Lure of the loire

Sarah Daly discovers the cultural, historical, architectural and culinary secrets of this city that lies at the heart of the Loire Valley

With its distinctive landscapes – ranging from sandy beaches and islands to the Marais Poitevin wetlands and rolling countryside – the Vendée is hard to beat, writes Karen Tait

From trading routes to a modern-day leisure focus, France’s rivers make the perfect casting-off point for a property search, says Joanna Leggett

Le marché is at the heart of French daily culture. picks out three market towns offering a vibrant lifestyle including Dinan, Louhans and Niort

After decades of globetrotting, Justin Wescombe finally settled in Saumur in the Loire Valley. He tells Annaliza Davis why

Ruth Wood discovers a gem of a château in Lot-et-Garonne that would make an enchanting home or turnkey hotel