Holidays

What to do in France this summer?

By Louise Catier
12/05/2008

Whether you want to have some rest this summer, stay active or feel like discovering more of the incredibly diverse French culture, you’re sure to find some ideas below to make the most of your French stay.
Immerse in French Culture:
There is no shortage of opportunities to sample French life and culture this summer:  there are numerous Festivals celebrating cinema, music, theatre or regional tradition...


Paris Cinema. Cinema
1st- 12th July
www.pariscinema.org/

Festival international du film de La Rochelle. Cinema
27th June-7th July
www.festival-larochelle.org

Festival d’Aix en Provence. Music
27th June- 23rd July
www.festival-aix.com

Solidays. Music
4th-6th July
www.solidays.org/

Festival d’Avignon. Theatre
4th-26th July
www.festival-avignon.com/

Francofoloies de La Rochelle. Music
11th-16th July
www.francofolies.fr

Festival des Vieilles Charrues. Music
17th-20th July
www.vieillescharrues.asso.fr/en/festival/index.php

Nice Jazz Festival. Music
19th-26th July

Festival Interceltique de Lorient. Music, Dance
1st-10th August
www.festival-interceltique.com/

Paris Quartier d’été
14th July-15th August
www.quartierdete.com/

Rock en Seine. Music
20th-29th August
www.rockenseine.com/

Festival du Film américain de Deauville. Cinema
5th-14th September
www.festival-deauville.com

Les Fêtes de Bayonne
30th July – 3rd August
www.fetes.bayonne.fr/



Find peace and serenity in the best parts of France:
If you’re looking for a charming place to stay but are keen to escape the throngs, why not rent a farmhouse in the southern region of Provence or Brittany? You might also like consider a house swap. But if you prefer renting something the traditional way, visit specialist sites such as Allez France, Azur Villas, The Villa Book or others.

  Why not discover the mountain areas this summer?
For some peae and quiet, travel to the French mountains. Forget your winter resort experience, the milder weather turn these snow covered peaks into havens of serenity. Whether you choose the Alpes or the Pyrenees, the French mountains are an absolute must. Enjoy the stunning views and walks and explore the fauna and flora of these vast areas. You could also learn how local foods such as the famous French cheeses or honeys are made.

Alternatively if you’re a rather adventurous person who just doesn’t want to go for a classic holiday spending all your time sunbathing on the beach, make the most of your journey and try something different. France doesn’t just host quiet beaches and restful countryside:
For a sport filled adventure that will surely make your adrenaline level rise, discover the Gorges du Verdon. Located in the famous region of Provence, the area offers numerous activities such as climbing, swimming, canyoning… For more information about activities and accommodation, visit : www.provenceweb.fr/f/groupes/verdon/loisirs.htm

If you don’t want to leave the side of the sea though, you could also take some surf lessons in the West coast of France where the waves are really generous like in Biarritz or Hossegor. Click here for more information. 

  What if this summer’s new trend was…the land of the Ch’tis?
Finally, thanks to the phenomenon ‘Welcome to the land of Ch’tis’ everyone has changed their views about the North of France. The Pas-de-Calais has suddenly become is very ‘in’ this summer. So, as it is also very close to London by Eurostar, enjoy a break one or two hours away from home and discover the beautiful city of Lille and its Flea market in September or go out and explore the delightful surrounding area. For more information, visit: www.northernfrance-tourism.com/en/default.asp