worry about than the filling foryour lunchtime baguette or the best angle for thatmemorable photograph.

DogsMany of our walking customers consider taking their dogalong with them. Small, well-behaved dogs are welcomed atmany of our hotels and in particular, the following holidayslend themselves very well to bringing Rover along:

Chateau to Chateau page 31

Venture into the Vosges page 40

Wine List Wanders page 44

Burgundy Prestige à Pied page 49

Classic Cognac à Pied page 54

We have a wonderful blog from the lovely Lucy who tookher owners to Burgundy:http://blog.bellefrance.co.uk/lucys-holiday-diary-by-lucy-aged-4/

Your personal holiday guideAll you need to know

What you tell usCanal du Midi – Mr V, Wimbledon

“ Excellent location, well appointed, friendly staff.Good breakfast. We ate at Comte Roger the first evening - an excellent choice!”Hotel Montmorency, Carcassonne

Château to Château – Mr V, London

“ A superb hotel run by nice people with the best of intentions for their guests, lots of extras really nice.”Hostellerie du Château, Chaumont

Glittering Gironde – Ms S, Cardiff

“ We had such a lovely welcome and a delicious supper,very nice people and generous packed lunch.”La Bertonniere

Along the Leisurely Loire – Mr H, Ipswich

“ Directions given in cycling notes were very clearand easy to follow.”

Jura Jaunts – Mrs P, Corsham

“ Excellent location for winter walking (snow shoes)and experienced cross country skiers. Would also be an excellent summer location - well off the beaten track of tourists - very French (wonderful!).”

As soon as your holiday is confirmed we send you an informationbooklet that aims to answer all the questions you may have about taking a holiday in France. From the practical stuff about passports, currency and tickets through to what clothes to take, food and drink, and ofcourse handy hints for when you’re out exploring the countryside.

Comprehensive travel pack

Three weeks before your departure you’ll receive our detailed andunique Travel Pack. This contains all your tickets, luggage tags anddetails on how to reach your first hotel, whether you’re travelling by caror train. We provide carefully researched notes in detailed booklets thatguide you every step of the way, pointing out landmarks and places ofinterest en route, recommending picturesque spots for a picnic orhidden cafés for a refreshing drink. Walkers and cyclists are also issuedwith large-scale IGN maps – each one marked up by us personally andindividually to show your route in detail.


The personal touch

We’ve worked with many of our hoteliers for years,

and they’re always delighted to hear that there’s

another Belle France customer passing through...

‘Ah, Belle France!’. It’s these personal touches that

our customers love to tell us about on their return.

Although you may not find a mini bar or a trouser

press in some of our hotels, you will most certainly

find a comfortable bed, a hot shower and a warm

welcome at the end of an active day.

We only wish there was room within these pages

to tell you more, but if you do have any questions

then pick up the phone and we’ll be delighted

to fill you in.

For more information on specific hotels that we

use please go to our website.

6 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/hotels

Charming hotelsAnd a warm welcome

You’ll discover a real variety of hotels on a Belle France holiday, with a mix of accommodation styles. We offer what we consider to be the‘best’ hotel in each area, whether it be the most luxurious, the bestlocated for direct access to the trails, the most friendly or the best forserving traditional cuisine. Sometimes we may sacrifice a little in roomquality in order to provide a more enjoyable dining experience.

Many of our hotels have swimming pools, enabling you to enjoy arefreshing dip at the end of an active day (Please note that out of highseason we cannot guarantee that all facilities will be available). Or if youhave a spare day you may just want to relax with a good book and along drink.

Many of our hotels will have a choice of dishes from a 3 or 4 coursemenu, so whether you prefer meat or fish, cheese or dessert, there’ssure to be something tempting for you. In fact you’ll often be spoilt forchoice – it has been said that this is quite possibly the hardest part ofyour day! Sometimes you will be offered a fixed regional menu du jourbut you have the option to upgrade locally to their à la carte.

What you tell usProvencal Dreams - Harrison

“ Good package, clear information and helpful staff.”

Secrets of the Luberon - Fisher

“ I enjoyed the holiday very much.”

Claret and the Coast - Steele

“ A good balance of different landscapes to explore; vineyards, forests and seaside.”

Charente Waterways - Bloomfield

“ We have been very pleased with our holidays with Belle France and will continue to book with you.”

Best of Burgundy - Girling

“ We really enjoyed our first family cycling holiday in France.”

Glittering Gironde - Doyle

“ All Belle France staff have been very helpful and responsive.”

Provencal Dreams - Stevenson

“ Very helpful! (Belle France staff) were able to help us to choose our ‘perfect’ package!”

“ Very comprehensive (travel pack) right down to 2 metro tickets.”“ The combination of map and instructions was perfect.”

7 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cuisine

A tempting menuMost of our holidays are half-board

We’ve selected our hotels not only for their comfort, but also with the lover of good food and wine in mind. France is renowned for itscreative use of fresh market produce and our hoteliers pride themselveson serving fare of the highest standard.

Breakfast can be a simple matter of a croissant or two or a buffet withpastries, jams, yoghurt, fruit juice, ham and cheese, with plenty of freshlybrewed coffee.

For lunchtime, many of our hotels are happy to rustle up a picnic for you.But even better, it’s the ideal opportunity to visit the local markets andstop off at the épicerie and baker to pick up some wonderful freshprovisions for your own al fresco experience.

But the evenings will really get your taste buds going! And the restaurantsettings themselves are often spectacular, be it a vine-covered terracebeside the river, or an elegant dining room in an old manor house,providing the perfect place to relax as you reflect on the experiencesof your day.

Evening menu choices

Most of our holidays are on a half-board basis, with breakfast

and evening meal included. Where you are B&B, we will

always have restaurant suggestions for you.

If you do have special dietary requirements please let us

know and we will advise our hoteliers who will do their best

to cater for you.

For sample menus take a look at our website.

Prestige holidaysThe best hotels and the best cuisine

Belle France has also become well known for our range of PrestigeHolidays. These share the beauty and drama of the landscapes of Francewith all of our regular holidays. But when you arrive satisfied to the endof your day, you will be walking or cycling up to an exquisite château,for example, where a beautifully appointed bedroom will have beenprepared for you and a gourmet meal will be offered to you for yourevening meal.

In the Loire Valley and in Burgundy, some of the restaurants you willeat in are Michelin-starred but in all cases, your meal will be gourmetstandard to ensure an experience of eating pleasure.

We know that our clients have a passion for France and what bettercombination for all the senses can there be than to feast the eyes andfeed the spirit on the beauty of France’s glorious countryside and laterto feed the body and rest the soul in the most delicious way in themost comfortable and beautiful of surroundings?

Gourmet barging, Chateau Livingand Cookery

We also have other wonderful Gourmet

Experiences we can offer you; in particular our

barging holidays feature a highly-trained chef on

board who will cook wonderful gourmet meals

using locally-sourced produce, cheese and wines

of the region. Also, if you book a stay in one of

the three Burgundy Châteaux, it is possible to hire

a gourmet chef for the evening or for your entire

stay and he will share his culinary secrets with

you as he prepares in your kitchen. Many of

our holidays include the opportunity to join a

professional chef in their kitchen and be joined in

the mysterious arts of la cuisine française! Call us

for more details or take a look on the Gourmet

section of our website.

8 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/prestige

These are the Prestige Holidays for 2013:Loire Prestige à Pied, Loire Prestige en Vélo, Champagne Prestige à Pied, MâconPrestige à Pied, Your very own Château, Burgundy Canal Cruise, Burgundy Prestigeen Vélo, Burgundy Prestige à Pied, Dordogne Prestige en Vélo, Dordogne Prestigeà Pied, Gascony Canal Cruise, Les Bordeaux Prestige en Vélo, Canal du Midi Prestigeen Vélo, Canal du Midi Cruise, Luberon Prestige à Pied, Périgord Prestige en Vélo,River Cruising in Provence, Provence Prestige en Vélo, Provence Prestige à Pied.

UpgradesMany of our standard holidays can be upgraded as well to luxury hotels and gourmetcuisine. In particular: in Paris and for Classic Cognac à Pied.

PRESTIGE

We know how much you all love France, but sometimes there isn’ttime for a full week away and it would be nice to have some good valueshort breaks to choose from for your French walking or cycling experience.That is why we have created the Simply Belle France programme. Wehave chosen six wonderful destinations right across France that featuregreat walking or cycling or both. This is what the SBF holidays feature:

• Straightforward journeys by rail, road or air

• Good 2 star or sometimes 3 star accommodation

• Single centre

• 4 days duration

• Usually first night half board followed by three nightsBed and Breakfast.

These are off the shelf, pick up and go holidays that can either beplanned ahead or booked on impulse and starting at £389 per person,they won’t break the bank!

9 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/sbf

Simply Belle Francewww.bellefrance.co.uk/sbf

You could be at your destination by early

afternoon, with an evening’s relaxation, great

dining and 3 days in the beautiful French outdoors

ahead of you. A perfect French interlude! And just

look at the wonderful destinations you can

choose from:

• Amboise for walking or cycling (or a bit of both)

• Beaune for walking or cycling (or a bit of both)

• Opal Coast for walking

• Champagne for walking or cycling (or a bit of both)

• Bordeaux for walking or cycling (or a bit of both)

• Vence for walking

We have created a dedicated page on our website

featuring each of these holidays and their hotels

at www.bellefrance.co.uk/sbf. Why not stroll

over there today?

10 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cycling

Cycling holidaysWith the wind in your hair

EasyGenerally flat terrain with an occasional ascent and up to 30 miles a day.

Emerald Coast, Celtic Canal Cycle, Paris en Vélo, Loire en Famille,Garden of France,

Loire Discovery, Along the Leisurely Loire, Loire Prestige en Vélo, Burgundy Prestige

en Vélo, Classic Cognac Cycling, Glittering Gironde, Claret and the Coast,

Provençal Dreams.

Easy/ModerateOccasional hills, some steep. Up to 35 miles a day.

Mellow Mayenne, Alsatian Adventure, Best of Burgundy, Burgundy Classic Premier

Cru, Canal de Garonne en Vélo, Charente Waterways, Les Bordeaux Prestige en Vélo,

Canal du Midi Prestige en Vélo, Canal du Midi to Coast, Provence Prestige en Vélo.

Moderate/ChallengingRolling countryside with some steep hills. Requires regular gear

changes but is continuously cyclable. Up to 40 miles per day depending

on the terrain. Limousin Lakes and Castles, Dordogne Prestige en Vélo, Drama

of the Dordogne, Dordogne Exploration, Auvergne Discovery, Luberon en Vélo,

Périgord Prestige en Vélo.

We don’t consider any of our cycling holidays to be too much of a challenge; every day has a carefully planned itinerary - the pace at which you travel is up to you. Cycling distances range between 10 and 40 miles, perfectly manageable considering the average cycle speed is between 6 to 8 miles per hour – or much faster with the windbehind you! If faced with a climb, you can always get off and push for a bit – that’s what we do!

Most of our cycling holidays are circular with one or two nights at each hotel before moving on. If you’d prefer to stay in one place for the duration then we have a couple of fixed base options available too.All of our cycling holidays are self-guided, which means that you’ll becycling independently at your own pace.

Cycling grades

Remember that a long flat run on a hot day can

be more tiring than a short hill where you can

get off and push. Distances between hotels are

always shorter in hilly areas and you should not

choose a holiday solely on the basis of mileage.

We never suggest really hard routes. But if you

do want to cycle the steep mountain path

identified on your map, then feel free!

Family-friendly holidays

An increasing number of families are looking to

explore France together in a fun and healthy way;

cycling couldn’t be a better option. Children

thoroughly enjoy cycling in France as they are

fully occupied the whole time and the roads are

mainly free from busy traffic.

We do recommend that you bring your children’s

bikes with you if possible, simply because they

will be more familiar and comfortable with them,

but on most holidays we can provide children’s

bikes, with the option at some destinations of

child seats, chariots and tag-alongs for the

smallest family members.

We’ve even introduced a holiday in the Loire with

young families in mind, taking in attractions that

include adventure parks and a zoo.

All our bikes are prepared in advance and from most centres youcan hire cycle helmets for a few euros a day paid locally. Simplyprovide us with your height and inside leg measurement and yourbike will be awaiting your arrival. Our bikes are usually hybrids – a cross between a tourer and a mountain bike that’s perfect for the distances and terrain you’ll be covering. The saddles are madewide for touring, but you can also bring your own if you wish. Weprovide you with panniers to carry your picnic and supplies for theday – we take care of moving your luggage to the next hotel.

If your bike breaks down, our local representative will bring areplacement, ready for the next day enabling you to continue yourholiday. However, you will need to know how to repair your ownpuncture! We’ll provide you with a repair kit containing a spare innertube and puncture repair kit, together with instructions.

If you’re travelling by car and wish to bring your own bike we willreduce the cost of your cycling holiday by £5 per day.

11 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cycling

Everything you need

Tailor Made

Please call for advice on any of our holidays – we’ll be delighted to

help you choose the perfect one. Or if you would like to us to adapt

a holiday to suit your specific requirements; add extra nights,

combine two holidays, arrange a special short break we are happy

to create a holiday just for you but please note there is a £25.00 per

booking fee on tailor made holidays.

Our bikes

Walking holidaysFresh air and peaceful countryside

12 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/walking

Walking grades

Easy 4 to 6 Hours

Between 6 and 12 miles per day on undulating terrain over tracks with easy inclines which are rarely steep.

Picardy Pastures, Mulberry March, Morbihan Islands Walk, Château to Château, Loire Prestige à Pied, Mâcon Prestige à Pied,

Wine List Wanders, Burgundy Prestige à Pied, Classic Cognac à Pied, Grand Vins de Bordeaux à Pied.

Moderate 5 to 7 Hours

More noticeable hills, up to 14 miles per day, sometimes rough underfoot and some steep ascents with up to

750m change in altitude.

The Opal Coast, Seine Valley Secrets, Breathtaking Brittany, Champagne Prestige à Pied, Venture into the Vosges, Tranquil

Dordogne, Dordogne Prestige à Pied, Volcanoes of the Auvergne, Untamed Cévennes, Secrets of Savoie, Catalan Coast,

Luberon Prestige à Pied, Van Gogh’s Provence, Golden Islands, Secrets of Lubéron, Provence Prestige à Pied.

More Challenging Treks 6 to 8 Hours

May require a little more stamina and experience with distances of up to 16 miles and up to 1000m change in

altitude. These Treks, and in particular the Pyrenees, inevitably require a head for heights, good map-reading

skills and a sense of adventure. In remote areas there are occasional nights in more basic accommodation.

Cantal Capers, Stevenson Trail, Cathar Castles, Pyrenean Donkey Trek, Captivating Corsica.

Any reasonably fit person can undertake a Belle France walkingholiday with confidence. Our self guided walks give you the freedomto wander and explore at your own pace. You quickly establish yourown rhythm and routine as you progress through your holiday.

We move your luggage between hotels so all you need to carry arethe bare essentials and you’re not humping around a heavy load.

For those looking to join a group guided walk we have a single centreholidays in Savoie and the Auvergne which operates through bothsummer and winter. In winter you are loaned the necessary skis orraquette snow-shoes. A qualified guide escorts you each day. We also have a group guided trek in the Pyrenees with donkey support.

France has both scenery and culture in abundance, and our holidaysreally do capture both. If you’re interested in wine, châteaux, bygonetimes, rolling hills or dramatic coastlines, accompanied of course bysome very pleasant walking, there’ll be something in here for you.

Travel plansFerry or rail

Holiday insurance

It is a condition of our package that you and all members of

your party are covered by adequate Travel Insurance for the

duration of their holiday. We strongly suggest that clients

ensure they have in place some form of cancellation cover

which is effective from the time of making the booking.

This ensures that you will benefit from protection in the

event that you find it necessary to cancel your holiday due

to unforeseen circumstances covered by the policy.

Although we cannot advise you about the suitability of any

insurance product relative to your particular needs we are

happy to provide you with factual information about the

policies that we can offer. We work with Voyager Insurance

Services Ltd who can provide single trip and annual Personal

Insurance policies.

For detailed information regarding levels of cover and premium

prices go to www.bellefrance.co.uk/travelinsurance

Relaxing Rail

We work with Rail Europe to give you a speedy journey on

Eurostar to Paris or Lille, and then connect with TGV networks

travelling through the French countryside arriving at your

destination relaxed and ready to enjoy your holiday.

An upgrade to Standard Premier seating on Eurostar includes

a light meal and complimentary drink and first class on SNCF

for just £140.00 per person.

Please note that for bookings made within 12 weeks of

departure our rail prices cannot be guaranteed – please ask

for a quote.

Rail timings given at the time of booking may change – we

will inform you of any changes and exact times will be

confirmed at least three weeks prior to departure.

A break of more than 24 hours in your rail journey may incur

a £50 supplement.

Eurotunnel

Takes you from Folkestone to Calais/Coquellesin just 35 minutes. There are simple check inprocedures and drive-on carriages make this an easyand popular option. Prices available on request.

Please call for 01580 214010 for timings, availabilityand supplements.Ferry inclusive prices in this brochure are base prices to include the

cost of an off-peak crossing for car and passengers between Doverand Calais. Other routes and timings will incur a supplement.

We also act as agents for all cross-channel operators so please feelfree to ask for a quotation from the following operators: DFDS Seaways– Dover to Dunkerque in 2 hours. P&O Ferries – Dover – Calais in 90minutes. Seafrance – Dover – Calais in 90 minutes Brittany Ferries– Western Channel routes day and overnight sailings. Condorferries– Speedy same day service to St Malo.

13 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/travel

This region, just across the Channel is packed full ofbustling cobbled market towns, sleepy villages withmeandering lanes and superb long beaches. Picardy witha quintessentially French atmosphere and a history thatmarks years of European conflict – is said to be thecrossroads of France. Surrounded by gently rolling greenhills, it is a picturesque region with wide open spaces andsome of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world.

Weather

Summers tend to be warm, with variation in conditions.The climate here is moderate and most of the rainfalloccurs in the Autumn.

Wine and Cuisine

There is a distinct Flemish feel to the dishes here, includingcarbonnade (beef stew cooked in beer with onions andspices), and hochepot made of beef, pork, mutton andoxtail cooked with vegetables. Strong and heady cheesesare a characteristic and sausages too, but look out for thespeciality spicy tripe ones!

Bottled beer tends to be more popular than wine in theNorth and locally brewed ales can be found in some of thevillages. The flavoursome regional spirit is Genièvre, ginflavoured with juniper berries.

How would you like to…

Walk the white chalk cliffs that look back at Dover orexplore the medieval citadels of Picardy?

Discover

14

Picardy and the Pas de Calais

15 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/pastures

LAON

Bruyères

Chéret

Martigny Courpierre

Chamouille

Monthenault

Vorges

Picardy Pastures Ancient towns and rural idylls

The medieval town of Laon offers panoramic views of the peaceful

greenery and woodland that make for pleasant and undemanding walking

through gently rolling countryside. The grade is easy, with short distances

between hotels.

Day 1: Arrival ChéretArrive at Chéret with plenty of time to settle in at therambling country guest house. The charming owners will make you feel welcome, and in the evening everyone dines together around a large table so you’ll rapidly feelimmersed in the French way of life! HB

Day 2: Chéret to Chamouille (10 miles)Enjoy a short easy walk along quiet lanes through fieldsand forestry tracks. En route you pass a beautiful art decochurch at Martigny Courpierre before heading down anenchanting little valley towards Chamouille. Pass round thelake through peaceful woodland to reach the 3-star LaonLac de l’Ailette nestling at a corner of the lake. You mayarrive in time for a swim in the hotel pool before settlingdown to enjoy a hearty meal in the restaurant whose largewindows look across the water. HB

Day 3: Chamouille to Laon (11 miles) Wander through quiet lanes to the little village ofMonthenault before making your way through verdantpastures and woodland. The medieval hilltop fortress ofLaon with its spectacular gothic cathedral is visible fromsome distance. Home to some 80 classified properties,Laon was the capital of France from the 11th to 14thcentury. Tonight’s hotel, a former staging post, is in thecentre of Laon close to the cathedral. After dinner it’sworth exploring the town by night when its buildingsare dramatically floodlit. HB

Day 4: Laon to Chéret (9.5 miles) As you leave Laon enjoy the splendid vistas stretching out before you. You pass through a tranquil, pastorallandscape aptly named Domaine de la Solitude beforearriving in Bruyères. Take time out to visit the remarkablechurch that dates back to the 12th century, and the 19thcentury underground fortress. You’ll arrive back at Chéretwith plenty of anecdotes to share as you enjoy a sociablemeal at the guest house. HB

OPTION

For arrival by rail start and finish is in Laon. Add an extra night at Chamouille and play a game of golf on the lakeside course. Add an extra night at Laon to explore this delightful medieval walled town.

4 nights (all half-board)

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains at Gare du Nord, arriveLaon late afternoon.

Return: Depart Laon mid morning, changetrains at Gare du Nord,arrive St PancrasInternational station mid afternoon.

Taxi transfer to andfrom station included.

Prices per person (Based on two sharing)

Ferry Inclusive Rail Inclusive Own Travel

LOW SEASON from £588 £775 £535

High season (13 July - 31 August) add £30.

Extra night HB Laon £69. Extra night HB Chamouille £85 per person.

Starting days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday.

Self drive: Not Sunday or Thursday.

Episcopal Palace in Laon

16 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/opal

Hervelinghen

Cap Blanc Nez

Audinghen

Cap Gris Nez

WISSANT

The Opal CoastThe wind in your hair and wonderful views Simply Belle France

This is a perfect introduction to experiencing walking in France:

a picturesque seaside town, sandy beaches, undulating hills and plains

with stupendous views. Just a 12 mile drive from Calais and you are in

Wissant and ready to check in to your delightful chambre d’hote.


Ferry Inclusive

LOW SEASON from £389

High season (13 July - 31 August) add £20.Car ferry to Calais price based on mid week crossing with DFDS. Starting days: Any.

3 nights (B&B)

Day 1: Arrive in Calais

Take the short drive from Calais to Wissant, whereyou stay B&B in a charming chambre d’hôte. There arethree or four restaurants in the centre of Wissant for yourevening meal.

Day 2: 11 miles Circuit walk

Today’s walk allows you to explore the coast and thehinterland of the Cap Gris-Nez. Between the villages ofAudresselles and Wissant the terrain alternates between vastsandy beaches and slate cliffs, affording stupendous views

Day 3: 12 miles Circuit walk

Today’s itinerary starts from Wissant and climbs theMont de Coup nature reserve, (164 metres). You will followthe rocky footpath taking you across the heights of theCap Blanc-Nez from where you will have panoramic views.Return to Wissant following the beach.

Day 4

Take a short drive back to Calais for lunch on theharbour or a bit of last minute shopping before takingthe ferry home.

At Cap Gris-Nez

Cap Blanc-Nez

This ethereal landscape has inspired artists such asCorot, Monet and Pissarro; from magnificent forests and lakes to dramatic cliffs, inspirational cathedrals and broad, sweeping beaches. Normandy is dottedwith quaint villages, medieval towns, peaceful fishingports and beautiful, lush countryside.

Weather

Normandy enjoys a pleasant climate, generally mild andinfluenced by south westerly winds. Rainfall is less thanin Southern England.

Wine and Cuisine

Normandy cuisine often includes apples, cream, cheeseand a dash of Calvados! Creamy Camembert and Pontl’Evêque are ‘signature’ products of this dairy-rich regionand the proximity of the coast means that sea food is inabundance. Sole and mussels are particularly popular,covered in divine creamy sauces. Normandy is known forits superb lamb – particularly from the Cherbourg peninsula.

Little wine is produced here. Instead there is wonderfulcider often brewed on an individual scale on farms andsmallholders, which is also distilled into fiery Calvados.The finest is said to be from the Pays d’Auge, close toDeauville. This can be drunk during the meal as a ‘trouNormand’, or afterwards. Try Bénédictine, a popular,ancient liqueur still produced by monks.


Share ‘Our Boys’ D-Day experiences, witness thegrandeur of royal abbeys, see the best regional

produce being crafted and breathe in the beauty of this verdant countryside on foot or by bike?

Discover

Normandy and Mayenne

17

18 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/mulberry

Mulberry MarchPeaceful villages and evocative memorials

Day 1: Arrive BayeuxArrive in the medieval town of Bayeux and settle into your comfortable 3-star hotel with time before dinner toexplore some of the fascinating town – full of timberedhouses and quaint streets. Visit the Cathédrale de NôtreDame and the Hôtel du Doyen. HB

Day 2: Bayeux to Arromanches-les-Bains(9 miles) A trip to Bayeux isn’t complete without visiting the famousTapestry, which tells the tale of the Norman Conquest in1066. Then pick up some provisions for an al fresco lunchbefore heading off through peaceful Normandy villages and apple orchards on your way to the evocative D-Daymemorials at Arromanches. Your 2-star hotel here is righton the quayside, overlooking one of the landing beaches.Its restaurant serves wonderful food – dine on the catch ofthe day as you look out across the sea. HB

Day 3: Arromanches-les-Bains to Port-en-Bessin-Huppain (10 miles)Today takes you along the peaceful coastline pastnumerous war memorials and war cemeteries. You maywant to call in at the “Arromanches 360” museum on thehill overlooking the town, where you can watch a shortpanoramic film made up of archive and contemporaryfootage, giving an insight into D-Day. You can choose tocontinue your way along the coastal route with splendidviews out to sea, or take an evocative inland path thatfollows in the footsteps of the No 47 (RM) Commando on the route of their march to liberate Port-en-Bessin.Whichever you choose, there will be plenty of time topause to absorb the atmosphere before settling intotonight’s hotel in this small port, nestling in the hollow of the cliff. HB

Day 4: Port-en-Bessin-Huppain to Bayeux(15 miles)Heading away from the coast you find yourself back in thepeaceful Normandy countryside for a final day of walkingalong quiet pathways through fields and orchards, withplenty of time for contemplation. Back in Bayeux, you mayfind time to follow the Old Town Tour with 21 notice boardsto help you explore the town at your own pace. Enjoy a final meal at your comfortable hotel in the heart of thisinteresting and historic old town. HB

A pleasant walk across flat countryside following the route taken by the

British 5th Division – through the pretty seaside town of Arromanches

famous for the Mulberry harbour used for landing troops and vehicles

during the war. We grade this walk as easy.





Starting days: Any.


Cherbourg

Aure

Omaha Beach

Gronde

BAYEUX

Arromanches-les Bains

Caen

Gold Beach

Port-en-Bessin

s

s

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Bayeux late afternoon. Hotel is a 10 minute walk fromstation.

Return: Depart Bayeux in morning, changestations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationalmid-afternoon.

Mulberry Harbour

19 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/seine

Seine Valley SecretsAncient woodland and ruined abbeys

One or two steep sections to negotiate each day as you rise from the river

valley, taking in forest tracks through glorious woodland, towpaths along

the slow moving Seine and quiet lanes leading past romantic ruined

abbeys. The route is way-marked almost throughout its length.

Day 1: Arrival Caudebec-en-CauxThe river Seine curls round the bustling town of Caudebec-en-Caux, dominated by the elegant Notre-Dame church with its intricate spire. Take a seat in the restaurant of the Logis de France hotel and indulgein a leisurely dinner. HB

Day 2: Caudebec-en-Caux to Jumièges(14 miles) The taxi takes you to St Wandrille-Rançon to commencetoday’s walk at the Gregorian St Wandrille Abbey. Fromhere your journey takes you through fields and beechwoods with the Seine meandering below until you headdown towards Jumièges for a night in the comfortablefamily-run Clos des Fontaines with heated pool. B&B

Day 3: Jumièges to Montigny (11 miles) A taxi takes you to the edge of Duclair. Then a varied walkup chalky, limestone hills, three climbs today, throughmixed woodland and denser forests. Tonight’s hotel, the 3-star Relais de Montigny, is set in a clearing in the heartof the Roumaré forest. Most rooms have a terrace orbalcony overlooking the park, and the restaurant on thesouth-facing terrace is a wonderful setting. HB

Day 4: Montigny to La Bouille (13 miles) Today sees you heading back through dappled woodlandto rejoin the paths running by the riverside. You have theoption of following the interesting pathways winding by theforest’s edge or of taking the more direct route through thecentre. Your riverside hotel in the pretty village of La Bouilleis accessed via a little ferry that crosses the Seine. HB

OPTION

Circular walk from Jumièges (14 miles)We recommend a second night in Jumièges to visit theruins of the Benedictine Abbey and take a circular walkcrossing the river by way of the local ferries. Or walk downto the lakes - great for swimming or a picnic. B&B

4-5 nights (3 half-board)





Extra night Jumieges B&B £75 per person.

Starting days: Not Sunday or Thursday.

Caudebec-en-Caux

Saint Wandrille

Jumièges

Henouville

La BouilleROUEN

Montigny

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Yvetotstation late afternoon. Taxi transfer to hotelincluded (20 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer toRouen station included,(20 mins) change stationsin Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational station laterafternoon.

JumiègesInset: Seine footpath

5 night holiday

MézangersEtang deGué de Selle

Jublains

Sainte Suzanne

Sillé-le-Guillaume

LouéSaulges

LAVAL Caves

Evron

Ballée

Brûlon

20 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/mellow

Mellow MayenneRolling hills and silent streams

This little known area of south Normandy offers pleasant cycling along country

lanes with a patchwork quilt of countryside unrolling in front of you leading

you to some of our favorite hotels offering delicious food, a charming room

and a friendly welcome. The grade is easy with some huffing and puffing.

Day 1: Arrival SaulgesArrive in Saulges at the charming 3-star Hôtel l’Hermitage settle into your room and then relax by thepool. Perhaps take an apéritif on the terrace before dinner.

Day 2: Day trip from Saulges (19 miles)Take a spin down to Ballée and visit the beautiful châteauwith its watermill and gardens. On the return journey thechâteau and watermill at Thévalles are worth a closer look.

Day 3: Saulges to Mézangers (21 miles) The pretty route follows the l’Erve to Chammes and thechance for a refreshing drink. The highlight is the beautifulmedieval town of Sainte Suzanne. Then wind past farmsand streams to the 3-star Relais du Gué de Selles.

Day 4: Day trip from Mézangers (16 miles)An easy run through the forest and along a straight roadmakes a quick trip to the impressive roman ruins atJublains. Enjoy lunch alfresco by the lake before an easypedal back to the hotel.

Day 5: Mézangers to Loué (32 miles) The route is deeply rural and quiet - quaint little villagesprovide opportunities for refreshment - apple orchards andthe occasional watermill litter the route. At the delightfulHôtel Ricordeau, a former coach house, it may be temptingto take a dip in the pool. The menu features local produceincluding the famous Loué poultry.

Day 6: Day trip from Loué (10 miles)Pick up your bike after breakfast and head down to explorethe tranquil banks of the River Verge. Or, head off to theForêt de Charnie. If this sounds a bit too energetic thenspend a relaxing day by the hotel pool.

Day 7: Loué to Saulges (15 miles) Today head up the Verge valley to Brûlon, maybe stop for a reviving café crème and a chance to buy a picniclunch. The hilly bit is behind you as you head back to thedelightful 3-star Hôtel l’Ermitage. The tour is complete andit’s time to relive some wonderful experiences.

OPTION

Take an extra night between Mezangers and Loué breakingthe journey at Sainte Suzanne, a quirky medieval town.






Extra night HB Sainte Suzanne £50 per person per night.

Starting days: Any except Wednesday or Thursday

(Monday only up to 31 May).

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Lavalstation mid-afternoon.Transfer to hotel included(25 mins).

Return: Transfer to Lavalstation included (25 mins),change stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.

One of France’s most distinctive and attractive regionswith miles of dramatic coastline, marked with countlesscoves, rugged rocks and splendid sandy beaches. Thereare numerous celebrations of traditional folk art, musicand dance amongst the many charming towns, whichcelebrate ancient Breton culture. Discover marvellousmedieval towns, small fishing villages, and of coursemysterious Celtic sites.

Weather

The south of Brittany has a temperate climate because ofthe warming and calming influence of the Gulf stream,meaning a typical maritime climate with warm summersand mild winters.

Wine and Cuisine

Crêperies are everywhere, serving savoury buckwheatgalettes or delicious sweet crêpes. The marine influence isstrong here too, so try Cotriade, a fish stew, traditionallymade with conger eel, whilst a Pot au Feu with lobster,shrimp, scallops, mussels and oysters in a flavoursomestew is a must for seafood lovers.

Brittany produces no commercial wine, although Muscadet,crisp and dry, is the perfect companion to seafood and iswidely offered and reasonably inexpensive. Gros Plant isalso good with seafood. Cider (apple or pear) is the mainBreton brew, in still or sparkling form, drunk traditionallyfrom a bowl.


Visit the tiny island community of Ile de Sein, walkthe towering cliffs of Pointe du Raz, cycle beside

the picturesque waterways of the Brest Canal,discover the Gulf of Morbihan, or explore

the sandy bays close to St Malo?

Discover

Brittany

21

Ferry

Vannes

Moustérain

L’Ile d’Arz

L’Ile-aux Moines

Port Navalo

22 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/morbihan

Day 1: Arrival VannesArrive early evening at the lovely walled town of Vannes.Take a walk around the narrow cobbled streets and enjoythe sunset from the attractive marina. Stay 2 nights at thecomfortable 2-star Golfe Hôtel in the centre of Vannes.

Day 2: Presqu’île de Moustérain (8 miles) Starting from the hotel, you will discover the Presqu’îlede Moustérain. After a short crossing to the Presqu’îlede Conleau you will then return along the pretty coastalpath to your hotel.

Day 3: Vannes to Port Navalo (5 miles) Take the ferry to Port Navalo and discover the two facesof the presqu’île: the ocean and the gulf. A walk alongthe Atlantic coast, on a rocky promontory, open to theelements and in lush natural surroundings, will lead youto the archaeological site of the Petit Mont. A magicalwalk for a breath of fresh sea air! Stay 2 nights at theHôtel le Crouesty.

Day 4: Circuit walk of the Pointes du Golfe(9 miles) Spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf and its islandson this coastal circuit walk which takes you to the Pointde Bilgroix, Kerners, and Penbert.

Day 5: L’Ile d’Arz (9 miles)At the start of a free day, ferry to the Ile d’Arz, the secondlargest island in the Gulf. The island is small enough to beexplored on foot, the total combined distance around theisland on the coastal path is about 10 miles. Stay 2 nightsat the Hôtel l’Escale en Arz.

Day 6: L’Ile-aux Moines (10 miles) Ferry across to the Ile-aux-Moines for the day, the largestof all the Gulf islands and nicknamed ‘La Perle du Golfe’perhaps due to the wild mimosas and camellias which areabundant along the rural tracks and coastal paths - thewhite sandy beaches are never far away since the islandis long and thin. Return to your hotel on Ile d’Arz.

Day 7: Return ferry to mainlandTake a mid-day ferry back to Vannes and enjoy theafternoon exploring one of the prettiest towns in Brittanythanks to its cobbled streets and numerous colombage(half-timbered houses). Last night at the Golfe Hôtel.




High season (July and August) add £60 per person.

Extra night Vannes HB: £65 per person.

Starting days: Any from 31 March to 29 September


Morbihan Islands Walk

Rail Travel

Outward: St PancrasInternational station,change stations inParis, arrive VannesTGV early evening.

Return: Vannes TGVto Paris Montparnasse,change stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational lateafternoon.

The Gulf of Morbihan, features a scattering of islands waiting to be

discovered, the two largest being the Ile aux Moines and Ile d’Arz.

The cross-shaped Ile aux Moines offers scenic walks around its 4 miles of

coast, while Arz has lovely creeks and coves for an enjoyable dip in the sea.

A dreamy mélange of sea, sky and Breton terrain

DinardSt Briac SAINT MALO

Ploubalay

Cancale

Bourbansais

Dinan

Ferry

23 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/emerald

Emerald CoastQuiet coves and elegant seaside towns

Day 1: Arrival DinardSettle in at the elegant 3-star Roche Corneille, a beautifully converted Belle Epoque villa close to the beach and the little art galleries in the narrow streets. HB

Day 2: Day trip from Dinard (20 miles) There are plenty of small coves to explore, as you passthrough St Lunaire and St Briac sur Mer before headingdown to Ploubalay and back to Dinard cross country. HB

Day 3: Dinard to Dinan (16 miles)Head inland following the river Rance and the Voie Verte, acycle path along a former railway track into Dinan. The 3-starhotel Jerzual, is right on the quayside, so you can watch theboats moor up for the evening from the terrace. HB

Day 4: Day trip from Dinan (25 miles)A day’s cycling takes in Château de la Bourbansais with its zoo and gardens, before heading west through thecountryside. Upon returning to Dinan, cool off in the outdoor pool. HB

Day 5: Dinan to Saint Malo (20 miles) Head through countryside and forests to the bustling oldwalled maritime town of Saint-Malo. La Villefromoy, your 3-star hotel housed in a former bourgeois residence, issituated along the seafront. B&B

Day 6: Day trip from Saint Malo (22 miles)It’s a gentle round trip along the flat coast road towardsCancale, famed for its oyster beds. You’ll be able to look out to the little islands dotted across the sea and stop offfor refreshments at one of the beach-side cafés. B&B.

Day 7: Saint Malo to Dinard (5 miles)Your final day of very easy cycling takes you back to Dinard.Our friendly hoteliers will be delighted to hear about youradventures before you settle down for the catch of the day in the restaurant. HB

B&B OPTION

B&B option is available on this holiday using alternativehotels. Reduce by £125 per person.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains inRennes, arrive St Maloearly evening. Taxi transferto hotel not included (20 mins, about 30€).

Return: Transfer to St Malo station included(20 mins), change trainsat Rennes and stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational station earlyevening.

You’ll be following and criss-crossing the river Rance as you explore

Belle Epoque towns, sandy coves, fishing ports and green countryside.

We grade this route as easy – the region is relatively flat although there is

the odd climb in and out of villages.



LOW SEASON from £1082 £1299 £1029


Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday with

Friday overnight ferry (supplement applies).

7 nights (5 half-board)

Inset: Hôtel La Villefromoy Fort National St Malo

Baie des Trépassés

Audierne

Ile de Sein

Bale d’Audierne QUIMPERPouldreuzic

Pont l’Abbé

St Guénolé

Ferry

24 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/breathtaking

Breathtaking BrittanyCeltic crosses and rocky inlets

Day 1: Arrival Pont l’AbbéThis historic little town is famous for its lace andembroidery, and some residents still wear traditional Breton dress. Your starting point is a comfortable Logis de France hotel. HB

Day 2: Pont l’Abbé to Saint Guénolé (14 miles) Your route takes you towards the coast, past chapels and springs to the fishing ports on the south-west tip of Brittany. Your base for the night is a 2-star hotel withocean views. HB

Day 3: Saint Guénolé to Pouldreuzic (17 miles) Follow alongside the vast sandy beaches popular withsurfers. You’ll pass Notre-Dame de Penhors, an example ofBrittany’s culture and tradition, where religious pardons arestill held, before arriving at the 2-star Hôtel Capricorne. HB

Day 4: Pouldreuzic to Audierne (13.5 miles) The rocky coastline leads you all the way to Audierne, a charming Breton fishing town where you can watch theboats come in with their catch at the end of the day. HB

Day 5: Day trip from Audierne (4 miles)Enjoy a boat trip out to the Ile de Sein, a tiny islandpeeping out of the water, off the Pointe du Raz. Many of its 350 inhabitants live in the brightly painted houses alongthe quayside. Explore this other-worldly setting, beforeheading back to your 2-star hotel in Audierne. HB

Day 6: Audierne to Baie des Trépassés (15 miles) A final day following the stunning and rugged coastline upto the protected site of the Pointe du Raz. Here, the granite and sandstone rocks are buffeted by the wind and theocean. Watch the surf come crashing in from the comfortof your hotel. HB

Day 7: QuimperIf you’ve travelled by car you have a transfer back to Pontl’Abbé then drive to Quimper for your final night. If you’vetravelled by train you’re transferred back to Quimper whereyou can spend the day exploring before catching the trainhome the following morning after a night in a 3-star hotel.B&B

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Quimperlate afternoon. Transfer to hotel at Pont l’Abbénot included (20 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer toQuimper the previous dayincluded. Depart Quimperstation in morning,change stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational earlyevening.

This south-western tip of Brittany stretches into the waters of the Atlantic.

Sandy dunes and marshes give way to dramatic cliffs as you approach the

stunning Pointe du Raz headland. Walking around 7 hours each day mainly

along coastal paths with the odd climb this walk is graded moderate.



LOW SEASON from £1082 £1249 £1029


Starting days: Any.


Inset: Audierne Pointe du Raz

Celtic Canal Cycle

25 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/celtic

Easy cycling mostly on level paths along the banks of the Nantes-Brest canal

Day 1: Arrive at AuraySettle into your hotel and then take time to explorethis ancient town with its cobbled streets, half-timberedhouses and picturesque harbour. HB

Day 2: Vallée de l’Oust to Malestroit (28 miles)Today take your bike on the train and travel to Redon tostart your cycle trip along the canal. North of Redon theOust Valley surrounded by canals and rivers is a wonderfulnatural site. Malestroit, known as the Perl de l’Oust, is alittle city full of charm and character. HB

Day 3: Malestroit to Rohan (25 miles)After a few kilometres, you will arrive at the superbmedieval city of Josselin. The impressive castle is witnessto Brittany’s historical past. Explore the old town centrewith its numerous little lanes lined with half timberedmedieval houses. Then on to Rohan. HB

Day 4: Rohan to the Lac de Guerlédan (34 miles)Continue to the Napoleonic fortified town of Pontivy, where the 15th century château overlooks the river. Picnicon the banks of the Blavet or stop for a lunch in one of theCrêperies. By the end of the day you will have arrived atLac de Guerlédan; ready to enjoy an apéritif in one of thelakeside cafés. HB

Day 5: Lac de Guerlédan to Carhaix (37 miles)Pause to take in the Cistercian Abbey with its imposingarchitecture. Continue to Carhaix, the capital of Poher, (joli pays) the culture centre of Brittany. B&B

Day 6: Carhaix to Châteauneuf du Faou (28 miles)You now enter into the department of Finistère. Cyclealongside the river Aulne, the early riser may encounterheron, deer or squirrels en route to Châteauneuf. HB

Day 7: Châteauneuf to Châteaulin (28 miles)The last day’s cycling will take you towards Châteaulin, a religious town in the heart of legend territory. The magicalMonts d’Arrée dominate the horizon. Don’t forget the photofinish at Guily Glaz (last lock before the sea) and thenreturn by train to Auray for your final night. B&B

B&B OPTION

Possible to arrange a transfer back to Auray, please askfor details.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras International,in the morning, changetrains in Paris, arriveAuray station earlyafternoon.

Return: Depart Auraylate morning, changestations in Paris, arriveSt Pancras Internationalearly evening.

From East to West, this chain of rivers and canals across Brittany combines

tranquillity and heritage through wonderful countryside. Enjoy the complete

peace and harmony of the waterside as you travel through the Celtic

heartland of Brittany.



LOW SEASON from £1072 £1299 £1019


Starting days: Sundays April to September.


Guerlédan

Carhaix-Plougher

Chateauneuf-du-Faou

Chateaulin Rohan

Redon

Josselin

Pontivy

AURAYVANNES

Malestroit

Josselin

s

The City of Light – there is so much to say about thisvibrant city – no matter how many times you visit, therewill always be something new to discover. We all adorethe Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Sacré Coeur and the Louvrebut there is so much off the tourist trail waiting to beexplored. And Paris just oozes culture – music,installation art, Nuit Blanche where the city doesn’t sleepand art takes over the streets. Discover lesser knowngardens and museums and curiosities – there are delightsaround every corner.

Weather

You're unlikely to experience extremes of weather in Paris.Pleasantly mild, any rainfall usually falls as light drizzlerather than sudden downpours.

Wine and Cuisine

As in the rest of France, food in Paris is revered. If you seeka fine dining experience then you won't get much betterthan this: Les Deux Magots, Maxim's, Dôme or even TourD'Argent. But equally, on any street you're likely to stumbleacross a good brasserie or a North African restaurant fortagine and cous-cous.

This being the capital of France, whatever your budgetyou'll be able to sample a fine Bordeaux or Beaujolais.


Scoot around the landmarks in your own guided 2CV?Have a personal tour of all your own favourite galleries

and museums? Visit the best chocolatiers? Have a lesson with a Sommelier or scour the markets

and create your own gourmet dinner in a chef’sown home?

Discover

Paris

26

27 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/parisv

Paris en Vélo

Day 1: Arrival in ParisYou will be based in the wonderful Latin Quarter at Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles, a pretty hotel with a green and peaceful cobbled garden, in the heart of Paris. Tonight, you will have a reservation at the nearby art-decorestaurant Le Buisson Ardent, serving classic Frenchcuisine. Bed and breakfast plus dinner. HB

Day 2: Bike tour of the classic sights of Paris 4 miles (6.4 km)Paris is more cycle-friendly than ever before and whetheran experienced visitor or not, you will see Paris in a wholenew light from a bicycle! On a four hour tour, take in TheEiffel Tower, Napoleon’s Tomb, The Louvre, the TuileriesGardens (with a stop to buy lunch), Musée d’Orsay andmuch else besides in the most fun way, packed with talesand facts. You are free to explore Parisian life as youchoose for the rest of the day. B&B

Day 3: Walking tour of the Latin Quarter (3pm, 2 hours)You are staying in the most ancient and historic part of the city, which is brimming with stories to tell. After a free morning, meet close to the hotel for a guided groupwalk, discovering Roman ruins, the seat of the Frenchintelligensia, medieval Paris, the Jardins de Luxembourg,tales of the Revolution, Notre Dame and the chic heart ofParis cool. Afterwards, choose from the many excellentrestaurants in the Latin Quarter. B&B

Suggestions for your free time:You finish the bike tour very close to Musée du Quai Branly, Musée d’Art et d’Histoire de Judaisme and Muséede l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, all giving unique andfascinating insights into Parisian culture. We will include a ticket for Tour Montparnasse 56, the best view of Paris.Alternatively, explore Canal St Martin, favourite haunt of film character Amélie or the Père Lachaise Cemetery,resting place of so many renowned figures in Frenchculture. Prices per person (Based on two sharing)

Rail Inclusive Own Travel

from £785 from £589

Please add £65 per person if you would like to have a private guided

cycle tour instead of joining a group guided cycle tour (group size

approx 25 cyclists).

Starting days: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday.


The wonders of the City of Light on two wheels and two feet

Shrink Paris by bike and take in the classic sights with your own guide,

explore the ancient Quartier Latin with a guided walk and still have plenty

of time to fit in your own agenda. This is a whole different perspective

on an iconic city.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart byEurostar from St PancrasInternational station toParis Gare du Nord.

Return: Depart byEurostar from Paris Gare du Nord, arrive St Pancras London.

A carnet of metro ticketsand Tour Montparnasse 56 ticket included.

Arrivals by Air

Transfer from the airportto your hotel can bearranged for you. Call for a quote.

Inset: Hotel des Grandes Ecoles

Louvre museum

28 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/light

Parisian LightCapture the beauty of Paris forever

Day 1: Arrival in ParisDiscover the delights of Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles, a charming, green haven in the quiet streets of the Latin Quarter and neighbour to La Sorbonne and EcolePolytechnic universities, Le Panthéon and historic SainteGeneviève hill and church (patron Saint of Paris). You willhave a reservation at nearby classic French restaurant Le Buisson Ardent for this evening. Bed and Breakfast plus dinner. HB

Day 2: Morning of photography (3 hours), free afternoonMeet up with your tutor this morning, professionalphotographer and resident of Paris, who will guide youand a small group of fellow enthusiasts (maximum 6) tothe best places for you to achieve stunning images ofParis. He will know in advance about your camera,experience (beginners welcome) and preferred subjectmatter, be it grand architecture, metro posters or eventhe stunning city graffiti. This will be a relaxed tour, tailoredto you. Then spend the afternoon trying out your skills orexperiencing endless new aspects of Paris - we have lotsof suggestions! B&B

Day 3: Evening of photography (3 hours), free dayIn the daytime, you are free to shoot Paris and take inplenty of Parisian experiences – perhaps Musée du Quai Branly and the enormous view from the TourMontparnasse? Once the sun goes down, the City of Light transforms into a new and beautiful place and isirresistible for photographers. Meet up again and use the wonderful lighting Paris is so known for to createsuperb photographs with the benefit of his expert eye andguidance. These really will be the best holiday snaps youwill ever take home! B&B

OPTION

It is possible to upgrade to either Hôtel Westminster with its Michelin-starred Le Celadon Restaurant or RelaisChristine, a small 4-star boutique hotel of great charm.Both are very centrally located, please call for a quotation.

Rail Travel




Arrivals by Air


If you only knew the best places in Paris to take great photographs and

just how to capture them, wouldn’t that be fantastic? You can achieve

that on this holiday with the guidance of a professional photographer

who knows the best locations and angles for pictures like these.



from £865 from £669

Price is based on 1 photographer. Non-photographing party

members are welcome to accompany the photo sessions,

deduct £250.

Starting days: Any day, subject to availability.


Sacré-Coeur

PRESTIGEUPGRADE

29 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/choix

Paris au ChoixPick N Mix - three fun ways to experience Paris

Day 1: Arrival in ParisDiscover delightful Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles, a charming, green haven in the quiet streets of the Latin Quarter. You have a reservation at nearby classicFrench restaurant Le Buisson Ardent for this evening. Bed and Breakfast plus dinner. HB

Day 2: Choice of 2CV Tour (3 hours) or Bike Tour (4 hours) of Paris2CV Tour: Your driver and guide will whisk you off in aclassic 2CV and take you on a 3 hour drive across Parisregaling you along the way with tales of Parisian life andhistory. Discover Paris you thought you knew and lots more!

Bike Tour: You are met at the Eiffel Tower for your biketour, taking in parks, new discoveries, stories and historywith a whole new perspective on the City of Light. Goesrain or shine. B&B

Day 3: Choice of Chef Day or Museum DayChef Day: Meet at 9am for an open-air market tour in the Marais, followed by a hands-on cooking class and athree-course lunch, finishing at 3pm. In the home of yourchef, discover a unique perspective on Parisian living.

Museum Day: Go to the two museums in Paris (Louvre,Orsay, L’Orangerie, Musées Rodin, Picasso, Monet, LePompidou, Cluny or Notre Dame) you have most wanted to with your own museum expert. Uncover everything youever wanted to know or see, tailored to you. B&B

Day 4: Choice of Wine Tasting (2 hours) or Chocolatier Tour (3 hours)Wine: Descend into the ancient wine cellars of thesommelier to Louis XV near the Louvre to learn whatmakes French wine unique and how to taste 6 wines.

Chocolate: Visit 4 chocolatiers, 2 patissiers and a gourmetshop on a tour through St Germain des Près for theyummiest finds (and tastings!) in Paris. Chocolate Toursubject to availability. B&B

OPTION

You may upgrade to either Hôtel Westminster with itsMichelin-starred Le Celadon Restaurant or Relais Christine,a small 4-star boutique hotel of great charm. Both are verycentrally located, please call for a quotation.

Rail Travel (First Class)




Arrivals by Air


Paris is full of so many fun things to do! Tailor yourself three days of

Paris-packed experiences so that you will have seen The City of Light

as you never could have before!



from £1359 from £1199

Cookery Course add £50.

Starting days: Not Sunday.

With Chef, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.

For Wine, Friday, Tuesday, Wednesday.


Parisian chocolate shop

Inset: view from Musée d’Orsay

Magnificent châteaux, steeped in history and overflowingwith treasures, vividly illustrate the long and colourfulpast of this ancient region. These fine buildings are set ina fertile landscape of soft green valleys, lush vineyardsand fields of flowers known as the Garden of France. The mighty Loire glides through the gently undulatinglandscape which is strewn with fairytale castles, strikingarchitecture and exquisite parklands.

Weather

The Loire region has a surprisingly good climate,considering its relative proximity to Paris. It is temperateand warm with lower rainfall than Southern England.

Wine and Cuisine

Due to the fertile land, the range of local dishes isimmense. Freshwater river fish are widely served, includingsalmon, pike and eels with the speciality beurre blanc(butter whipped with white wine and shallots or withvinegar).

The Loire’s lighter reds are often served slightly chilled andChinon and Bourgueil are some of the best. Vouvray whitecan be very good too, but renowned wines include Sancerreand Pouilly-Fumé; dry crisp whites with a real ‘zing’.


Immerse yourself in the majestic Loire landscape on foot or by bike, rewarded by the best gourmet food on offer?Discover the French home of Leonardo da Vinci at

Amboise? Or how about a visit to the famous ChaumontInternational Garden Festival? Find these and other

wonderful Loire experiences on the next few pages.

Discover

the Loire

30

Loire holidays have the benefit of

a British Rep close at hand to help

with the smallest local problem.

ChambordBLOIS

Cour Cheverny

Cher

Loire

Beuvron

Candé

Chaumont

AMBOISE

Chenonceaux

Bourré

Chitenay

Château to ChâteauFamous names and hidden gems

An easy walk through the garden of France, along the limestone banks of

the Loire. Turn inland through vineyards and flower-decked villages to take

in some of the region’s enchanting châteaux. The grade is easy and

navigation is simple and even the longest day has flat gradients.

The 6-night holiday starts in Amboise (day 3) and walking begins from there the following morning.

Day 1: Arrival BourréSettle in at your lovely hotel and maybe find time to relaxby the pool or wander in the gardens before a typical Frenchmeal that evening.

Day 2: Bourré to Chenonceaux (6 miles) Time to relax and explore your surrounds before headingoff to follow the banks of the River Cher to Chenonceaux,arriving in time to explore the stunning Château.

Day 3: Chenonceaux to Amboise (11 miles) A shady walk through the forêt d’Amboise will bring you outacross farmland as you approach Amboise. You’ll pass themanor house where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years.Dinner tonight in a delightful restaurant close to your hotel.

Day 4: Amboise to Chaumont (6 miles) A little sightseeing then you’re transferred to Mosnes. Fromhere it’s woodland and riverbanks followed by farmland andvineyards until you reach your hotel in Chaumont.

Day 5: Chaumont to Candé sur Beuvron (5 miles)Spend your morning visiting the famous château andgardens. Then it’s on to Candé and tonight’s comfortablehotel with an excellent restaurant.

Day 6: Candé sur Beuvron to Chitenay (10 miles)At Les Montils pick up the ingredients for an al fresco lunchthen head off through woodland, fields, and a vintner’s yardto Chitenay and the delightful Auberge du Centre.

Day 7: Chitenay to Cour Cheverny (6.5 miles) An easy walk through fields and woodland to thespectacular hunting château at Cheverny. Tonight’s hotel hasan elegant dining room serving traditional French cuisine.

Day 8: Cour Cheverny to Chambord (11 miles) The hotel at Chambord is approached through vastparklands – a beautiful and fitting end to your exploration of the Loire.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains at St Pierre des Corps. 8 night holiday arriveMontrichard late afternoontransfer to hotel included(5 mins). 6 night holidayarrive Amboise transferto hotel included.

Return: Transfers to Bloisstation included (45 mins),change trains at St Pierredes Corps and stations inParis. Arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.

Prices per person (Based on two sharing) 6 nights



High season (13 July - 31 August) add £5 per night. 8 night option add £200 per person.Starting days: Any, except Saturday and Sunday for 6 nights.Wednesday and Saturday only for 8 nights.

6-8 nights (all half-board)

31 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/chateau

Inset: Amboise Château de Cheverny

8 night holiday

British Rep on hand

32 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/famille

Loire en FamilleBikes and bouncy castles, high wires or canoes

The perfect family holiday… the quiet country lanes and shady woodland

routes make for gentle cycling, easy for even the smallest member of the

party, and there will be plenty of time to enjoy the fun family activities that

are included – just leave all the organising to us!

Day 1: Arrival at Les Jardins de Beauval,St Aignan

Feel transported to the other end of the world in thisIndonesian style 3 star hotel and leisure complex withpool, alongside the famous Zooparc de Beauval.

Day 2: Zooparc de Beauval

Entrance is included to the magical Zooparc de Beauval,classed as one of the most spectacular and beautiful zoosin the world, you can be sure of an unforgettable daybefore returning to relax beside the hotel pool.

Day 3: St Aignan to Bourré (20 miles)

Easy and flat cycling along the valley of the river Cher.Arrive at the beautiful 3- star converted Château duVallagon set in 4 hectares beautiful of parkland andenjoy the pool.

Day 4: Chenonceaux and Montrichard (16 miles)

Visit the lovely Château Chenonceaux, the 2nd mostvisited attraction in France after Versailles. Why not takea row boat out on the river for the best views of thisfairytale castle. Stop at Montrichard on your return andenjoy the riverside sandy beach with pedalos to hire orexplore the ruined medieval castle.

Day 5: Bourré to Mosnes (14-20 miles)

Today you will cycle quiet country lanes though shadywoodland to the luxury 3- star hotel Domaine desThomeaux with pool and spa complex situated nextdoor to the Fantasy Forest Adventure Parc.

Day 6: Fantasy Forest

Entrance into Fantasy Forest Adventure Parc included.From bouncy castles to aerial runways, caving, downhill‘devilkarts’ or cross –country mountain biking – there areexciting activities here for all ages. Finish the day byenjoying the hotel’s extensive spa and leisure activities.

Rail Travel

Outward: St PancrasInternational station,change trains in Lilleor stations in Paris,change trains St Pierre-des-Corps, arrive atMontrichard lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (15 mins).

Return: Transfer to St Pierre des Corpsincluded, change trains in Lille or stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.


St Aignan

Fantasy Forest

CherChenonceaux

Amboise

LoireBourré

Zooparc Beauval

Prices per person (Based on a family of 4* sharing a family room)


from £666 £765 £639

*A family of 2 adults with 2 children under 10 years

Starting days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.

British Rep on hand

33 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/garden

Cher

Chambord

8 night holiday

LoireCheverny

BLOIS

Montrichard

Chitenay

AMBOISE

ChenonceauxSt Aignan

Garden of FrancePretty villages and enchanting châteaux

Princely mansions stand next to picturesque farm houses, fields of

sunflowers merge with the uniform rows of vineyards. There is ample

opportunity for tasting some of the local wines. The grade is easy with

few climbs.

Day 1: Arrival BourréYour first night is spent at the lovely Château deVallagon in the small village of Bourré on the outskirtsof Montrichard. Enjoy exploring the hotel grounds andtake time for a dip in the pool. The menu is concoctedfrom locally sourced food – including mushrooms fromthe nearby Cave des Rôches in Bourré

Day 2: Chenonceaux to St. Aignan (24 miles) Follow the Cher River past troglodyte homes. Or rise ontothe Touraine plateau to the magical Château de Gué Péan.

Day 3: Day trip from St. Aignan (30 miles)Today you could visit the nearby Zooparc de Beauval.Or cycle to Valençay with its motor museum and grandchâteau.

Day 4: St Aignan to Chitenay (25 miles) Head north through forests to Cheverny, perhaps visit theChâteau before the final short ride to Chitenay to stay twonights at one of our favourite hotels, the lovely Aubergedu Centre.

Day 5: Day trip from Chitenay (20 miles)Several great options: you can cycle to Chaumont to visitthe International Garden Festival. Or cycle to Blois, whichhas a Royal palace open to the public.

Day 6: Chitenay to Chenonceaux/Bourré(30 miles)Today your journey back to our base passes throughcolourful flower-decked villages, interspersed with orchardsand vineyards with a chance to explore Château deChenonceau before returning to Château de Vallagonfor your final night.

8 NIGHT OPTION

Add additional nights at Cour Cheverny and Chambord to make this an eight night holiday - on Day 4 cycle alongquiet forest tracks to Cour Cheverny. Day 5 Head forChambord and your hotel situated 800 metres from thebeautiful Château.

BUDGET CIRCUIT OPTION

Chenonceaux to Candé to Amboise to Chenonceaux3 nights half-board, 3 nights B&B from £699 own travel.This version enables you to visit the fascinating Leonardoda Vinci museum in delightful Amboise or cycle to theVouvray vineyards. Please call for details.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains at St Pierre des Corps,arrive Montrichard lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (5 mins).

Return: Transfer toMontrichard stationincluded (5 mins). Changetrains at St Pierre desCorps and stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.




High season (13 July - 31 August) add £5 per night.

8 night option add £220 per person.

Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.


Château de Chambord

British Rep on hand

Loire DiscoveryDiscover rivers, forests, vineyards and châteaux

TWO CENTRE STAY

Your First HotelArrival BourréYour first three nights are spent at the lovely Château deVallagon in the small village of Bourré on the outskirts ofMontrichard. Enjoy exploring the hotel grounds and taketime for a dip in the pool. The menu is concocted fromlocally sourced food – including mushrooms from thenearby Cave des Rôches à Bourré.!

Day trips (10-30 miles)Visit Chenonceaux with the fabulous château spanning theRiver Cher or cycle to Amboise, a delightful town with itschâteau and Leonardo da Vinci exhibition or choose oneof the longer routes.

Bourré to Chitenay (20 miles) Before you leave Bourré take the opportunity to explorethe cave dwellings originally quarried for stone to build thebeautiful Loire château. Then to Fougères with its lovelymedieval château.

Your Second HotelChitenayYour final four nights are spent in a Belle France favourite,an elegant village auberge whose beautifully presentedcuisine is served in a bright and airy restaurant. In summerthe peaceful hotel gardens are a delightful retreat.

Day trips (10-30 miles)A quiet ride through the tranquil countryside of Solognethrough woodland and past secluded ponds with abundantbirdlife. Or you can visit the châteaux of Chaumont whosepark hosts a garden festival, Cheverny with beautifullypreserved interior, or Chambord the grandest of them all.

B&B OPTION

Six night B&B option available from £674 own travel,based on 3 nights in Amboise and 3 nights inChenonceaux. Please call for details.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains at St Pierre des Corps,arrive Montrichard lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (5 mins).

Return: Transfer toMontrichard stationincluded (20 mins).Change trains at St Pierredes Corps and stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.

Easy cycling along country lanes and the day trips described are just our

suggestions, so you can adapt the route to suit you and explore all faces of

the region from Montrichard on the banks of the River Cher to the peaceful

village of Chitenay.





Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday.


Chitenay

Bourré

Chambord

Cheverny

Chaumont

Cher

Loire

Beuvron

Chenonceaux

AMBOISE

BLOIS

Montrichard

Inset: Amboise

34 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/discovery

British Rep on hand

35 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/leisurely

Along the Leisurely LoireBlois to Saumur

A gentle bike ride following the majestic River Loire from Blois to Saumur

with daily distances never more than 20 miles. Hotels offer genuine French

charm and wonderful regional fare, whilst B&Bs provide an opportunity for

you to discover a ‘local’ restaurant.

Day 1: Arrival BloisB&B at Hôtel Anne de Bretagne in the centre close to the railway station. B&B

Day 2: Blois to Candé (15 miles) Your bicycles will be delivered by our representative, thenexplore the city before you cross the river to cycle westto Candé and a night at the Lion d’Or including eveningmeal. HB

Day 3: Candé to Amboise (15 miles) Cycle along the riverside tracks to Chaumont with time to visit the International Garden Festival, which runs allsummer long. On to Amboise where you stay half board atHôtel le Blason. Perhaps book an extra night if you wish tovisit the Royal Château or Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’smanor, housing an exhibition of his life and work. HB

Day 4: Amboise to Tours (20 miles) Continue to the sprawling city of Tours. Stay at the HôtelChâteaux de la Loire and meander through the old quarterpast lively cafés to find the restaurant of your choice. B&B

Day 5: Tours to Azay-le-Rideau (20 miles) Leave Tours by the Voie Verte cycle route to VillandryChâteau and its ornate medieval vegetable gardens, before continuing to the Auberge Pomme’poire and a homespun evening meal. HB

Day 6: Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon (20 miles) Return to the riverbank and pass the Château d’Ussé,inspiration for Grimms Sleeping Beauty, before heading to Chinon and the Hôtel le Plantagenet. B&B

Day 7: Chinon to Saumur (20 miles) Return to the riverside at the charming village ofMontsoreau with its mushroom caves and head west againinto Saumur, perhaps enjoying a dégustation at one of theriverside wineries before checking in at the Hôtel Anned’Anjou for your final night and evening meal. HB

Day 8: Return to Tours/ChenonceauxTake the train to Tours to connect with your onward railjourney home, or to return to your car parked at our baseat Chenonceaux.





Extra night B&B at Amboise £50 per person.

Starting days: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday.


SAUMUR

BLOIS

Chinon

Candé

Amboise

Azay-le-RideauTOURS

Cher

Vienne

Loire

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains at St Pierre des Corps,arrive Blois late afternoon.

Return: Transfer toSaumur station included(10 mins). Change trainsat St Pierre des Corpsand stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational station late afternoon.

Amboise, a really beautiful medieval village

British Rep on hand

36 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/loirepp

PRESTIGELoire Prestige à PiedEnchanting châteaux and picturesque villages

The Loire is renowned for its châteaux, and you have the chance to live

like a king yourself as you walk from château to château. We grade this

walk as easy, following pathways alongside the river and through vineyards,

rewarded with gourmet food at the end of each day.

Day 1: Arrival Château de ChissayThis imposing 16th century château offers a large outdoor pool, a vaulted dining room and peaceful innercourtyard; a wonderful setting in which to begin yourexploration of the Loire valley.

Day 2: Day trip from Chissay (10 miles)After threading through the ancient village of Chissay,cross open fields and vineyards to Chisseaux and then follow the River Cher to the fabulous Château deChenonceau. After viewing the gardens and interior of thisarchitectural masterpiece, return along the banks of theCher for a second night at the Château de Chissay.

Day 3: Chissay to Amboise (14 miles) A peaceful walk through woodland to Amboise to stay atthe Château de Pray which dates back to the 13th Century,and has a Michellin starred restaurant.

Day 4: Amboise day walk (3 miles)Amble into Amboise and visit Leonardo Da Vinci’sresidence Le Clos Lucé, or stock up on French producein the town. Stay at the luxurious Le Pavillon de Lys andenjoy your meal on the shady terrace with view of theChâteau Royal.

Day 5: Amboise to Noizay (6 miles) A short walk through the fertile fields of the Loire Valleyto the opulent Château de Noizay in the heart of theVouvray vineyards. The hotel gardens house an outdoorpool and tennis courts.

Day 6: Noizay to Vouvray (10 miles) Leaving Noizay walk through vast acres of the Vouvrayvines to the village of Vernou. Then climb the slopes aboveVouvray to reach Château Gaudrelle for a free wine tastingexperience. Finally a short descent through the village toreach the unique hotel Les Hautes Roches, where you mayspend the night in a troglodyte chamber hewn into the cliffface with spectacular views of the mighty River Loire.

Note: In busy periods Château de Chissay may be replaced by Auberge du Bon Laboureur in Chenonceaux.


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains at St Pierre des Corps arrive Montrichard lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (10 mins).

Return: Transfer to St Pierre des Corpsincluded (10 mins),change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.



LOW SEASON from £1586 £1865 £1495


Starting days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.


Loire

Cher

Vouvray Noizay

Montrichard

Chenonceaux

Forêt d’Amboise Chissay

AMBOISE

TOURS

Hôtel Château de ChissayInset: Château de Noizay

British Rep on hand

PRESTIGE

37 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/loirepv

Loire Prestige en VéloTranquil rivers and regal architecture

Luxury holiday staying in elegant accommodation reflecting the style of this

classic region. Explore quiet back roads and visit the fascinating old towns

of Amboise and Blois with time to discover the classic wines of the region.

Graded easy.

Day 1: Arrival Chissay-en-TouraineUpon arrival at this former 16th century fortressoverlooking the river Cher, explore the Renaissancecourtyard and relax by the large outdoor pool, admire theviews from your personalised room, before dining in theGothic style vaulted dining room.

Day 2: Chissay-en Touraine to Amboise(13 miles) Today you’ll have the chance to explore one of the region’smost celebrated château at Chenonceaux. Your hotel isChâteau de Pray, a majestic building nestling in woodland,with a Michellin starred restaurant.

Day 3: Day trip from Amboise (30 miles)Explore the bustling town of Amboise today, resting placeof Leonardo da Vinci, or cycle west along the river Loire to Vouvray, renowned for its sophisticated white wines. Or simply explore the hotel grounds and relax by theoutdoor pool.

Day 4: Amboise to Ouchamps (20 miles) You’ll head cross-country to Chaumont and then follow the path cut by the river Loire to join one of its tributaries,the Beuvron, to reach the Relais des Landes, a restored17th century manor house set in acres of woodedparkland. You’re sure to fully relax in the secluded andpeaceful setting. Covered pool in woodland setting.

Day 5: Day trip from Ouchamps (20 miles)The prestigious historical town of Blois, former residence of kings and bishops, is a pleasant cycle ride fromOuchamps. For a more peaceful option you can headdown to Cheverny to explore the château that was theinspiration for Moulinsart, the château featured in the Tintin comics.

Day 6: Ouchamps to Chissay-en-Touraine(16 miles)Soak up your final views of the Loire countryside as youhead back to the elegant Château de Chissay for your finalnight. Unique to the region and well worth a visit are thecave dwellings carved into the limestone rocks at Bourré.


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains at St Pierre des Corps arrive Montrichard lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (10 mins).

Return: Transfer toMontrichard stationincluded (10 mins).Change trains at St Pierredes Corps and stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.



LOW SEASON from £1490 £1769 £1399


Starting days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday.


Ouchamps

Chissay

Cheverny

AMBOISE

Cher

Beuvron

LoireBLOIS

Chenonceaux

Château de ChevernyInset: Château de Pray

British Rep on hand

Champagne is rich in history – the Kings of France werecrowned in Reims. Visit Epernay, surrounded by aglorious rolling patchwork of green vineyards stitchedwith dazzling white chalk and see the magnificentChampagne Houses - you are at the heart of the mostfamous wine region in the world! Alsace to the east, atthe crossroads of Europe, nestles between the mightyRhine and the Vosges mountains - fiercely French, butslightly German in its tastes and appetites!

Weather

Although winters can be harsh in Champagne and Alsace,summer and autumn are particularly mild given the regions’relatively northerly locations.

Wine and Cuisine

From seafood to chicken, cuisine Champenoise naturallyincorporates Champagne wherever possible. Try PotéeChampenoise, a warming dish of smoked ham, cabbage andsausage. Brie cheese is also local. Alsatian traditional dishesinclude choucroute (sauerkrout), baeckeoffe (potatoes andpork) and delicious flammekueche, made from bread dough,cream, onions and pieces of sliced bacon.

Champagne dominates wine lists in its region and is offeredfor all courses (alongside other choices). In Alsace goodbeer, but also a variety of aromatic white wines areproduced: Riesling, Gewurtztraminer, Muscat and Sylvaner,to mention but a few.


Stay in the former home of the Mercier Champagnefamily? Stand in the footsteps of French Kings in

Reims Cathedral? Or follow the Alsace WineTour through timbered, medieval Colmar?

Discover

Champagne and Alsace

38

PRESTIGE

39 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/champp

Champagne Prestige à Pied

Day 1: Arrival ReimsCheck in at the 4 star Grand Hôtel des Templiers in theheart of old Reims and just a short walk from the famousCathedral. Relax in the pool and spa before you head off to enjoy your meal in a nearby Michelin starred restaurant. HB

Day 2: Reims to Verzy (8 miles) Explore the city centre in the morning before a taxi takesyou out of the city to the Fort de la Pompelle (scene ofmuch fighting during the Great War). Then head off to yourcharming chambre d'hôte where an excellent meal awaits youand your hosts are experts on all things Champagne! HB

Day 3: Verzy to Bouzy (11 miles) Pass along quiet lanes, through vineyards and followthe GR up into the woodland of the Montagne de Reimsbefore descending to the pretty village of Bouzy. Stay atthe quality Chambre d’Hôte Les Barbotines, a ChampagneHouse where you can sample some of the produce beforeyour transfer to nearby Tours-sur-Marne for your eveningmeal. HB

Day 4: Bouzy to Épernay (12 miles) Gently stroll through sleepy villages before a climb on tothe vine-clad hills above the impressive town of Épernay.Descend and stay for two nights at the charming 3-starhotel La Villa Eugène, once the home of the MercierChampagne family. B&B

Day 5: Day in ÉpernayAn opportunity to explore the town of Epernay and visit thefamous Champagne Houses, such as Mercier, Castellane, or Möet et Chandon. Or simply relax by the hotel poolperhaps with a glass of champagne in your hand! B&B witha good selections of restaurants just a short walk away.

Day 6: Épernay to Champillon (10 miles) Stroll through vineyards to Cumières. Perhaps take a boattrip or explore the pretty village of Hautvilliers, and then a couple of miles further to the Château Royal Champagne-Bellevue at Champillon and a truly gourmet dinner. HB

Day 7: Champillon to Rilly-la-Montagne (8 miles) and train to Reims A woodland walk across the Montagne de Reimsdescending to the village of Rilly-la-Montagne with itsPremier Cru Champagne appellation. Take a twenty minutetrain ride into Reims for your final night at the Grand Hôteldes Templiers. B&B

Rail Travel First Class

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and arrive Reimsmid afternoon.

Return: Depart Reimsmid morning, changestations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationalstation late afternoon.

Drinking Champagne in Epernay is like listening to Mozart in Salzburg…

to celebrate your visit to Champagne in the manner it deserves we have

chosen a mix of 3 and 4 star hotels of character and charm with fine foods.

With just a few short climbs - the walk is moderate.



from £1535 £1820 £1444

Starting days: Any except Thursday.


REIMS

Bouzy

Verzy

Rilly-la-Montagne

Montagne de Reims

Tours-sur-Marne

Fort de la Pompelle

Champillon

Inset: Near Tours sur Marne

Bubbly sensations, gourmet restaurants

Épernay

40 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/venture

Venture into the VosgesPagan walls and castles of Mont Sainte Odile in Lorraine

Day 1: Arrival BarrArrive in Barr about 30km southwest of Strasbourg.Explore the old town and museum before settling inat the 3-star Hôtel Hortensias.

Day 2: Barr to Ottrott (12.5 miles) Pass the Landsberg Castle and the ancient paganwall as you rise up Mont Sainte Odile. Perhaps visitthe monastery itself before descending to Ottrott withits remarkable castles. 2-star Hôtel du Moulin.

Day 3: Ottrott to Le Hohwald (12.5 miles) Climb to the summit of Heidenkopf, pass the castles of Kagenfels and Birkenfels to the mountain resort ofHohwald to stay at La Petite Auberge, a comfortable2-star Logis de France hotel.

Day 4: Le Hohwald to Barr (12.5 miles) Pass the castles and village of Andlau and descendthrough vineyards to Barr and your final night backat Hôtel Hortensias.

OPTION

Add an extra night B&B in central Strasbourg and explorethis historic city.

This is a picturesque hike, passing the ancient monastery at Mont

Sainte Odile. You will pass many old castles and ancient Neolithic walls

as you follow tracks across an ever-changing terrain of woodland

and vines.



from £652 £859 £599

Extra night B&B in Strasbourg £75 per person.

Starting days: Any.


Mont Sainte Odile

STRASBOURG

Ottrott

BarrLe Hohwald

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras International,change in Paris or Lille for TGV to Strasbourgarriving late afternoon.Local train to Barr, hotel10 mins on foot.

Return: Depart local trainfrom Barr to Strasbourg,change trains in Paris orLille, arrive St PancrasInternational earlyevening.

Route des Vins d’Alsace

Strasbourg

41 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/alsatian

Alsatian AdventurePicturesque historic towns and scenic country

Delight in the cobbled squares and timbered houses, so beloved of this

distinctive region. You can enjoy easy cycling with moderate distances on

some days as you explore this delightful corner of France, with some short

climbs as you return through the foothills of the Vosges vineyards.

Day 1: Arrival StrasbourgSettle into the Hôtel Dragon situated in the heart of Strasbourg. Ten minutes walk from the rail stationand just a short walk to the old streets of Petite France and the Cathedral area where you’re sure to find arestaurant to your liking. B&B

Day 2: Strasbourg to Osthouse (34 miles) Follow the Canal du Rhone au Rhin, for a tranquil rideout to reach Osthouse, a classically Alsatian town,and the charming half-timbered Hôtel à la Ferme. HB

Day 3: Osthouse to Colmar (41 miles) Pass the beautiful Baroque church of Ebermunstere,through typical Alsace villages to the city of Colmar, famedfor its art and culture. Stay at the Hôtel Beauséjour, closeto the picturesque historic quarter. Book early for an extranight for the Colmar Music Festival during the first twoweeks of July. HB

Day 4: Colmar to Guebwiller (23 miles) Turn away from Mulsheim towards the foothills of theGrand Ballon to arrive at Murbach near Guebwiller and the Hostellerie St Barnabé. HB

Day 5: Guebwiller to Riquewihr (30 miles) At the foot of the Vosges through the wine villagesEguisheim, Turckheim, and Kaysersberg to Riquewihr and the Hôtel Schoenenburg. HB

Day 6: Riquewihr to Obernai (33 miles) Follow the Route des Vins to discover the villages ofHunawhir, Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, Andlau and Boersch to Obernai. Stay at Hôtel à la cour d’Alsace. HB

Day 7: Obernai to Strasbourg (25 miles) Leaving Obernai you pass through Molsheim, whereBugatti cars were built, to return to Strasbourg and yourfinal night B&B at the Hôtel Dragon. B&B

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras International,change in Paris or Lille for TGV to Strasbourgarriving late afternoon.Transfer to hotel 15 minson foot not included.

Return: DepartStrasbourg, change trainsin Paris or Lille, arrive St Pancras Internationalearly evening.



from £1242 £1399 £1189

Extra night B&B in Strasbourg £75 per person.

Starting days: Any.


STRASBOURG

ObernaiOsthouse

Colmar

Riquewihr

Guebwiller

Colmar

The river Saône meanders gracefully through a rollingtapestry of green and gold. Burgundy is studded withforests and vineyards, castles, mosaic roofs andRomanesque churches, whilst timbered villages in thesouth and pale stone villages in the north produce someof France’s finest wines.

Weather

Burgundian summers are long and warm, ideal for ripeningthe grapes, and most of the region’s rain falls in the hillyMorvan area during winter.

Wine and Cuisine

This is a ‘foodie’ region and home to cuisine classique, withmuch of the cooking centred on wine-based sauces knownas meurettes. Boeuf bourgignon, escargots and coq au vinrequire little introduction and Moutarde de Dijon featuresregularly also.

The wine in this region is really outstanding, changing withthe subtleties of the underlying soil. A superb goats cheese,the crottin de chavignol, is perfect with a glass of fullbodied red, perhaps a Côtes de Beaune, with its aromaticbouquet? Côtes du Nuits, is also a well known classic redwith a deep colour. Near Auxerre, Chablis produces itsdelicious flinty, dry white Chardonnay. But don’t ignore themore southerly Mâconnais whites and reds. You really arespoilt for choice.


Sample some of the best wines in France with top-notchcuisine and live like a lord in exquisite hotels or your

very own château? Immerse yourself in some of themost varied countryside in France, amongst

vineyards and honey stone villages by bike oron foot? It is entirely your choice!

Discover

Burgundy

42

PRESTIGE

Igé

Solutré Pouilly

Fuissé

Saint-Amour-Bellevue

Saint-Jean-d’Ardiéres

43 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/macon

Mâcon Prestige à PiedFrom vineyard to vineyard

Day 1: Arrival at Saint-Jean-d’Ardiéres

A personal greeting and explanation of the walk awaitsyou on arrival at the 4 star Château de Pizay. Arrive earlyafternoon and take a stroll around the 75 hectare vineyardor enjoy a moment of relaxation in the spa.

Day 2: Saint-Jean-d’Ardiéres toSaint-Amour-Bellevue (7 miles)

Transfer to Moulin-à-Vent to start the walk amongst gentlehills, visit to a château with its 17th century vaulted cavesand then finish with a private wine tasting, surprisinglyin a converted church. Stay at the luxurious Auberge duParadis in the heart of the village and relax in the spaand pool.

Day 3: Saint-Amour-Bellevue to Fuissé (7 miles)

Beautiful panoramic views of the Peaks of the Lyonnais,the Jura and the Alps and then drop lower to cross throughprestigious vineyards. Of course a wine tasting sessionawaits your arrival. Stay two nights at the 16th CenturyLa Source des Fées in the heart of the village Fuissé.

Day 4: The Spectacular Grand Site de Solutré(9 miles)

Discover the célèbre Pouilly Fuissé region and the GrandSite of the Roche de Solutré. Visit the prehistoric cavemuseum and then enjoy a tasting of 5 Pouilly Fuissé wines.

Day 5: Fuissé to Igé (9 miles)

A walk of varied landscapes: gentle hills, protectedwoodland and prestigious vineyards. To reward yourefforts, enjoy a final wine tasting en route and then finishat the spectacular 13th Century 4-star Château d’Igé,where each room is unique.


Outward: DepartSt Pancras International,change in Paris, arriveearly afternoon at MaçonLoché. Transfer to hotelincluded.

Return: Transfer backto station included,change trains in Parisarrive St PancrasInternational midafternoon.

Prestigious vineyards and imposing châteaux are waiting to be discovered

along this moderately easy walk in Southern Burgundy. A dégustation de

vin en route each day and accommodation in the most beautiful châteaux

hotels and demeures de charme will ensure an unforgettable experience.



LOW SEASON from £1390 £1675 £1299

Starting days: Any except Sunday and Monday.

5 nights (half-board)

Inset: Macon prestigious vineyards Macon Grand Site Solutré

Rhone Ain

DIJON

Fixin

Savigny les Beaune

Clos Vougeot

Beaune

Meursault

Chassey le Camp

Mercurey

Dracy

Nuits St Georges

Wine List WandersFrom vineyard to vineyard

Day 1: Arrival DijonLongstanding capital of Burgundy, Dijon still has a core of picturesque medieval streets. Your 2-star hotel is close to the station. B&B

Day 2: Dijon to Nuits St Georges (11 miles) Transfer to Fixin on the Côtes de Nuits slopes. Walk southalong well-worn footpaths, past historic Clos Vougeot,home to the Brotherhood of Winetasters, beforedescending to your 3-star Logis de France hotel. HB

Day 3: Nuits St Georges to Savigny les Beaune(11 miles)A day of easy walking along quiet country lanes and acrossgently undulating hills, you’ll find world-class vineyards andfamous names all around. HB

Day 4: Savigny les Beaune to Beaune (5 miles) It’s a gentle walk into ancient Beaune, passing above thefamous vineyards of Aloxe Corton. Your pleasant 3-startown hotel is within the city walls. B&B

Day 5: Beaune to Meursault (8 miles) A small detour leads to Pommard and its 14th centurycellars. Then on to the sleepy village of Meursault, one ofBurgundy’s most celebrated wine villages. B&B

Day 6: Meursault to Chassey le Camp (10 miles) You pass very close to the vineyards of Bourgogne Aligoté,then on to Santenay and a stiff climb to a ridge with goodviews of distant vineyards. Then descend to your finalhotel, with swimming pools and a fine restaurant. HB

Day 7: Chassey le Camp to Mercurey (7 miles) A shorter walk today with two or three steep sections asyou climb in and out of the valleys – with time to visit theChâteau at Rully before heading for the pretty wine villageof Mercurey and the 3-star l’Hostellerie du Val d’Or. HB

Day 8: Mercurey to Dracy le Fort (6 miles) Climb out of the valley with wonderful views of vineyards inevery direction then head off along stony tracks and quietlanes to a warm welcome at the 3-star Hôtel Dracy withtime for a swim before another delightful meal. HB

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras International,change stations in Paris,arrive Dijon. Hotel is a 5 minutes walk.

Return: 6 night option:Transfer to Chagny station included (20 mins),change trains in Dijon andstations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationalstation late afternoon.

8 night option: Transfer to Chalon sur Saôneincluded (20 Mins).

A 45 mile walk through a string of villages reading like a wine lover’s wish

list, covering much of the Côtes de Beaune and Côtes de Nuits. A relatively

flat region with just a few climbs the walk is easy to moderate, passing

through rolling vineyards.





8 night option add £200 per person.

Starting days: Any.

6-8 nights (3/5 half-board)

44 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/wanders

CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE

Inset: Beaune region Vineyard, Clos de Vougeot. Bourgogne

45 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/best

Chagny

BuxySaône

BEAUNE

Verdun

Nuits St Georges

Dracy

Chassey-le-Camp

Best of BurgundyFrom bustling Beaune to sleepy villages

Day 1: Arrival BeauneArrive in Beaune and make your way to either Hôtel des Remparts or Hôtel Central. Both in the centre of town with plenty of restaurants nearby. B&B

Day 2: Beaune to Chassey-le-Camp (20 miles) Collect your bicycle from our local agent near the railstation. Cycle through vineyards on quiet lanes through the wine villages of Pommard, Volnay, Meursault, PulignyMontrachet, and Santenay to the Auberge Camp Romainat Chassey-le-Camp. HB

Day 3: Chassey-le-Camp to Dracy-le-Fort(20 miles)Descend into Remigny to join the canal towpath cyclewaypast Chagny to reach Rully. Then quiet lanes to Mercurey,Mellecey and Germolles to Dracy le Fort and Hôtel Dracy,for two nights half board at this 3-star hotel with outdoorpool. HB

Day 4: Day trip from Dracy (20 miles)Today you could simply have a day off beside the pool witha good book or cycle south to wine village of Givry andthen follow the Voie Verte to the medieval village of Buxy.Return through shaded woodland. HB

Day 5: Dracy-le-Fort to Verdun-sur-les-Doubs(20 miles)Follow the cycle track through the Forét du Chalonnais tojoin the canalside path to Fragnes, then cross-country onquiet roads to Verdun sur les Doubs and the HostellerieBourguignonne where a gourmet meal is assured, onenight half board. 3-star hotel with noted restaurant. HB

Day 6: Verdun-sur-les-Doubs to Beaune (25 miles)A ride on quiet roads cross-country and through foresttakes you back to Beaune for your final night B&B.

OPTION

Option for additional one or two nights in Nuits St Georgeswith circuits through the prestigious northern wine villages.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains inDijon, arrive Beaune lateafternoon.

Return: Depart Beaune,change trains in Dijon and stations in Paris,arrive London St PancrasInternational station lateafternoon.

Explore this wonderful region pedalling along quiet lanes packed with

famous vineyards, history and architecture. Mostly moderate gradients

with just a few short steep climbs. Travel at a pace that allows you to

discover the heritage and appreciate how life is really lived in Burgundy.





Extra nights HB add £75 per person per night.

Starting days: Any except Thursday, Friday.

6-8 nights (4 half-board)

Inset: Hospices de Beaune Voie Verte

Burgundy Classic Premier CruRide through renowned vineyard countryside with built-in wine tasting

Day 1: Arrival BeauneArrive in Beaune and go directly to our local agent close to the rail station. Next settle in at 3-star Hôtel de la Paix or Hôtel des Remparts. Dinner is arranged at anearby restaurant. HB

Day 2: Day in BeauneCollection by our Guide for a short tour of the famousspots in Beaune including the famous Hôtel Dieu.Afternoon free to explore this ancient city or take a shortcycle ride. This evening select your own restaurant. B&B

Day 3: Beaune to Puligny Montrachet (25 miles)A great cycle ride along the Hautes Côtes through thevillages of Saint Romain and Orches before descending to Puligny Montrachet with dinner at a prestigious vineyardaccompanied by tasting a selection of wines from fifteendifferent varieties. You stay two nights at the charmingHôtel de la Chouette. HB

Day 4: Day trip from Puligny MontrachetEasy riding along the canal towpath or more challengingrides into the hills provide more wine tasting opportunitiesor simple château visits. A gastronomic dinner atrestaurant Le Montrachet. HB

Day 5: Puligny Montrachet to Morey St Denis (30 miles)Through fields of wheat and sunflowers along the valley or the more challenging Hautes Côtes route to Morey St Denis for two nights at the Castel de Très Girard. HB

Day 6: Day trip around the Cotes de NuitsVisit a number of wine villages including the mostexpensive Romanée Conti and the historic Clos deVougeot. HB

Day 7: Morey St Denis to Beaune (20 miles)Through the blackcurrant fields and the Château deSavigny les Beaune to return to Beaune for your final night at Hôtel de la Paix or Hôtel des Remparts. B&B

Rail Travel



For the wine connoisseur we have teamed up with our local agent to

offer in-depth wine tasting. Cycling can be easy or with more challenging

options through the vineyards of the Hautes Côtes but whichever route

you choose you are sure to come across some famous wine labels.



from £1520 £1879 £1429

Starting days: Any.


46 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cru

BEAUNE

Rully

Morey St Denis

Nuits St Georges

Puligny Montrachet

Meursault

Canal

Saône

PRESTIGEBurgundy Canal CruiseGentle cruise through lush green countryside

Arrive in DijonMeet in central Dijon late afternoon for transfer to your floating hotel for a welcome apéritif before dinner on board.

Day 2: Dijon to Fleurey-sur-OucheGentle passage through picturesque locks and sleepyvillages, after lunch an excursion for an escorted tour ofDijon, seat of the Dukes of Burgundy. Dinner on board.

Day 3: Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Gissey-sur-OuchePass through traditional villages like Pont de Pany, possible excursion to Clos de Vougeot vineyard and private wine-tasting in the ancient cellars at Château laChassagne. Dinner on Board.

Day 4: Gissey-sur-Ouche to BeauneA full day excursion to Beaune for wine-tastings and lunchat a rural restaurant. In the afternoon visit the Hôtel Dieuhospice and explore the old town. Return to the barge fordinner on board.

Day 5: Gissey-sur-Ouche to Pont d’OucheCruise to Saint Victor and La Bussière where you visit the Cistercian Abbey. Late afternoon excursion to themedieval hilltop village of Châteauneuf-en-Auxois withcafés, antique and curiosity shops and spectacularviews. Dinner on board.

Day 6: Pont d’Ouche to VandenesseRelax on board or help negotiate the many locks along this section of canal. Choice of excursions or a game ofPétanque. Captain’s Farewell dinner on board.

Day 7: DepartAfter breakfast disembark for transfer to Dijon for about11.00am. Note that on alternate weeks the cruise is in the reverse direction and the daily itinerary is a samplesubject to change and dependant upon the particularbarge chosen.

A leisurely journey through the rolling countryside, history and viniculture

of Burgundy aboard the 12 berth L’IMPRESSIONNISTE along the Burgundy

Canal west from Dijon and south towards wine capital Beaune and then

to Châteauneuf-en-Auxois.

Prices per person (Based on two sharing) per week

Own Travel Rail Inclusive

from £2890 from £3449

Rail travel includes 1 night B&B in a 4-star hotel in Dijon, at the

start of the holiday.

Starting days: Sunday. Rail travel start Saturday.

6 nights (all-inclusive)

L’Impressionniste


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Dijon lateafternoon. Transfer tobarge included.

Return: Transfer to Dijonstation included. Changestations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationallate afternoon.

47 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cruiseburgundy

PRESTIGEBurgundy Prestige en VéloGear up for some great food

Day 1: Arrival BeauneArrive in the charming city of Beaune, and walk itsold cobbled streets. Stay at the Hôtel le Cep in thecentre of this historic wine capital.

Day 2: Beaune to Chagny (20 miles) Collect your bicycle from our local agent near the railwaystation. Cycle through vineyards on quiet lanes through thewine villages of Pommard, Volnay, Meursault, and PulignyMontrachet, to Chagny and the renowned Hôtel Lameloisewhose restaurant has three Michelin stars – prepare for anexplosion of flavour!

Day 3: Chagny to Verdun-sur-les-Doubs (20 miles)Follow the canalside path to Fragnes, then cross-countryon quiet roads to Verdun sur les Doubs and the HostellerieBourguignonne where a gourmet meal is assured, onenight half board. This 3-star hotel has a noted restaurant.

Day 4: Verdun-sur-les-Doubs to Ladoix (25 miles) A ride on quiet roads cross-country and through foresttakes you to the village of Ladoix Serrigny just north of Beaune for two nights at the Ermitage de Corton, a sumptuous 4-star hotel with pool.

Day 5: Day trip from Ladoix Serrigny (24 miles)Head northwards through the tiny wine villages of theCotes de Nuits before returning through Nuits St Georges.

Day 6: Ladoix Serrigny to BeauneHead across the vineyards to Savigny les Beaune and aftera saunter round the museum and possibly a Grand Crutasting cycle over the hill into Beaune to return your bicycleand a final night at Hôtel le Cep.




Easy cycling through prestigious vineyards offering endless tasting

opportunities with such names as Pommard, Volnay, Meursault and Puligny

Montrachet to name just a few. Stay at delightful hotels offering gourmet

menus – an opportunity for some classic French cuisine.



LOW SEASON from £1530 £1749 £1439


Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (Tuesday July to

September only).


48 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/burgundypv

Saône

Canal

BEAUNE

Verdun

Nuits St Georges

Ladoix Serrigny

Chagny

Inset: Hôtel le Cep

PRESTIGE

DIJON

Fixin

Ladoix Serrigny

Beaune

Puligny Montrachet

Chagny

Nuits St Georges

Burgundy Prestige à PiedRolling vineyards and ancient châteaux

Day 1: Arrival DijonBurgundy is world renowned for its wines and gastronomy, with Dijon as its capital. Your hotel for theevening is the 4-star Hostellerie du Chapeau Rouge, a charming 15th Century residence at the foot of theRomanesque cathedral. Memorable dinner in the Michelinstarred restaurant.

Day 2: Dijon to Nuits St Georges (10 miles) Today starts with a transfer to Fixin to begin your walkpast famous name vineyards including Gevrey-Chambertin.Follow level tracks and rise up onto the hautes cotes forlovely views to reach Nuits St Georges. Stay at theprestigious chambre d’hôte Demeure de Loizy, and eatat the gourmet restaurant La Lambric next door.

Day 3: Nuits St Georges to Ladoix Serrigny(10 miles) Detour into the centre of Nuits St Georges this morning,before heading into the vine-clad hills for a relatively easywalk along quiet lanes. Your stay tonight is at Les Paulandsor the Ermitage de Corton both with pools and situated atthe edge of vineyards at Ladoix Serrigny.

Day 4: Ladoix Serrigny to Beaune (6.5 miles) Today starts with an easy walk to the little town of Savigny,then it’s a gentle descent into Beaune. Visit the Hospicesde Beaune whose multicoloured roofs house a fascinatingmuseum. We have chosen the Hôtel Le Cep for tonight’sstay. This prestigious hotel has been welcoming travellersfor centuries.

Day 5: Beaune to Puligny Montrachet (12 miles) Back into the gentle hills and undulating tracks amongstvineyards for a walk which should take no more than 6 hours. Settle into the Hôtel Le Montrachet which offersgourmet menus and an excellent wine cave. Why notsample a local vintage with your meal.

Day 6: Puligny Montrachet to Chagny (8 miles) Take the pathways through the vineyards to Remigny,from where you follow a peaceful towpath along the Canal du Centre to Chagny. Lameloise, your luxury hotelawaits, where you can enjoy a final taste of Burgundy inthe gourmet restaurant which boasts three Michelin Stars.


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Dijonstation late afternoon.Hotel is 5 mins walkfrom the station.

Return: Hotel is 5 minswalk from Chagny station,change trains in Dijon and stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational stationlate afternoon.

A luxury holiday staying in prestigious hotels and converted châteaux.

Walking is relatively easy to moderate along fairly even earth tracks and

quiet lanes with vineyards all around. Undulating hills necessitate some

short climbs but with compensating views!



LOW SEASON from £1470 £1689 £1379


Starting days: Saturday, Tuesday, Wednesday.


49 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/burgundypp

Inset: Hôtel le Cep

Miles of magnificent sandy coastline, oyster beds andfragrant pine forests, the glorious peace of the MaraisPoitevin and the gastronomic delights of beautifulCognac and Marennes all await you in Charente. Contrastthis with an idyllic pastoral landscape of honey-colouredhamlets and glittering lakes which belie the Limousin’spast of fierce battles and sieges and you will see themany appeals of this region.

Weather

The Poitou-Charentes has one of the highest sunshinerecords in France, almost that of Corsica, thanks to theGulf Stream, benefiting neighbouring Limousin with a mildand gentle climate for its hilly terrain.

Wine and Cuisine

From the waterways come fish such as tench, pike-perch(Sandre) as well as large quantities of eels sautéed in garlicor enjoyed in soup. Oysters of course are also popular.By contrast Limousin cuisine centres on top quality beef,charcuterie, cheese (try La Joncheix) and batter puddings.

Over-shadowed by the nearby Médoc wines, grapes aregrown here from which Cognac is distilled. Light, fruitywines from Haut Poitou, Deux-Sèvres and Charente areworth trying and Pineau des Charentes, a fresh apéritifof grape juice and cognac.


See the castle under siege in Richard the Lionheart’s laststand? Explore the serenity of the France’s Green Venice

on 2 wheels, see caves with Neolithic wall-paintings,or inhale the Cognac fumes amongst the aged oak

barrels of the famous distilleries?

Discover

Charente and Limousin

50

51 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/waterways

Charente WaterwaysTrailing willows and emerald waters

Day 1: Arrival NiortSettle into your hotel, situated close to Niort’s main square. There’s plenty of history on offer; why not explorethe remnants of the 15th century keep?

Day 2: Day trip from Niort (28 miles)A pleasant day trip which takes you along the slow movingwaters and canals of the ‘Green Venice’. Why not hire a boat to discover its network of emerald green waterwaysbefore heading back to Niort.

Day 3: Niort to Fontenay le Comte (28 miles) Your leisurely exploration of the watery labyrinth of theMarais Poitevin continues as you head towards Fontenaythrough peaceful back lanes. Pass by quiet waterwaysscattered with water lilies, and home to a variety ofmigratory birds. Visit one of the last working watermills at Nieul sur l’Autise.

Day 4: Day trip Fontenay le Comte (10-30 miles)Today you have the chance to explore the historic Merventforest, rich in oak and chestnut. It’s a hilly ride offeringidyllic views over flatlands and lakes. ‘One of France’sprettiest villages’, the village of Vouvant is worth exploring.Or why not take it easy and just wander around Fontenayitself, soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 5: Fontenay to La Rochelle (41 miles) There are only a handful of bridges across the marshes, sothe run to La Rochelle is longish, but flat. Your day beginsalong the Autise river as you pass low-roofed houses andhead for the small port of Marans. You may wish to learnmore about the region’s culture at ‘La Maison du PetitPoitou’ in Chaillé-les-Marais, or stop at the mussel farm inEsnandes. As you approach La Rochelle the wetlands giveway to sand dunes and fresh marine air. Your hotel islocated in a prime position in the picturesque old port.

Day 6: Day trip from La Rochelle (20-55 miles)The idyllic Ile de Ré is well worth a visit, explore the wholeisland (16 miles long) or just relax on one of its white sandybeaches. In the evening enjoy the sunset over the Atlanticbefore dining in the restaurant with panoramic views overthe town of La Rochelle.

A linear tour through the network of quiet waterways and tranquil

canals, pretty villages and sandy beaches, ending up in the lovely port

of La Rochelle. Cycling is mostly flat, with some enjoyable climbs and

many dedicated cycle trails that criss-cross the Venice Verte.





Starting days: Saturday, Sunday. July and August - any day.


La Rochelle

Fontenay le Comte

Ile de Ré

Vouvant

Nieul sur l’Autise

MaransNIORT

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Niort earlyevening. Transfer fromstation to hotel notincluded – 10 minuteswalk.

Return: Hotel is 400mfrom La Rochelle station,change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational stationearly evening.

Inset: Niort church and ancient market La Rochelle

PRESTIGE

52 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/perigord

Périgord Prestige en VéloNEW Rewarding cycling and gourmet eating in the Périgord Vert

Cycle through the beautiful, wooded Périgord-Limousin Natural Park before

spending a couple of nights in the magical Moulin du Roc with it’s Michelin

Star restaurant near to Brantôme. Visit ancient châteaux and pre-historic

caves or perhaps hire a canoe to paddle around the ‘Venice of Périgord’.

Day 1: Arrival MontbronYour holiday begins at the Château Lavaud justoutside Montbron, a delightful château chambre d‘hôtein a peaceful park with swimming pool. HB

Day 2: Day trip to La Rochefoucauld (26 miles) Ride over the hill to the Bandiat valley then along an oldrailway track Voie Verte to La Rochefoucauld with itsimpressive château - maybe dress in medieval garb foryour visit! Afterwards return along the Tardoire river valleyback to the Château Lavaud. HB

Day 3: Montbron to St-Saud (25 miles) Cross into the Dordogne for a coffee stop in the ancientvillage of Varaignes before climbing over rolling hills tothe leisure lake at St-Estephe. Take a picnic or enjoy ameal in the lakeside bar/restaurant. Enjoy 2 nights at theHostellerie St-Jaques in the village of St-Saud. HB

Day 4: Day trip from St-Saud (25 miles) Hilly but beautiful ride to Nontron to explore this charmingmarket town with ancient château and knife-makingmuseum, or take a shorter circular ride through quietforests and past gleaming lakes.

Day 5: St-Saud to Champagnac (28 miles) Some steady climbing followed by equally long descentsto a Voie Verte cycle trail. Stay on the trail to the lunchspot at St-Jean-de-Cole, one of the most beautiful villagesin France, or divert to the spectacular caves at Villars onthe way. A short afternoon ride brings you to the magicalMoulin du Roc in Champagnac where you stay fortwo nights.

Day 6: Day trips from Champagnac(22 or 35 miles)Pedal off to the ‘Venice of Périgord’, Brantôme and followthe river to the pretty medieval village of Bourdeilles, orcycle along the River Trincou to the Grottes de Villars,with its prehistoric cave paintings.

Day 7: Champagnac to Montbron (35 miles)Cycle back on quiet lanes, over open rolling countryto Montbron, or alternatively spend a final morning inBrantôme maybe taking a riverboat cruise or try your handin a kayak. You will be collected after lunch for transferback to the Château Lavaud for your final night. HB


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and arrive atAngoulême station lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (20 mins).

Return: Transfer todepart from Angoulême,change stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational stationmid afternoon.



LOW SEASON from £1360 £1693 £1290

Starting days: Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday.


Montbron

St-Saud

Champagnac

Nontron

Rochechouart

Brantôme

River Dronne at BrantômeInset: La Rochefoucauld

English Speaking Rep on hand

ANGOULÊME

Rochechouart

Massignac

Châlus

Oradour

Montbron

Limousin Lakes and CastlesPeaceful cycling in the footsteps of Richard the Lionheart

With a backdrop of forested hills and river valleys, you pedal along quiet

lanes through honey coloured hamlets, past glittering lakes and 900 year

old castles that have witnessed many battles and sieges. Some moderate

climbs offer great views and long descents.

Day 1: Arrival MassignacYour holiday begins at the charming Château dela Redortière close to the Lacs de Haute Charente.Enjoy home cooking and cheese made at thechâteau’s own farm.

Day 2: Massignac to Montbron (28 miles)Circle the lake’s nature reserve, the source of theRiver Charente, stopping at a leisure beach before lunchin Massignac. In the afternoon, ride through the rollingcountryside before the long descent to the delightfulChâteau de Lavaud with a heated pool.

Day 3: Day trip to La Rochefoucauld (26 miles)An easy ride partly along a converted railway line tothe pretty town of La Rochefoucauld with its picturesquechâteau and cobble bridge over the Tardoire river.Return along a river valley road to Château Lavaud.

Day 4: Montbron to Oradour-sur-Vayres (25 miles)Climb into Rouzede and descend to the River Tardoire.Pass peaceful small lakes to St Mathieu for lunch or shopfor a picnic to enjoy by the lake. A steady climb brings youto Oradour and the Hostellerie le Bergerie chambre d’hôte.

Day 5: Day trip to Châlus (25 miles)You pass the impressive Château de Montbrun beforereaching Châlus and the little castle during the siegeof which Richard the Lionheart was fatally wounded.Follow the voie-verte cycle track back to Oradour.

Day 6: Oradour to Rochechouart (22 miles)Cycle through peaceful countryside to St Laurent and on toSt Auvent for lunch. Pass the Château de Saint Auvent andcontinue to the town of Rochechouart with its impressivecastle perched on a cliff and an unusual church with atwisted spire. Stay at the delightful town centre chambred’hôte La Roseraie.

OPTION

Add an extra night in Rochechouart to explore the townand visit the nearby Roman Baths at Chassenon, aninternationally renowned site. £55 per person HB.

Add a day or two of painting tuition at the beautifulchambre d’hôte Les Trois Chênes, call for details.

Rail Travel

Outward: DepartSt Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and arriveAngoulême station lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (45 mins).

Return: Transfer todepart from Angoulême,change station in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational stationmid afternoon.





Extra night at Château de Lavaud add £105 per person.

Starting days: Saturday or Tuesday.


53 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/castles

Rochechouart


PRESTIGEUPGRADE

54 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/classic

Classic Cognac à PiedDiscover the classic Cognacs of Charente

The walking is gentle following the River Charente as it meanders

from Angoulême to Cognac through a peaceful landscape of vineyards.

Plenty of opportunity to sample some of the great names of Cognac

and complimentary tickets to visit Hennessy Cognac are included.

Day 1: Arrival AngoulêmeCheck in at the elegant Mercure Hôtel de France opposite Les Halles within the old Angoulême Remparts.Accommodation is B&B and close by you’ll find a labyrinthof narrow streets bustling with pavement restaurants foryour evening meal or simply choose the hotel restaurant.

Day 2: Angoulême to Asnières-sur-Nouère (12.5 miles) Leaving the Angoulême suburbs a rural walk to Asnièresand the Hostellerie du Maine Brun, a converted water mill estate. HB

Day 3: Asnières-sur-Nouère to Bassac (10 miles) You will be transferred to Le Simeux to commence today’swalk. Cross the river at Châteauneuf, then follow the GRthrough woodland and crossing the river into Bassaccontinue to the charming Hôtel l’Essille in the centre ofthe village. HB

Day 4: Bassac to Cognac (12 miles) From Bassac continue your walk into Jarnac and perhapsvisit the Maison Courvoisier before following the RiverCharente to the outskirts of Cognac, where you stay at Le Domaine de l’Echassier for two nights. HB

Day 5: Day Trip into Cognac Town (4 miles)A short walk to explore the town and visit the famousCognac Distilleries such as Hennessy or Rémy Martin. We include complimentary tickets to visit HennessyCognac. HB

Day 6: Day in AngoulêmeTransfer by taxi back to Angoulême for a final night at theHôtel de France giving time to explore this historic city.B&B

OPTION

Day 4: You may choose to upgrade to the Château del’Yeuse, a 4-star hotel with mouthwatering menus. Bothhotels have outdoor pools.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras InternationalStation, change stationsin Paris arrive Angoulêmelater afternoon. Hotel iswithin walking distance of the station.

Return: DepartAngoulême station,change stations in Paris,arrive London St Pancrasmid afternoon. Prices per person (Based on two sharing)




Upgrade to 4-star 2 nights HB Cognac £160 per person.

Extra night B&B in Angoulême £79 per person.

Starting days: Not Sundays.


COGNAC

Bassac

ANGOULÊME

Asnières

Charente

Cognac


55 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cognac

Classic Cognac CyclingFine Brandy and easy cycling

Follow the meandering River Charente and cycle through prestigious

Cognac vineyards with opportunities to taste the finest brands including

a visit to the famous Hennessy Cognac house. Gentle hills provide

scenic views.

Day 1: Arrival Asnières-sur-NouèreYour holiday begins at the Hostellerie Maine Brun inpeaceful countryside just 5 miles northwest of Angoulême.This 3-star hotel has an outdoor pool.

Day 2: Asnières to Bassac (20 miles) Head north to Dorgeville and the impressive RomanAmphitheatre then on to Rouillac for lunch. Continue viaMerignac to reach Bassac and the Hôtel l’Essille withlovely gardens and locally renowned restaurant.

Day 3: Day trip from Bassac (21 miles)Follow the river to St Simon and visit the Gabare boatmuseum with optional short riverboat trip. Cycle toSt Simeux for lunch before continuing to Châteauneuf andcircling through pretty hamlets on your return to Bassac.

Day 4: Bassac to Cognac (25 miles) Pass through Jarnac, perhaps visiting the Courvoisierdistillery and François Mitterand Museum. Head southto Segonzac and back through Roissac to your hotelat Châteaubernard on the outskirts of Cognac. Domainede l’Echassier had an outdoor pool or maybe upgradeto the luxurious Château de l’Yeuse.

Day 5: Day trip from Cognac (30 miles)Ride through mainly Pineau producing vineyards and lushforests past the Abbey de Fontdouce to St Bris des Bois.Follow a small river valley to rejoin the banks of theCharente for a lunch stop. Continue along the banks of theriver skirting the town of Cognac through Châteaubernard.Or instead choose to take an in-depth tour of the city andsome serious Cognac tasting with complimentary ticketsto the Hennessy Cognac house.

Day 6: Cognac to Asnières (26 miles) Meander along the valley of the Charente to St Simon andthen cross country to return to the Hostellerie Maine Brunfor your final night.

OPTIONS

Add an extra stop between Bassac and Cognac at theChâteau de Mesnac, a period chambre d’hôte where yourhost will guide you enthusiastically through a Cognactasting and provide an evening meal from their ownseasonal fresh produce.

Upgrade to the 4-star Château de l’Yeuse at Cognac.




High season (13 July - 31 August) add £30. Extra night at Mesnac

add £150. Upgrade to 4-star 2 nights HB Cognac £160 per person.

Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.


COGNACBassac

Mesnac

JarnacCharente

ANGOULÊME

Asnières

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris to arrive inAngoulême late afternoon.Transfer to hotel included.(20 mins).

Return: Transfer todepart from Angoulême,change stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational station late afternoon.

Vineyards near Cognac

7 night holiday

Inset: Chateau de Mesnac


The Dordogne is a stunning area dramatically scatteredwith castles, fortresses and cliff hugging villageswatching over meandering rivers. One of the earliestcradles of civilisation, there are widespread prehistoricremains including ancient cave paintings. To its west arethe flatter, undulating vineyard plains reaching acrossthrough Bordeaux to the Atlantic coast. Mile upon mile ofthe finest claret names unfold here from Château Pétrusin Pomerol to Château Margaux in the Haut-Médoc.

Weather

The plateaux of the Dordogne make for cold wintersand hot summers, with the valleys being more temperate.Autumn comes late and is usually pleasant and calm.

Wine and Cuisine

Despite a superb gastronomic reputation, it’s quite easy tofind remarkably good value food at all levels. Specialitiesinclude truffles, foie gras and confit de canard (duckpreserved in its own fat) and Roquefort cheese.

Try wine from Souillac (equivalent to a Bordeaux-styleBergerac) or the fuller, more robust Cahors. Bergerac Sec isa good dry white and Monbazillac a sweet, golden coloureddessert wine with a divine honeyed flavour. Further west,88% of the Bordeaux wine production is red, much ofwhich is reasonably priced, but don’t forget the sweet whiteSauternes with your dessert.


Walk in the steps of pilgrims to Rocamadour? See thebison a caveman painted on his wall 19,000 years

ago? Wonder at the castles perched atop the cliffsof a deep river gorge? Cycle to the Dune du Pyla

or cruise the Canal Latéral?

Discover

Dordogne and Aquitaine

56

57 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/dordcycle

PRESTIGE

Grand scenery and grand hotels

Dordogne Prestige en Vélo



LOW SEASON from £1616 £1995 £1525


Starting days: Any day except Saturday by rail.

Day 1: Arrival Souillac and Château de la TreyneSettle in to the luxurious château and look forwardto a gourmet meal.

Day 2: La Treyne to Coly (30 miles)Our agent delivers your bikes and off you go throughSouillac and into remote countryside on the way to Coly and the Manoir de Hautegante.

Day 3: Coly to Les Eyzies (33 miles)Cycle through the pretty Périgord villages including SaintLéon sur Vézère, before descending to Les Eyzies to staytwo nights at Hôtel les Glycines.

Day 4: Day Trip from Les Eyzies (16 miles)Perhaps explore the nearby prehistoric cave paintings orcycle along the river to Le Bugue, Limeuil and Trémolat.

Day 5: Les Eyzies to Domme (24 miles)A cross-country ride takes you through Sarlat an ancienttown worthy of a visit before continuing to Domme andthe Hôtel l’Esplanade for two nights.

Day 6: Day Trip from Domme (10-14 miles)Cycle to La Roque Gageac and the stunning château at Beynac. You may prefer to leave the saddle and hire a canoe to paddle down the river from nearby Vitrac.

Day 7: Domme to Château de la Treyne(25 miles)Follow the shady banks of the Dordogne to Souillactoreach the Château de la Treyne for your final night.From the cliff tops, this magnificent castle overhangsthe Dordogne in a spectacular setting. Final night tolinger over a sumptuous meal as you relax and lookback on the highlights of your holiday.


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations inParis, arrive Souillac earlyevening. Transfer to hotelincluded (30 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer toSouillac station included(30 mins), change stationsin Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational station earlyevening.

An undulating landscape of forested hills and dramatic gorges. This is

classic Dordogne scenery green, sometimes dramatic and rocky and

scattered with honey, turreted castles and farms – truly a fairytale

landscape! A great ride for the cycling enthusiast


La Roque Gageac

Souillac

Les Eyzies

Coly

Dordogne

Domme

La Treyne






8 night option add £200.

Starting days: Any except Saturday by rail.

58 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/drama

Drama of the DordogneRocky crags and gorgeous gorges

Day 1: Arrival SouillacSettle in at La Vieille Auberge, a quaint 3-star hoteltucked away in a quiet street. Take a dip in the poolor stroll the pretty streets of this old stone-built town.

Day 2: Souillac to Meyronne (9-18 miles) To reach the charming 3-star Hôtel la Terrasse you can opt to cycle along the flat and peaceful riverside or rise up on to the limestone plateau with its spectacular views.Either one immerses you in wonderful Dordogne scenery.

Day 3: Day trip from Meyronne (18 miles)Take a trip out to Gluges wedged below soaring cliffs,where you might swim in the Dordogne. Stop at the idyllicvillage of Cressye with its watermill, once a port on theDordogne.

Day 4: Meyronne to Rocamadour (9-24 miles)Either go straight to Rocamadour and spend the dayexploring this fascinating town hanging on the cliff-side or head off to the dramatic Gouffre de Padirac and itsunderground rivers. This really is classic Dordogne.

Day 5: Day trip from Rocamadour (18 miles)Explore this intriguing town which clings to limestone cliffsand is full of little chapels, grottoes and hidden nooks.Alternatively, head off to Gramat across fragrant scrubland,a site that has been inhabited since prehistoric times.

Day 6: Rocamadour to Souillac (9 miles) Visit La Cave with its amazing rock formations andunderground pools and rivers. Stop at the beautiful BelCastel with wonderful panoramas before returning toSouillac. There, you might find time to visit the NationalCollection of Automata and Robotic Toys!

8 NIGHT OPTION

Add 2 nights in Carennac.

On Day Four cycle from Meyronne 13 miles to picturesqueCarennac. On Day Five a 20 mile day trip to Collonges-la-Rouge and medieval Turenne.

Rail Travel



The meandering valley of the Dordogne is a visual feast, honey-coloured

villages, slowly crumbling in picturesque disorder typify this delightful

region. Graded challenging, as although the valleys and plateaux are

fairly flat, there are sharp inclines between the two.


Dordogne

SOUILLAC

Rocamadour

Meyronne

Ouysse

Carennac

extra 2 nights






Extra night HB in Vitrac £90.


59 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/exploration

Dordogne ExplorationPrehistoric treasures and stunning valleys

Day 1: Arrival SouillacSettle in at La Vieille Auberge, a charming, rambling 3-star hotel, set in the pretty little town of Souillac by theriver Dordogne. Make the most of the hotel’s facilities -take a dip in the heated outdoor pool.

Day 2: Souillac to Laval de Jayac (19 miles) Today’s route takes you away from the hustle and bustle ofthe main tourist attractions as you head for the family-run2-star Hôtel Coulier in Laval de Jayac, with time to relax bythe pool before sampling some regional fare.

Day 3: Laval de Jayac to Les Eyzies (29 miles) First stop is Saint Genies whose golden stone buildingstypify the Périgord, next comes the pretty village of SaintLéon sur Vézère, an idyllic spot for refreshments, beforethe last leg to Les Eyzies. Two nights at the tranquil 2-starHôtel de France - find time to dip in the welcoming pool.

Day 4: Day trip from Les Eyzies (16 miles)Les Eyzies has so much to offer that you may choose toexplore the cave paintings or the magnificent Grotte duGrand Roc. Or a lovely cycle trip along the river that takesin the villages of Le Bugue, Limeuil and Trémolat.

Day 5: Les Eyzies to Vitrac (21 miles) You now leave behind the picturesque green valleys tospend time in Sarlat, a wonderful market town. Yourdestination is the 2-star Hôtel Plaisance at nearby Vitrac.

Day 6: Day trip from Vitrac (9-13 miles)Head for La Roque Gageac, nestled in the cliffs on a bendin the river, then on to Beynac with its stunning château.You may want to take a detour to Domme, where a steepclimb is rewarded with stunning views. Take time to enjoythe covered, heated pool.

Day 7: Vitrac to Souillac (20 miles) A pleasant journey along the shady banks of the Dordognetakes you back to Souillac, with chances to admire thechâteaux of Montfort and Fénélon en route.

Take an extra night at Vitrac to spend a day canoeing. You can hire a local canoe or kayak for around 20€ per day - includes transfer back to the hotel in the afternoon.(For competent swimmers, minimum age eight).

Rail Travel



Dramatic castles, cliff hugging villages and mysterious grottoes make for

an exhilarating ride through an enchanting landscape just waiting to be

explored. The Dordogne countryside means that there are regular inclines,

but you’re never climbing for too long!


Laval de Jayac

Les Eyzies

DordogneVitrac

SOUILLAC

Inset: Beynac


60 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/tranquil

Carennac

Mézels

MeyronneFloirac

Dordogne

Gouffre deReveillon

St SozySOUILLAC

Lacave

Rocamadour






Tranquil DordogneMystical rivers and hidden valleys

Day 1: Arrival MeyronneThe 3-star Hôtel la Terrasse is an 11th century château set in the heart of a village overlooking the Dordogne.Relax by the pool before dining on the vine-coveredterrace.

Day 2: Day trip from Meyronne (6 miles)Take what the French call a ‘mise en jambes’; a short warmup walk along spectacular cliffs with wonderful views, thenfollow the narrow riverside paths back to the hotel.

Day 3: Meyronne to Carennac (13 miles) Head towards the picturesque town of Carennac and upon to the dramatic Causses, the rugged plateau of scrub,gnarled oak and juniper, gradually descending back to riverlevel and your hotel for the night Hostellerie Fenelon.

Day 4: Day trip from Carennac (6.5 miles)It’s worth the effort to reach the pretty village of Mézels for the beautiful views. Or simply spend the day exploringCarennac with its picturesque tiled roofs and art exhibitions.

Day 5: Carennac to Rocamadour (14 miles) Although this is the longest walk, the going is mostly easy,through woods and across open country. Descend into theold medieval town, clinging to the sheer limestone spur,to stay in the characterful Best Western Hôtel Beau Site.

Day 6: Day trip from Rocamadour (10 miles)Descend steeply into the Alzou Canyon past crumblingwatermills. The scenery is absolutely stunning, and thereare plenty of photo opportunities before returning tothe hotel.

Day 7: Rocamadour to Meyronne (8.5-12 miles) Return to Meyronne through a charming flat valley winding under cliffs past ancient weirs and watermills.Follow the limestone hills to Meyronne and your final stayat La Terrasse, a firm favourite with our customers.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains inParis, arrive Souillac earlyevening. Transfer to hotelincluded (30 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer toSouillac station included(30 mins), changestations in Paris, arriveSt Pancras Internationalstation early evening.

An exciting landscape of green fertile valleys and dramatic cliffs dominated

by the Dordogne river which meanders past vineyards, pretty villages and

brooding castles. The walk is graded moderate as distances are longer

with a few climbs rising 150 m.


Inset: Rocamadour


PRESTIGE

Martel

La TreyneMeyronne

SOUILLAC

Rocamadour



LOW SEASON from £1520 £1899 £1429

High season (13 July - 31 August) add £40. No lone travellers.


61 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/dordogne

Dordogne Prestige à PiedSpectacular Dordogne combined with special hotels

Day 1: Arrival MartelRelais Sainte Anne - a delightful hotel located in the heart of the charming, medieval town of Martel known as the town of the Seven Towers.

Day 2: Day trip from Martel (7 miles)A circular route to discover the pretty hamlet of Murel with it’s Romanesque church before heading off up thevalley of Doue.

Day 3: Martel to Meyronne (7 miles) Today your route takes you via Mont Mercou with splendidviews of the Dordogne valley – stay tonight at the charmingHôtel La Terrasse – wonderful food and splendid viewsalong the Dordogne River.

Day 4: Day trip from Meyronne (7 miles)A circular route with breathtaking views of the peaks ofthe Roc des Monges, then return to Meyronne on a narrowwalk way cut in to the cliff passing prehistoric shelters.

Day 5: Meyronne to Rocamadour (8 miles) Today’s walk takes you out of the Dordogne valley and intothe Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy and thespectacular town of Rocamadour which clings precariouslyonto the cliff edge. Stay in the lovely Hôtel les Vieilles Toursin peaceful countryside above the town.

Day 6: Day trip from Rocamadour (9 miles)A wonderful circuit which takes you into the splendid Alzougorges past ancient mills, and return along quiet, rockyfootpaths across the plateau.

Day 7: Rocamadour to La Treyne (10 miles) Today descend towards Lacave through the rock canyonsof the valley of Ouysse passing a succession of mills andpits, continue to the Château de Treyne: a noble residencebuilt originally in the 14th century this beautiful hotel sitson top of a cliff majestically overhanging the splendidDordogne River. Final night to linger over a sumptuousmeal as you recap on the best bits of your holiday.

Day 8: DepartTransfer to rail station or back to Martel to collect your car.


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains inParis, arrive Souillac earlyevening. Transfer to hotelincluded (30 mins).


Spectacular views as the walk takes you through the splendid scenery of

the Quercy Natural Park past rocky overhanging cliffs with wonderful views

across the Dordogne River – graded a moderate walk as there are some

steep sections.


Inset: Hôtel Château de Treyne Quercy Natural Park

Dordogne


62 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/garonne




Starting days: Any.

Canal de Garonne en VéloNEW A tale of two cities

Day 1: Arrive BordeauxSettle in to your hotel and take time to explore thiswonderful city known as ‘Little Paris’, because of itsstone mansions and smart city centre terraces. Culture,art and music play a large part in the life of this vibrant city.Wonderful choice of restaurants and excellent wines! B&B

Day 2: Bordeaux to St Martin de Lerm (38 miles)Discover the Entre-Deux-Mers regions - leave Bordeauxon the track that runs along the Garonne River. Then windthrough the hillsides past the magnificent fortified townsof Creon and Sauveterre de Guyenne. Tonight stay in acharming chambre d’hôte. HB

Day 3: St Martin de Lerm to Meilhan surGaronne (20 to 30 miles) Today you join the scenic route that runs along the Canalde Garonne. This beautiful route crosses vineyards andforests. In the late afternoon arrive to a warm welcomeat your charming chambre d’hôte. HB.

Day 4: Meilhan sur Garonne to Sérignac-sur-Garonne (34 miles)Cycle through orchards in the rich valley of the Garonne.The beautiful route takes you past the pretty towns ofBuzet-sur-Baise and Le Mas d’Agenais. The day endsin the picturesque village of Serginac with its half-timberhouses. Expect a warm welcome at your 3 star hoteland enjoy an excellent meal this evening. HB

Day 5: Sérignac to Moissac (28 miles)Cycle through beautiful scenery along this easy stretchshaded by plane trees. You will discover sites such as:The canal bridge on the Baise, the aqueduct Agen Auvillarand Lake Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave before arriving in your3 star hotel with panoramic views of the Garonne. HB.

Day 6: Moissac to Toulouse (40 miles)This peaceful final stage shaded by plane trees has alively ending in the heart of the city. Toulouse is nicknamedthe “Pink City” because of the vivid red bricks used tobuild it. Tonight stay in a comfortable 3 star hotel. B&B

OPTION

Why not take an extra day in Bordeaux or Toulouse£65.00 per person per night B&B.

Rail Travel

Outward: DepartSt Pancras Internationalstation, change stationsin Paris and arrive inBordeaux early evening.A short walk to your hotel.

Return: Depart Toulousemid-morning, changestations in Paris and arrivein St Pancras Internationallate afternoon.

The Canal de Garonne connects the historic cities of Bordeaux and Toulouse,

the Garonne River meets the canal some 30 miles from the wine capital.

Follow shady cycle paths through forests, medieval towns and vineyards and

enjoy a wealth of French delights! Easy flat cycling and moderate distances.

6 nights (4 half board)

Inset: Skyline of Bordeaux

TOULOUSE

Moissac

Sérignac-sur-Garonne

Meilhan sur Garonne

Saint Martin de Lerm

BORDEAUX

Canal de Garonne

PRESTIGE

Tranquillity in the depths of Aquitaine

63 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cruisegascony

Gascony Canal Cruise



from £2410 from £3049

Rail inclusive Saturday arrival is 7 nights to include 1 night B&B in

a 4-star hotel in Toulouse at the start of the holiday.

Starting days: Sunday.

The luxury barge ROSA offers comfortable en suite accommodation

for up to 8 passengers cruising the Canal Latéral through the peaceful

Gascony countryside. The ROSA featured in Rick Stein’s TV series

The French Odyssey.

Sample itinerary (or reverse)

Day 1: Toulouse to MontaubanTransfer at 4.00pm from central Toulouse to the mooring at Montauban for a Champagne Welcome aboard the ROSA. Time to look around the old town on the banks of the River Tarn before dinner on board.

Day 2: Montauban to MontechA flight of ten locks skirting the Forest of Agres brings youto Montech. In the afternoon enjoy a minibus excursion to the Château Bellevue la Forêt for a wine-tasting in theCôtes du Frontonnais. Return to the barge for a game ofBoules before dinner on board.

Day 3: Montech to CastelsarrasinAccompany the chef around the weekly market inMontech. Sail on to Castelsarrasin and join a short drive to Angeville and Ferme des Jauberts to sample foie grasaccompanied by Armagnac. Return for dinner on board.

Day 4: Castelsarrasin to MoissacCross the River Tarn by aqueduct before descending astaircase of locks to moor for lunch below an old watermillon the River Tarn. At St Nicholas de la Grave optionalswimming or canoeing or a visit to the 7th cent. Abbey.Dinner at the acclaimed restaurant Le Pont Napoleonwhere Rick Stein cooked local Pike for his TV series.

Day 5: Moissac to Valence d’AgenLeaving the Tarn and negotiating a swing bridge beforecruising below the foothills of the Quercy Massif to moor for lunch at Pommevic. Afternoon excursion to themedieval village of Auvillar famed for its pottery. Continuethe cruise to Valence d’Agen and visit the town beforedinner on board.

Day 6: Valence d’Agen to AgenReaching Lamagistère a short drive or cycle ride to Donzacto step back in time visiting the extensive exhibition of rural life. Cruise on to historic Agen in time for lunch andthen visit the Château du Frandat for a private tasting ofArmagnac and Buzet Wines in delightful surroundings.Captain’s Farewell dinner on board.

Day 7: Agen to ToulouseMorning transfer to Toulouse.


Rosa deck


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Toulouselate afternoon. Overnightstop in Toulouse. Nextday, take your own taxito hotel meeting point.Transfer to bargeincluded.

Return: Transfer toToulouse included.Change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational early evening.

64 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/bordeaux




Extra night Bordeax B&B £65 per person.

Starting days: Any.

Grands Vins de Bordeaux à PiedA must for wine lovers

Day 1: Arrival BordeauxTransfer to St Emilion with time to take a stroll throughthis historic town with its fascinating Romanesquechurches stretching along steep and narrow streets.Dinner in a nearby restaurant. HB

Day 2: Day trip to the Vineyards ofSaint Emilion (Choice: 5 or 10 miles route)Walk amongst the prestigious châteaux of the areaand make a visit to the small domain of Château Closde la Madeleine. The vineyards are beautiful - the firstnon-architectural spot to be classified as a WorldHeritage site by UNESCO! B&B

Day 3: Discovering Saint EmilionA morning tour of the medieval town will takes you toits underground monuments, amphitheatre and monolithicchurch carved from limestone. A wine tasting initiationby an oenologist awaits you in the afternoon followedby a transfer to your delightful chambre d’hôte inSaint Martin de Lerm. HB

Day 4: Saint Martin de Lerm toCaudrot (10 miles)Between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers, walk throughthe oldest vineyards of the area, which produce theexcellent, dry white wine of Entre-Deux-Mers. Visit andtasting at the Domaine de Bouillerot (wine producersince 1874). HB

Day 5: Caudrot to Saint Macaire (6 miles)Relaxed walking through vineyards, via châteaux andpicturesque villages. You finish in the old merchant townof Saint-Macaire. Be sure to see the 14th century muralsin the St. Sauveur church. Perhaps take a dip in thesmall covered pool. HB

Day 6: Saint Macaire to Sainte Croixdu Mont (10 miles)This walk takes you to the Domaine de Malagar, homeof the writer François Mauriac, then a visit to ChâteauLaurette, before reaching the village of Sainte Croix duMont, with spectacular views of the Garonne valley.Transfer to your beautiful 4 star Château-hotelin Sauternes dinner in a nearby restaurant. HB

Day 7: Sauternes to Barsac (10 miles)The Sauternes area produces renowned sweet wines,such as the world-famous Château d’Yquem! A lateafternoon rendez-vous awaits you for an apéritif tastingat the Château Gravas. Final night and dinner at theChâteau de Campreros. HB

Rail Travel

Outward: DepartSt Pancras Internationalstation, change stationsin Paris and arrive inBordeaux late afternoon.Transfer to Saint Emilionincluded (40 mins).

Return: Transfer toBarsac or Langon station,train to Bordeaux. DepartBordeaux mid-morning,change stations in Parisand arrive in St PancrasInternational stationlate afternoon.

A leisurely walk through the prestigious vineyards, starting with the reds of

St Emilion, followed by the dry whites of Entre-Deux-Mers and concluding

with the sweet Sauternes - plenty of tasting opportunities en route and a

chance to restock your cellar with some of France’s best wines. Santé!


St Emilion

BORDEAUX

Saint Emilion

Saint Martin de Lerm

CaudrotSaint Macaire

Sauternes

Sainte Croixdu Mont

Barsac

Transfer

Le Pian Médoc

Moulis

Royan

Soulac

Blaye

Ferry

BORDEAUX

Saint-Yzans

Mortagne-sur-Gironde

Soubran

Virsac

65 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/glittering

Glittering Gironde Vineyards of Médoc and Cognac

Day 1: Arrival BordeauxAfter arrival in Bordeaux take a taxi transfer to the3-star Hôtel le Pont Bernet at Pian Médoc, which boastsgastronomic cuisine and a wine cellar with several grandscrus of the Médoc. Receive your bike and a welcome packwith your route notes. HB

Day 2: Pian Médoc to Moulis or Listrac (25 miles)Follow the Châteaux Road along the Gironde through thevineyards of Margaux, Haut-Médoc and Moulis-en-Médoc.Tonight you stay in a château chambre d’hôte with dinner in a nearby restaurant. HB

Day 3: Moulis or Listrac to St Yzans de Médoc(33 miles)Continue through famous vineyards, passing Paulliac, withits charming little harbour and the estates of Latour andLafite Rothschild. Tonight another charming guesthousein the vineyards. HB

Day 4: St Yzans to Royan (37 miles)Your ride across the estuary marshland is rewarded withmuch wildlife, particularly migrating birds. Take detours tothe pretty tiny fishing ports or the Richard lighthouse forstunning views. Take the ferry across the estuary to Royanwhere your 3-star Hôtel Family Golf or Hôtel Foncillon arein the heart of the seaside town. B&B in Royan with plentyof restaurants to choose nearby. Optional extra night here.

Day 5: Royan to Mortagne-sur-Gironde (22 miles)Discover the varied landscape of coastal marshes, cliffs,forests and oyster farms and pass through the artisanalvillage of Talmont-sur-Gironde, with its pretty church andfloral displays. Arrive at your charming chambre d’hôte inMontagne, opposite the port. HB

Day 6: Mortagne to St Palais or Soubran (30 miles)Leaving the banks of the estuary discover the estatesproducing Cognac and Pineau de Charente. Pass fields ofsunflowers, windmills and châteaux before returning to theestuary and the vineyards of the Côtes de Blaye. Tonight,you stay in a lovely manor style chambre d’hôte. HB

Day 7: St Palais or Soubran to Virsac (37 miles)Follow the estuary marshes through historic Blaye andmedieval Bourg and prehistoric caves with ancient wallpaintings. Your final night is in a château guesthouse. HB

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations inParis, arrive Bordeaux lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included (30 mins).

Return: Transfer toBordeaux included.Depart late morning,change stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational early evening.

A tour which takes you around the biggest European estuary, through

the prestigious vineyards of the Médoc and Cognac country, staying in

charming country hotels along the way. There will be plenty of time for

relaxing, looking around and perhaps having a few long lunches!



from £1152 £1339 £1099

Extra night B&B in Royan or Bordeaux add £75.

Starting days: Any.


Inset: Talmont Médoc vineyard

Capian

la forêtdes Landes

BORDEAUX

ARCACHON

Cap Ferret

Le Barp

Saint-Macaire

Origne




Extra night B&B in Arcachon or Bordeaux add £75 per person.

Suitable for families – tagalong or trailer available.

Starting days: Any day except Thursday.

Claret and the CoastWine, pine and sunshine

Day 1: Arrival BordeauxAfter arrival in Bordeaux a taxi transfer to Capian willtake you to your charming guest house in the heart ofwinegrowing estates. Receive your bike and a welcomepack with your route notes. HB

Day 2: Capian to Saint-Macaire (25 miles)Through the Côtes de Bordeaux vineyards and thebastide town of Cadillac and the home of Toulouse-Lautrec, Château Malromé. Tonight you stay at 3-starHôtel les Feuilles d’Acanthe. HB

Day 3: Saint-Macaire to Origne (33 miles)Cross the Garonne and wind through the famousSauternes vineyards, through the valley of the River Cironto Leogats and Nouaillan, before reaching Balizac andthe Landes Natural Parc. Tonight a delightful guesthousein the charming village of Origne. HB

Day 4: Origne to Le Barp (20 miles)Ride through the forests enjoying the scent of the pines.Rest at the lakes of Hostens. At Le Barp your 2-star Hôtelle Résinier has a swimming pool and a shaded terrace. HB

Day 5: Le Barp to Arcachon (20 miles)Take the cycle path to Mios, then minor roads roads toemerge from the forest at Le Teich where you will find abird sanctuary by the Arcachon waters. Follow the coastalpath to Gujan-Mestras and then a link path to the AtlanticCoast before returning to your 3-star Le Roc Hôtel inArcachon. Meal tonight in nearby restaurant included. HB

Day 6: Cap Ferret Day TripTake the ferry across the bay to Cap Ferret and cycleto the pretty oyster village of l’Herbe and the reservoirs,before taking the ferry back to Arcachon B&B

Day 7: Day Trip from ArcachonYou could simply have a day at the seaside or take thecycle track round the eastern coast of the basin to Biganosand Audenge. Final night in Arcachon. B&B

Day 8: DepartAfter breakfast take the train into Bordeaux for yourdeparture.

OPTION

Why not add an overnight stay in Bordeaux?

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations inParis to arrive in Bordeauxlate afternoon. Transfer tohotel included (40 mins).

Return: Depart Arcachonand change trains inBordeaux, changestations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationalstation early evening.

Renowned for the vineyards that produce Bordeaux wines, this area

stretches south of the Dordogne and west to the Atlantic. Cycle through

shady forests, beside the Garonne River, past quaint villages and sand dunes

on the coast. Indulge your senses with the vine, the pine and the ocean!


Winery in BordeauxInset: Bassin d’Arcachon - Dune of Pyla

66 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/claretcoast

PRESTIGE



LOW SEASON from £2540 £2969 £2449

Extra night in Bordeaux £250 per person per night BB

Starting days: Any.

Les Bordeaux Prestige en Vélo

Day 1: Arrival BordeauxOn arrival you will be transferred to your charming hotelin Margaux. Here you will meet with our tour manager,who will check bikes are a good fit and go over the finerdetails of the holiday with you. Then time to relax beforedinner in the hotel’s excellent restaurant. HB

Day 2: Day trip from Margaux into the HautMedoc (19 miles or 30 miles) Today cycle past some of the famous châteaux of thisregion; Margaux, Giscours, d’Issan - plenty of time to tastesome of the wonderful wines produced here. Then headback to the delightful 4 star Le Relais de Margaux withtime to explore before another delicious dinner tonight. HB

Day 3: Margaux to Pauillac (18 miles) Today Les Routes des Châteaux, a beautiful route takingyou past many of the prettiest châteaux in the Medoc. Ridetowards the Gironde Estuary and the Medoc Fort, createdby Vauban (all his works are listed by UNESCO), beforecontinuing on to Pauillac, the capital of the Medoc region.Tonight stay at the wonderful Château Cordeillon Bagesand enjoy dinner in their Michelin starred restaurant. HB

Day 4: Loop ride followed by transfer toSt Emilion Time to explore Pauillac with its Grand Crus and charmingport, then take the wine road between Saint Estephe andthe Haut Medoc. Take a stop in Vertheuil and visit the12th century abbey. Return to Pauillac for your transferto St Emilion and the lovely Hostellerie Plaisance. Dinnertonight is one of our favourite restaurants in the town. HB

Day 5: Day trip from St Emilion (21 or 35 miles)The countryside is beautiful with its vineyards (collectionalso listed by UNESCO as a world heritage site);prestigious wineries between St Emilion and Pomerol(Angelus, Canon, Petrus…), and of course the delightfulmedieval town of St Emilion itself. Dinner in the Michelinstarred hotel restaurant. HB

Day 6: St Emilion to Bordeaux (35 miles)Today a beautiful and relatively easy day’s ride, mostly ona bike path, taking you through the heart of the Entre DeuxMers vineyard region. The route takes you traffic free intothe heart of Bordeaux itself with its 18th century facadesand waterfronts. Stay tonight at the charming Grand Hotelwith dinner at a wonderful regional restaurant nearby. HB

OPTION

Wine tasting can be arranged, please call us.


Outward: DepartSt Pancras Internationalstation, change station inParis, arrive Bordeaux lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included.

Return: Transfer toBordeaux station included.Depart Bordeaux, changestations in Paris, arriveSt Pancras Internationalearly evening.

A prestige cycle tour for those who appreciate Bordeaux’s supremacy as the

wine cellar of France. Your stay is in luxury hotels and includes 2 Michelin

starred menus. The cycle route takes you through names such as Rothschild

Château Mouton and Lafitte, Fronsac, Pomerol and St Emilion.


Inset: Rothschild Châteaux Moutonand Lafitte

BORDEAUX

St EmilionPauillac

St Estephe

Rothschild Châteaux Lafitte

Margaux

Fronsac

Château Giscours

Branne

Castillion La Bataille

67 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/medoc

Saint Emilion

Transfer

Transfer Dordogne

Garonne

NEW ROUTE The ultimate Grand Cru tour

The Auvergne is a varied landscape with hot mineralsprings and volcanic peaks alongside gentle, rollingflower meadows. Romanesque churches and medievalcastles are scattered prettily through this region. TheCévennes further south is a wilder, rugged landscapebarely touched by time where ancient villages nestlein the valleys. Discover flower filled pastures, bubblingstreams and sparkling lakes, set against the snow-capped jagged peaks of the Alps. Breathtaking!

Weather

Summers here are hot but the temperature variationbetween early morning and afternoon is large. Winters inthe Cévennes are milder but in the Alps, be prepared forrapid weather changes in any season.

Wine and Cuisine

Food is hearty and filling: truffade, mashed potatoes with cheese, then fried with bacon and garlic; coussinat, a rich soup made from chestnuts and cream and fonduesavoyarde are examples. Lake and river fish (includingsmoked fish) and game are plentiful. Charcuterie andcheeses are excellent; look for Fourme d’Ambert (a blue)and hard Emmental-style cheeses.

The light red Côtes d’Auvergne, Gaillac (good white andred) and the red St Chinian are worth a try and also Salersor Avèze, a liqueur made from the giant yellow gentianplant found in the Cantal mountains.


Follow in the steps of Robert Louis Stevenson? Gaspin wonder across snows or meadows to Mont

Blanc? Traverse picturesque extinct volcanoes?

Discover

Auvergne, the Cévennes and the Alps

68

69 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/volcanoes

Orcival

Le Mont Dore

SauteyrasRochefort en Montagne

St Nectaire

Murol

Volcanoes of the AuvergneWooded hills and lunar lakes

Day 1: Arrival Le Mont DoreThe Romans discovered the springs in the 2nd century and the baths they built are still here today. The waters are famed in France for their apparent healing properties.The 2-star Hôtel Le Castelet has an art-deco theme, with a good restaurant and an indoor pool.

Day 2: Le Mont Dore to Murol (12 miles) Your walk starts with a steep climb, rewarded with viewsacross the plains. You’ll wander up hillsides, through lushpine forests, past tumbling waterfalls, over the open slopesthat form winter ski runs, down into the large open andgreen valley, home to Lac Chambon, and on to Murol. The pleasant and traditional 3-star Hôtel de Paris, whichhas been run by the Planeix family for decades, is rightin the centre.

Day 3: Murol to Sauteyras (10 miles) An easy walk today, past ancient stone menhirs and tinypicturesque villages, switching between quiet countryroads and remote farm tracks. Your hotel tonight is themodern Hôtel des Cygnes, with splendid views across Lac d’Aydat.

Day 4: Sauteyras to Orcival (8-13 miles) You have two choices today, with the longer route actuallypassing through the now extinct volcano cones. Thecountryside is extremely attractive and very peaceful.When you reach your destination you’re sure of a friendlywelcome from Mme Bontemps at Hôtel Notre-Dame, in theshadow of the beautiful Basilica.

Day 5: Day trip from Orcival (12 miles)Orcival is worth exploring before leaving on today’s gentlewalk. You’ll see that this whole town is built around theBasilica, and forms a real focal point, both spiritually andphysically. The walk is a true blend of rural France, dottedwith old farmsteads, fertile fields and intriguing hamlets.

Day 6: Orcival to Le Mont Dore (12 miles) There are points in this homeward leg that are quite remoteand utterly beautiful. There are several short steep climbsand you pass many lakes, so swimming may help cool youoff. You spend your final evening back in the lovely spatown of Le Mont Dore.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains atClermont Ferrand, arriveLe Mont Dore stationearly evening. The hotel is close to the station.

Return: Depart le MontDore, change trains atClermont Ferrand andstations in Paris, arriveSt Pancras Internationallate evening.

The dramatic landscape is full of contrasts: barren yet lush, rolling yet

rocky. You’ll be walking on a whole range of surfaces, from narrow

woodland tracks to country lanes. We grade this walk as moderate,

with some steep climbs.



from £872 £1059 £819

Starting days: Any except Thursday.


Previous page: view on day 6, Roche Tuilière and Sanadoire

70 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/auvergne

Chavaniac-Lafayette

Reilhac

Auzon

Blesle

Lempdes

Lamothe

Allier

Villeneuve d’Allier

Brioude

Auvergne DiscoveryHidden rivers and secret villages

Day 1: Arrival Hôtel La Sapinière, BrioudeBrioude makes a great base for the start of the holiday.Within the town you'll find an ancient church dating fromthe 12th century, and on market day you can purchaselocal delicacies for an interesting picnic.

Day 2: Auzon - Day trip from Brioude (16 miles)A gentle day, you’ll cycle along well kept lanes followingthe river Allier up and then down the valley. Stop at thepretty village of Lamothe for croissants or buy a picnic totake to one of the little beaches on the river. After a breakvisit the striking romanesque church at Auzon.

Day 3: Blesle - Day trip from Brioude (37 miles)Listed as one of the ‘most beautiful villages in France’ you won’t be disappointed. After a hilly approach, Blesle rewards your efforts with its undeniable charm.Ancient stone buildings, little streets and colourful flowerscreate a special ambience. You can modify the route, buton the whole, today’s ride will be moderate in grade.

Day 4: Brioude to Reilhac (20 miles) Follow the River Allier south through a gorge and thevillages of Villeneuve and Lavoute Chilhac. To spend thenext two nights in a modern 2-star hotel offering somegreat regional cuisine.

Day 5: Reilhac to Chavaniac (22 miles)A twenty mile round trip over rolling countryside - youmight catch a glimpse of a Red Kite hovering overhead.Take time to explore the delightful gardens at ChâteauLafayette.

Day 6: Reilhac to Brioude (20 miles) Back along the Allier Valley to Brioude, perhaps cross to the opposite side of the river to explore some newcountryside on your way back to La Sapinère.

Day 7: Day trip from Brioude to Chavaniac-LafayetteTake your bike on the train to Chavaniac-Lafayette andcycle back through the delightful valley, taking in medievalcastles, picturesque villages and maybe the Museum of the Resistance. The Senouire River meets the Allier andfollowing its course makes a pleasant and interesting ride.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains atClermont Ferrand, arriveArvant or Brioude stationlate afternoon. Taxitransfer from station to hotel included.

Return: Taxi transfer toBrioude or Arvant stationincluded, change trains at Clermont Ferrand andstations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationalstation late evening.

Based principally in the delightful market town of Brioude, this region

offer some great cycling with daily circuits from 16 to 36 miles. Due to

the terrain we book mountain or VTT bikes here. Midweek you cycle from

Brioude to Reilhac with scenic rides along the valley of the Allier River.



from £992 £1189 £939

Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.


Chains of green volcanic ridges

71 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cantalcapers

Cantal Capers



from £882 £1159 £829

Starting days: Any.

Day 1: Arrive Super LioranArrive late afternoon and settle into the Hôtel Les Chazes in the picturesque village of St Jacques des Blats.

Day 2: St Jacques to Thiézac (12 miles)From the bottom of the valley to the high ridges of thevalley de la Cère, today’s walking takes you to the highestsummit in the Cantal range: le Plomb de Cantal. Follow anancient Roman path along the ridge line, and be rewardedwith spectacular views, before descending to the Apron du Diable.

Day 3: Thiézac to Mandailles (7 miles)A challenging walk that will reward you with spectacularviews of Puy Mary. Follow woodland paths mountain trailsto reach the remote village of Mandailles.

Day 4: Mandailles to Le Falgoux (9 miles)Climb to the Col de Redondet under the Puy Chavaroche,before descending to Falgoux in the vallée du Mars.

Day 5: Le Falgoux to Le Claux (8 miles)Take in the spendour of the approaching Monts du Cantalas you walk along the plateau du Luchard. Enjoy thecontrasting scenery of the pine forests as you descendto the fertile valley of Le Claux.

Day 6: Le Claux to St Jacques (9 miles)A short transfer takes you to the Col de Serre to start theclimb of the Auvergne’s most iconic volcano: the Puy Mary.To cross the Brèche de Roland, (a 30m clift in the ridge)some simple rock climbing is required, (but can be avoidedby taking a lower path).

Day 7: DepartDepart after your final petit-déjeuner.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains atClermont Ferrand arriveLe Lioran early evening.Transfer to hotel included(20 mins).

Return: Transfer to Le Lioran station. Changetrains at Clermont Ferrandand stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational station early evening.

A veritable hiker’s dream; la Chaîne des Puys in the regional natural park of

the Volcans d’Auvergne, is an area of breathtaking beauty. From rocky

peaks to green valleys walking along ancient paths that can only be

reached on foot, experience the finest Cantal walks and landscapes.


View of Puy MaryInset: Mount Puy Mary

Le Falgoux

Le Claux

Super Lioran(St Jacques des Blats)

Plomb du Cantal

Puy Mary

Thiézac

Mandailles t

t



from £892 £1139 £749

Extra night B&B Chasseradès £75.

Starting days: Any.

72 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/stevenson1

In the footsteps of one man and his donkey

1st stageDay 1: Arrival Le PuyLe Puy has a wealth of religious history and severalbeautiful buildings including the cathedral and theRomanesque chapel of St Michel de L’Aiguille perched80m high on a pinnacle of rock - the Rocher St. Michel.

Day 2: Le Puy to Le Monastier (12 miles) Today’s walk starts with a climb out of the valley, encircledby extinct volcanoes and then descends to cross the infantLoire, passing through some enchanting scenery.

Day 3: Le Monastier to St. Nicolas (16 miles) Stevenson bought his donkey, Modestine, in Le Monastier.Cross the Loire river at Goudet and rise out of the valley.The author got lost here; he missed the Lac du Bouchetbecause it is uphill of the hamlet within a flooded volcanocone.

Day 4: St. Nicolas to Pradelles (16 miles) Through wooded valleys and rough pasture, along cinderpaths and farm tracks. Everything is made of local granite,the houses, bread ovens and crosses.

Day 5: Pradelles to Cheylard L’Evêque (10 miles) An undulating walk across the remote and vast plain ofMargaride. The church bells here, like so many in theregion, are not housed in a tower. This makes them louder,so in times of inclement weather the bells used to be rungto guide lost souls to the safety of the village.

Day 6: Cheylard L’Evêque to La Bastide (12 miles) Walk on the route of the Roman road that leads toMarseilles, via Regordane and enter the upper reaches of the attractive Allier valley.

Day 7: La Bastide to Chasseradès (8 miles) You climb today to the highest point of this stage, oppositethe source of the Allier. As you climb over the Mourage hill you cross the watershed between the Atlantic andMediterranean, then head down the valley to prettyChasseradès.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains atClermont Ferrand, arriveLe Puy en Velay lateevening. Hotel is withineasy walking distance.

Return: Transfer toChasseradès station notincluded, change trains at Nimes and stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateevening.

In 1878, Robert Louis Stevenson published, “Travels with a Donkey”, an

account of his intriguing journey accompanied by his donkey, Modestine.

Starting at the southern end of the Massif Central, the walk takes you

across the Cévennes to the edge of the Midi.


Stevenson Trail 1st Stage

Le Puy-en-Velay



from £934 £1199 £809COMBINED from n/a £1785 £1395

Extra night B&B St Jean £75. Other locations, please call us.

Starting days: Any.

73 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/stevenson2

Stevenson Trail 2nd Stage Follow the Pilgrims Way, perhaps combining both stages (13 nights)

2nd stageDay 1: Arrival ChasseradèsThe Chaptal family run the charming Hôtel des Sourcesand the restaurant serves great meals on the terrace.

Day 2: Chasseradès to Le Bleymard (9 miles) After passing through the little village of L’Estampe youclimb the densely wooded hill of Goulet. This is thebeginning of the Cévennes.

Day 3: Le Bleymard to Pont de Montvert (11 miles) Climb the Finiels summit for impressive views, sometimesas far as the Mediterranean. Pont de Montvert has manyfine 16th century houses built on rocks above the waters.

Day 4: Pont de Montvert to Florac (10-16 miles) Most of today’s walk is along the Bouges ridge with viewsacross the Cévennes. Florac spans the confluence of theTarnon and the Tarn.

Day 5: Florac to Cassagnas (10 miles) You quickly find yourself in the steep, red and rocky sidedMimente valley, which is quite dramatic. The tiny village ofCassagnas has a permanent population of 20 people! You stay in an old railway station.

Day 6: Cassagnas to St. Germain de Calberte(11 miles) You can, if you wish, detour up Mont Mars for a view overthis heavily forested area. There are many chestnut groves,once the staple diet of the population.

Day 7: St. Germain de Calberte to St. Jean du Gard (13 miles) Some of the walk is spent on the paved road ‘Cornichedes Cevennes’, built for the military during the reign ofLouis XIV. As you descend from the Cévennes into theMidi, you see the changes in the landscape and onreaching the lowest part of the walk you realise you arenow in the land of the grape!

OPTION

Extra nights are possible at Le Puy, St. Nicolas, La Bastide, Chasseradès, Florac or St. Jean du Gard.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris and trains inNimes, arrive Chasseradèslate evening. Transfer from station to hotel notincluded. For afternoonarrival in Chasseradès take overnight stop inParis or Nimes.

Return: Transfer to Alèsstation not included,change trains at Nimesand stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational station early evening.

The walk is moderate, with a few long climbs. Conditions underfoot are

good, well drained, though often rocky. The landscape is ever-changing,

tiny villages, valleys and woodland give way to desolate boulder-strewn

plains.


View of the Chateau and village of Florac



from £872 £1099 £819

Starting days: Thursday, Friday by rail. Sunday, Monday by car.

74 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/untamed

Untamed CévennesDramatic landscapes and remote beauty

Day 1: Arrival VillefortBroom covered hills surround Villefort, a charming quietgranite built town, which nestles at the bottom of a steepvalley. The 2-star Hôtel Balme is a delightful old-fashionedfamily-run hotel with an excellent chef.

Day 2: Villefort to Cubières (11 miles) Much of today’s walk is spent on woodland tracksfollowing the GR 68 walking route. You will pass throughpretty hilltop villages, with frequent panoramic views - yourcamera will be an essential item today!

Day 3: Day trip from Cubières (6 miles)Enjoy a circular route to the village of Le Bleymard, typicalof this area and home to several old silk workshops. Theindustry has faded now, but there are still clues includingthe large number of mulberry bushes!

Day 4: Cubières to Pont de Montvert (11 miles) An excellent day of walking up on to the rocky plateau. The walk down into the Tarn valley and the pretty village ofPont de Montvert is very rocky underfoot, and takes insome of the famous “Stevenson Trail”.

Day 5: Day trip from Pont de Montvert (5 miles)Today, walk through a steep-sided ravine and across aboulder strewn plateau, taking you up the quiet lanes toL’Hermet, a picturesque hamlet overlooking the Tarn valley.

Day 6: Pont de Montvert to Villefort (10 miles) The taxi transfer takes you to start your walk at Le Mas dela Barque and you follow the hills with panoramic views toVillefort.

The above itinerary is for arrivals by rail. If travelling by car,you start in Pont de Montvert, with the itinerary as follows:

Day 1: Arrival Pont de Montvert/Day 2: Day Trip from Pont de Montvert/Day 3: Pont de Montvert to Villefort/Day 4: Villefort to Cubières/Day 5: Day Trip fromCubières/Day 6: Cubières to Pont de Montvert.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change at LilleEurope and Nimes, arriveVillefort early evening.Transfer to hotel included(5 mins).

Return: Transfer toVillefort station included,change trains at Nimesand Lille Europe, arrive St Pancras Internationalstation late evening.

The rugged Cévennes offer stunning and dramatic scenery: steep tree

covered slopes, cascading streams and remote granite strewn plains.

This easy to navigate moderate walk allows you to experience the majestic

beauty of the Cévennes without too much exertion.


Cubières

Villefort

Le Bleymard

Finiels summit

L’Hopital

Le Mas dela Barque

Lac de Villefort

Le Pont de Montvert

75 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/secrets

Secrets of SavoieGroup walking in the Alps

Erick Clément is an experienced and qualified mountain leader with the ‘National Brevet’ accreditation.Each day he, or his assistant, takes the group to a different location for a walk in the Alps at an altitudebetween 1,000 and 2,400 metres.

Summer or winter you will enjoy the spectacular scenery,summer pastures abundant with flowers, forests of pinetrees and high ridges with views of Mont Blanc.

You join a multi-national group with an English speakingguide. Walks are tailored to match the average ability of the group.

Your hotel: L’Eau ViveYou are staying in a beautiful Alpine-style chalet hotel,nestling in a small village in the Val d’Arly. Run by husbandand wife team Erick and Marie-Claude, you will be verywarmly received and enthusiastically introduced to manyaspects of an authentic mountain lifestyle.

MealsYou’ll be served breakfast in the characterful dining room,often featuring Marie-Claude’s home-made jam. Dinnerfeatures the best of that day’s fresh local produce - evenherbs and wild plants gathered on the walks. You canchoose to join the “guest table” or to have a table toyourselves.

WalksThe summer ‘Chamois’ programme runs from 12 Mayto 29 September.

Daily guided walks of five to seven hours tailored to matchthe average ability of the group. Climbing perhaps 800m in summer and 400m in winter with optional extensions to reach some of the local summits, a good level of fitnessis necessary. Picnics are provided.

WINTER OPTION

The winter ‘Trappeur’ programme runs from 15 December2012 to 20 April 2013.

All special equipment, raquette snow-shoes or cross-country skis are provided but you do, of course, needsuitable winter clothing and boots.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart LondonSt Pancras International,change stations in Parisand arrive Albertville lateafternoon. Transfer tohotel included.

Return: Transfer to St Nicolas followed bybus to Albertville station.Change trains andstations in Paris, arriveLondon St PancrasInternational stationlate evening.

These holidays are available both summer and winter. Staying only twenty

miles west of Mont Blanc, you can be sure of some stunning views and a

genuine experience of Alpine life. The grades are selected to suit the group.




High season (February, March, July, August) add £30.

Starting days: Saturday.

7 nights (all full-board)

Mont Blanc

The Pyrenees cross the French - Spanish border and arecut with deep ravines and tumbling streams. They form a stunning, rugged landscape and offer a wilderness that is rich in flora and fauna forming a backdrop to themagnificent Cathar Castles and dramatic walled city ofCarcassonne. From here, the Canal du Midi winds its way past sun-baked villages, in the distance ruggedmountains and spectacular hill-top villages – wonderful!

Weather

Summer temperatures are very high in the EasternPyrenees. There is little rainfall in summer although thereare occasional showers with some storms and strong windscoming in off the coast.

Wine and Cuisine

Game, partridge, mushrooms, herbs and fruit featureprominently here and hearty stews, the best known beingCassoulet combining duck, sausages and beans. Poule au Pot is tasty too (chicken simmered with vegetables).Nearer the coast, seafood naturally figures prominently, and dishes are flavoured with fragrant herbs and olive oil.

The Languedoc claims to be the oldest wine-making region in France, and produces some gutsy reds, includingFaugères, Minervois, Fitou & Saint Chinian. Blanquette deLimoux is a sparkling and refreshing local favourite andArmagnac, from the Gascony foothills, is a pleasantalternative to Cognac.


Stroll the Franco/Spanish Med as Picasso and Matisseused to do? Discover Carcassonne, Roman ruins

and olive farms along the Canal du Midi? Step back in time to the drama of the

Cathar Castles sieges?

Discover

Pyrenees and Languedoc

76

CARCASSONNE

SÈTE

Siran

CabezacBéziers

Le Somail

Agde

Nissan les Ensérune

PRESTIGE

77 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/midipv



from £1740 £2129 £1649Starting days: Any.

Day 1: Arrival CarcassonneArrive in the ancient fortified city of Carcassonne.You’ll soak up the view from your hotel, located justoutside of the medieval walls. You will have time to relaxby the pool before exploring the cobblestone streets ofthe old town. Stay at the 3-star Hôtel du Château andeat at the excellent restaurant Comte Roger. HB

Day 2: Day trip from Carcassonne (17 miles) You have the option of a beautiful ride today. Loopsouthwards from Carcassonne, on tiny roads through the vineyards, passing through small villages. Your goalis the town of St. Hilaire, with its 8th century abbey.After a visit and some lunch, return to Carcassonne alongthe Aude River. Of course, you can also simply enjoy theday in Carcassonne! Stay at the Hôtel du Château andchoose your own restaurant in the old town. B&B

Day 3: Carcassonne to Siran (26 miles) Cycle alongside the canal through picturesque Trèbesand Marseillet to the tiny hamlet of Siran. Stay at the3-star Château de Siran. HB

Day 4: Siran to Cabezac (16 miles) Today your route is partially on the canal and partiallyamongst olive groves, vineyards and flowered fields.Leave the canal at Le Somail with its pretty bridgesand cycle towards Bastide de Cabazac. HB

Day 5: Cabezac to Villeneuve les Béziers(27 miles)Easy cycling along the canal side through the villages ofColombiers and Capestang to finally reach Béziers, spendsome time wandering the old cobbled streets beforeheading towards your hotel La Chamberte. HB

Day 6: Villeneuve les Béziers to Sète (31 miles) You will reach the end of the Canal du Midi today, as itempties into the sea at Agde. From there, enjoy the luxuryof the beautiful new bike path that follows the sandy beachbefore arriving in the port town of Sète. Stay 2 nights atthe Grand Hôtel. First night HB

Day 7: Day at Sète Take a day off from cycling and discover the bustling porttown of Sète also known as the “Venice of Languedoc”.You will be sure to be tempted by one of the sandybeaches so take your bathing suit! B&B


Outward: DepartSt Pancras Internationalstation, change trainsin Lille and Narbonne,arrive Carcassonne earlyevening. Transfer to hotelnot included. (10 minutes,about 20€).

Return: Depart fromSète and change stationsin Paris or Lille, arriveSt Pancras Internationalstation early evening.

We have added a touch of luxury to our popular Canal Du Midi cycling tour.

From the extraordinary fortified town of Carcassone to the sandy beaches of

the Mediterranean Sea, travel down tree lined towpaths, over beautiful stone

bridges and through some of the prettiest scenery in southwest France.


Canal du Midi Prestige en Vélo

CarcassonneInset: Béziers

Ancient cities and idyllic waterways

78 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cathar1

Trek of the Cathar Castles from Tuchan-Quéribus to Quillan

1st stageDay 1: Arrival TuchanArrival via Perpignan in Tuchan at the 2-star Hostelleriedu Montauch.

Day 2: Padern to Duilhac (10 miles) After a short transfer your walk takes you through the early medieval village of Mollet and the wine centre atCucugnan. You can see the 13th cent. Castles at Padernand at Quéribus. Stay at the Auberge du Vieux Moulin.

Day 3: Duilhac to Cubières sur Cinoble (10 miles) You pass the Galamus Gorges and see the hermitage of St Antoine de Galamus and the fortress of Peyrepertuse.Upon arrival at the Gîte Accueil in Cubières you will beallocated to a friendly chambre d’hôte.

Day 4: Cubières to Sougraigne (10 miles) Today you pass through the chestnut forest and Bugarach.In Sougraigne you stay at the Auberge l’Ecluse au Soleil, a 2-star Logis de France.

Day 5: Sougraigne to Granès (12 miles) Follow way-marked trails through Rennes le Château to Granès where you stay at Gîtes les Tamaris chambred’hôte.

Day 6: Granès to Quillan (12 miles) Today you pass through traditional Pyrenean villages andover the Col des Trois Quilles. Your final night is at the 3-star Hôtel La Chaumière.

Day 7: Departure and CarcassonneBy rail you have an extra night in Carcassonne (B&B)before catching the train to Toulouse with TGV andEurostar back to UK. Transfer back to Tuchan to collectyour car. Transfers to Perpignan can also be arrangedat a supplement.

OPTION

Many people combine both stages. Day 6, 1st Stage, isthen followed by Day 2, 2nd Stage, for a 12 night holiday.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains atLille Europe and arrivePerpignan early evening.Transfer to Tuchanincluded (40 mins).

Return: Transfer tostation not included (10 mins walk). FromCarcassonne changestations in Paris, arriveSt Pancras Internationalstation late evening.

Trek through the foothills of the Pyrenees past mystical Cathar Castles,

through beautiful and changing landscapes from craggy rocks to lush

green meadows. You stay half-board in friendly chambre d’hôtes and

small hotels where you’ll discover local cuisine and Languedoc wines.



from £840 £1149 £749

Rail inclusive is 7 nights to include 1 night B&B in Carcassonne

at the end of your holiday.

Starting days: Any.

6-7 nights (all half-board except Carcassonne)

Cathar Castles 1st Stage

PeyrepertuseInset: Carcassonne

79 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cathar2



from £840 £1149 £769COMBINED from n/a £1719 £1339

Rail inclusive is 8 nights to include 1 night B&B in Carcassonne

at the start of the holiday.

Starting days: Any.

Continue from Quillan to Foix via Montségur, perhaps combine both stages (12 nights)

2nd stageDay 1Arrive Quillan and settle into the 3-star hotel, Hôtel La Chaumière … time to explore before dinner.

Day 2: Quillan to Puivant (13 miles) Walk to the village of Nébias and continue along the Catharfootpath to Puivert and its splendid 13th century Châteauof the Troubadours. Tonight stay in a simple chambred’hôte located close to the lake, ideal for a quick swim, eat ‘en famille’ with other guests.

Day 3: Puivant to Belcaire (13 miles) Through the heart of the thick fir tree forests of Escale and Picaussel and out on to the airy plateau of Sault usingthe ancient path to the valley of Aude and the Corbièresregion. Stay in the mountain chalet style Hôtel Bayle.

Day 4: Belcaire to Montségur (11.5 miles) The path takes you down through the impressive Gorge de Frau (Gorge of Fear!) to the Ariège before arriving inMontségur, the heart of Catharism. Stay for two nights at a welcoming and comfortable chambre d’hôte.

Day 5: Day walk from Montségur (7.5 miles)An evocative walk past ancient terraces with panoramicviews of the famous Pog de Montségur, the last Catharstrong hold – the ancient Château de Montségur percheshigh on the top, a hard climb but worth it for the views.

Day 6: Montségur to Roquefixade (11.5 miles) The trail winds its way to the village of Montferrier, crossingthe Modini forest before reaching the Pyrenean walledvillage of Roquefixade. Stay at the Auberge l’Esprit du Sud.

Day 7: Roquefixade to Foix (12 miles) Superb terrain with stunning views as the trail follows a high ridge to the small town of Foix nestling in thefoothills of the Pyrenees. Foix is dominated by the threetowers of its château. Stay at the 3-star Hôtel Lons.

Day 8: DepartureEither depart by rail from Foix or by car transfer back to Quillan.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras International,change trains in LilleEurope and again inNarbonne, arriveCarcassonne. OvernightB&B in Carcassonne givingyou the next morning toexplore this historic walledtown before catching thelocal train to Quillan.

Return: Depart Foix,change trains Toulouse,and stations in Paris,arrive St PancrasInternational late evening.

Discover the unique history, wonderful food and wine of this fascinating

region, and gorgeous scenery of meadows, vineyards, and distant snow-

capped peaks. Follow ancient trails to discover precariously perched ruins

of Cathar castles and stay in small unspoilt Pyrenean towns and villages.

7-8 nights (all half-board except Carcassonne)

Cathar Castles 2nd Stage

Foix

80 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/coast

Catalan CoastRocky coves and orange groves

Day 1: Arrival CollioureCollioure is a beautiful place surrounded by prettybeaches, and attracted the likes of Matisse and Picasso.Your 2-star hotel, Mas des Citronniers, is centrally located.B&B

Day 2: Collioure to Banyuls (8 miles) A straightforward walk with a mix of coastal paths, orangegroves and rural country lanes. Follow a rocky promontorylooking out across the clear blue sea before descendingthrough vineyards to Banyuls. Hotel with pool. HB

Day 3: Day trip from Banyuls (5 miles)If you have the inclination to leave your 3-star hotelperched high above the town then you can spend the dayon vineyard slopes overlooking the bay where some ofFrance’s sweetest dessert wines are produced. HB

Day 4: Banyuls to Llança (8 miles) From the vineyards you’ll pass through thick forest andonto a ridge for a panorama of both France and Spain.Follow this ridge to the border and descend back to sealevel at Port Bou in Spain, before taking the short trainjourney to your 2-star hotel in Llança. HB

Day 5: Llança to Port de La Selva (9 miles) Follow the coastal footpath or climb to Sant Pere de Rodesmonastery. You pass through abandoned vineyards andrelics from the civil war, always surrounded by gloriousviews. Tonight’s 3-star hotel is in the centre of the littlefishing village. HB

Day 6: Port de La Selva to Cadaquès (10 miles) The inland route is charming. Pass through olive grovesand untouched Spanish countryside. Your hotel for the final two nights is the 3-star art deco Hôtel Rocamar withindoor and outdoor pools. HB

Day 7: Day trip from Cadaquès (8 miles)There’s plenty to see and do in the fascinating ancientfishing village of Cadaquès with its winding streets, or youmay prefer a final day’s walk that takes you up above thetown for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.Final night is B&B giving you the opportunity to enjoy oneof the many local restaurants.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains at Lille Europe andPerpignan, arrive Colliourelate evening. Hotel isa 10 minute walk away.

Return: Transfer fromCadaques to Perpignanstation included (2hrs),change trains at LilleEurope, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateevening.

Frontier battles gave way long ago to the simple fishing and agriculture

which prevail today. An easy walk becoming moderate in places with

several steep climbs. There is little shade from the Mediterranean sun,

so bring a sunhat. Stunning views, friendly people and unique culture.



from £922 £1159 £869

Starting days: Any - not available July, August.


Collioure

Banyuls sur Mer

PERPIGNAN

Figueras

Gerona

Llança

Port de La SelvaCadaquès

FRANCE

SPAIN

CadaquèsInset: Sant Pere de Rodes monastery

CARCASSONNE

SÈTE

Homps

CabezacBéziers

Le Somail

Agde

Nissan les Ensérune

81 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/midi

Canal du Midi to CoastAncient cities and idyllic waterways

Day 1: Arrival CarcassonneArrive in the fortified town of Carcassonne and stayat the 2-star Hôtel Montmorency. An evening meal isreserved for you at a nearby restaurant. HB

Day 2: Day trip from Carcassonne (17 miles)Perhaps simply explore historic Carcassonne or saddle inon a hilly circuit to the South. Your second night is B&Benabling you to choose your restaurant in the old town. B&B

Day 3: Carcassonne to Homps (26 miles) Cycle along the canal through picturesque Trèbes andMarseillet to the Auberge de l’Arbousier situated on thecanal banks in Homps. HB

Day 4: Homps to Cabezac (16 miles) Leave the canal today to pass through the olive grovesto Bize-Minervois and your night at the 3- star Bastidede Cabezac, a superb hotel with pool. HB

Day 5: Cabezac to Béziers (27 miles)More easy going cycling along the Canal du Midi to thevillages of Colombiers, and Capestang, to finally reachBéziers with its interesting old quarter and an aqueductcarrying the canal over the River Orb. Stay at Hôtel desPoètes. B&B

Day 6: Béziers to Sète (31 miles) Before leaving Béziers, be sure to visit the old town centre.You can buy fruit, bread, and cheese at the market for yourpicnic. You will ride right to the end of the Canal de Miditoday, as it empties in to the sea at Agde. From there,enjoy the luxury of the beautiful new bike path that followsthe sandy beach before arriving in the port town of Sèteitself. Stay at the 2-star Hôtel le National. B&B

Day 7: Day at SèteDiscover the charm of Sète, a busy port town also knownas the ‘Venise de Languedoc’. Choose a restaurant andtake in the Mediterranean way of life, or discover one ofthe many sandy beaches, but be sure to take your bathingsuit as you will want to jump into the waves! Stay at Hôtelle National. B&B

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains in Lille and Narbonne,arrive Carcassonne earlyevening. Transfer to hotelnot included (10 minutes,about 20€).

Return: Train fromSète and change stationsin Paris or Lille, arriveSt Pancras Internationalstation early evening.

Explore enchanting Carcassonne before some gentle cycling along the

Canal du Midi; a picturesque, tranquil, and richly cultural route. From the

extraordinary fortified town of Carcassonne to the sandy beaches of the

Mediterranean Sea, passing en route villages that seem stuck in time.



LOW SEASON from £1222 £1579 £1169


No lone travellers.

Starting days: Any.


CarcassonneInset: Canal du Midi

Wild trails and mountain grandeur

Day 1: Arrive in EtsautA warm welcome at the Gite-Auberge. Meet your donkey and take a short walk to stretch your legs before your evening meal with the guide.

Day 2: Chemin de la MatureA circuit walk to Fort du Portalet and returning from the Col d’Arras by the forestry track Chemin de la Mature.

Day 3: Towards Lescun via LhersFollow the trans Pyrenean Grande Randonnée 10 to thevillage of Lescun. Through woodland and agriculturalplateaux and spending the night at Lhers.

Day 4: Crests and peaksSpend much of the day along the Spanish border andreach the Lac d’Arlet at 2000m where swimming ispossible.

Day 5: Shepherds and their FlockCross the plains of Banasse and round the Val d’Aspemeet a family of shepherds and join them for a bite to eat,tasting the renowned cheeses of the region. Cross theroute of Compostella pilgrims.

Day 6: Summits of l’OssauToday experience one of the most celebrated views ofthe Pyrenees: the reflection of the peak of Ossau in theLac d’Ayous. Spend the night in the refuge cabin andswim in the lake.

Day 7: Clo d’Ayous and Plateau des GentianesToday a truly impressive walk to the pastures of Peyrenereand the end of your journey. Transfer for your final nightback in Estaut.

Luggage weight is strictly limited at 12kg (each donkeyserves four walkers).

Transfers from Pau - Uzein airport can be arranged. Please ask us for a price.

A series of walks following remote paths in the Pyrenees in a small group

of 6 to 14 with an experienced guide, immersed in spectacular views and

mountain lakes, track bears, marmots and chamois. Overnight in mountain

refuges, your donkey carries your bag.

7 nights (all full-board 5 in gites, 2 in refuges)

Pyrenean Donkey Trek - Guided

Rail Travel

Outward: Requires anovernight stay in Pauon Saturday night. DepartSt Pancras International,change stations in Paris,arrive Pau late afternoon.Early afternoon busfrom Pau to Etsautwith change at OloronSte Marie.

Return: Mid-day busto Pau. Train to Parisand overnight stay.

Monday Eurostar toSt Pancras Internationalstation.

82 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/donkeytrek

Lhers

Lac d’Arlet

Lacs d’Ayous

Etsaut

Pic d’ArletCol des Moines

Val d’Ossau

Plateau Peyrenère

tt



£849 per person £1189 plus overnight accommodation en route

Overnight B&B in Pau add from £60 per person.

Overnight B&B in Paris add from £75 per person.

Starting days: Any 15 July - 19 August.

Additional dates may be available outside the dates shown only

for group bookings. Please enquire.

83 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cruisemidi

PRESTIGE

Enjoy your own gastronomic odyssey

Canal du Midi Cruise

Sample itineraryDay 1: EmbarkationWhichever barge itinerary you have booked you will be met in central Montpellier at 4.00pm for transfer to your barge, a welcome apéritif and dinner on board.

Day 2: Marseillan to PortiragnesExcursion to visit the delightful village of Pézènes and a cruise past the flamingoes in the Bagnas nature reservebefore entering the canal and negotiating the uniquecircular lock at Agde. Dinner on board.

Day 3: Portiragnes to BéziersNegotiate the seven-lock flight at Fonserannes andpossible wine-tasting in the 14th century Château dePerdiguier which boasts medieval frescoes. Dinner at a restaurant in Béziers.

Day 4: Béziers to CapestangPossibly visit the Oppidum d’Ensérune archaeological site, pre-Roman settlement and remains of a once thrivingRoman township. Possible excursion to Narbonne, animportant regional city with charming shaded boulevards,municipal, military and religious architecture. Lunch at a city bistro and dinner on board.

Day 5: Capestang to Le SomailVisit to the 11th century Cistercian Abbaye de Fontfroide.Wine-tasting at Château d’Auris. Le Somail is a delightfullittle village port on the canal. Optional excursions mightinclude a visit to Minervois with its 12th century CatharCastle beseiged by Simon de Montfort in 1215. Dinner on board.

Day 6: Le Somail to HompsAll itineraries include an excursion to Carcassonne, thefascinating medieval walled city and fortress. Explore thealleys, shops and cafés. Possible visit to Oulibo, the localolive press for an olive tasting. Captain’s Farewell dinner on board.

Day 7: DepartureAfter breakfast disembark for transfer to Montpellier or the TGV station by about 10.00am. Note that on alternateweeks the cruise is in the reverse direction and the dailyitinerary is a sample subject to change and dependentupon the particular barge chosen.

Cruise along sections of the historic Canal du Midi between Carcassonne

and Marseillan. Join the 10 berth ATHOS, the 8 berth ANJODI, which

featured in Rick Stein’s French Odyssey, or choose the lovely 6 berth

CLAIR DE LUNE. Each barge follows a different daily cruise schedule.




from £2650 from £3149

Rail inclusive is 7 nights to include 1 night B&B in a 4-star hotel

in Montpellier on Saturday night.

Starting days: Sunday in Montpellier.

Anjodi


Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris, arrive Montpellierlate afternoon. Overnightstop in Montpellier. Nextday, transfer to bargeincluded.

Return: Transfer toMontpellier included.Change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational earlyevening.

This is a part of France that evokes dreamy images oflazy afternoons amongst sleepy villages, sunny vineyardsand beautiful fields of lavender and olive groves backedby a sky of dazzling eggshell blue. Corsica offers a vastwilderness of great natural beauty with striking colours ofstone and tile whilst Provence combines a great Romanpast and a very cultured present.

Weather

July and August are very hot. In Spring and Autumn youcan experience warm days with occasional summer storms.The Mistral wind makes the skies as blue as you will eversee them.

Wine and Cuisine

Savour the glistening pans of tomatoes, garlic, herbs andolive oil that combine so beautifully in a variety of dishes.Wild herbs lend a delicate aromatic flavour to meat dishes.As for fish, enjoy an authentic bouillabaisse, the legendaryfish stew from Marseille. In Corsica game, boar and sheep’smilk cheeses are popular.

Provençal wines need no introduction. Côtes du Rhôneshould always be a good bet but spend a little more andenjoy a seriously chunky Châteauneuf du Pape, or a robustred from one of the lesser known villages like Gigondas.


Meander the dappled waters of the River Rhône, as thebarge chef prepares this evening’s supper? Soak up the

landscape and light that inspired Van Gogh and so manyothers? Trek across the raw, wild beauty of the

Corsican hills?

Discover

Provence and Corsica

84

PRESTIGE

85 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/luberonpp



from £1776 £2159 £1685

Starting days: Any except Sunday.

Luberon Prestige à PiedHidden trails, thyme laden hills and lavender fields

Day 1: Arrive in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Settle into your elegant B&B, la Prévôte, in the towncentre and atop a branch of the Sorgue River, amongstantique shops and quaint restaurants and cafés.Dine in a nearby restaurant. HB

Day 2: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to Gordes (8.5 miles) Transfer to Fontaine de Vaucluse to start your walk.Head up into cedar forest before following a 300 year-oldstone wall, built during the last great plague. You soonreach Gordes, listed among France’s most beautifulvillages. You stay at the astonishing 5* Bastide de Gordeshotel. Picnic included. Good choice of restaurants. HB

Day 3: Circuit walk from Gordes (6.5 miles)Meander along paths through lavender and thyme-ladenfields, off the beaten-track, and to Sénanque Abbey.You return to Gordes along an ancient cobbled path.Picnic included. B&B

Day 4: Goult to Bonnieux (7.5 miles) Short transfer to Goult for the start of your walk. Cross thevalley and climb into the heart of Luberon to Lacoste ,withthe ruined castle of the Marquis de Sade, before continuingto Bonnieux, a village made famous by Peter Mayle in hisbook ‘A Year in Provence’. Stay at the Maison Valvert justoutside the centre of Bonnieux. B&B

Day 5: Day walk from Bonnieux (8 miles)Above the town of Bonnieux you climb the slope ofthe petit Luberon mountain to reach the very crest.Enjoy the serenity of the cedar forest atop the mountainbefore returning to Bonnieux via a seldom-used path.Good choice of restaurants. B&B

Day 6: Bonnieux to l’Auberge de l’Aiguebrun(8 miles)Stroll over lavender fields and through truffle oakplantations as your path meanders through the countryside.You pass centuries-old dry stone huts and impressiveProvençal villas on your way to the bottom of theAiguebrun Gorge, where you’ll find the charmingAuberge de l’Aiguebrun. Picnic included. HB

Day 7: l’Aiguebrun to Lourmarin (8 miles) A steady climb leads to the ridgeline of the Luberon,laden with aromatic herbs and sparse trees, before a longdescent on the southern face of the mountain. At theoutset the descent is quite steep, but you soon findyourself on a leisurely track with great views, as youhead down to the plains. Back to your charming hotelfor another delicious dinner. HB

OPTION

Why not take an additional night in Avignon to have timeto explore the fascinating city of the Popes.

the village of Gordes perched on its rocky outcrop

This delightful walk takes your along hidden trails where medieval villages

cluster around their protective castles, follow hidden trail where wildflowers

carpet the thyme-laden hills and stay in some of the most prestigious

accommodation in this beautiful region.


Outward: St PancrasInternational station,change stations in Parisarrive Avignon TGV earlyevening. Taxi transferto your hotel inIsle-sur-la-Sorgue.

Return: Transfer toAvignon TGV train toParis change stationsarrive St PancrasInternational earlyevening. Rail travelvia Lille is sometimespossible.

7 nights (3 nights B&B, 4 nights HB plus 4 picnic lunches)

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

l’Auberge de l’AiguebrunBonnieuxGoult

Lourmarin

Avignon

Fontaine de Vaucluse

Gordes

Transfer

Piana

Porto

Calacuccia

CorteCol de Vergio

AJACCIO

Evisa

Railway

86 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/captivating

Captivating CorsicaTrekking on an untouched island simply waiting to be discovered

This trek combines dramatic scenery with natural beauty: rugged cliffs,

scented pine forests, crystal waterfalls and deep gorges. The ancient mule

track will guide you through pretty mountain villages to the turquoise

waters of the western coast. Moderate with some more strenuous sections.

Day 1: Arrival AjaccioExplore the vibrant coastal town of Ajaccio, or take the cliff walk that towers above the town offering stunning views of the coastline. B&B

Day 2: Scala de Santa Regina to Calacuccia (6 miles, + 700m -340m)Take an early train to Corte where you will be transferred tothe start of the walk at the Scala de Santa Regina. Followthe ancient shepherds trail which winds in and out of theNiolu valley taking you through granite cliffs to the highestvillages in Corsica. HB

Day 3: Calacuccia to Evisa (9 miles, + 600m -750m)Short transfer to the starting point of today’s walk. Passthrough scented forests, cross over the famous Col deVergio before the winding trail descends towards thecharming village of Evisa. HB

Day 4: Day walk (6 miles, +300m -300m)Evisa known as the ‘pearl of the mountains’ is a charmingvillage from which you can start a circular walk: the ‘oldvillage trail’ passes through some really rural Corsicanvillages. HB

Day 5: Evisa to Porto (8 miles, +320m -1170m)Descend into the famous Spelunca gorge, spectacular views continue throughout the day, maybe have a dip in one of the natural rock pools en route. HB

Day 6: Porto to Piana (7 miles, +520m -140m)Perhaps take some time visiting the town of Porto or enjoy a cooling moment on the beach before heading off on theold mule path to Calanche de Piana – look out for amazingrock formations and enjoy the superb views over the bay. HB

Day 7: Piana to AjaccioTake a 3 mile walk down to the small sandy cove ofFicaghiola for a swim. Private transfer back to Ajaccio in the afternoon. B&B

OPTION

Upgrade to sea view rooms are available at Ajaccioand Piana.

Travel

Direct flights from Gatwickto Ajaccio with Easy Jet(Sundays only).

Ferry from Marseille toAjaccio or Bastia.



Own Travel

LOW SEASON from £995

High season (July and August) add £65. Single Room add

£180 to £260. Upgrade to sea view rooms available in Ajaccio

and Piana.

Starting days: Sunday.

Porto

Evisa

87 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/dreams





8 night option add £200 (both half-board).

Starting days: Any except Sunday.

Provençal DreamsWild herbs and lavender

An easy-going tour that soaks up the Provençal atmosphere with plenty of

time for sight-seeing. Ideal outside July and August when the air is fresh

and scenery is at its best. Distances between hotels are short and mostly

flat; longer options are available which take you over hills worth pedalling up.

Day 1: Arrival GravesonOn arrival in Provence relax at the pretty 2-star hotel inGraveson, just to the south of Avignon. This is the perfectopportunity to relax by the pool, before cycling begins. HB

Day 2: Graveson to Beaucaire (27 miles) Head north to Barbentine before turning west to cross theRhône into Aramon. Then through the medieval villages ofThéziers and Montfrin before looping through Jonquières-St-Vincent to reach historic Beaucaire. There is a short flatoption direct from Graveson through Tarascon and over theriver into Beaucaire. Hôtel Robinson provides the perfectsetting for your evening meal at this 3-star hotel. HB

Day 3: Day trip from Beaucaire (10-20 miles)Explore the many canals, stopping off at the port ofBeaucaire, and the typical Provençal village of Vallabrègues.Extend the journey to visit the Abbey of St Michel deFrigolet before returning via the Celtic village of Aramon. HB

Day 4: Beaucaire to Fontvieille (10 miles) This relatively easy journey from Beaucaire to Fontvieilletakes you back across the Rhône and through orchards.Take in the sights of the historic town of Tarascon. Or, alonger jaunt south will take you past paddy fields beforepicking up the Sète canal towpath. Your 3-star hotel is onthe edge of this charming Provençal town with a meal inone of the choice of local restaurants. B&B

Day 5: Day trip from Fontvieille (10-20 miles)Today you have the opportunity for a leisurely spin to thevillage of Paradou, or to cover another 10 miles (mostlyflat) to reach the wetlands of St Martin de Crau wheremigratory birds are in abundance. B&B

Day 6: Fontvieille to Graveson (20 miles) The journey back to Graveson takes in the spectacularrock formations of Les Baux de Provence where buildingsare carved into the white limestone. Now you can freewheeldown to the artistic village of St Rémy before pedallingacross the fields back to Graveson. HB

OPTION

Why not add an extra night at St Gilles on the edge of theCamargue and its pink flamingoes and white horses? AndRemoulins and the awe-inspiring Roman Pont du Gard?

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change at LilleEurope, arrive Avignonlate afternoon. Taxitransfer to hotel notincluded (20 minutes,about 25€).

Return: Transfer toAvignon station included,change trains at LilleEurope, arrive St PancrasInternational station lateevening.

6-8 nights (4-6 half-board)

Remoulins

St Giles

Fontvieille

Graveson

AVIGNON

St RémyBeaucaire

Arless

s

extra 2 nights

Saint-Benezet bridge in Avignon

Saze AVIGNON

Remoulins

Rhône

Gardon

Tarascon

Les Baux

Les Alpilles

Graveson

Pont du Gard

Beaucaire

Fontvieille

St Rémy

88 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/vangogh

Van Gogh’s ProvenceShimmering light and olive groves

Wonderful buildings, charming village squares, the smell of herbs growing

wild under your feet, all the right ingredients for some great walking along

quiet lanes and stony tracks. The grade is moderate because the distances

are longer than usual.

Day 1: Arrival GravesonSettle into your family-run 2-star hotel, relax by the pool and look forward to the week ahead. In the eveningenjoy a gentle stroll around Graveson. HB

Day 2: Saze to Remoulins (12 miles) After a transfer to Saze, head off up the lanes into theProvençal countryside. You will spot the little stone hutsknown as capitelles, ancient in construction and used asstores and shelter for shepherds. HB

Day 3: Day trip from Remoulins (6 miles)Just down the road from your 2-star hotel, the Pont duGard is a must. It does not take long to walk into theattractive countryside of the Gardon valley along dustylanes to picturesque villages perched on the hilltops. HB

Day 4: Remoulins to Beaucaire (13 miles) Rise up onto the hillside to join the GR6 footpath. You walkthrough fields of redcurrants, apples, walnuts and vines.Visit the Abbaye St. Romain, on a ridge overlooking theRhône, before settling in at your 3-star hotel. HB

Day 5: Beaucaire to Fontvieille (11 miles) Pass through the narrow streets of the old walled town ofTarascon, then head out through the olive groves, roughpasture and woodland towards the hills and the limestoneoutcrops of Les Alpilles. You’re guaranteed a friendlywelcome at our 3-star hotel in this typical Provençalvillage. B&B

Day 6: Fontvieille to St. Rémy (13 miles) Return to the hills of Les Alpilles and climb to the medievalvillage of Les Baux. As you descend into St Rémy and yourcentrally located 2-star hotel, pass the sanatorium whereVan Gogh painted some of his most famous works. B&B

Day 7: Day trip from St Rémy (6 miles)St Rémy itself is known for its charm and sophistication,but why not walk up to the higher reaches of Les Alpillesfor grand views over the Camargue before enjoying yourfinal meal of the holiday in one of St Rémy’s lovelyrestaurants. B&B

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change trains at Lille Europe, arriveAvignon late afternoon.Taxi transfer to hotel notincluded (20 minutes,about 25€).






Starting days: Any except Saturday - not available July, August,

as many paths are closed due to the risk of fire.


Inset: Chateau De Baux A typical colorful landscape in Provence

Luberon en Vélo Quiet roads and magnificent perched villages

Meander along the tiny back roads of Provence through a tapestry of

vineyards and fruit orchards, heading to stunning hilltop medieval villages,

listed among the most beautiful in France: Gordes, Roussillon, Ménerbes.

This is Provence!

Day 1: Arrive in Avignon Settle into your hotel – Le Villa de Margot – in theheart of the historic centre of Avignon, just steps fromthe Pope’s palace. Visit the famed 12th century Pontd’Avignon, the old medieval ramparts, and the labyrinthof narrow streets winding through town. Dinner in anearby restaurant. HB

Day 2: Avignon to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (19 miles) Leaving Avignon cycle through farmland and vines, passingthrough the tiny villages of Jonquerettes and Le Thor.Your destination is Isle sur la Sorgue, a veritable islandof a village, surrounded by the clear green waters of theSorgue River. Settle into the delightful 4 star La Prévôtebefore choosing where to eat tonight. B&B

Day 3: Day Trip from Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (25 miles) Cycle through peaceful landscapes and the perched villagesof the Monts de Vaucluse. Maybe stop in Venasque, amedieval town, labelled as one of “the most beautifulvillages of France”. On towards the lost hamlets of laRoque sur Pernes and Le Beaucet, cycling on peacefulcountry lanes through cherry orchards and Muscatvineyards before descending back through pine forestsand quaint valleys. Choose another restaurant fordinner tonight. B&B

Day 4: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to Cabrières (32 miles)Your first stop is Gordes, its massive stone homes risingon a rocky spur, hanging almost impossibly above theCalavon Valley. Next is Roussillon: in stark contrast, itsrainbow of colourful homes are painted with the ochre fromthe adjacent quarry. You reach the charming guest houseLa Bastide de Voulonne outside the town of Cabrières,where you settle in for the next two nights. HB.

Day 5: Cabrières – Bonnieux – Lacoste -Cabrières (28 miles) Peter Mayle chose a stunning backdrop to write his novels,and today you’ll be visiting the villages that provided thesetting: Bonnieux and its winding streets, the perchedvillage of Ménerbes, and the Marquis de Sade’s famedcastle ruins in Lacoste. The tiny roads that lead the wayare lined with almond trees and pass through fragrantorchards and vines. HB

Day 6: Back to Isle sur la Sorgue (13 miles)A short bike ride through beautiful countryside, passingthrough quiet hamlets leads you back to Isle sur laSorgue for your final night. B&B

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart StPancras InternationalStation, change stations inParis arrive Avignon TGVlate afternoon. Shuttletransfer to Avignon Centrestation for train to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Transfer tohotel (5 minutes).

Return: Transfer toIsle-sur-la-Sorgue station,train to Avignon Centre.Shuttle bus to AvignonTGV, change stations inParis, arrive St PancrasInternational lateafternoon.



£1218 £1465 £1165

Extra night B&B in Avignon £75 per person.

Starting days: Not Sundays. Not July/August.

6 nights (3 nights half-board)

Vineyards in the Luberon


Cabrières

Bonnieux

Lacoste

AVIGNON

Le Rhone

La Durance

89 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/luberonv

Inset: Ancient bastide

Villefranche sur Mer St Jean Cap Ferrat

Gorbio Sainte Agnès

Cannes

Saint Raphaël

Bormes les Mimosa

Port Cros

Le Lavandou

90 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/golden

Golden IslandsPristine coastline and untouched islands

The Côte d’Azur, boasts some of the most untamed coastline along

the Mediterranean, and the island of Port Cros is a paradise of cork oaks

and walking paths. Based in the towns of Villefranche sur Mer and

Le Lavandou, you will experience the best of the Côte d’Azur.

Day 1: Arrive in Villefranche sur Mer Settle into your hotel in Villefranche sur Mer, a small andcolourful harbor town on the French Riviera, just a stone’sthrow from Nice. Dinner in town and night in Villefranche. HB

Day 2: St Jean Cap Ferrat (9 miles) Leaving your hotel by foot, you circumnavigate the peninsulaof Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. An easy walking path built alongthe ledge of the jagged coastline has you wedged betweenthe Mediterranean and some of the most expensive villasin the world. 2nd night in Villefranche. B&B

Day 3: Perched medieval villages (9 miles) There are two possibilities for you today: the medievalvillages of Gorbio and Sainte Agnès sit on their rockyperches high above the Mediterranean, with a walkingpath that links the two. Your second option, and morechallenging, is the winding path from the train station ofEze, zigzagging upwards towards its beautiful fortifiedvillage, with breathtaking views of the sea. 3rd night inVillefranche. B&B

Day 4: Le Lavandou A morning transfer takes you westward to the town ofLe Lavandou. Settle into the Hôtel l’Espadon for the nextfour nights– set just a few paces from the water. Spendtime exploring the town, and what is probably the bestbeach along the Côte d’Azur. HB

Day 5: Bormes les Mimosas (9 miles)Walk through the colourful village of Bormes les Mimosas,each one of its cobbled streets laden in bougainvillea,mimosas, and exotic flowers from the world over. For thoseseeking more of a challenge you can continue up to thechapel of Notre Dame de Constance; at 300m above sealevel the views are far-reaching. 2nd night in Le Lavandou. B&B

Day 6: Port Cros National Park (9 miles) A ferry takes you from the port of Le Lavandou to theisland of Port Cros, it is France’s smallest national park,and its dense forests of tree heather, strawberry trees andcork oaks, all untamed, makes for a veritable walkingparadise. A return ferry is included to Le Lavandou.3rd night in Le Lavandou. B&B

Day 7: The Coastline path (11 miles)Today you follow the “sentier littoral”, the coastline paththat passes along pristine beaches and hidden coves.Halfway through the walk the Estagnol beach is the perfectlunch break, with its beachfront restaurant serving grilledseafood. 4th night in Le Lavandou. B&B

Rail Travel

Outward: DepartSt Pancras International,change in stations inParis and trains in Nice,arrive Villefranche sur Merearly evening.

Return: Depart by taxito Toulon or Hyères andthen direct train to Paris.Change stations in Parisand arrive St PancrasInternational early evening. Prices per person (Based on two sharing)


from £1248 £1495 £1195

Starting days: Any.


Ferry

Secrets of LuberonCanyons, forests and lavender fields

Discover some of the secrets of the Luberon mountains where medieval

villages encircle their protective castles, where hidden trails pass alongside

stone farmhouses and where wild flowers carpet the thyme-laden hills. Day 1: Arrive in Isle-sur-la-SorgueSettle into your hotel les Terrasses du Bassin in the town centre on the bank of the river. B&BA number of quaint restaurants to choose.

Day 2: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to Gordes (8.5 miles)Transfer to Fontaine de Vaucluse. To start your walk,follow a 300 year-old wall before heading through cedarforests to Gordes and your stay at La Borie chambre d’hôtewith swimming pool. B&B. Eat in a nearby restaurant.

Day 3: Circuit walk from Gordes (6.5 miles)Paths through lavender and thyme-laden fields toSénanque Abbey and returning along an ancient cobbledpath back to Gordes. B&B

Day 4: Goult to Bonnieux (7.5 miles)Start today with a short transfer to Goult then cross thevalley and climb into the heart of Luberon to Lacoste ,withthe ruined castle of the Marquis de Sade, before continuingto Bonnieux, a village made famous by Peter Mayle in hisYear in Provence. Stay at le Clos du Buis B&B. Tonightdinner included in a nearby village restaurant.

Day 5: Circuit walk from Bonnieux (7 miles)A pleasant and gradual climb through the forest leads to theridge of the Petit Luberon mountain with spectacular viewsin all directions. Drop down on to the plains and a leisurelyreturn to Bonnieux. There is a good choice of restaurants fordinner tonight or eat al fresco in the pretty gardens at yourhotel and maybe take a dip in the pool! B&B

Day 6: Bonnieux to Buoux (8 miles)Stroll over lavender fields through truffle oak plantationswith views from a canyon rim before descending a secretcobbled zig-zag path to the canyon floor and the Aubergedes Seguins. Dinner included. HB

Day 7: Buoux to Saignon (7.5 miles)Follow the base of the Aiguebrun canyon to hiddenSivergues and then through the lavender fields to Saignon.Stay at La Pyramide chambre d’hôte with swimmingpool. HB

OPTION

Start with an extra day in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to explore thisdelightful town or add an night in Avignon at the end anddiscover the fascinating Cité des Papes.

Rail Travel

Outward: St PancrasInternational station,change stations in Parisarrive Avignon TGVstation late afternoon.Shuttle transfer toAvignon Centre for trainto L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue,arrive early evening.

Return: Transfer fromhotel to Apt for bus toAvignon and shuttletransfer to TGV. Changestations in Paris, arrive St Pancras Internationalearly evening.



£1012 £1259 £959

Extra night B&B in Avignon £75 per person.

Starting days: Not Sundays. Not July/August.

7 nights (4 B&B, 3 half-board)

91 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/luberon

View at Gordes


Buoux

BonnieuxGoult

Saignon

AVIGNON

APT

Fontaine de Vaucluse

Gordes Transfer

PRESTIGE

92 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/cruiseprovence



from £2225 from £2650 First Class

Starting days: Sunday. Join at Avignon or Montpellier.

We are pleased to add travel to suit your requirements.

River Cruising in ProvenceAll-inclusive luxury floating hotel

This is an all-inclusive holiday to which we can add overland travel and

additional nights in hotels before or after your cruise. The cruise includes

interesting daily excursions to discover the history and culture of this

beautiful and fascinating region.


Luxury BargeShare the French “art de vivre” for a while, forget the land and relax aboard LE PHÉNICIEN, a luxury barge especially converted and furnished to give you the comfort of a first class hotel. Sip fine wines and enjoy our gourmet Provençal cuisine cooked by our on board Chef. With just nine comfortable cabins, eachwith en suite bathroom, you can enjoy the intimacy ofjoining a small group from which new friendships can grow.

Guided ExcursionsLearn about the history and traditions of this land,remember the Roman times, discover local cowboys on their superb white horses, take a cool bike ride in theback country and enjoy being pampered by our crew.

Daily excursions might include Avignon and itsmonumental Palace of the Popes, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards, the Roman aqueduct of Le Pont du Gard,the Medieval village of Les Baux de Provence, the famousRoman city of Arles, the wildlife and ranches of theCamargue and the walled city of Aigues-Mortes.

GOLF OPTION

Perhaps add a golfing option that offers five differentcourses to play as the barge makes its way along the River Rhône and associated canals. Call for details.

PRESTIGEProvence Prestige en VéloVineyards and olive groves

Absorb the essence of Provence – sleepy villages, sun soaked vineyards,

roman ruins, the magnificient Pont du Gard. Easy cycling along quiet lanes

and canal paths, the air fragrant with wild thyme to your destination where

you are guaranteed a comfortable room and delicious food.

Day 1: Arrival GravesonArrive at the delightful Moulin d’Aure hotel on theedge of Graveson. After settling in to your attractiveroom, take time to explore the grounds and relax bythe pool before dinner.

Day 2: Graveson to Collias (25 miles) It is a level ride to Remoulins and then you cross the riverbeneath the Pont du Gard on your way to the Hôtel lesCastellas at Collias, which boasts a small secluded pooland a restaurant with two Michelin stars.

Day 3: Collias to Tarascon (29 miles) A short sharp climb before taking quiet lanes through thevineyards of the Costières de Nîmes and past the bull-ringin Redessan to Beaucaire and cross the River Rhône intoTarascon. After exploring one or both of these bustlingriverside towns, it is just a short ride south for two nights at the Mas des Comtes de Provence, a first classChambre d’Hôte with pool.

Day 4: Day trip from Tarascon (10-20 miles)Today we propose a short ride to historic Arles with itsRoman amphitheatre, or take the local train from Tarasconto Nîmes.

Day 5: Tarascon to Les Baux en Provence(21 miles) After visiting the Olive ‘Boutique’ at the Châteaud’Estoublon climb to les Baux en Provence and settleinto the beautiful Cabro d’Or hotel with plenty of time toexplore the charming medieval village or spend a pleasantafternoon relaxing in the hotel grounds. Tonight dinnerin the excellent restaurant..

Day 6: Les Baux en Provence to St Remy(8-24 miles)Head of a short ride through to St Remy to seek outthe haunts of Van Gogh or visit the Roman sanctuary ofGlanum. Alternatively you could take a more challenging24 mile ride across the Alpilles to Maussane andEygalières. Before heading to your final night at thedelightful Le Vallon de Valrugues, a lovely room awaitsyou take time to settle in before enjoying anotherwonderful dinner.






LOW SEASON from £1410 £1789 £1319


Extra night HB Valmouriane £180. Cookery Class £95 inc. lunch.

Starting days: Any.


93 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/provencepv

Fontvieille

AVIGNON

St Rémy

Pont du GardCollias

Graveson

Tarascon

Les Baux

Arless

PRESTIGE

Collias

Avignon

Pont du Gard

St Rémy

Les Baux en Provence

Villeneuve-les-Avignon

Remoulins

Meynes

Beaucaire

St Gabrielle

Fontvieille

Provence Prestige à PiedScented pines and dazzling skies

Charming accommodation that adds a touch of luxury to the delights of

walking in Provence. Wander through pretty village squares, past vineyards

and fields of sunflowers, over remote hill sides and along canal towpaths

with the smell of wild herbs in the air. The grade is moderate.

Day 1: Arrival AvignonArrive at the luxurious Hostellerie la Magnaneraie inthe suburbs of old Villeneuve-les-Avignon. Explore theold village centre or relax in the hotel garden by the pool.

Day 2: Remoulins to Collias (10 miles) A taxi transfer to Remoulins to start your walk by crossingthe river to reach the magnificent Pont du Gard. Take timeto explore this Roman monument before continuing on toCollias and Hostellerie le Castellas which has a secludedoutdoor pool and Michelin starred restaurant.

Day 3: Collias to St Gabrielle (8 miles) The taxi transfer drops you off to start your walk at Meynes. Passing through Beaucaire you cross the RiverRhone into Tarascon and continue south to Mazet desRoches a charming hotel with an excellent restaurantarrive in time to relax by the pool before dinner.

Day 4: St Gabrielle to Fontvieille (7.5 miles)Follow the route of the canal, then continue along tracks,through woodland glades and the limestone outcrops ofthe Alpilles. Your destination is the delightful La Régalido,an oasis of tranquillity in the centre of this delightful village.

Day 5: Fontvieille to Les Baux en Provence(6 miles) Leaving Fontvieille visit Château d’Estoubon and theinteresting Olive Boutique. Then follow the foothills beforeclimbing to the medieval village of Les Baux take time toexplore before settling into the wonderful 5 star La Cabrod’Or tonight enjoy dinner in their gastronomique restaurant.

Day 6: Les Baux en Provence to St Remy(5 miles) A short walk today gives you plenty of time to explorethe explore St Remy and its labyrinth of narrow streets,housing art galleries and boutiques.

Day 7: St Remy en Provence (10 miles)A choice today either take the challenging 10 milecircular route, well worth it for the wonderful views butyou do need to be competent with a compass! Or spendthe day exploring the delightful town of St Remy oneof Van Gogh’s favourite haunts.





94 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/provencepp



LOW SEASON from £1586 £1970 £1495

High season (13 July - 31 August) add £40. Extra night HB

Valmouriane £165. Cookery class inc. lunch £95, lunch only £40.

Starting days: Any - not available July, August, as many paths

are closed due to the risk of fire.

Inset: Domaine de Valmouriane Pont du Gard bridge

Transfer

Breaking your journeyCombining holidays and short breaks

Why not break your journey at one of our hotelsconveniently located throughout France?

Perhaps stop overnight in Paris rather than London for your Eurostar

connections – please note however that there is an additional £50 cost

of rail travel for a break in the journey exceeding 24 hours. We can offer

a choice of two, three or four star hotels in central Paris.

We work in partnership with the Inter-Hotel Group and the Châteaux

and Hotels de France Collection with B&B prices from about £65 and

£90 per night per person respectively.

From the Châteaux and Hotels collection we can offer high quality

accommodation in most regions of France, either for an overnight stop

or to extend your holiday for a few more days.

Please phone for advice and a quotation.


We are always happy to combine two of our holidays into

one longer stay and discount the price of the second week.

Combining treks and cycles – The Stevenson Trail and the

Cathar Castles Trek have two-week options and for cyclists,

Périgord Discovery combines well with Limousin Lakes.

Adding a short break – We can customise your holiday

by adding extra nights at the beginning or end of your stay

and a number of our prestige hotels offer spa treatments or

cookery course a fun way to end your holiday. Find out more

on our website.

Adding Paris – Paris is a ‘must do’ and might be on your way

or easy to add to the start or end of your journey. We have

pre-planned holidays to choose from (p 26-29) or we can tailor

something for you with or without activities (p 11). Let us know

what you have in mind.

Call us to talk through the options and possibilities.

Fair trading termsBelle France is a trading name of Alan Rogers Travel Limited and when you make abooking with us which we accept, you will enter into a contract with Alan Rogers TravelLimited. The following terms form the basis of your contract. Please read them carefullyas they set out our respective rights and obligations. By asking us to confirm yourbooking, we are entitled to assume that you have had the opportunity to read and haveread these booking conditions and agree to them.

These terms comply with the ABTA Code of Conduct and the Package Travel, PackageHolidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992. References to “ART”, “we”, ‘us’ and‘our’ means Alan Rogers Travel Ltd of Spelmonden Old Oast, Goudhurst, Kent TN171HE. ‘You’ and ‘your’ means the person who makes the booking (“lead name”) and allother persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted ata later date) or any of them, as the context requires. The lead name must be at least 18at the time of booking.

The contract between us comes into existence when we accept your booking and youpay the deposit referred to in the brochure/on our website (or other payment due at thetime of booking as set out below).

Our obligations1. The Price of Your Holiday. We will always try to give accurate information on pricein our advertising material and at the time of booking. If we notice we have made amistake, we will notify you as soon as possible before your booking is confirmed. Wereserve the right to increase or decrease our published prices at any time before youbook. If there is any increase we will draw it to your attention at the time of booking.

You must pay the required deposit at the time of booking. The balance becomespayable 10 weeks before departure. For bookings made 4 - 10 weeks before departure,the balance must be paid within 7 days of the date of our invoice. Bookings made within4 weeks of departure must be paid for in full at the time of booking.

The prices shown in our brochure were calculated on 1st October 2012 on the basis ofthen known costs and an exchange rate as shown in the Financial Times Guide toWorld Currencies on that date.

Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, thensubject to the correction of errors, we will only increase or decrease the price in thefollowing circumstances. Price increases or decreases after booking will be passed onby way of a surcharge or refund. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable,subject to the conditions set out in this clause, in the event of any change in ourtransportation costs or in dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as embarkationor disembarkation fees at ports or in the exchange rate which have been used tocalculate the cost of your holiday.

Even in the above cases, only if the amount of any increase in our costs exceeds 2%of the total cost of your holiday (excluding insurance premiums and any amendmentcharges) will we levy a surcharge. If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost ofyour holiday (excluding insurance premiums and any amendment charges), you will beentitled to cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies you have paid tous (except for any amendment charges) or alternatively purchase another holiday fromus as referred to in clause 3 “Alterations and Cancellations by ART”. Although insurance(where purchased through us) does not form part of your contract with us or of any“package”, we will consider an appropriate refund of any insurance premiums you havepaid us if you can show you are unable to use/reuse or transfer your policy in the eventof cancellation or purchase of an alternative holiday.

Where applicable, you have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surchargeinvoice to tell us if you want to choose option (b) or (c) as set out in clause 3 below. Ifyou do not tell us that you wish to choose either of these options within this period oftime, we are entitled to assume that you do not wish to do so and will pay thesurcharge. Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday orwithin 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later.

A refund will only be payable if the decrease in our costs exceeds 2% of the total costof your holiday as set out above. Where a refund is due, we will pay you the full amountof the decrease in our costs.

After final payment for your holiday: We guarantee not to increase the price of yourholiday once the final balance, due twelve weeks before departure, has been paid. Norefund will be payable if any decrease in our costs occurs during this period either.

2. Special Requests. We always do our best to comply with any special requests madeat the time of booking but these are not guaranteed (except as set out in clause 1 underyour obligations).

3. Alterations and Cancellations by ART. Occasionally, we have to make changes toand correct errors in brochure and other details both before and after bookings havebeen confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings. Whilst we always endeavour to avoidchanges and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so. Please note, some ofour holidays require a minimum number of participants to enable us to operate them. Ifthe minimum number of bookings required for a particular holiday has not beenreceived, we are entitled to cancel it. We will notify you of cancellation for this reasonno later than 10 weeks prior to departure.

Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a “significant change”. Asignificant change is a change made before departure which, taking account of theinformation you give us at the time of booking and which we can reasonably beexpected to know as a tour operator, we can reasonably expect to have a major affecton your holiday. Significant changes are likely to include the following changes whenmade before departure; a change of accommodation to that of a lower officialclassification or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, achange of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away,

a change of outward ferry departure time of 12 or more hours and, in the case of tours,a significant change of itinerary missing out one or more major destination substantiallyor altogether.

If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you as soon as possible.If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the followingoptions:-

(a) (for significant changes) accepting the changed arrangements; or

(b) purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. We will offer you at least one alternative holiday of equivalent or higher standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the price of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact cheaper than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If you do not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean your payingmore if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper; or

(c) cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us.

If we have to make a significant change or cancel we will as a minimum, wherecompensation is appropriate, pay you the compensation payments set out in the tablebelow depending on the circumstances and when the significant change or cancellationis notified to you subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payableand no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where(1) we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeablecircumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not haveavoided even with all due care or (2) we have to cancel because the minimum numberof bookings necessary for us to operate your holiday has not been reached (see above).No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if wecancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these bookingconditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where a change is a minorone.

Period of notification given to Compensation per bookingyou of any significant changes - % of Total Holiday Costor cancellation

(Number of days before your If holiday If you receiveholiday is due to start) is taken: a refund

More than 70 days Nil Nil

43-70 days 5% 5%

29-42 days 10% 5%

15-28 days 15% 10%

0-14 days 20% 10%

Very rarely, we may be forced by "force majeure" (see clause 4) to change or terminateyour holiday after departure but before the scheduled end of your time away. This isextremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to makeany refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you anycompensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result.

4. Force Majeure. Except where otherwise expressly stated in these terms, we regretwe cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or promptperformance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected byor you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of "forcemajeure". In these terms, "force majeure" means any event which we or the supplier ofthe service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Suchevents may include actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrialdispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similarevents outside our control.

5. Delays to Transport Services. Where we are notified of a delay by the transportoperator we will take reasonable steps to advise you before departure. We regretthough we are not in a position to offer you any assistance in the event of delay at youroutward or homeward point of departure. You may be covered for additional expensesincurred due to such delays under the terms of your insurance policy.

6. Marketing Information. We make every effort to ensure that the information in ourguides and brochures and on our website is accurate and comprehensive. It is basedon our best knowledge at the time of going to press/publication on our website.However, changes may be made and errors may occasionally occur. Where possible wewill advise you of any changes or errors at the time of booking. You must also ensureyou check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time ofbooking.

7. Our Liability to You

a) We promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to make,perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performedor provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these terms, wewill accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or yourcontracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as aresult of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonableskill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holidayarrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill andcare has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only

be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if theywere at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) orcarrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers).

b) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (for example loss ofenjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any descriptionwhatsoever which results from any of the following:-

- the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or

- the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or

- ‘force majeure’ as defined in clause 4 above

c) We cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of ourcontract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which yourhotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities arenot advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contractand any excursion you purchase in resort. Please also see clause 8 “Excursions,activities and general area information” below. In addition, regardless of any wordingused by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promiseto use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater ordifferent liability to you.

d) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide orarrange as part of our contract - and the laws and regulations of the country in whichyour claim or complaint occurred - will be used as the basis for deciding whether theservices in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gaverise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable tothose services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properlyprovided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws andregulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided inthe UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence ofa safety feature which might lead a reasonable holiday maker to refuse to take theholiday in question.

e) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury)concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting onand/or off the transport concerned) provided by any sea or rail carrier to which anyinternational convention or regulation applies, the maximum amount of compensationwe will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claimor that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrierconcerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation whichapplies to the travel arrangements in question (the Athens Convention for internationaltravel by sea and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail). Where a carrierwould not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable internationalconvention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are notobliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making anypayment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitledto receive from the carrier for the claim in question. Copies of the applicableinternational conventions and regulations are available from us on request.

f) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or othersum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by youconcerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen youwould suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not resultfrom any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where weare responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for anybusiness losses including self employed loss of earnings.

8. Excursions, activities and general area information. We may provide you withinformation (before departure and/or when you are on holiday) about activities andexcursions which are available in the area you are visiting. We have no involvement inany such activities or excursions which are neither run, supervised nor controlled in anyway by us. They are provided by local operators or other third parties who are entirelyindependent of us. They do not form any part of your contract with us even where wesuggest particular operators/other third parties and/or assist you in booking suchactivities or excursions in any way. We cannot accept any liability on any basis inrelation to such activities or excursions and the acceptance of liability contained inclause 7a) above will not apply to them. We do not however exclude liability for thenegligence of ourselves or our employees resulting in your death or personal injury.

We cannot guarantee accuracy at all times of information given in relation to suchactivities or excursions or about the area you are visiting generally or that any particularexcursion or activity which does not form part of our contract will take place as theseservices are not under our control. If you feel that any of the activities or excursionsreferred to in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material whichare not part of our contract are vital to the enjoyment of your holiday, write to usimmediately and we will tell you the latest known situation. If we become aware of anymaterial alterations to area information and/or such outside activities or excursionswhich can reasonably be expected to affect your decision to book a holiday with us, wewill pass on this information at the time of booking.

9. Conditions of suppliers. Many of the services which make up your holiday areprovided by independent suppliers. Those suppliers provide these services inaccordance with their own terms and conditions. Some of these terms and conditionsmay limit or exclude the supplier’s liability to you, usually in accordance with applicableinternational conventions (see clause 7ef) above). Copies of the relevant parts of theseterms and conditions and of the international conventions are available on request fromourselves or the supplier concerned.

96 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/terms

Your obligations1. Special requests and medical conditions/disabilities. If you have any specialrequest, you must advise us at the time of booking. Although we will endeavour to passany reasonable requests on to the relevant supplier, we regret we cannot guarantee anyrequest will be met. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contracton our part. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to thesupplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any otherdocumentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and untilspecifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability. For your ownprotection, you should obtain confirmation in writing that a special request will becomplied (where it is possible to give this) where it is important to you.

If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or anyspecial requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including anywhich affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking sothat we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or makingthe booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of bookingand whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs. You must also promptlyadvise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday developsafter your booking has been confirmed.

2. Regulations and behaviour. You must abide by the rules and regulations of the ferrycompanies, hotels and other suppliers and be considerate towards everyone you comeinto contact with during your holiday. If you fail to observe such rules or behave in sucha way as to cause or be likely to cause (in our reasonable opinion or the reasonableopinion of the relevant supplier) danger, distress or significant annoyance to anyone ordamage to property, we are entitled without prior notice, to terminate the holiday of theperson(s) concerned. In this situation you will be required to vacate youraccommodation or other service immediately and we will have no further responsibilitytowards you including any return travel arrangements. No refunds will be made and wewill not meet any expenses or costs incurred as a result or pay any compensation.

3. Damage. When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any damage or losscaused by you. Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if notprecisely known) must be made direct to the accommodation owner or manager orother supplier or to us as soon as possible. If the actual cost of the loss or damageexceeds the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the difference once known.If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You willalso be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us and all costsincurred by us (including our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result ofyour actions. You should ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to protect you ifthis situation arises.

4. Safety. You must take reasonable precautions for your own safety including allchildren travelling with you. Please note, it is the requirements and standards of thecountry in which any services which make up your holiday are provided which apply tothose services and not those of the UK. As a general rule, these requirements andstandards will not be the same as the UK and may sometimes be lower.

5. Facilities in Low Season. The provision of certain facilities at your accommodationmay be restricted in low season or in cases of bad weather. Where specific openingdates are not given this should not be taken as an implied guarantee of their availabilityall season.

6. Planning your Journey. It is your responsibility to plan your journey and to providea roadworthy vehicle. We will not make refunds for unused accommodation whereinsufficient time has been allowed for journeys or if you have broken down. You areresponsible for arriving in good time for your ferry crossing or rail departure.

7. Holiday Insurance. As responsible tour operators, we believe it is essential that youtake out adequate holiday insurance for the duration of your time away. We can provideinformation on a holiday insurance policy you may purchase through us, but we makeno recommendation. If you have an alternative policy, please provide us with yourpolicy details. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you onholiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase issuitable and adequate for your particular needs.

8. Payment and your Confirmation. We accept the deposit as part payment for yourholiday. The final balance must be received by us 12 weeks before departure. Bookingsmade 4 – 10 weeks before departure must be paid for within 7 days of the date of theinvoice. Bookings made within four weeks before departure must be paid for in full atthe time of booking.

If we do not receive all payments due (including any surcharge where applicable) in fulland on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In thiscase, we will be entitled to keep all deposits paid or due at that date. If we do not cancelstraight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay thecancellation charges shown in clause 7 depending on the date we reasonably treat yourbooking as cancelled.

For bookings made less than 10 but more than 4 weeks before departure we reservethe right to require an additional deposit to cover possible cancellation charges and insome circumstances increased administration costs.

We will confirm your holiday by issuing a confirmation invoice. This invoice will be sentto the lead name. Please check this invoice carefully as soon as you receive it. Contactus immediately if any information which appears on the confirmation or any otherdocument appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to makechanges later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of anyinaccuracies (for which we are responsible) in any document within 10 days of our

sending it out (5 days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified tous outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so.

9. Alterations and Cancellations. Should you wish to make any changes to yourconfirmed holiday, please notify us in writing as soon as possible. Whilst we willendeavour to assist, we cannot guarantee we will be able to meet any such requests.All changes are subject to availability. Where we can, an amendment fee of £20 peramendment will be payable together with any costs or charges incurred or imposed bythe relevant suppliers. If you reduce the number of nights’ accommodation after yourbooking is confirmed, we reserve the right to require you to pay for the number of nightsoriginally booked.

Alterations within 8 weeks of departure: If you wish to alter your holiday dates by morethan two weeks this will be treated as a cancellation (see below) and your new holidayarrangements will be treated as a new booking.

Alterations within 2 weeks of departure: All alterations will be treated as a cancellation(see below) and your new holiday arrangements will be treated as a new booking.

Alterations whilst on holiday: We will do our best to accommodate any alteration youwish to make whilst away (subject to availability). We reserve the right to charge anamendment fee of £20 (or the equivalent in local currency) per amendment to coveradministration and telephone costs together with any costs or charges incurred orimposed by the relevant suppliers. You will be required to pay the extra cost (if any) andany extra charges for additional members of your party who were not notified to uswhen the reservation was originally made.

Cancellations: The lead name must confirm in writing all cancellations made beforeyour holiday departure date. No action will be taken by us until we have received yourwritten instructions. You are strongly advised to send such notification by recordeddelivery as we cannot be responsible for non-receipt of written instructions.

The holiday insurance policy we offer provides cover against cancellation in somecircumstances. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned.

The following cancellation fees (including the amount of the deposit) are payable.Insurance premiums and amendment charges are non refundable in all cases.

• More than 10 weeks: deposit only

• Between 4 - 10 weeks before departure: 40% of the total holiday cost

• Between 2 - 4 weeks before departure: 70% of the total holiday cost

• Less than 2 weeks before departure: 100% of the total holiday cost

Alteration and cancellation of travel bookings: Changes, alterations and cancellationsof ferry or other transport operator bookings are subject to their own terms andconditions and cancellation charges are likely to be payable to them in addition to anyART amendment fees.

Loss of travel tickets: Where lost travel tickets have to be replaced, this will be treatedas an alteration and amendment charges may be levied. Some companies insist onreplacements being paid for in full.

10. Complaints and Arbitration. Should you experience a problem with yourcontracted holiday arrangements whilst away, you must immediately inform our localrepresentative or agent (if we have one) and the supplier of the service(s) in question.Any verbal notification must be put in writing and given to our representative/agent andthe supplier as soon as possible. If we do not have or you cannot contact our localrepresentative or agent and any complaint or problem is not resolved to yoursatisfaction by the supplier, you must contact us in the UK using the contact details wehave provided you with during your holiday, giving us full details and a contact number.Until we know about a complaint or problem, we cannot begin to resolve it. Mostproblems can be dealt with quickly. If you remain dissatisfied, however, you must writeto us within 28 days of the end of your holiday giving your booking reference and fulldetails of your complaint. If you fail to follow this simple complaints procedure, yourright to claim any compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may beaffected or even lost as a result.

All letters received by us will be acknowledged within14 days of receipt with a fullresponse or explanation for any delay in being able to provide a full response being sentwithin 28 days of receipt.

Disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract which cannot be amicablysettled may be referred to arbitration if you so wish under a special scheme arrangedby ABTA and administered independently by IDRS, part of the Chartered Institute ofArbitrators. The scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration ondocuments alone with restricted liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full detailswill be provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA website (www.abta.com)or from ABTA (for further contact details see below). This scheme does not apply toclaims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is also a limit of £25,000per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injuryor illness or their consequences. The scheme can however deal with compensationclaims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1000 onthe amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Theapplication for arbitration and statement of claim must be received by the IDRS within1 year of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under thescheme may still be available if we agree, although the ABTA Code does not requiresuch agreement.

11. Your contract. The contract between us comes into existence when we acceptyour booking and you pay the deposit referred to in the brochure/on our website (orother payment due at the time of booking as set out below).

We both agree that English Law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to anydispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (“claim”)(except as set out below). We both also agree that any claim (and whether or notinvolving any personal injury) must be dealt with under the ABTA arbitration scheme (ifthe scheme is available for the claim in question and you wish to use it – see clause 10above) or by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Courtproceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings musteither be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. Ifproceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have yourcontract and claim governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (butif you do not so choose, English law will apply).

12. Passports, visas and health requirements. British citizens holding a Britishpassport do not require a visa for any of the holidays we feature. Requirements maychange and you should check the up to date position in good time before departure. Afull British passport presently takes approximately 2 to 6 weeks to obtain. If you are 16or over and haven’t yet got a passport, our recommendation is that you should applyfor one at least 6 weeks before your holiday. The UK Passport Service has to confirmyour identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview inorder to do this. If you are not a British citizen or hold a non British passport, you mustcheck passport and visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies)to or through which you are intending to travel.

There are no compulsory health requirements applicable to British citizens for entry intoFrance. For cycling and walking holidays, good general health and fitness isrecommended. It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommendedvaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Details are availablefrom your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centrewww.nathnac.org Information on health is contained in the Department of Health leafletT7 (Health Advice for Travellers) available from the Department of Health by telephoneon 0870 1555455 or via its website www.dh.gov.uk and from most Post Offices. Forholidays in the EU/EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)prior to departure from the Department of Health (see leaflet T7 and the websitewww.dh.gov.uk). Health requirements and recommendations may change and youshould check the up to date position in good time before departure.

It is the responsibility of the lead name to ensure that all members of the party are inpossession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. All costsincurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannotaccept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country dueto failure on your part to carry all required documentation. If failure to have anynecessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financialpenalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

13. Foreign Office Advice. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularlyupdated travel information on its website www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo which youare recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.

14. Data Protection. In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travelarrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements we need to use and pass onthe personal data you provide us with (such as name, address, any special needs etc).We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place toprotect your information. We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers ofyour travel arrangements such as hotels, transport companies etc. The information mayalso be provided to public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them,or as required by law. This also applies to any sensitive information that you give to ussuch as details of disabilities or dietary/religious requirements. If we cannot pass thisinformation to the relevant suppliers, we cannot provide your booking. In making thisbooking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.

We will hold your information, where collected by us, and may use it to inform you ofoffers or to send you brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches in thefuture, please write to us at Spelmonden Old Oast, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1HE. We mayalso provide your details to selected third parties for similar purposes. If you do not wishto receive such approaches in the future, please write to us at the above address.

Alan Rogers Travel Ltd is a member of ABTA Ltd undermembership number W1610. In the unlikely event of ourinsolvency, ABTA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad(where your contracted holiday is inclusive of travel to and from

the UK) and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advancebooking. Please go to www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme ofFinancial Protection.

ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel andassist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a highstandard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information aboutABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have acomplaint (see clause 13), contact ABTA at 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ or seewww.abta.com

97 Reservations 01580 214010 www.bellefrance.co.uk/terms

Pricing information


How to price your holiday

The prices featured on each holiday page are based on two peopletravelling and sharing a room. However, we are more than happy to quote for single travellers, parties of three or more, or for families.

High seasonPrices apply for holidays starting between 13 July and 31 August.

Single travellersIf you are travelling on your own, our standard walking and cyclingholidays have a single supplement of from £25 per night for rail inclusiveand own travel unless stated otherwise; please call for a quote. On ferryinclusive holidays there is a further single supplement. For holidays usingPrestige hotels, please ask for a quote for single occupancy as the roomcosts can be significant if not shared.

Own travel pricesYour holiday with us starts on your arrival at the first hotel and ends atyour last hotel. You may require additional transfers from or to your pointsof arrival and departure or back to the start to retrieve a vehicle. We arehappy to arrange these for you at a supplementary cost. Bear in mindthat cheap flights may involve long and expensive transfers.

Tailor made bookingsThese may incur a £25 fee, please see page 11.

Overseas bookingsWe make a charge of £55 on bookings from overseas clients to coverthe additional administration costs and dispatch of travel pack by courierand balance payments by bank transfer.

Late bookingsWhere we need to send a travel pack to the start of your holiday due tolate booking, we will charge a £50 fee.

LuggageWe transport baggage between hotels but each item must be clearlylabelled with your name and the next destination hotel. Some localagents charge extra for overweight luggage or too many pieces.

The weight per item must not exceed 15kg or 33lbs.

Travel Inclusive

Ferry (and Eurotunnel): Prices shown relate to a mid-week, off-peak return ferry between Doverand Calais. Supplements will apply for differenttimes or crossing routes or ferry operators.When more than two people are booking aferry-inclusive holiday, the additional passengerspay only the “Own Travel” price for their holiday.Upgrade to Club Class for £25 per traveller andpriority loading for £20.

Rail: For bookings made within 12 weeks ofdeparture our rail prices cannot be guaranteed.In this instance please ask for a quotation.Upgrade to First Class seating £140 per person.

Family Bookings

Triple rooms: For a party of three adults, mosthotels can provide a triple room, usually containinga double and single bed. If you’re booking a tripleroom, the price per person is £30 less than thepublished “two people sharing” price.

Family rooms: Rooms for four people are verylimited, and the fourth bed is often likely to bea sofa-bed or folding bed (suitable only for smallchildren). Where required please ask for a familyroom and we will check availability and cost.

Children aged three and under: The price for a child aged three or under sharing a room withtwo adults is just £100.

Children aged four to eleven inclusive: Sharing a triple room with two adults, we charge just half the brochure price. For a second child in a family room we give a discount of £100 fromthe brochure price. (Excluding ‘Prestige’ hotelholidays - when a quotation is necessary).

Children aged twelve to fifteen inclusive:Sharing a triple room with two adults, receive a discount of £100 off the brochure price.(Excluding ‘Prestige’ hotel holidays when a quotation is necessary).

Ways to saveWe reward your loyalty

We are waiting to hear from you!

9.00am – 5.00pm Monday – Friday

01580 214010

Should you phone when we are closed,

leave a message and we’ll call you back

as soon as we can.

Alternatively, you can email us at:

[email protected]


Recommend your friends

If you travelled with us last year or earlier in the current season, and you introduce a friend to the Belle France experience we will grant thema £50 discount per couple if they haven’t holidayed with us previously.That’s not all, we will send you a personal £50 voucher to spend on afuture Belle France holiday.

Second holidays

We know that some of you like to take more than one Belle France holidaya year – To say thank you for your loyalty, if you’ve booked one holiday in2012 and are planning on seeing a different corner of France (or even thesame corner!) later in the year then we’ll discount the booking by £50 perparty if no other offer applies at the time of booking.

Discounts and PromotionsKeep an eye on our website and sign up for our e-newsletter as from time to time we advertise special offers on certain holidays during aspecified period. Discounts are not cumulative and only one discount canbe applied to any given holiday. See our website, Facebook and Twitterpages for Belle France Tuesdays. Links are on the Belle France website.

Payment

To secure your booking we ask for a deposit of £100 per person at thetime of booking (or 30% for Burgundy Chateau and Barging holidays).

With your confirmation and invoice you will receive a Holiday Guide full ofuseful and essential information about your holiday in France. We stronglyrecommend that you hold a valid Travel Insurance from this date in orderto cover any cancellation costs.

The balance of the cost of your holiday is due twelve weeks beforedeparture, giving us time to prepare your personalised holiday documentsand booklet ready for dispatch to you three weeks before your departure.Let us know if you will need it earlier.

Payment Methods

All payments must be made in Sterling.

Where balance payments are made using a credit card we must adda 2% surcharge to cover administration charges, (deposit payments arenot affected). Balances paid by cheque, UK bank transfer or debit cardincur no surcharge and we welcome these. Payments made from anoverseas bank account attract a £15 fee unless the £55 overseas feeis being applied.

Spelmonden Old Oast, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1HE

Tel 01580 214010 Fax 01580 214011

E-mail [email protected]

www.bellefrance.co.ukAustralia Jetset, 68 Best St, Devonport TAS 7310Freecall 1800 067207 Fax 03 64 233255E-mail [email protected] TAS125, IATA 02 3 4594 3

2013 - belle france holiday brochure

Documents

languedoc77 canal

coast 7nts67

7nts56 dordogne

belle france4 holidays

midi cruise 6nts84 provence

cyclingchallenging walking

moderate walking

saveeasy walking