Portbail sur mer marina

Paul Hardy and a fleet of fellow Cape Cutter trailer-sailers take on a biennial regatta for traditionally rigged craft

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

Marking its 1,000th anniversary this year, the Normandy city takes pride in its medieval roots — come for chateau tours and classic brasseries

Hop over the Channel for rich history, beautiful architecture and tempting cuisine

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

Tap, tap, tap. Tap, tap. “Oh, there it goes – that wee one’s for the pot.” The mussel in my hand slowly and silently hinges shut, like a lid on a fancy electronic bin. “If it closes completely that’s