Belle France Holiday Brochure 2009

2009

Walking & Cycling Holidays in France

NEW for 2009• Cycling in Alsace and Bordeaux• Cycling along the River Loire• Prestige Walking in Dordogne• Another trek on the Cathar trail• Weekend and B&B Options

2008 BEST SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATOR TO FRANCE

2 Reservations 01580 214010

Welcome to Belle FranceThe home of delightful activity holidays

Welcome to the 2009 Belle France brochure. We are proud to have received the 2008

Best Specialist Tour Operator Award from Maison de la France in recognition of our

expertise in the provision of self-guided walking and cycling holidays.

Our aim is to give you an opportunity to explore the best regions of France at a leisurely

pace, enjoying gentle daily exercise and indulging in some delicious cuisine at the end of

each day.

If you are looking for a new adventure, on some of our holidays, we can add a flight in

a hot-air balloon, a cookery class, special wine-tasting, canoeing, horse-riding or even

rock-climbing.

You will find some new circuits such as Alsace and Bordeaux and some of the old

favourites have been revised including an extension of the Cathar Castles trek and all

of our Vintage Burgundy cycling routes, which now include special wine-tasting features.

Inevitably the euro exchange rate has made it necessary to revise our prices but we aim

to give you value for money. Our friendly team here will be delighted to chat about your

holiday options. We’re confident that we have a holiday to suit you, so enjoy browsing,

and we look forward to you discovering the very best of France with us in 2009.

Bob Blackstock - Manager

Bob receives the awardfor 2008 Best Specialist

Tour Operator fromMaison de la France

3www.bellefrance.co.uk

ContentsIt’s all on-lineTo discover more about all thatBelle France has to offer

www.bellefrance.co.uk

Discover La Belle France 4

NEW for 2009 5

We’re with you all the way 6

Comfortable Hotels 8

Delicious Food 10

It’s all On-Line 12

Adventure Holidays

Adventure Activities 13

Walking Holidays

Walking for Everyone 14

NEW The Opal Coast - Weekend 16

NEW Charm of Champagne - Weekend 16

Picardy Pastures 17

Seine Valley Secrets 18

Mulberry March 19

Château to Château 20

Loire Prestige à Pied 21

Wine List Wanders 22

Burgundy Prestige à Pied 23

Classic Cognac 24

Sparkling Champagne 25

Tranquil Dordogne 26

NEW Dordogne Prestige à Pied 27

Volcanoes of the Auvergne 28

Untamed Cévennes 29

St Bonnet and Beyond 30

Secrets of Savoie 30

Ardèche Discovery 31

Van Gogh’s Provence 32

Provence Prestige à Pied 33

Stevenson Trail TREK 34

Cathar Castles TREK 36

NEW Cathar Castles TREK - Stage Two 37

Breathtaking Brittany 38

Catalan Coast 39

Mountains to Med TREK 40

Bella España - Granada 41

Cycling Holidays

Cycling for Everyone 42

Mellow Mayenne 44

Emerald Coast 45

Loire Discovery 46

Garden of France 47

NEW Along the Leisurely Loire 48

Loire Prestige en Vélo 49

Loire en Famille 50

NEW Best of Burgundy 51

NEW Vintage Burgundy Classic & Premier Cru 52

NEW Burgundy Grand Cru Prestige 53

Périgord Discovery 54

Limousin Lakes and Castles 55

Auvergne Discovery 55

Dordogne Exploration 56

Drama of the Dordogne 57

Provençal Dreams 58

Provence Prestige en Vélo 59

Charente Waterways 60

Canal du Midi to Coast 61

NEW Alsatian Adventure 62

NEW A Taste of Bordeaux 63

NEW B&B Options 64

Touring Holidays

NEW Gourmet Golf - Pas de Calais 65

Gourmet Golf - Touraine 65

River Cruise Holiday

Provence River Cruise 66

NEW Self Drive Hotels 67

Breaking your Journey 68

Pricing Information 69

Ways to Save! 70

Rail Travel/Ferries to France 71

Low Cost Flights 72

Holiday Advice 73

Holiday Insurance 74

Fair Trading Terms 76

How to Book 78

Map of France 79


Discover La Belle France Captivating places to visit

France is full of captivating places to visit with landscapes

ranging from the rugged coasts of Brittany to rolling

greenfields and vineyards of Burgundy; from the honey

coloured châteaux of the Loire to the snowcapped peaks

of the Alps. Our aim is to enable you to enjoy whichever

region you choose with modest exercise on foot or cycle

and a superb evening meal at the end of the day.

Cycling or walking is a wonderful way to explore France at

a leisurely pace; there is always something to catch the eye

and gratify the senses, whether you’re meandering down

a rural lane, picnicking by a slow river, or sipping pastis in

a village café.

What’s included

All of our holidays include dinner bed and breakfast

unless B&B is specifically noted. We provide detailed

maps and route instruction for your walks or cycling journeys

and we arrange the transfer of your bags between hotels.

Leaving you with little more to worry about than the filling

for your lunchtime bagette or the best angle for that

memorable photograph.

More experience

With more than 20 years experience, we

know France better than most and have

carefully planned and researched each

holiday and produced detailed notes and

maps. Each route has been independently

tried and tested so you can enjoy the very

best cycling and walking that France has to

offer. Our well developed relationships with

local bike shops, taxi drivers and hoteliers,

means that somebody is always available to

help with any questions and give you advice

on places of interest and good shops and

restaurants. Our hotels have been selected

to provide comfort and a warm welcome.

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 of dishes from tempting menus.

Our experience• Over 20 years experience and expert local knowledge

• Thoroughly researched and planned routes

• Cycling and walking notes – all tried and tested

• Fully bonded with ABTA – look forward toyour holiday with confidence


More choice

Our selection of holiday destinations enables you to discover fascinating townsand villages, historic buildings, along withsome of the lesser known sights and bestkept secrets. We also offer a choice in thestyle of holiday, from linear and circular tours to fixed location tours, as well as some group walking. All are designed to allow you to discover the very best of Franceand we’ve recently extended our range ofholidays, offering more choice and flexibility.

Luxury

If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, why nottry one of our “Prestige” holidays, staying inelegant hotels and châteaux; perfect for aspecial occasion.

Family friendly

For families we’re happy to recommendcircuits featuring gently rolling landscapes,with bikes and tag-alongs available for futureTour de France champions, and even havea holiday designed specifically with childrenin mind.

Flexible options

Often a week just isn’t long enough to dojustice to what each region has to offer, sowhy not add some extra nights en route,enabling you to relax at one of our charminghotels for a couple of nights before settingoff for your next destination. We’ll be happyto recommend some of our personalfavourites for a relaxing additional stop.

Weekend Wanders – in Champagne or the Opal Coast forweekend walks to try the Belle France experience of a little gentleexercise and delightful French food in carefully selected hotels.

Gourmet Golf – we’ve added a weekend of luxury combinedwith first class golf courses not too far from the eastern channelports in Nord Pas de Calais.

A Taste of Bordeaux – a brand new circuit through some ofthe best Bordeaux vineyards with overnight stops in Cadillac andSaint Macaire before reaching St Emilion. Much to see inaddition to the fine wines to taste.

Alsatian Adventure – a new cycling circuit with start andfinish in historic Strasbourg takes you south through Colmar andthe regions’ wine villages.

Along the Leisurely Loire – our old favourite grows up withan easy ride following the River Loire all the way from Blois toSaumur and passing numerous royal châteaux along the way.

Vintage Burgundy – we are collaborating with a local agent tofocus on the wines of the region with personal tastings availablein addition to some great cycle rides. You can choose the levelfrom Classic through Premier Cru upgrade to the Grand CruPrestige circuit which includes a tasting dinner at a top vineyardin Puligny Montrachet and up to fourteen different wines to try.

Cathar Castles Trek – is now extended to offer two weeks ofterrific walking in this quiet, little-known region dotted with ruinedCathar Castles.

Bed & Breakfast Cycling – for those who don’t want ourgourmet meals every evening we have included B&B options inthe Loire, Brittany, Dordogne and Provence.

Self-drive Wine Trails – whatever your needs we can offerfirst class accommodation throughout France from the Châteaux& Hotels Collection and in the wine regions we can includepersonal introductions to our partner vineyards with some veryspecial and memorable tasting experiences.

NEW for 2009

No Bags to Carry

All of our walking and cycling holidays feature

the inclusive transfer of your baggage between

hotels. All you need to take with you are the

bare essentials so that you’re not humping

round a heavy load.

On linear routes we will arrange a rail or taxi

transfer back to the start point if needed.


We’re with you all the wayThe easy going alternative

There’s no better way to discover the French countryside

and experience the culture of the local area than on

a Belle France holiday. We place particular emphasis

on the unique charm and character of our holidays, with

a friendly atmosphere and typically French ambience.

We take a personal interest in the success of your

holiday, and respond to your feedback.

Here at Belle France we pride ourselves on providing a

quality, highly personal service. Plenty of careful planning

and research goes on behind the scenes to ensure we

meet the individual needs of every one of our customers.

Booking your holiday with us is just the beginning….

The Belle France Team

People you can rely on

• We offer you expert advice and first hand

experience.

• From the moment you contact us to book

your holiday to the time you return home,

our experienced staff are on hand to answer

any questions you may have.

Your questions answered

As soon as your holiday is confirmed we issue

you with a detailed booklet that aims to answer

all the questions you may have about your

holiday. From the practical stuff about passports,

currency & tickets through to what clothes to

take, food and drink, and of course handy hints

for when you’re out exploring the countryside.


Careful planning

• Careful costing, good deals with local transport companies and

bike shops means we can pass these savings on to you ensuring

you get unbeatable value for money.

• By giving us details of your height and inside leg measurement,

we’ll have your individually prepared bike ready and waiting

for you.

Once you’re out there

We hope that everyone you’ll meet on your holiday will provide

a service with a smile, from hotel receptionists to the taxi drivers

who meet you at the station or transfer your luggage between

hotels. With all these details taken care of, it leaves you more

time to relax and enjoy your holiday, safe in the knowledge that

we’ve done all the hard work for you. We even provide you with

an emergency contact number so that there’s always someone

on hand should you require assistance.

Representatives

If you’re after a little extra support then we’d recommend

our holidays in the Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Dordogne, Ardèche,

Limousin Perigord or Spain, where a friendly and knowledgeable

representative is on hand to meet you at the station, talk you

through your itinerary, transfer your luggage and basically just

be there for you. These English-speaking representatives

provide extra peace of mind whilst you’re out and about.

Comprehensive Travel Pack

Three weeks before your departure

you’ll receive our detailed and unique

Travel Pack. This contains all your

tickets, luggage tags and details on

how to reach your first hotel, whether

you’re travelling by car or train.

Of most importance though are our

carefully researched notes themselves.

These detailed booklets guide you

every step of the way, pointing out

landmarks and places of interest en

route, recommending picturesque

spots for a picnic or hidden cafés for

a refreshing drink. Walkers and cyclists

are also issued with large-scale IGN

maps – each one marked up by us

personally and individually to show

your route.

Belle France Loire Valley holidaysFREE wine carrying service

If you travel with your car it’s easy to transportyour chosen vintage from hotel to hotel. But ifyou’re cycling or walking it’s not so easy. Wedon’t want you to miss out on the opportunityto pick up local wines while on your travels so,in the Loire Valley a member of our team cancollect it for you.

It’s all on-lineLearn more about what to expect,with sample cycling and walking notes



Comfortable HotelsA warm welcome and a good night’s sleep

Charming hotels

So how do we select our hotels? Well, location is

obviously important: we search out conveniently

situated establishments with direct access to

our walking and cycling routes, but we also look

for settings that are picturesque and rural, or

well-placed in vibrant little towns.

We’re always on the look-out for charming hotels

where there’s a real personal touch - small,

family-run establishments with character and

friendly proprietors. You’ll discover a real variety

of hotels on a Belle France holiday, from little

chambre d’hôtes with just a handful of rooms in

a private house and the opportunity for a genuine

taste of la vie française, to elegant and stylish

townhouses, through to rustic hideaways full of

authentic French charm.

Here at Belle France we know that at the end of a day’s

gentle exercise, it’s important that a comfortable hotel awaits

you, where you’re guaranteed a warm welcome and a good

night’s sleep.

You’ll find we offer what we consider to be the ‘best’ hotel in

each area, whether it be the most luxurious, the best located

for direct access to the trails, the most friendly or the best

for serving traditional cuisine.

Many of our hotels have swimming pools, enabling you to

enjoy a refreshing dip at the end of an active day. Or if you

have a spare day you may just want to relax with a good book

and something cool and refreshing.

Each holiday may have a mix of accommodation styles and

sometimes we may sacrifice a little in room quality in order

to provide a more enjoyable dining experience.


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. And 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.

Sometimes it’s best to let

others do the talking…

Don’t just take our word for it – here’s

what some of our recent customers

have had to say:

WALKING:

“ Your arrangements fully met and even surpassed our expectations!”

“ The entire experience allowed us to see a side of the country that possibly remains hidden from the average tourist.”

“ While your walking notes andmaps were meticulously prepared, we still felt that we had the freedom left for discovery and adventure,this adding greatly to our pleasure.”John Comloquoy (Van Gogh’s Provence)

“ The transport arrangements and taxisall worked well, as did the transferof our luggage between hotels.”

“ The hotels, all very different, were uniformly excellent, as was the food.”Mr Shipley (Van Gogh’s Provence)

“ … an excellent walking holidaywhich we enjoyed enormously.Thank you for organizing it andbeing so helpful.”Mrs Fitton (Cathar Castles)

“ Website very helpful, reservation team even more helpful!!”Mrs Humphrey

“ Very helpful in organizing a‘non-standard’ trip.” Dr Patterson (Mixture of Van Gogh’s Provence and Provence Prestige)

A taste of luxury

If you fancy a little extra comfort then our Prestige Holidays

in the Loire, Dordogne, Provence and Burgundy feature some

spectacular hotels: converted châteaux, idyllic settings, gourmet

restaurants – perfect for a special treat. Upgrades also available

in Champagne, Cognac and Perigord.

It’s all on-lineTo view hotel descriptionsand pictures

www.bellefrance.co.uk/hotels


Delicious FoodA tempting menu and a good bottle of wine

France is renowned for its creative use of fresh market

produce, and our hoteliers pride themselves on serving

fare of the highest standard.

Breakfast is usually served buffet-style with croissants,

pastries, jams, yoghurt, fruit juice, even ham and cheese,

and of course plenty of freshly brewed 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 and stop off at the épicerie to pick up some

wonderful fresh provisions for your own al fresco experience.

When the produce is this good, the simplest of meals –

creamy cheese, plump tomatoes and some crunchy

bread – are sometimes the best.

It’s the evenings that really get your taste buds going. Some

of the restaurant settings themselves are spectacular, be it a

vine covered terrace beside the river Dordogne or an elegant

dining room in an old manor house, providing the perfect

place to relax as you reflect on the experiences of your day.

EntréesSalade de Magret de Canard Fumé et son Oeuf Poché

Terrine de Légumes et son Coulis au Vinaigre BalsamiqueCarpaccio de Thon Mariné aux AgrumesCrème Dubarry (Potage de Choux Fleur)

PoissonsDos de Cabillaud à la Fondue de PoireauxCuisses de Grenouilles au Riesling

et son Pain de Mie aux Noix

ViandesCoeur de Rumsteck Charolais au Bleu d’AuvergneCoq au Vin de Chinon

FromagesPlateau de Fromages

Chèvre Chauds sur Toasts

DessertsGratin de Poires à la Crème d’AmandeSoufflé Glacé Grand MarnierMoelleux au Chocolat Glace VanilleFaisselle aux Fruits Rouges et son Coulis

Typical evening menu taken from Le Lion d’Or,

Candé sur Beuvron, Château to Château walk and

Leisurely Loire cycling holidays.

Local cuisine

So you’ve spent the day exploring some of the

most beautiful areas of rural France, and you

reach your hotel feeling pleasantly weary. What

better than to settle down in the restaurant and

enjoy some wonderful regional cooking and

excellent local wine? We’ve selected our hotels

not only for their comfort, but also with the lover

of good food and wine in mind.

Cookery courses can be added to Leisurely

Loire cycling, Château to Château walk or

Provence Prestige walking or cycling holidays.

More choice, more value

Belle France is unusual in that we aim to provide more than a

fixed menu – at many of our hotels you’ll have a choice of dishes

from a 3 or 4 course menu, so whether you prefer meat or fish,

cheese or dessert, there’s bound to be something for you. In fact

you’ll be spoilt for choice – it has been said that this is quite

possibly the hardest part of your day!

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

and evening meal included. If it’s just on a bed & breakfast basis,

you’ll always be within easy reach of places to eat, and you’ll

find suggestions in our walking & cycling notes. At Fontvieille in

Provence for example, there’s everything from pizzerias to a

Michelin-starred restaurant. Your hotelier will be more than happy

to point you in the direction of some great eateries – in fact they

have been known to give you a lift there themselves!

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.

Sometimes it’s best to let

others do the talking…

Don’t just take our word for it – here’s

what some of our recent customers

have had to say:

CYCLING:

“ We liked the personal touchgiven by the Belle Fance team.”Mr Zenner

“ Very helpful and seamlessbooking experience.”Miss Patel

“ Thanks very much, you weresuperbly efficient. We had a lovely holiday, routes were brilliant, stunning scenery.”Mrs M Blower (Vintage Burgundy)

“ All staff very helpful, fast response times, couldn’t fault service.”Mr J Connolly

“ Domaine de Valmouraine is an absolutely fantastic hotel, lovely staff and atmosphere.”Ms J Davis (Provence Prestige)

“ Our overall holiday experiencecould not have been better!”Mr Bear (Provence Prestige en Vélo)

“ Fully met and even surpassedour expectations, felicitationsBelle France!”Ms Schoeffel - Canada(Provencal Dreams - Camargue)


It’s all on-lineTo view pictures, hotel descriptionsand sample menus

www.bellefrance.co.uk/cuisine


It’s all On-LineExperience our holidays up-close

A Belle France holiday is no ordinary holiday. It’s no run-of-

the-mill experience. Talking to customers, and enjoying the

holidays ourselves, tells us that there is a huge depth and

range of experiences that make for a truly different holiday.

And it can just as easily be a small personal insight, as much

as visiting a major sight or enjoying a mind-blowing meal.

A traditional brochure can only convey a small proportion of

all you can expect on a Belle France holiday. On our website

we have lots of details with regional information, photos of

many of our hotels, sample menus and, in some cases,

holiday journals reported by our staff or clients with snippets

of tips and useful advice.

We have included a sample of our walking and cycling notes

to show you the detail of our step by step directions and to

give a feel for how a typical day unfolds.

Our Perfect Match system helps you to short-list routes that

are suited to your needs and abilities.

LATEST OFFERS – keep an eye on the website

for new holiday choices or special offers that

come on stream as the season progresses.

These will usually change month by month.

This brochure provides details of each holiday

and on each page you will find a web link

pointing to a specific page on the web site

where you can find complementary information.

We hope you click onto

www.bellefrance.co.ukto enable you to experience our experience.

Why not take the opportunity to add an excitingactivity to your standard walking or cyclingholiday. Add an extra night hotel accommodationand participate in one of the following activitiesin the region listed.

CookeryLoire Chateau Walk, Provence Prestige

Insight into the work of French masterchefs.

WineLoire Valley, Burgundy, Cognac,Champagne, Rhone

Special wine-tasting experiences at partner vineyards.

CanoeingDordogne, Perigord, Ardeche, Loire

Opportunities for river canoeing in specific locations.

Horse-ridingArdeche, Loire

From beginners to experienced horse-men andwomen.

A half-day trekking through peaceful countryside.

Tree-adventureLoire, Ardeche, Champagne

Walk the high wires with levels to suit all ages.

Spa TreatmentArdeche, Loire, Provence Prestige

Be pampered or simply enjoy a sauna or hamam.

Hot-air BalloonLoire, Burgundy, Provence

Exhilarating experience with memorable views.

GolfLoire, Picardy, Burgundy, Nord pas de Calais

Great courses and gourmet food, or simply add anextra night to the region walking or cycling holidayand have a round of golf at the nearby course.

Telephone our helpful staff to discuss your

adventurous desires and find the holiday to match.

Look on the holiday pages to see which activities

are available on any particular holiday.

Adventure ActivitiesExciting family fun


Any reasonably fit person can undertake a

Belle France walking holiday with confidence.

Naturally, different people walk at different

rates which is part of the attraction of a Belle

France holiday as you’re free to wander and

explore at your own pace. You will quickly

establish your own rhythm and routine as

you progress through your holiday. Follow

our simple guide to find the holiday that’s

perfect for you.


Walking for EveryoneExplore at your own pace

Linear & circular tours

With the majority of our holidays you follow a circuit changing hotels every two

nights, giving you time to explore some of the local area. We will always suggest

a local walk for these days, but you may prefer to explore the shops and brasseries

of the town, or simply relax by the hotel swimming pool.

Fixed location

On our fixed location holidays you spend your week at one hotel, so you can get

to know the area intimately, with the added benefit of not having to repack bags

every time you move on. All fixed base hotels are in locations where you have the

opportunity for varied walks direct from the hotel door. If you travel there by car you

can of course explore further afield, or simply while away a couple of days relaxing

in the grounds of the hotel or watching the world go by from a pavement café.

• St Bonnet and Beyond • Secrets of Savoie

• Ardèche Discovery

Guided group walking

Some of our fixed location holidays are ideal if you’re travelling alone or looking to

meet new people, as you’ll be walking as part of a group. Each evening you will be

presented with options for the following day and can choose whether you wish to

join a group for a guided walk of the area or do your own thing. Either way, our

hoteliers and their experienced teams will be on hand to help you make the most

of your stay.

• Secrets of Savoie • St Bonnet and Beyond

Walking grades

Easy 4 to 6 Hours

About 10 miles per day on undulating terrain overtracks with easy inclines which are rarely steep.

Picardy Pastures, Château to Château, ClassicCognac, Mulberry March, Loire Prestige à Pied,Opal Coast

Easy/Moderate 4 to 7 Hours

As easy but with more noticeable hills, up to12 miles per day. Less than 600m change in altitude.

Tranquil Dordogne, Dordogne Prestige à Pied,Seine Valley Stroll,St Bonnet and Beyond,Wine List Wanders, Burgundy Prestige à Pied,Van Gogh’s Provence, Ardèche Discovery, ProvencePrestige à Pied, Sparkling Champagne

Moderate 6 to 8 Hours

Sometimes rough underfoot with some steep ascents.Up to 800m change in altitude.

Breathtaking Brittany, Untamed Cévennes,Catalan Coast, Secrets of Savoie, Volcanoesof the Auvergne

Moderate/Hard 7 Hours - TREK

Up to 16 miles, with up to 1000m change in altitude.

Stevenson Trail, Cathar Castles, Mountains to Med,Bella Espana


Prestige à Pied holidays

We pride ourselves on selecting comfortable, welcoming hotels, but thereare times when you want that little bit extra. Perhaps it’s a honeymoon, a birthday or anniversary, or you just fancy pushing the boat out. We’vechosen some extra special hotels for a “Prestige à Pied” holiday. Be it a fairytale château hotel with elegant rooms, or a former hunting lodgeset in landscaped gardens, you’ll have a wonderful holiday to remember.

• Burgundy Prestige à Pied • Provence Prestige à Pied

• Loire Prestige à Pied • Sparkling Champagne (part)

• Dordogne Prestige à Pied • Classic Cognac Upgrade

Family-friendly holidays

If your children are fans of the great outdoors then this is a great way tocombine exploration and relaxation for all the family. We don’t have anyage restrictions for children on our holidays as they all have differentabilities, and you know best what they’ll enjoy, but there are someoptions that we consider to be particularly suitable, with flexibility andmanageable mileage for smaller feet!

• Ardèche Discovery • St Bonnet and Beyond

• Picardy Pastures • Château to Château

A bit of a challenge

Although we don’t consider any of our holidays to be too tough, thereare some which maybe require a little more stamina and experiencethan others. Our long treks cover up to 25 miles from hotel to hotel forseveral consecutive days, while the Pyrenees inevitably require a headfor heights, good map-reading skills and a sense of adventure.

• Breathtaking Brittany • Château to Château

• Tranquil Dordogne • Volcanoes of the Auvergne

• Wine List Wanders • Secrets of Savoie

• Untamed Cévennes • Van Gogh’s Provence

• Catalan Coast • Bella Espana

• Cathar Castles • Opal Coast

• Stevenson Trail • Mountains to Med

• Cathar Castles

Scenery and culture

France has both of the above in abundance, and some of our holidaysreally do capture this essence of France. If you’re interested in wine,châteaux, bygone times, rolling hills or dramatic coastlines, accompaniedof course by some very pleasant walking, there’ll be something in herefor you. Do remember to call our friendly team who will be happy to helpfind the holiday that’s just right for you.

It’s all on-lineRead travel journals from people who’veexperienced our walking holidays


NEW

NEW

Just a three hour drive from Dover/Dunkerque toEpernay, the capital of Champagne production fora weekend of rambling, gourmet dining and achance to bring home the bubbly.

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St PancrasInternational station, changestations in Paris and arrive Reims mid afternoon.

Return: Depart Reims midmorning, change stations in Paris,arrive St Pancras Internationalstation late afternoon.

Your hotels

One night B&B, two nights half board.

Prices per person (Based on two sharing)

Ferry Inclusive Rail Inclusive Own Travel

LOW SEASON from £581 £699 £549

HIGH SEASON* from £611 £729 £579

Starting days: Saturday. Available all year except 12 April - 31 May and 13 September - 19 December.

* 17 July to 6 September start days.

Charm of ChampagneWEEKEND WANDERS a weekend to celebrate 3 nights

Friday: Arrival 1 AmbonnayMid-day departure from Dover or take the morning Eurostar fromLondon to Reims and transfer to Ambonnay and the Auberge duSt Vincent, renowned locally for the standard of cuisine.

Saturday: Ambonnay ➜ 12 miles1 EpernayRise through vineyards to the woodland of the Montagne deReims and soak up the views to Epernay where you stay B&Bat the elegant Villa Eugene, once the private residence of theMercier champagne family. This evening choose one of themany restaurants in town just a short walk away.

Sunday: Epernay ➜ 6 or 10 miles1 ChampillonOption to visit a Champagne producer in the morning and atmid-day we whisk you out of town by taxi to walk through thevineyards from Cumières through Hautvilliers, where werecommend a visit to a family vineyard, then to Champillon andthe Chateau Royal Champagne-Bellevue, a magnificent four starhotel with gourmet restaurant.

Monday:Depart – after breakfast transfer back to car or rail station foryour journey home.

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Gently undulating hills and plains- from theancient town of Boulogne to the charming fishingvillage of Wissant, enjoy a long-weekend taste ofwalking and fine food.

Your hotels

One night B&B, two nights half board.


Own Travel

LOW SEASON £369

HIGH SEASON* £399

Starting days: Any Day. Arrival via Calais can be arranged.

Please phone for details of supplements.


The Opal CoastWEEKEND WANDERS a footfall in France 3 nights

Friday: Arrival1 BoulogneArrive as a foot passenger at Boulogne, from where a taxi willtake you to the chambre d’hôte “L’Enclos de l’Evêché” in thecentre of the ancient fortified town. Within this labyrinth ofmedieval streets you’re sure to find a restaurant to your taste.

Saturday: Ambleteuse ➜ 10 miles1 Wissant Taxi transfer to the picturesque seaside village of Ambleteuse.From here you start your 10 mile walk following the coastalpath to the attractive village of Wissant. Stop for a picnic onthe cliffs of the Cap Gris Nez, from where on a clear day youcan see the British coast. A two night stay, half board at theHôtel le Vivier, enables you to enjoy the ‘catch of the day’.

Sunday: Day trip from Wissant ➜ 12 miles A circular walk, taking you at first inland cross-country CapNez Blanc, with the final stretch along the dunes beside a finesandy beach, frequented by kayakers and kite-surfers, beforeheading back to your hotel.

Monday: Boulogne Shopping Morning transfer to Boulogne for last minute shopping beforetaking the afternoon ferry back to Dover.

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The medieval hilltop town of Laon offers panoramicviews of the peaceful greenery and woodland thatmake for such pleasant and easy walking. Thegrade is easy, with short distances between hotelsthrough gently rolling countryside. Much is onforestry or cart tracks and through open fields,with about a third on quiet lanes.

Day OneArrival 1 ChéretArrive at Chéret with plenty of time to settle in at therambling country guest house. The charming owners go outof their way to make you feel welcome, and in the eveningeveryone dines together round a large table so you’ll rapidlyfeel immersed in the French way of life!

Day TwoChéret ➜ 10 miles1 ChamouilleEnjoy a short easy walk along quiet lanes through fields andforestry tracks. En route you pass a beautiful art deco churchat Martigny Courpierre before heading down an enchantinglittle valley towards Chamouille. Pass round the lake throughpeaceful woodland to reach the 3-star Mercure Hotelnestling in a corner of the lake. You may arrive in time fora swim in the hotel pool before settling down to enjoy ahearty meal in the restaurant whose large windows lookacross the water.

Day ThreeChamouille ➜ 11 miles1 LaonWander through quiet lanes to the little village of Monthenaultbefore making your way through verdant pastures andwoodland. The medieval hilltop fortress of Laon with itsspectacular gothic cathedral is visible from some distance.Home to some 80 classified properties, Laon was the capitalof France from the 11th to 14th century. Tonight’s hotel, a former staging post, is in the centre of Laon close to thecathedral. After dinner it’s worth exploring the town by nightwhen its buildings are dramatically floodlit.

Day FourLaon ➜ 9.5 miles1 ChéretAs you leave Laon enjoy the splendid vistas stretching outbefore you. You pass through a tranquil, pastoral landscapeaptly named Domaine de la Solitude before arriving inBruyères. Take time out to visit the remarkable church that dates back to the 12th century, and the 19th centuryunderground fortress. You’ll arrive back at Chéret with plentyof anecdotes to share as you enjoy another sociable mealat the guest house.

The above itinerary is for arrival by car. By rail start andfinish is in Laon.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains at Gare du Nord,arrive Laon late afternoon.

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

Your hotels

A charming French chambre d’hôte, a modern lakeside hotelwith all mod-cons and a quaint old town hotel make for aneclectic mix.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/picardy






Starting days: Any day. Extra night at Chamouille £85 per person. Extra night at Laon £60 per person.


Picardy PasturesAncient towns and rural idylls 4 nights

OPTIONSAdd an extra night at Chamouille and play a game ofgolf on the lakeside course. Add an extra night at Laonto explore this delightful medieval walled town.

One or two steep sections to negotiate each day asyou rise from the river valley, taking in forest tracks,towpaths and quiet lanes. The route is way-markedalmost throughout its length. The gentle pacecombining glorious woodland, romantic ruined abbeysand the slow moving waters of the Seine makes itideal for those looking to take it easy.

Day OneArrival 1 Caudebec-en-Caux

The river Seine curls round the bustling town of Caudebec-en-Caux, dominated by the elegant Notre-Dame church withits intricate spire. Take a seat in the restaurant of the Logisde France hotel and indulge in a leisurely dinner.

Day TwoCaudebec-en-Caux ➜ 12 miles1 Jumieges

The taxi takes you to St Wandrill-Rancon to commencetoday’s walk at the Gregorian St Wandrill Abbey. From hereyour journey takes you through fields and beech woods withthe Seine meandering below until you head down towardsJumièges for a night in the comfortable guesthouse in adelightful rural setting.

OptionCircular walk from Jumieges ➜ 10 miles

We recommend a second night in Jumieges to visit the ruinsof the Benedictine Abbey and take a circular walk crossingthe river by way of the local ferries. Or walk down to thelakes - great for swimming or a picnic. B&B

Day Three/FourJumieges ➜ 10 miles1 Montigny

Our taxi takes you to the edge of Duclair. Then a varied walktakes you up chalky, limestone hills, through mixed woodlandand denser forests. Tonight’s hotel, the 3-star Relais deMontigny, is set in a clearing in the heart of the Roumaréforest. Most rooms have a terrace or balcony overlooking theparkland, and the restaurant on the south-facing terrace is awonderful setting.

Day Four/FiveMontigny ➜ 13 miles1 La Bouille

Today sees you heading back through dappled woodland torejoin the paths running by the riverside. You have the optionof following the interesting pathways winding by the forest’sedge or of taking the more direct route through the centre.Your riverside hotel in the pretty village of La Bouille isaccessed via a little ferry that crosses the Seine.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris,arrive Yvetot station late afternoon. Taxi transfer to hotel included (20 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer to Rouen station included, (20 mins) change stationsin Paris, arrive St Pancras International station later afternoon.

Your hotels

A warm welcome is guaranteed at the end of every day.You stay in 2-star and 3-star hotels and a charmingchambre d’hôte.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/seine






Starting days: Any day. Extra night at Jumièges £40.00 per person B&B.


Seine Valley SecretsAncient woodland and ruined abbeys 4-5 nights

A pleasant walk across flat countryside followingthe route taken by the British 5th Division enroute to Bayeux – now a pretty seaside town butfamous for the Mulberry harbour used for landingtroops and vehicles during the war. Then off alongthe coast for some scenic views. We grade this walkas easy; and the distances are short.

Day OneArrive 1 BayeuxArrive in the medieval town of Bayeux and settle into yourcomfortable 3-star hotel with time before dinner to exploresome of the fascinating town – full of timbered houses andquaint streets. Make sure to see the Cathedral de NôtreDame and the Hôtel du Doyen full of paintings, porcelainand lace.

Day TwoBayeux ➜ 9 miles 1 Arromanches-les-BainsA 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 andapple 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 some wonderful food – dine on thecatch of the day as you look out across the sea.

Day ThreeArromanches-les-Bains ➜ 8 miles 1 Port-en-Bessin-HuppainToday takes you along the peaceful coastline past numerouswar memorials and war cemeteries. You may want to callin at the “Arromanches 360” museum on the hill overlookingthe town, where you can watch a short panoramic film madeup of archive and contemporary footage, giving an insightinto D-Day. You can choose to continue your way along thecoastal route with splendid views out to sea, or take anevocative inland path that follows in the footstepsof the No 47 (RM) Commando on the route of their marchto liberate Port-en-Bessin. Whichever you choose, there willbe plenty of time to pause en route to absorb the atmospherebefore settling into tonight’s hotel in this small port, nestlingin the hollow of the cliff.

Day FourPort-en-Bessin-Huppain ➜ 7 miles 1 BayeuxHeading away from the coast you find yourself back in thepeaceful Normandy countryside for a final day of walkingalong quiet pathways through fields and orchards, with plentyof time for contemplation. Back in Bayeux, you may find timeto follow the Old Town Tour with 21 noticeboards to help youexplore the town at your own pace. Enjoy a final meal atyour comfortable hotel in the heart of this interesting andhistoric old town.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris,arrive Bayeux late afternoon. Hotel is a 10 minute walk from station.

Return: Depart Bayeux in morning, change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational mid-afternoon.

Your hotels

Three contrasting hotels; a comfortable 3-star formercoaching inn; a 2-star seaside hotel with views alongthe coast, and a modern hotel close to the beach.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/mulberry





Starting days: Any day.* 17 July to 6 September start days.


Mulberry MarchPeaceful villages and evocative memorials 4 nights

A classic walk through the garden of France,along the high limestone banks of the riverLoire. Venture inland through vineyards andflower-decked villages to take in some of theregion’s most enchanting châteaux. Walking iseasy - even the longest day has flat gradientsand simple navigation.

Your hotels

Typical, small French hotels with old-fashioned authentic charmserving wonderful local cuisine. You certainly won’t go hungryon this holiday! All half board except one night in Amboise B&B.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/chateau






Starting days: Monday, Wednesday or Friday for 6nts. Wednesday or Saturday for 8nts.8 night tour add £180 per person. Wine and Dine extra night at Candé £120 per person.* 17 July to 6 September start days.

Château to ChâteauFamous names and hidden gems 6-8 nights

The 6-night holiday starts in Amboise (day three) and walkingbegins from there the following morning.

Day OneSettle in at your friendly hotel in the little riverside town of Montrichard and enjoy a typical French meal that evening.

Day TwoMontrichard ➜ 6 miles1 ChenonceauxAfter exploring the market town of Montrichard you’ll followthe banks of the River Cher to Chenonceaux, arriving in timeto explore the stunning Château.

Day ThreeChenonceaux ➜ 11 miles1 AmboiseA shady walk through the forêt d’Amboise will bring youout across farmland as you approach Amboise. You’ll passthe manor house where Leonardo da Vinci spent his finalyears. Your stay in Amboise is B&B with plenty of restaurantsto choose.

Day FourAmboise ➜ 6 miles1 ChaumontA little sightseeing then you’re transferred to Mosnes. From here it’s woodland and riverbanks followed by farmlandand vineyards until you reach your hotel in Chaumont.

Day FiveChaumont ➜ 5 miles1 Candé sur BeuvronSpend your morning visiting the famous château and gardens.Then it’s on to Candé and tonight’s comfortable hotel.

Day SixCandé sur Beuvron ➜ 10 miles1 ChitenayAt Les Montils pick up the ingredients for an al fresco lunchthen head off through woodland, fields, and a vintner’s yardto Chitenay.

Day SevenChitenay ➜ 6.5 miles1 Cour ChevernyAn easy walk through fields and woodland to the spectacularhunting château at Cheverny. Tonight’s hotel has an elegantdining room serving traditional French cuisine.

Day EightCour Cheverny ➜ 11 miles1 ChambordThe hotel at Chambord is approached through vast parklands – a beautiful and fitting end to your exploration of the Loire.

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Rail Travel Outward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris andtrains at St Pierre des Corps arrive Montrichard late afternoon transfer to hotel included (5 mins).

Return: Transfers to Blois station included (45 mins), change trains at St Pierre des Corps andstations in Paris. Arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

For 6 night holiday: Journey is from London St Pancras International station via Lille changingtrains in Lille and St Pierre des Corps arriving Amboise late afternoon. Return journey as abovebut change in Lille not Paris.

WINE AND DINE EXPERIENCEOption to add our Wine and Dine experience at Candéto spend time with chef Gerome at the Lion d’Or and visit the Domaine du Prieuré vineyard for an in-depthdégustation of Touraine wines and local delicacies.

The Loire is renowned for its châteaux dottedacross the landscape, and on this holiday you havethe chance to live like a king yourself as you walkfrom château to château. We grade this walk aseasy, following straightforward pathways alongsidethe river and through vineyards, rewarded withgourmet food at the end of each day.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris andtrains at St Pierre des Corps arrive Montrichard late afternoon. Transfer tohotel included (10 mins).

Return: Transfer to St Pierre des Corps included (10 mins), change stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

Former châteaux that have been tastefully converted intoelegant hotels with wonderful facilities, sumptuous bedroomsand exquisite dining.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/loireprestigewalk



LOW SEASON from £1259 £1499 £1199


Starting days: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry.

Extra night at Chissay £125 per person. Flight in hot-air balloon £225 per person incl. transfers.



Loire Prestige à PiedEnchanting châteaux and picturesque villages 6 nights

HOT-AIR BALLOON

Add an extra night at Château de Chissay and an earlymorning flight in a hot-air balloon.

Day OneArrival 1 Château de ChissayThis imposing 16th century château offers a large outdoorpool, a vaulted dining room and peaceful inner courtyard;a wonderful setting in which to begin your exploration ofthe Loire valley.

Day TwoDay trip from Chissay ➜ 10 milesAfter threading through the ancient village of Chissay, crossopen fields and vineyards to Chisseaux and then follow theRiver Cher to the fabulous Château de Chenonceau. Afterviewing the gardens and interior of this architecturalmasterpiece, return along the banks of the Cher for asecond night at the Château de Chissay.

Day ThreeChissay ➜ 14 miles 1 AmboiseA peaceful walk through woodland to Amboise to stay atthe Château de Pray which dates back to the 13th Century.

Day FourDay trip from Amboise ➜ 6 milesThere’s plenty at Château de Pray to tempt you just to relaxin a luxurious setting, or you can amble into Amboise to visitLeonardo Da Vinci’s residence Le Clos Lucé, or stock up onFrench produce in the town.

Day FiveAmboise ➜ 8 miles 1 NoizaySet off back towards Amboise and a short walk throughthe fertile fields of the Loire Valley to the opulent Châteaude Noizay in the heart of the Vouvray vineyards. The hotelgardens house an outdoor pool and tennis courts.

Day SixNoizay ➜ 10 miles 1 VouvrayLeaving Noizay walk through vast acres of the Vouvrayvines to the village of Vernou. Then climb the slopes aboveVouvray to reach Château Gaudrelle for a special winetasting experience. Finally a short descent through the villageto reach the unique Hôtel les Hautes Roches, where youmay spend the night in a troglodyte chamber hewn into thecliff face with spectacular views of the mighty River Loire.

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A 45 mile walk through a string of villagesreading like a wine lover’s wish list, coveringmuch of the Côtes de Beaune and Côtes deNuits. This is a relatively flat region with justa few climbs. Walking is easy to moderate,passing through the rolling vineyards.

Day OneArrival1 DijonYour 2-star hotel is close to the station, near the city centre.Longstanding capital of Burgundy, Dijon still has a core ofpicturesque medieval streets and is great for gourmets. B&B

Day TwoDijon ➜ 11 miles1 Nuits St Georges

From Dijon you will be conveyed to Fixin, a stone builtvillage on the Côtes de Nuits slopes. Walk south from herealong well-worn footpaths, past historic Clos Vougeot, hometo the Brotherhood of Winetasters, before descending toyour 3-star Logis de France hotel.

Day ThreeNuits St Georges ➜ 11 miles1 Savigny lesBeaune

A day of easy walking along quiet country lanes and acrossgently undulating hills, you’ll find world-class vineyards andfamous names all around. Today’s destination, Savigny lesBeaune, has a château with a collection of old aeroplanes.

Day FourSavigny les Beaune ➜ 5 miles 1 Beaune

It’s a gentle walk into ancient Beaune, passing above thefamous vineyards of Aloxe Corton, and entering the citythrough quiet suburbs. Your pleasant 3-star town hotelis within the city walls. The Musée du Vin, housed inthe former royal residence, is well worth a visit. B&B

Day FiveBeaune ➜ 8 miles1 MeursaultA small detour on this walk leads to Pommard and its 14thcentury cellars. Then on to the sleepy village of Meursault,one of Burgundy’s most celebrated wine villages and hometo a major wine festival every year. B&B

Day SixMeursault ➜ 10 miles1 Chassey le CampYou 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. There’s a chance to view aGaulish, pre-Roman site and then descend to your finalhotel, with swimming pools and a fine restaurant.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris, arrive Dijon station late afternoon. Hotel is 5 minutes walk from the station.

Return: Transfer to Chagny station included (10 mins), change trains in Dijon and stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

A good selection of hotels from modern town centreaccommodation to charming auberges tucked away amongstvineyards. Three nights B&B, three nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/winelist






Starting days: Any day. Ferry price includes taxi transfer from Camp Romain to Chagny Station and train to Dijon.


Wine List WandersFrom vineyard to vineyard 6 nights

A luxury holiday, walking between prestigioushotels and converted châteaux. Walking isrelatively easy to moderate along fairly evenearth tracks and quiet lanes with vineyards allaround. The undulating hills necessitate someshort climbs but with compensating views!

Day OneArrival1 DijonBurgundy is world renowned for its wines and gastronomy,with Dijon as its capital. Your hotel for the evening isthe 4-star Hostellerie du Chapeau Rouge, a charming15th Century residence at the foot of the Romanesquecathedral.

Day TwoDijon ➜ 10 miles1 Nuits St GeorgesWalking begins in Fixin after a transfer, past famous namevineyards including Gevrey-Chambertin. Follow level tracksand rise up onto the hautes cotes for lovely views to reachyour hotel just outside Nuits St Georges lies LaGentilhommière, a 3-star hotel with outdoor pool.

Day ThreeNuits St Georges ➜ 10 miles1 LadoixSerrignyDetour 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 FourLadoix Serrigny ➜ 6.5 miles1 BeauneToday starts with an easy walk to the little town of Savigny,then it’s a gentle descent into Beaune. Visit the Hospices de Beaune whose multicoloured roofs house a fascinatingmuseum. We have chosen the hotel Le Cep for tonight’sstay. This prestigious hotel has been welcoming travellers for centuries.

Day FiveBeaune ➜ 12 miles1 Puligny MontrachetBack into the gentle hills and undulating tracks amongstvineyards for a walk which should take no more than 6hours. Settle into the Hotel La Montrachet which offersgourmet menus and an excellent wine cave.

Why not sample a local vintage with your meal.

Day SixPuligny Montrachet ➜ 8 miles1 ChagnyTake the pathways through the vineyards to Remigny, from where you follow a peaceful towpath along the Canaldu Centre to Chagny. Lameloise, your luxury hotel awaits,where you can enjoy a final taste of Burgundy in thegourmet restaurant which boasts three Michelin Stars.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris, arrive Dijon station late afternoon. Hotel is 5 minutes walk from the station.

Return: Hotel is 5 mins walk from Chagny station, change trains in Dijon andchange stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

A splendid array of prestigious quality establishments,many with highly acclaimed restaurants.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/burgprestigewalk



LOW SEASON from £1199 £1419 £1119


Starting days: Any day except Monday. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry.



Burgundy Prestige à PiedRolling vineyards and ancient châteaux 6 nights

The walking is gentle following the River Charenteas it meanders from Angoulême to Cognac passingthrough a peaceful landscape of vineyards. Plentyof opportunity to sample some of the great namesof Cognac or book a Privilege visit to the Martellhouse in Cognac.

Day OneArrival 1 AngoulêmeCheck in at the elegant Mercure Hotel de France oppositeLes Halles within the old Angoulême Remparts.Accommodation is B&B and close by you’ll find a labyrinthof narrow streets bustling with pavement restaurants for yourevening meal or simply choose the hotel restaurant. B&B

Day TwoAngoulême ➜ 8 miles1 Asnières-s-Nouère Leaving the Angoulême suburbs a rural walk to Asnières andthe Hostellerie du Maine Brun, a converted water mill estate.

Day ThreeAsnières-s-Nouère ➜ 12 miles1 BassacYou 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 Bassac to thecharming Hotel l’Essile in the centre of the village.

Day FourBassac ➜ 8 miles1 CognacFrom Bassac continue your walk into Jarnac and perhapsvisit the maison Courvoisier before following the RiverCharente to the outskirts of Cognac, where you stay atthe Domaine de l’Echassier Hotel for two nights.

You may choose to upgrade to the Château de l’Yeuse,a 4-star hotel with mouthwatering menus. Both hotelshave outdoor pools.

Day FiveDay Trip into Cognac Town ➜ 6 milesA short walk to explore the town and visit the famous Cognac Distilleries such as Hennesy or Remy Martin.We can arrange a Privilege visit to Martell.

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

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International Station, change stations in Paris arriveAngoulême later afternoon. Hotel is within walking distance of the station.

Return: Transfer to Angoulême station (5 mins), change stations in Paris, arriveLondon St Pancras mid afternoon.






Starting days: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday. Upgrade to 4-star in Cognac £240 per person with 1st Class rail.

Privilage visit to Martell Cognac £20.


Classic CognacDiscover the classic

Cognacs of Charente 6 nights

Your hotels

The splendid Mercure Hotel in Angoulême is B&B. Hostelleriedu Maine Brun is situated in peaceful countryside and Hotell’Essile has a locally renowned restaurant. At Cognac we offerthe comfortable Domaine de l’Echassier or the elegant anddistinguished Château de l’Yeuse. Two nights B&B, four nightshalf board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/cognac

… Drinking Champagne in Epernay is like listeningto Mozart in Salzburg …We have chosen 3 star hotels to celebrate yourvisit to Champagne in the manner it deserves -with fine food in hotels of character and charm.The walking is easy with just a few short climbs.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and arrive Reims mid afternoon.

Return: Depart Reims mid morning, change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational station late afternoon.

Your hotels

From a modern city hotel in Reims to a period chambre d’hôtein Epernay, once the grand family home of a vigneron that retainstraditional elegance. Three nights half board with first classrestaurants ranging from a village inn to a manorial château.Four nights B&B, three nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/champagne



LOW SEASON from £1099 £1249 £1049


Starting days: Any day except Wednesday, Thursday. Extra night B&B in Reims add £85 per person.



Sparkling ChampagneBubbly sensations, gourmet restaurants 7 nights

Day OneArrival 1 ReimsCheck in at the elegant Best Western Hotel de la Paix orHotel Grand Continental, both in the heart of old Reims andjust a short walk from the famous cathedral. Hotel de la Paixhas a pool and fitness room. B&B

Day TwoReims ➜ 8 miles 1 Sept-SaulxExplore the city centre in the morning before a taxi takes you out of the city to the Fort de la Pompelle. A levelcanalside walk to the village of Sept-Saulx to limber up themuscles and a superb meal at the Hotel le Cheval Blanc.

Day ThreeSept-Saulx ➜ 11 miles 1 AmbonnayPass along quiet lanes through vineyards and then follow the GR up into the woodland of the Montagne de Reimsbefore descending to the village of Ambonnay and theAuberge St Vincent, a village inn with a fine restaurant.

Day FourAmbonnay ➜ 12.5 miles 1 EpernayReturn to the woodland hills for a scenic route or choose a level walk along canal towpaths to Ay. Then into Epernayfor two nights at a chambre d’hôte with character. B&B

Day FiveDay in EpernayAn opportunity to explore the city of Epernay and visit thefamous Champagne Houses, such as Mercier, Castellane, or Moet et Chandon. B&B

Day SixEpernay ➜ 10 miles 1 ChampillonStroll through vineyards to Cumières. Perhaps take a boattrip or explore the pretty village of Hautvillers, and then acouple of miles further to the Château Royal Champagne-Bellevue at Champillon and a truly gourmet dinner.

Day SevenChampillon ➜ 8 miles to Rilly-la-Montagneand train 1 ReimsA woodland walk across the Montagne de Reims descendingto the village of Rilly-la-Montagne with it’s Premier CruChampagne appellation. Take a twenty minute train ride into Reims for your final night at the Hotel de Paix or HotelGrand Continental. B&B

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An exciting landscape of green fertile valleysand dramatic cliffs dominated by the Dordogneriver which meanders past vineyards, prettyvillages and brooding castles. Much of the walkis on easy open farm tracks but as the distancesare slightly longer with a few climbs rising 150m,the grade is moderate.

Day OneArrival 1 MeyronneThe 3-star Hotel la Terrasse is an 11th century château setin the heart of a village overlooking the Dordogne. Relax bythe pool before dining on the vine-covered terrace.

Day TwoDay trip from Meyronne ➜ 6 milesTake 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 ThreeMeyronne ➜ 13 miles1 CarennacHead 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 the delightful family-run 2-star Hostellerie leFénelon, with pool.

Day FourDay trip from Carennac ➜ 6.5 milesIt’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 FiveCarennac ➜ 14 miles1 RocamadourAlthough 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 Hotel Beau Site.

Day SixDay trip from Rocamadour ➜ 10 milesDescend steeply into the Alzou Canyon past crumblingwatermills. The scenery is absolutely stunning, and there areplenty of photo opportunities before returning to the hotel.

Day SevenRocamadour ➜ 8.5 - 12 miles1 MeyronneReturn to Meyronne through a charming flat valley windingunder cliffs past ancient weirs and watermills. Follow thelimestone hills to Meyronne and your final stay at La Terrasse,a firm favourite with our customers.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains in Paris,arrive Souillac early evening. Transfer to hotel included (30 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer to Souillac station included (30 mins), change stationsin Paris, arrive St Pancras International station early evening.

Your hotels

Some of our finest hotels, all with swimming pools andexcellent restaurants. Perfect after a day’s walk.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/tranquil






Starting days: Any day except Saturday by rail.


Tranquil DordogneMystical rivers and hidden valleys 7 nights

NEW

Spectacular views as this walk takes you from thedelightful medieval town of Martel through thesplendid scenery of the Quercy Naturel Park pastrocky overhanging cliffs giving wonderful viewsacross the Dordogne river. A good selection of3 and 4 star hotels – we classify this as amoderate walk as there are some fairish climbs.

Day OneArrival 1 MartelRelais Saint Anne - a delightful hotel located in the heartof the charming, medieval town of Martel know as the townof the Seven Towers.

Day TwoDay trip from Martel ➜ 7 milesA circular route to discover the pretty hamlet of Murelwith its Romanesque church before heading off up thevalley of Doue.

Day ThreeMartel ➜ 7 miles1 MeyronneToday your route takes you via Mont Mercou with splendidviews of the Dordogne valley – stay tonight at the charminghotel La Terrasse – wonderful food and splendid views alongthe Dordogne River.

Day FourDay trip from Meyronne ➜ 7 milesA circular route with breath taking views on the peaks of theRoc des Monges, return to Meyronne on a narrow walk waycut in to the cliff passing prehistoric shelters.

Day FiveMeyronne ➜ 8 miles1 RocamadourToday’s walk takes you out of the Dordogne valley and intothe Regional Naturel Park of Causses du Quercy and thespectacular town of Rocamadour which clings precariouslyon to the cliff edge. Stay in the lovely Hôtel les VieillesTour in peaceful countryside above the town.

Day SixDay trip from Rocamadour ➜ 9 milesA wonderful circuit which takes you into the splendid Alzougorges past ancient mills, and return along quiet, rockyfootpaths across the plateau.

Day SevenRocamadour ➜ 10 miles1 La TreyneToday 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 sits ontop a cliff majestically overhanging the splendid DordogneRiver. Final night in the impressive 4 star Château de laTreyne linger over a sumptuous meal as you recap on thebest bits of your holiday.

Day EightDepartTransfer to rail station or back to Martel to collect your car.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains in Paris,arrive Souillac early evening. Transfer to hotel included (30 mins).


Your hotels

Ranging from modern in style to a traditional Breton granitecountry hotel. Many are close to the sea.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/dordprestigewalk



LOW SEASON from £1226 £1499 £1169


Starting days: Any day. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry. It is not possible to book single travellers on this holiday.* 17 July to 6 September start days.


Dordogne Prestige à PiedSpectacular Dordogne combined with special hotels 7 nights

The dramatic landscape here is full ofcontrasts: barren yet lush, rolling yet rocky.You’ll be walking for 5 to 7 hours each day, ona whole range of surfaces, from narrow woodlandtracks to country lanes. We grade the walkingon this holiday as moderate.

Day OneArrival 1 Le Mont DoreThe Romans discovered the springs in the 2nd century andthe baths they built are still here today. The waters of LeMont Dore are famed in France for their apparent healingproperties. The 2-star Hotel Castelet has an art-deco theme,with a good restaurant and an indoor pool.

Day TwoLe Mont Dore ➜ 12 miles1 MurolYour 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 2-star Hotel de Paris, whichhas been run by the Planeix family for decades, is rightin the centre.

Day ThreeMurol ➜ 10 miles1 SauteyrasAn easy walk today, past ancient stone menhirs and tinypicturesque villages, switching between quiet country roadsand remote farm tracks. Your hotel tonight is the modernHotel des Cygnes, with splendid views across Lac d’Aydat.

Day FourSauteyras ➜ 8 - 13 miles1 OrcivalYou have two choices today, with the longer route actuallypassing through the now extinct volcano cones. Thecountryside is extremely attractive and very peaceful. Whenyou reach your destination you’re sure of a friendly welcomefrom Mme Bontemps at Hotel Notre-Dame, in the shadowof the Basilica.

Day FiveDay trip from Orcival ➜ 12 milesOrcival 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 SixOrcival ➜ 12 miles1 Le Mont DoreThere 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 spa townof Le Mont Dore.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trains atClermont Ferrand, arrive Le Mont Dore station early evening. The hotel is close to the station.

Return: Depart le Mont Dore station, change trains at Clermont Ferrand and stations in Paris,arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

Your hotels

Hotels range from an ornate art-deco style with indoor pool,to a simple, bright establishment by the lakeside. Some ofour most friendly and welcoming hoteliers will be encounteredin this traditional area. View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/volcanoes






Starting days: Any day except Thursday.


Volcanoes of the AuvergneWooded hills and lunar lakes 6 nights

The rugged Cévennes offer stunning and dramaticscenery: steep tree covered slopes, cascading streamsand remote granite strewn plains. This moderate walkallows you to experience the majestic beauty of theCévennes without too much exertion. The routethrough this striking part of France is easilynavigable and visually rewarding.

Day OneArrival 1 VillefortBroom covered hills surround Villefort, a charming quietgranite built town, which nestles at the bottom of a steepvalley. The 2-star Hotel Balme is a delightful old-fashionedfamily-run hotel with an excellent chef.

Day TwoVillefort ➜ 11 miles1 CubièresMuch of today’s walk is spent on woodland tracks followingthe GR 68 walking route. You will pass through pretty hilltopvillages, with frequent panoramic views - your camera willbe an essential item today!

Day ThreeDay trip from Cubières ➜ 6 milesEnjoy a circular route to the village of Le Bleymard, typical of this area and home to several old silk workshops. Theindustry has faded now, but there are still clues including the large number of mulberry bushes!

Day FourCubières ➜ 11 miles1 Pont de MontvertAn excellent day of walking up on to the rocky plateau. The walk down into the Tarn valley and the pretty villageof Pont de Montvert is very rocky underfoot, and takes insome of the famous “Stevenson Trail”.

Day FiveDay trip from Pont de Montvert ➜ 5 milesToday, 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 SixPont de Montvert ➜ 10 miles1 VillefortThe taxi transfer takes you to start your walk at Le Masde la Barque and you follow the hills with panoramic viewsto Villefort.

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 deMontvert/Day 3 Pont de Montvert to Villefort/Day 4 Villefortto Cubières/Day 5 Day Trip from Cubières/Day 6 Cubièresto Pont de Montvert.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe and Nimes,arrive Villefort early evening. Transfer to hotel included (5 mins).

Return: Transfer to Villefort station included, change trains at Nimes and Lille Europe,arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

Your hotels

Family run hotels all offering good food, a comfortable roomand a friendly welcome.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/cevennes





Starting days: Only Thursday or Friday by rail. Only Sunday or Monday by car.



Untamed CévennesDramatic landscapes and remote beauty 6 nights

These holidays are available both summer andwinter. Staying only twenty miles west of MontBlanc, you can be sure of some stunning views.

The grades are selected to suit the group.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart London St PancrasInternational, change stations in Parisand trains Aix les Bains le Revard, arriveAlbertville. Transfer to hotel included.

Return: Transfer to St Nicolas followedby bus to Albertville station, change trainsat Aix les Bains and stations in Paris,arrive London St Pancras Internationalstation late evening.

Your hotel: You stay full board at Chalet Hotel l’Eau Vive.

www.bellefrance.co.uk/savoie





Starting days: Saturday. Available all year except 12 April - 31 May and 13 September - 19 December.


Secrets of SavoieGROUP WALKING in the Alps 7 nights

Erick Clement is an experienced and qualified mountain leaderwith the ‘National Brevet’ accreditation. Each day he, or hisassistant, takes the group to a different location for a walk inthe Alps at an altitude between 1,000 and 2,400 metres.Summer or winter you will enjoy the spectacular scenery,summer pastures abundant with flowers, forests of pine treesand high ridges with views of Mont Blanc.The winter ‘Trappeur’ programme runs from 20 December to 11 April. The summer ‘Chamois’ programme runs from 1 June to 15 September.A rest day is included in the schedule, usually with an optionalvisit to local places of interest. The hotel has a minibus totransport you to and from the chosen walking area.You will join a multi-national group with English speaking guide.Walks will be tailored to match the average ability of the group.

Walks Daily guided walks of five to seven hours tailored to matchthe average ability of the group. Climbing perhaps 800m insummer and 400m in winter with optional extensions to reachsome of the local summits, a good level of fitness is necessary.

Available in summer or winter (with raquets orcross-country skis) walks are led by Englishspeaking guides and you can choose the‘Sportif’ brisk pace or leisurely ‘Tranquille’.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris andtrains in Lyon, arrive St Etienne stationlate afternoon. Transfer to hotel included(45 mins).

Return: Transfer to St Etienne station,change trains in Lyon and stations inParis, arrive St Pancras Internationalstation late evening.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus.

www.bellefrance.co.uk/stbonnet






Starting days: Sundays (Saturdays in February). Available all year except December, January.

Single supplement £60.


St Bonnet and BeyondGROUP WALKING in the Auvergne 7 nights

Your Hotel for 7 NightsLa DécouverteYour hotel ‘La Découverte’ is located in the centre of thetiny village of St Bonnet le Froid, altitude of 3700ft (1130m),west of the Rhône valley. The stone built hotel, convertedfrom an old convent school, provides simple accommodationon three floors. Facilities include a sauna and outdoor pool.

MealsGenerous picnics are provided at lunchtime. In the evening,hearty meals, featuring regional dishes based around localproduce, are served on a table d’hôte basis and are eaten at a large table, for a real house-party atmosphere.

WalksDaily guided walks of 7-10 miles take you to discover lakesin extinct volcanoes, ancient stone terraces and tumblingstreams through pretty villages.

Untamed mountains and gently sloping vineyardsoffer something for everybody, however relaxing oradventurous a holiday you wish to experience. TheArdèche is hilly with some short steep climbs, butthe walking is never too strenuous or lengthy.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe, arrive Valence thencoach to Aubenas, arrive late afternoon. Transfer to hotel from Aubenas included (10 mins).

Return: Transfer to Aubenas coach station included (10 mins). Coach journey to Valence,TGV to Lille Europe, change trains arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

NB: Local car hire is necessary if travelling by rail.

Your hotels

The elegant 3-star Grand Hotel les Bains and a charmingChambre d’Hôte, in the village of Antraigues-sur-Volane. Youstay on a B&B basis except for first night at hotel which ishalf board. This gives the option of eating table d’hôte ortrying the local restaurants.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/ardeche





Starting days: Wednesday, Sunday.

Canoeing £20 per person. Horse-riding £50 per person. Spa treatment £50 per person.



Ardèche DiscoveryVerdant valleys and bubbling springs 7 nights

ADD AN ACTIVITYIf you arrive by car you could choose to spend a half-day horse-riding, rock-climbing or canoeing or pamper yourselfwith a half-day at the spa.

Suggested Walks

Day trip from Vals les Bains ➜ 4-11 miles

A gentle exploration of the neighbourhood as you walk upto the woods, returning to Vals les Bains in time for lunch. In the afternoon you can try a more challenging walk, takingin some charming hamlets before returning to Vals via theriver Ardèche and the old rail track.

Day trip to Antraigues ➜ 9-11 miles

You’re transferred to nearby Aizac for a walk up to apanoramic view of the Haute Cévennes mountains. You’llreach the ancient village of Antraigues, perched on a rockyoutcrop, in time for lunch, then set off to explore the nearbyChâteau de Craux which dates back to the 15th Century.

Day trip to Asperjoc ➜ 9 miles

Today sees you striding out along the Volane river toAsperjoc, home to a neo-roman style church. Scatteredalong the riverside you’ll come across several old millsthat once housed silk factories.

Day trip to Aubenas

You’re transferred to the medieval town of Aubenas whichhas many notable historic buildings. The market onSaturdays is the perfect opportunity to stock up on localproduce.

Day trip to Chalencon ➜ 3-7 miles

Head to the nearby little town of Labegude and off thebeaten track to Chalencon which is reached after a climb ofover 300 metres. As you descend you will have panoramicviews of the region.

6 nights B&B, 1 night half board.

Our local British agent will tailor this holiday to suit yourrequirements and you can add various adventure activities.Family self-catering accommodation can be arranged.

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Wonderful buildings, charming village squares,the smell of herbs growing wild under your feet,all the right ingredients for some great walking.The grade is moderate, not due to the gradients,but because the distances are longer than usual.Underfoot are quiet lanes and stony tracks.

Day OneArrival 1 GravesonSettle into your family-run 2-star hotel, relax by the pool and look forward to the week ahead. In the evening enjoy a gentle stroll around Graveson.

Day TwoSaze ➜ 12 miles1 RemoulinsAfter 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.

Day ThreeDay trip from Remoulins ➜ 6 milesJust down the road from your 2-star hotel, the Pont du Gardis a must. It does not take long to walk into the attractivecountryside of the Gardon valley along dusty lanes topicturesque villages perched on the hilltops.

Day FourRemoulins ➜ 13 miles1 BeaucaireRise up onto the hillside to join the GR6 footpath. You walkthrough fields of redcurrants, apples, walnuts and vines. Visitthe Abbaye St. Romain, on a ridge overlooking the Rhône,before settling in at your 3-star hotel.

Day FiveBeaucaire ➜ 11 miles1 FontvieillePass 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 friendly welcomeat our 3-star hotel in this typical Provençal village. B&B

Day SixFontvieille ➜ 13 miles1 St. RémyReturn 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 SevenDay trip from St Rémy ➜ 6 milesSt Rémy itself is known for its charm and sophistication,but why not take a walk up to the higher reaches of LesAlpilles for grand views over the Camargue before enjoyingyour final meal of the holiday in one of St Rémy’s lovelyrestaurants. B&B

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe(onward train is from either Lille Europe or Lille Flandres), arrive Avignon late afternoon.Taxi transfer to hotel not included (20 minutes, about 25€).

Return: Transfer to Avignon station included, change trains at Lille Europe,arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

Your hotels

An interesting collection of hotels; all except Remoulins haveswimming pools.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/vangogh





HIGH SEASON* Not available Not available Not available

Starting days: Any day. This holiday is not available in July and August.


Van Gogh’s ProvenceShimmering light and olive groves 7 nights

This walk offers a touch of luxury staying indelightful accommodation that adds extra charmto the delights of walking in Provence. Wanderthrough pretty village squares, past vineyards andfields of sunflowers, over remote hill sides andalong canal towpaths with the smell of wild herbsin the air. The grade is moderate.

Day OneArrival 1 AvignonArrive at the luxurious Hostellerie la Magnaneraie in thesuberbs of old Villeneuve-les-Avignon. Explore the old villagecentre or relax in the hotel garden by the outdoor pool.

Day TwoRemoulins ➜ 10 miles 1 ColliasA 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 ThreeCollias ➜ 8 miles 1 TarasconThe taxi transfer drops you off to start your walk at St Roman.Passing through Beaucaire you cross the River Rhone intoTarascon and continue south to Le Mas des Comtes deProvence, a delightful manor house.

Day FourDay trip from Tarascon ➜ 5 milesTake time to explore the delights of Tarascon and continueon to Beaucaire to admire the boats moored canalside.

Day FiveTarascon ➜ 9 miles 1 FontvielleFollow the winding route of the canal, then continue alongtracks, through woodland glades and the limestone outcropsof the Alpilles. Your destination is the delightful La Régalidowith Michelin-starred restaurant, an oasis of tranquility.

Day SixFontvielle ➜ 10 miles 1 ValmourianeLeaving Fontvieille visit Château d’Estoublon and theinteresting Olive Boutique. Then follow the foothills beforeclimbing to the medieval village of les Baux. Cross theAlpilles and descend to your hotel Domaine de Valmouriane.Set in a lovely park with outdoor pool.

Day SevenDay trip to St Remy ➜ 8 milesA short walk through woodland to the Roman site of Glanumbefore exploring the warren of narrow streets in St Remy atlunchtime. A level walk alongside a canal back toValmouriane for your final night.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe(onward train is from either Lille Europe or Lille Flandres), arrive Avignon late afternoon.Taxi transfer to hotel not included (20 minutes, about 25€).


Your hotels

A prestigious collection of hotels each with its own individualcharm and ambiance – from a delightful oasis set in thecentre of a village to a country house hotel with beautifulpool. All have pools except at Fontvieille.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/provenceprestigewalk



LOW SEASON from £1329 £1569 £1249


Starting days: Any day. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry. This holiday is not available in July and August.

Extra night at Valmouriane £135 per person. Half day cookery class with lunch £50 per person.

Half day beauty treatment £115 per person. * 17 July to 6 September start days.


Provence Prestige à PiedScented pines and dazzling skies 7 nights

ADD A COOKERY CLASS OR SPA TREATMENTOption to include a Friday morning cookery classwith lunch at Valmouriane or a half day pamperedbeauty treatment.


Stevenson Trail 1st Stage




Starting days: Any day. Own Ferry option includes transfer back to your car.

Own travel clients requiring transfer back to the start add £150 per car. Single supplement £100.

Stevenson Trail 2nd Stage




Starting days: Any day. Ferry option includes transfer back to your car.

Own travel clients requiring transfer back to the start add £150 per car. Single supplement £140.

Extra night at Chasserades £55 per person HB. Extra night at St Jean du Gard £60 per person HB.


In 1878, Robert Louis Stevenson published,“Travels with a Donkey”, an account of hisintriguing journey through the Cévennes,accompanied by his donkey, Modestine. Startingat the southern end of the Massif Central, thewalk takes you across the Cévennes to the edgeof the Midi.

1st stageDay OneArrival 1 Le PuyLe Puy has a wealth of religious history and several beautifulbuildings including the cathedral and the Romanesque chapelof St Michel de L’Aiguille perched 80m high on a pinnaclerock - the Rocher St. Michel.

Day TwoLe Puy ➜ 12 miles1 Le MonastierToday’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 ThreeLe Monastier ➜ 16 miles1 St. NicolasStevenson bought his donkey, Modestine, in Le Monastier.Cross the Loire river at Goudet and rise out of the valley. Theauthor got lost here; he missed the Lac du Bouchet becauseit is uphill of the hamlet within a flooded volcano cone.

Day FourSt. Nicolas ➜ 16 miles1 LangogneThrough wooded valleys and rough pasture, along cinderpaths and farm tracks. Everything is made of local granite,the houses, bread ovens and crosses.

Day FiveLangogne ➜ 10 miles1 Cheylard L’EvêqueAn undulating walk across the remote and vast plain ofMargaride. The church bells here, like so many in the region,are not housed in a tower. This makes them louder, so intimes of inclement weather the bells used to be rung toguide lost souls to the safety of the village.

Day SixCheylard L’Evêque ➜ 12 miles1 La BastideWalk on the route of the Roman road that leads to Marseilles,via Regordane and enter the upper reaches of the attractiveAllier valley.

Day SevenLa Bastide ➜ 8 miles1 ChasseradèsYou climb today to the highest point of this stage, oppositethe source of the Allier. As you climb over the Mouragehill you cross the watershed between the Atlantic andMediterranean, then head down the valley to prettyChasseradès.

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Rail Travel - Stevenson Trail 1st Stage

Outward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trains atClermont Ferrand, arrive Le Puy en Velay late evening. Transfer from station to hotel notincluded – hotel is within easy walking distance.

Return: Transfer from hotel to Chasseradès station not included, change trains at Nimesand stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

Your hotels

Accommodation in this part of France tends to be simple,from small village guest houses to traditional aubergeswith good homely food.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/stevenson


Stevenson Trail In the footsteps of one man and his donkey

TREK

The walk is moderate, with a few long climbs.Conditions underfoot are good, well drained,though often rocky. Whilst remote, throughoutthe Cévennes you will pass frequent stonebuilt farms and hamlets. The landscape isever-changing, tiny villages, valleys and woodlandgive way to desolate boulder-strewn plains.

2nd stageDay OneArrival1 ChasseradèsThe Chaptal family run the charming Hotel des Sources and the restaurant serves great meals on the terrace.

Day TwoChasseradès ➜ 9 miles1 Le BleymardAfter passing through the little village of L’Estampe you climbthe densely wooded hill of Goulet. This is the beginning ofthe Cévennes.

Day ThreeLe Bleymard ➜ 11 miles1 Pont de MontvertClimb the Finiels summit for impressive views, sometimes asfar as the Mediterranean. Pont de Montvert has many fine16th century houses built on rocks above the waters.

Day FourPont de Montvert ➜ 10-16 miles1 FloracMost of today’s walk is along the Bouges ridge with viewsacross the Cévennes. Florac spans the confluence of theTarnon and the Tarn.

Day FiveFlorac ➜ 10 miles1 CassagnasYou quickly find yourself in the steep, red and rocky sidedMimente valley, which is quite dramatic. The tiny village of Cassagnas has a permanent population of 20 people! You stay in an old railway station.

Day SixCassagnas ➜ 11 miles1 St. Germain deCalberteYou 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 SevenSt. Germain de Calberte ➜ 13 miles1St. Jean du GardSome of the walk is spent on the paved road ‘Corniche desCevennes’, built for the military during the reign of Louis XIV.As you descend from the Cévennes into the Midi, you see thechanges in the landscape and on reaching the lowest part ofthe walk you realise you are now in the land of the grape!

Extra Nights are possible at Le Puy, St. Nicolas, La Bastide,

Chasseradès, Florac or St. Jean du Gard.

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Rail Travel - Stevenson Trail 2nd Stage

Outward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trainsin Nimes, arrive Chasseradès late evening. Transfer from station to hotel not included.

For afternoon arrival in Chasseradès take overnight stop in Paris or Nimes.

Return: Transfer from hotel to Alès station not included, change trains at Nimesand stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station early evening.


Combined holiday 13 nights Ferry Inclusive Rail Inclusive Own Travel

LOW SEASON from £1330 £1499 £1199


Starting days: Any day. Ferry option includes transfer back to your car. Own travel clients requiring transfer back

to the start add £200 per car. Single supplement £200. * 17 July to 6 September start days.


1st/2nd Stage 7 nights - Combined 13 nights

NEW

This trek through the foothills of the Pyreneeswill take you past many of the mystical CatharCastles through beautiful and changinglandscapes from craggy rocks to lush greenmeadows. You stay half-board in friendly chambred’hôtes and small hotels where you can discoverlocal cuisine and Languedoc wines.

1st stageDay OneArrival1 PerpignanArrival via Perpignan in Tuchan at the 2 star Hostelleriedu Montauch.

Day TwoPadern ➜ 10 miles1 DuilhacAfter a short transfer your walk takes you through the earlymedieval village of Mollet and the wine centre at Cucugnan.You can see the 13th cent. Castles at Padern and atQueribus. Stay at the Auberge du Vieux Moulin.

Day ThreeDuilhac ➜ 10 miles1 Cubieres sur CinobleYou pass the Galamus Gorges and see the hermitage of StAntoine de Galamus and the fortress of Peyrepertuse. Uponarrival at the Gite Accueil in Cubieres you will be allocatedto a friendly chambre d’hôte.

Day FourCubieres ➜ 10 miles1 SougraigneToday 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 FiveSougraigne ➜ 12 miles1 GranesFollow way-marked trails through Rennes le Château toGranes where you stay at Gites les Tamaris chambre d’hôte.

Day SixGranes ➜ 12 miles1 QuillanToday you pass through traditional Pyrenean villages andover the Col des Trois Quilles. Your final night is at the3 star Hotel La Chaumière.

Day SevenDeparture and CarcassonneBy rail you have an extra night in Carcassonne beforecatching the train to Toulouse with TGV and Eurostar backto UK.Transfer back to Tuchan to collect your car. Transfersto Perpignan can also be arranged at a supplement. B&B

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Rail Travel - Cathar Castles 1st Stage

Outward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains at Lille Europe and arrivePerpignan early evening. Transfer to Tuchan included (40 mins).

Return: Transfer to Quillan station not included (10 minutes walk), change trains at Carcassonne.Transfer in Carcassonne not included for overnight stay. From Carcassonne change trains atToulouse to Lille Europe or Carcassonne to Paris, change to Eurostar, arrive St PancrasInternational station late evening.


Cathar CastlesTrek of the Cathar Castles from Tuchan-Queribus to Quillan

Your hotels

A mix of hotels are used on this holiday ranging from homelychambre d’hôtes to two star Logis de France. Evening mealsare included on each night of the walk, usually with a fixedmenu de jour. This is a remote part of France without a vasttourist input and we have graded this holiday as a trek in viewof the lower standard of accommodation compared with ourusual choice. Rail travellers spend an additional final nightB&B in Carcassonne at a 3 star hotel in the town centreclose to the rail station.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/cathar


Cathar Castles 1st Stage




Starting days: Any day. Rail price includes extra night in Carcassonne B&B.

Cathar Castles 2nd Stage




Starting days: Any day. Rail price includes first night in Carcassonne B&B.


Discover the unique history and wonderful food andwine of this fascinating region, charming villagesand gorgeous scenery of meadows, vineyards, anddistant snow-capped peaks. Follow the ancient trailsto discover precariously perched ruins of Catharcastles clinging to cliff edges and stay in smallunspoilt Pyrenean towns and villages.

2nd stageDay OneArrival1 CarcassonneArrival in by rail in Carcassonne. Your first night is B&B inCarcassonne giving you the next morning to explore thishistoric walled town before catching the local train in theafternoon to Quillan.

Day TwoQuillan ➜ 13 miles1 PuivantWalk to the village of Nebias and continue along the Catharfootpath to Puivert and its splendid 13th century Châteauof the Troubadours - its well worth a visit. Tonight stay in asimple chambre d’hôte located close to the lake, ideal for aquick swim, eat local food prepared by your host and shared‘en famille’ with other guests.

Day ThreePuivant ➜ 13 miles1 BelcaireThrough the heart of the thick fir tree forests of Escale andPicaussel and out on to the airy plateau of Sault using theancient path to the valley of Aude and the Corbieres region.Tonight stay in the mountain chalet style Logis de FranceHotel Bayle.

Day FourBelcaire ➜ 11.5 miles1 MontségurFrom the airy Pays de Sault plateau the path takes you downthrough the impressive Gorge de Frau (Gorge of Fear!) to theAriege before arriving in the village of Montségur, the heartof Catharism. Stay for two nights at a welcoming andcomfortable chambre d’hôte.

Day FiveDay walk from Montségur ➜ 7.5 milesAn evocative walk past ancient terraces and ruins withpanoramic views of the famous Pog de Montségur, the lastCathar strong hold – the ancient Château de Montségurperchs high on the top of the pog, its a hard climb to thetop but well worth it for the magnificent views.

Day SixMontségur ➜ 11.5 miles1 RoquefixadeFollow the Cathar trail as it winds its way to the village ofMontferrier, crossing the Modini forest before reaching the13th century Pyrenean walled village of Roquefixade.Stay at the Relais des Pogs.

Day SevenRoquefixade ➜ 12 miles1 FoixThe final section combines superb terrain with stunningviews as the Cathar trail follows a high ridge to the smalltown of Foix nestling in the foothills of the Pyrenees. Foix isdominated by the three towers of its chateau perched highabove the town. Your final night at the 3 star Hotel Lons.

Day EightDeparture and ToulouseDeparture by rail from Foix, a morning train to Toulouse forthe onward TGV and Eurostar to arrive late evening inLondon. By car transfer back to Quillan.

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Rail Travel - Cathar Castles 2nd Stage

Outward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe (onward trainfrom Lille Europe change trains in Narbonne, arrive Carcassonne 19:18. Overnight inCarcassonne. Next day depart Carcassonne 16:12 change trains in Limoux, arrive Quillan17:35.Return: Depart Foix in the morning, arrive Toulouse, change trains, arrive Paris earlyevening, change stations, arrive St Pancras International station late evening.


Combined holiday 13 nights Ferry Inclusive Rail Inclusive Own Travel

LOW SEASON from £1319 £1469 £1199


Starting days: Any day.



TREK1st/2nd Stage 7 nights - Combined 13 nightsContinue from Quillan to Foix via Montségur

This south-western tip of Brittany stretchesinto the waters of the Atlantic. Sandy dunesand marshes give way to dramatic cliffs as youapproach the stunning Pointe du Raz headland.We rate this walk as moderate - you’ll be walkingfor around 7 hours each day, mainly alongcoastal paths with the odd climb.

Day OneArrival 1 Pont l’AbbéThis historic little town is famous for its lace and embroidery,and some residents still wear traditional Breton dress. Yourstarting point is a comfortable Logis de France hotel.

Day TwoPont l’Abbé ➜ 14 miles1 Saint GuénoléYour route takes you towards the coast, past chapels andsprings to the fishing ports on the south-west tip of Brittany.Your base for the night is a 2-star hotel with ocean views.

Day ThreeSaint Guénolé ➜ 17 miles1 LababanFollow alongside the vast sandy beaches popular withsurfers. You’ll pass Notre-Dame de Penhors, an example of Brittany’s culture and tradition, where religious pardonsare still held, before arriving at the 3-star Hotel Ker Ansquer.

Day FourLababan ➜ 13.5 miles1 AudierneThe 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.

Day FiveDay trip from Audierne ➜ 4 milesEnjoy a boat trip out to the Ile de Sein, a tiny island peepingout of the water, off the Pointe du Raz. Many of its 350inhabitants live in the brightly painted houses along thequayside. Explore this other-worldly setting, before headingback to your 2-star hotel in Audierne.

Day SixAudierne ➜ 15 miles1 Baie des TrépassésA final day following the rugged coastline up to the protectedsite of the Pointe du Raz. Here, the granite and sandstonerocks are buffeted by the wind and the ocean. Watch thesurf come crashing in from the comfort of your hotel.

Day SevenQuimperIf 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.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris, arrive Quimperlate afternoon. Transfer to hotel at Pont l’Abbé not included (20 mins).

Return: Taxi transfer to Quimper the previous day included. Depart Quimper stationin morning, change stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International early evening.

Your hotels

Ranging from modern in style to a traditional Breton granitecountry hotel. Many are close to the sea.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/breathtaking






Starting days: Any day. It is not possible to book single travellers on this holiday.


Breathtaking BrittanyCeltic crosses and rocky inlets 7 nights

Frontier battles gave way long ago to the simplefishing and agriculture which prevail today. Aneasy walk becoming moderate in places with severalsteep climbs. There is little shade from theMediterranean sun, so bring a sunhat and plentyof sunscreen. Stunning views, friendly people andunique culture.

Day OneArrival1 CollioureCollioure is a beautiful place surrounded by pretty beaches,and attracted the likes of Matisse and Picasso. Your 2-starhotel, Mas des Citronniers, is centrally located. B&B

Day TwoCollioure ➜ 8 miles1 BanyulsA 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.

Day ThreeDay trip from Banyuls ➜ 5 milesIf you have the inclination to leave your 3-star hotel perchedhigh above the town then you can spend the day on vineyardslopes overlooking the bay where some of France’s sweetestdessert wines are produced.

Day FourBanyuls ➜ 8 miles1 LlançaFrom the vineyards you’ll pass through thick forest and ontoa ridge for a panorama of both France and Spain. Follow thisridge to the border and descend back to sea level at PortBou in Spain, before taking the short train journey to your 2-star hotel in Llança.

Day FiveLlança ➜ 9 miles1 Port de La SelvaFollow the coastal footpath or climb to Sant Pere de Rodesmonastery. You pass through abandoned vineyards and relics from the civil war, always surrounded by glorious views.Tonight’s 3-star hotel is in the centre of the little fishing village.

Day SixPort de La Selva ➜ 10 miles1 CadaquesThe inland route is charming. Pass through olive groves anduntouched Spanish countryside. Your hotel for the final twonights is the 3-star art deco Hotel Rocamar with indoor andoutdoor pools.

Day SevenDay trip from Cadaques ➜ 8 milesThere’s plenty to see and do in the fascinating ancientfishing village of Cadaques 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.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains at Lille Europeand Perpignan, arrive Collioure late evening. Taxi transfer from station to hotelnot included – hotel is only a 10 minute walk away.

Return: Transfer from Cadaques to Perpignan station included (2hrs), change trainsat Lille Europe, arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

Your hotels

A diverse selection of accommodation from modernsea front hotels to a 3-star hotel with swimming pool.One night B&B, six nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/catalan





Starting days: Any day. This holiday is not available in July and August and supplements apply Easter and early

September. Single supplement £140.



Catalan CoastRocky coves and orange groves 7 nights

TREK

A journey from Pyrenean peaks to Mediterraneanbeaches. This walk is graded moderate to difficult.Some paths are long, rocky and steep and somescrambling may be necessary. We consider thisto be the most challenging of all our walkingholidays, but stunning views are your reward!

Day OneArrival 1 SetcasesStart off high in this small mountain village nestling atthe bottom of the Ter valley at the foot of the peaks.

Day TwoSetcases ➜ 9 miles1 MolloThe route starts steeply from the valley and there are a number of spots where you almost need to scramble. The views up here are quite outstanding.

Day ThreeMollo ➜ 4 miles1 Prats de MolloThe route to Prats de Mollo was traditionally used by brigandsand smugglers as a way into French territory. As you climb,magnificent views across the Vallespir appear before you.

Day FourDay trip from Prats de Mollo ➜ 8 milesThe fortified medieval city sits on the banks of the RiverTech. As you explore the surrounding valleys, you willdiscover a mountain environment, bursting with wildlife.

Day FivePrats de Mollo ➜ 7 miles1 Amélie les BainsYour walk starts on a wide track surrounded by cherry treesand leads along the ridge with amazing views all around. Ona slow descent you reach the spa town of Amélie Les Bains.

Day SixAmélie les Bains ➜ 7 miles1 CéretThere is a steady climb up to Puig d’Oulou. As you descendinto the narrow streets of Céret, think of the artists whofound inspiration here; Picasso, Matisse and Chagall.

Day SevenDay trip from Céret ➜ 6 milesToday is an easy stroll through woodland, cherry orchards,vineyards and olive groves. Spend time in the afternoonexploring the interesting streets of Céret.

Day EightCéret ➜ 9 miles1 BanyulsA pre-arranged taxi will drop you about half a mile from theridge that will take you east, involving a short steep climb. The descent to the sea is spectacular.

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Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains at Lille Europe and arrivePerpignan early evening. Transfer to Setcases included (2hrs).

Return: Transfer to Banyuls station not included (station is 10 minutes walk from hotel)change trains at Perpignan and Lille Europe, arrive St Pancras International station late evening.

Your hotels

A selection of hotels ranging from Spanish country hotelshigh in the Pyrenees to a 3-star hotel with spectacular viewsacross the bay. Remote village hotels are less luxurious butadequate with good homely food.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/mountains






Starting days: Any day. Single supplement £120.


Mountains to MedRugged hills and silver beaches 8 nights

Walking in this area is a delight as you followtrails and ancient pack horse routes through theunspoilt landscape. Through olive and almond grovespast aequias that crisscross the hillsides bringingwater from the snow capped mountains into thesmall villages and towns that cling to thehillsides and nestle in the valleys.

The WalksThere is no fixed itinerary for these wonderful guided walks.Martin Riley – your British guide will outline the various walksavailable and depending on the weather and your walkingability will suggest the best route for the day.

Day OneArrive 1 Hotel Hesperia in central Granada

Day TwoMonachil Gorge ➜ 5 hoursTransfer to Lanjaron via the Monachil Gorge – a breathtakingstart to your adventure the route incorporating suspensionbridges and natural rock tunnels for about a mile beforeopening out into a valley. Continue on to Lanjaron.

Day Three to Day Six Guided WalksThese walks are examples of what is on offer during yourstay in Lanjaron.

Walk in the Taha ➜ 4 to 5 hours (8 miles)A string of white villages spread across the hillside above thevalley of the Rio Trevelez - from the village of Mecina theroute descends to cross the river on a medieval bridgebefore climbing to an ancient water store.

Poquerira Gorge ➜ 5 to 6 hours (10 miles)Transfer to start of the walk – this is a popular walking areacrisscrossed with a network of trails and pack horse bridgesover the river. Our route reaches around 1600m with viewsof the high sierra before returning to Capileria and anopportunity to sit and watch the world go by before headingback to Lanjaron.

Grand Walking Route ➜ 5 to 6 hours(10 miles)Follow a section of the long distance GR7 trail as it traversesthrough the villages of Sopotujar and Canar following aequiachannels and passing remote fincas.

Rio Verde ➜ 5 hours (8 miles)A walk which descends into the Rio Verde to pass a ‘petrified’waterfall and grotto before returning through the lunarlandscape and limestone pinnacles of the Sierra Almijara.

Day Seven Exploring the cityYour final day offers a great opportunity to explore thishistoric city - a visit to the spectacular Alhambra is a must.It’s only a five-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute steep uphillwalk from Granada’s central Plaza Nueva - you’ll walk nearlythree miles in your Alhambra visit, so take a guide book andplan your visit.

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Rail TravelThis is possible with overnight stops or sleeper trains.


Own Travel

LOW SEASON £879 (April, May)

HIGH SEASON* £899 (June, Sept)

Starting days: Any day. We anticipate that you may arrange flights to Granada and your holiday with us starts with

your arrival at the first hotel. Rail travel is possible but involves an overnight stay or a sleeper train - please phone

for details. * 17 July to 6 September start days.


Bella EspañaAlpujarra – Foothills of the Sierra Nevada 7 nights

Your hotels

The 4 star Hotel Hesperia – in the centre of the old town isa great location ideal for exploring Granada. Comfortable ensuite rooms with air conditioning.

The 3 star Hotel Alcadima in Lanjaron – a delightful family runhotel with spacious en suite bedrooms, air conditioning, afridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Just off the tree-lined main street the hotel is an oasis of calm. The swimmingpool offers the chance of a welcome dip at the end of a day’swalking. You are booked B&B throughout.

www.bellefrance.co.uk/granada

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 each

day range between 10 and 40 miles, perfectly

manageable considering average cycle speed is

between 6 to 8 miles per hour – or much faster

with the wind behind you! If faced with a climb,

you can always get off and push for a bit –

that’s what we do!


Cycling for EveryoneWith the wind in your hair

Cycling grades

Please remember that a long flat run on a hot daycan be more tiring than a short hill where you canget off and push.

Distances between hotels are always shorter in hillyareas and you should not choose a holiday solely onthe basis of mileage.

We do not suggest hard routes. But if you do wantto cycle the steep mountain path identified on yourmap, then feel free!

Easy

Almost flat terrain. Up to 30 miles a day.

Emerald Coast, Along the Leisurely Loire,Garden of France, Loire Discovery, LoirePrestige, Loire en Famille, Provençal Dreams,A Taste of Bordeaux

Easy/Moderate

Occasional hills, some steep. Up to 35 miles a day.

Mellow Mayenne, Charente Waterways, Périgord Discovery, Burgundy Prestige,Provence Prestige, Vintage Burgundy Classic,Premier Cru & Grand Cru Prestige,Alsatian Adventure

Moderate/Challenging

Rolling countryside with some steep hills, but shorterdistances between hotels. Requires regular gearchanges but is continuously cyclable. Up to 40 milesper day depending on the terrain.

Drama of the Dordogne, Dordogne Exploration,Auvergne Discovery, Canal du Midi to Coast,Limousin Lakes and Castles, Best of Burgundy

Most of our cycling holidays are circular; you cycle from hotel to hotel, 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 be cycling independently at your own pace.

Our bikes - everything you need

All our bikes are prepared in advance and from most centres you can hire cyclehelmets for 2 euro a day paid locally. Simply provide us with your height and insideleg measurement and your bike will be awaiting your arrival. Our bikes are usuallyhybrids – a cross between a tourer and mountain bike that’s perfect for the distancesand terrain you’ll be covering. The saddles are made wide for touring, but you canalso bring your own if you wish. We also provide you with panniers to carry yourpicnic and supplies for the day.

We’ll provide you with a repair kit containing a spare inner tube and puncturerepair kit. If your bike breaks down, our local representative will bring a replacement,ready for the next day enabling you to continue your holiday. However, you will needto know how to repair your own puncture!

If you’re travelling by car and wish to bring your own bike, this will reduce thecost of your cycling holiday by £5 per day.


Prestige en Vélo holidays

At all of our carefully chosen hotels, you’re guaranteed a friendlywelcome and a comfortable place to stay. If you fancy some real luxuryand mouth-watering gourmet meals in an exclusive setting, then we’veintroduced a “Prestige” option to add that extra special something toyour holiday experience.

• Loire, Burgundy, Provence plus Périgord upgrade

Family-friendly holidays

An increasing number of families are looking to explore France togetherin a fun and healthy way; cycling couldn’t be a better option. Childrenthoroughly enjoy cycling in France, the roads are free from busy trafficand they are fully occupied the whole time. We do recommend that youbring your children’s bikes with you if possible, simply because they willbe more familiar and comfortable with them, but on most holidays wecan provide children’s bikes, with the option at some destinations ofchild seats and tag-alongs for the smallest family members. We’ve evenintroduced a holiday with young families in mind, taking in attractionsthat include adventure parks and a zoo.

• Loire en Famille • Along the Leisurely Loire

• Loire Discovery • Emerald Coast

• Provençal Dreams • Périgord Discovery

A bit of a challenge?

You’ll already know that we don’t categorise any of our holidays as“hard”, but there are some that have a few more climbs or longermileage. Although they can be undertaken by any reasonably fit person,they are worth considering if you like a challenge and cycle regularly.

• Charente Waterways • Drama of the Dordogne

• Best of Burgundy • Limousin Lakes and Castles

• Canal du Midi to Coast • Dordogne Exploration

Scenery and culture

All of our cycling holidays take in the above in abundance, but there are some that are worth a special mention thanks to their historical or cultural relevance, or simply because you’ll experience some of thewonderful landscapes for which France is renowned.

• Provençal Dreams • Mellow Mayenne

• Périgord Discovery • Emerald Coast

• Auvergne Discovery • Dordogne Exploration

• Vintage Burgundy • Garden of France

• A Taste of Bordeaux • Alsatian Adventure

Flexible options

Please do call our friendly team for advice on any of our

holidays – we’ll be delighted to help choose the perfect one

for you. And we’re more than happy to adapt our holidays

to suit your requirements; if you want to add extra nights

en route, combine two holidays, create a short weekend

break… we’ll be happy to tailor-make a holiday that’s

just right for you.

Why not add a flight in a hot-air balloon to any

of our Loire Valley Holidays?

It’s all on-lineInside information and first-handaccounts on our holidays

www.bellefrance.co.uk/cycling

This little known area of south Normandy offersthe chance to pedal along country lanes watchingthe countryside unroll in front of you like apatchwork quilt of fields and streams, manorhouses and duck ponds. The grade is mostly easywith some huffing and puffing over the rollingcountryside and a long ride on your last day.

Day OneArrival 1 LouéOn arrival in Loué at the delightful Hôtel Ricordeau, a formercoach house, it may be tempting to take a dip in the pool.Dinner is served in the flag stoned restaurant and the menufeatures local produce including the famous Loué poultry.

Day TwoDay trip from Loué ➜310 milesPick 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 ThreeLoué ➜315 miles 1 SaulgesToday head up the Verge valley to Brulon, maybe for areviving café crème and a chance to buy a picnic lunch.The hilly bit is behind you as you head towards yourdestination, the delightful 3-star Hotel l’Ermitage.

Day FourDay trip from Saulges ➜319 milesTake a spin down to Ballée and visit the beautiful châteauwith its watermill and gardens. On the return journey thechâteau and watermill at Thevalles are worth a closer look.

Day FiveSaulges ➜321 miles 1 MézangersThe pretty route follows the l’Erve, crossing the river toChammes and the chance for a refreshing drink. Thehighlight is the beautiful fortified village of Sainte Suzanne.Then wind past farms and streams to the 3-star Relais.

Day SixDay trip from Mézangers ➜316 milesAn easy run through the forest and along a straight roadmakes a quick trip to the impressive roman ruins at Jublains.Enjoy lunch alfresco by the lake before a relaxing pedal backto the hotel.

Day SevenMézangers ➜332 miles 1 LouéThe route is deeply rural and quiet - quaint little villagesprovide opportunities for refreshment and a breather - appleorchards and the occasional watermill litter the route. Thetour is complete and it’s time to make your way back to thehotel, and a chance to relive some wonderful experiences.

Option for extra night breaking this journey at St Suzanne,a quirky medieval country town.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris,arrive Le Mans station mid-afternoon. Transfer to hotel included (30 mins).

Return: Transfer to Le Mans station included (30 mins), change stationsin Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

Accommodation is in some of the finest hotels in ourprogramme. Elegant buildings with plenty of character,plus swimming pools and delightful restaurants.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/mayenne






Starting days: Wednesday and Friday. Extra night at St. Suzanne £80 per person.


Mellow MayenneRolling hills and silent streams 7 nights

The river Rance separates the resorts of Dinard andSaint Malo; you’ll be following and criss-crossingthe river as you explore Belle Epoque towns, sandycoves, fishing ports and green countryside. Wegrade this route as easy – the region is relativelyflat although there is the odd climb in and outof villages.

Day OneArrival 1 DinardAs you arrive in Dinard settle in at the elegant 3-star RocheCorneille, a beautifully converted Belle Epoque villa justround the corner from the beach and the little art galleries in the narrow streets.

Day TwoDay trip from Dinard ➜320 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, and a second night at La Roche Corneille.

Day ThreeDinard ➜316 miles 1 DinanHead inland following the river Rance and the Voie Verte, a cycle path along a former railway track into Dinan. Your 3-star hotel, Le Jerzual, is right on the quayside, so you canwatch the boats moor up for the evening from the terrace.

Day FourDay trip from Dinan ➜325 milesA day’s cycling takes in Château de la Bourbansais with its zoo and gardens, before heading west through thecountryside and back up to Dinan. Upon returning toDinan you can cool off in the outdoor pool.

Day FiveDinan ➜320 miles 1 Saint MaloHead 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 SixDay trip from Saint Malo ➜322 milesIt’s a gentle round trip along the flat coast road towardsCancale, famed for its oyster beds. You’ll be able to lookout to the little islands dotted across the sea and stop offfor refreshments at one of the beach-side cafés.

Day SevenSaint Malo ➜35 miles 1 DinardYour 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.

B&B option for this holiday see page 64.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trains in Rennes, arrive St Malo early evening. Transfer to hotel included (20 mins).

Return: Transfer to St Malo station included (20 mins), change trains at Rennesand stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station early evening.

Your hotels

High quality hotels, all very tastefully decorated andcoincidentally all with maritime themes. There’s an outdoorpool at Dinan. Two nights B&B, five nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/emerald





Starting days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. 7 nights B&B option deduct £130 per person, see page 64.



Emerald CoastQuiet coves and elegant seaside towns 7 nights

Easy cycling along country lanes and the daytrips described are just our suggestions, so youcan adapt the route to suite your holidayrequirements. From Montrichard on the banks ofthe River Cher to the peaceful village of Chitenayyoucan explore all faces of the region.

Two Centre Stay

Your First HotelArrival 1 MontrichardYour first three nights are spent at a traditional Logis deFrance, the Hotel Tête Noire run by a friendly and welcomingfamily. The restaurant is popular with locals - a sure sign ofgood food!

Day trips ➜310 to 30 milesVisit Chenonceaux with the fabulous château spanningthe River Cher or cycle to Amboise, a delightful town withits château and Leonardo da Vinci exhibition.

Montrichard ➜320 miles 1 ChitenayOn the way pass through Bourré and a chance to explorecave dwellings and then Fougères with its medieval château.

Your Second Hotel1 ChitenayYour 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 ➜310 to 30 milesA 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.

Single Centre OptionSix nights in AmboiseYou spend six nights bed and breakfast at the Hotel BelleVue in the centre of Amboise. This bustling little townhas a range of restaurants to tempt you all within a shortwalk of your hotel.

Day trips ➜310 to 30 milesFrom Amboise you can easily visit Chaumont, Montrichard,Chenonceaux or Vouvray and we supply you with a mapand suggested route notes.

See page 64 for prices

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris andtrains at St Pierre des Corps, arrive Montrichard late afternoon. Transfer to hotelincluded (5 mins).

Return: Transfer to Montrichard station included (20 mins). Change trains atSt Pierre des Corps and stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International stationlate afternoon.

Your hotels

Two delightful hotels; the first a family run Logis de Francehotel in the bustling town of Montrichard, the second tuckedaway in the peaceful village of Chitenay.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/loiredisc



Ferry Inclusive Rail Inclusive Own TravelLOW SEASON from £801 £969 £769


Starting days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. Add a balloon flight to these holidays £225 per person incl. transfers.


Loire DiscoveryX

Discover rivers, forests, vineyards and châteaux 7 nights

This part of France is home to some of the finestexamples of architecture and construction in theworld. Princely mansions stand next to picturesquefarm houses, fields of sunflowers merge withthe uniform rows of vineyards. There is ampleopportunity for tasting some of the local wines.The grade is easy with few climbs.

You can make this an 8-night holiday by adding in nightsat Cheverny and Chambord or Amboise.

Day OneArrival 1 MontrichardAfter a warm welcome at our 2-star hotel, look around this attractive medieval town on the banks of the Cher.

Day TwoChenonceaux ➜324 miles 1 St. AignanFollow the Cher river past troglodyte homes. Or rise onto the Touraine plateau to the magical Château de Gué Péan.

Day ThreeDay trip from St. Aignan ➜330 milesToday you could visit the nearby Zooparc de Beauval. Orcycle to Valencay with its motor museum and grand château.

Day FourSt Aignan ➜325 miles 1 ChitenayHead 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 FiveDay trip from Chitenay ➜320 milesSeveral great options: you can cycle to Chaumont to visit the International Garden Festival. Or cycle to Blois, whichhas a Royal palace open to the public.

Day SixChitenay ➜330 miles 1 Chenonceaux/Montrichard Today your journey back to our base passes through colourfulflower-decked villages, interspersed with orchards andvineyards with a chance to explore Chenonceau Château.

Option for additional nights at Chambord, Cheverny orAmboise. We can tailor-make this holiday to suit yourrequirements.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trains atSt Pierre des Corps, arrive Montrichard late afternoon. Transfer to hotel included (5 mins).

Return: Transfer to Montrichard station included (5 mins). Change trains at St Pierredes Corps and stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

A delightful selection of family run hotels all offering a warmwelcome and interesting menus and good wine lists.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/garden





Starting days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. 8 night tour add £180 per person.* 17 July to 6 September start days.


Garden of FrancePretty villages and enchanting châteaux 6-8 nights

NEW

A gentle bike ride following the majestic River Loirefrom Blois to Saumur with daily distances nevermore than 20 miles. Your hotels offer genuineFrench charm and wonderful regional fare, whilstB&B provide an opportunity for you to discovera ‘local’ restaurant.

Day OneArrival 1 BloisB&B at Auberge Ligerienne in the centre of the cityoverlooking the majestic River Loire.

Day TwoBlois ➜315 miles 1 CandéCollect your bicycle from ‘Detours’ office and explore the citybefore you cross the river to cycle west to Candé and a nightat the Auberge du Lion d’Or including evening meal.

Day ThreeCandé ➜315 miles 1 AmboiseCycle along the riverside tracks to Chaumont with itsInternational Garden Festival all summer long in the groundsof the château. After lunch continue to Amboise where youstay half board at Hotel le Blason. Perhaps book an extranight if you wish to visit the Royal Château or Clos Lucé,Leonardo da Vinci’s manor, housing an exhibition of his lifeand work.

Day FourAmboise ➜320 miles 1 ToursContinue west through Montlouis to the sprawling city ofTours. Stay B&B at the Hotel Châteaux de la Loire and in theevening meander through the old quarter bubbling with livelypavement cafés to find the restaurant of your choice.

Day FiveTour ➜320 miles 1 Azay-le-RideauLeave Tours by the Voie Verte cycle route to reach VillandryChâteau, famous for the ornate medieval vegetable gardens,before continuing to your overnight stop close to Azay-le-Rideau at the Auberge Pomme’poire with a homespunevening meal.

Day SixAzay-le-Rideau ➜320 miles 1 ChinonReturn to the riverbank and pass the Château d’Ussé,inspiration for Grimms Sleeping Beauty before leavingthe river to reach Chinon and one night B&B at theHotel le Plantagenet.

Day SevenChinon ➜320 miles 1 SaumurReturn to the riverside at the charming village of Montsoreauwith its mushroom caves and head west again into Saumur,perhaps enjoying a dégustation at one of the riversidewineries before checking in at the Hotel Anne d’Anjou foryour final night and evening meal.

Day EightReturn to Tours/ChenonceauxTake the train to Tours to connect with your onward railjourney home, or to return to your car at Chenonceaux,in which case you may wish to consider an extra nightin Montrichard at the Hotel la Tête Noire.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trainsat St Pierre des Corps, arrive Blois late afternoon. Transfer to hotel included (5 mins).

Return: Transfer to Saumur station included (10 mins). Change trains at St Pierredes Corps and stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

Genuine French charm and wonderful regional fare in small,friendly hotels are guaranteed on this holiday. Three nightsB&B, four nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/leisurely






Starting days: Monday, Wednesday, Sunday. Extra night at Montrichard £75 per person half board.


Along the Leisurely LoireBlois to Saumur 7 nights

A luxury holiday staying in elegant accommodationthat reflects the style of this classic region.Days are spent exploring quiet back roads andwaterways, with a chance to explore thefascinating old towns of Amboise and Blois. Plusample opportunity to try the classic wines of theregion. Cycling is easy, along quiet country lanes.

Day OneArrival 1 Chissay-en-TouraineUpon arrival at this former 16th century fortress overlookingthe river Cher, explore the Renaissance courtyard and thelarge outdoor pool, admire the views from your personalisedroom, before dining in the Gothic style vaulted dining room.

Day TwoChissay-en Touraine ➜313 miles 1 AmboiseToday 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.The chef-proprietor serves delicious seasonal food usingingredients from the vegetable garden.

Day ThreeDay trip from Amboise ➜330 milesToday you can explore the bustling town of Amboise, restingplace of Leonardo da Vinci, or cycle west along the riverLoire to Vouvray, renowned for its sophisticated white wines.

Day FourAmboise ➜320 miles 1 OuchampsYou’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 restored 17th century manor house set in acres of wooded parkland.You’re sure to fully relax in the secluded and peaceful setting.

Day FiveDay trip from Ouchamps ➜320 milesThe prestigious historical town of Blois, former residence ofkings and bishops, is a pleasant cycle ride from Ouchamps.For a more peaceful option you can head down to Chevernyto explore the château that was the inspiration forMoulinsart, the château featured in the Tintin comics.

Day SixOuchamps ➜316 miles 1 Chissay-en-TouraineSoak up your final views of the Loire countryside as you headback to the elegant Château de Chissay for your final night.Unique to the region and well worth a visit are the cavedwellings carved into the limestone rocks at Bourré.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trains atSt Pierre des Corps arrive Montrichard late afternoon. Transfer to hotel included (10 mins).

Return: Transfer to Montrichard station included (10 mins). Change trains at St Pierredes Corps and stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

Three elegant hotels offering a delightful opportunity to enjoya touch of luxury as you explore this region. All of the hotelsare set in beautiful grounds with swimming pools.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/loireprestigecyc



LOW SEASON from £1215 £1459 £1159


Starting days: Monday, Wednesday, Sunday. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry.Flight in hot-air balloon £225 per person incl. transfers.



Loire Prestige en VéloTranquil rivers and regal architecture 6 nights

The Loire is the perfect region to choose fora family holiday… the quiet country lanes andshady woodland routes make for gentle cyclingeasy for even the smallest member of the party.We’ve allowed plenty of time to discover the manychild-friendly attractions of the region.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains in Lille,arrive St Pierre des Corps mid afternoon. Transfer to hotel included (30 mins).

Return: Transfer to St Pierre des Corps included, change trains in Lille,arrive St Pancras International station late afternoon.






Starting days: Tuesday or Saturday only. Generous discounts for children on this holiday - please ask

for a quotation. Option for 2 nights half board at Fantasy Forest add £120 per person.


Loire en FamilleBikes and bouncy castles, high wires or canoes 7 nights

Day OneArrival 1 AmboiseA charming tourist town on the banks of the River Loire,dominated by its Royal Château, with narrow streets andpavement cafés.

Day TwoDay trip from Amboise ➜312 milesThis morning our Representative will bring your bicycles tothe hotel. Today we suggest that you explore Amboise, visitthe Château, or Clos Lucé where there is a fascinatingexhibition of the works of Leonardo da Vinci with workingmodels that the children can operate. A six mile ride willtake you to the Parc of Mini Châteaux.

Day ThreeDay trip from Amboise ➜312 milesA short cycle ride along the Loire to Fantasy Forest atMosnes where there are exciting activities for all ages,including adults. From bouncy castles to aerial runways,mountain biking, caving and climbing.Option to stay two nights half board at the Domaine deThomeaux, a superb three star château hotel, which givesthe opportunity for a full day at the adventure park or to gocanoeing down the River Loire, in which case you wouldcycle here on Day Two.Mum could book in for a luxurious beauty treatment in thespa boutique.

Day FourAmboise or Mosnes ➜317 miles1 MontrichardA cross-country ride through woodland and vineyards toMontrichard where you will discover a ruined medieval castleand a sandy beach on the River Cher with pedalos for hire inhigh season.

Day FiveDay trip from Montrichard ➜312 milesCycle along the riverside to Chenonceaux with its enchantingChâteau and beautiful gardens, or in the opposite direction,during the afternoon, visit the fascinating troglodyte dwellingsbuilt into the limestone cliffs at Bourré.

Day SixMontrichard ➜320 miles 1 St AignanFollow the Cher valley past troglodyte homes and perhapsdetour uphill to visit mushroom caves. Return to the valleypast Roman Ruins at Thessé on your way to our friendlyriverside hotel St Aignan.

Day SevenDay trip from St Aignan ➜36 milesYou could take a short ride to visit the nearby Zooparc deBeauval, for an amazing display of birds of prey and sealions.Please note that entrance to tourist attractions is notincluded – call our office or visit our website for details onentrance fees to the places mentioned.

Your hotels

All three of our hotels overlook a river, and all guarantee afriendly welcome for all the family. Four nights half board, threenights B&B, or two nights HB at luxurious Domaine des Thomeaux.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/loirefamily

NEW

Burgundy is a wonderful region to explore by bikepedaling along quiet lanes, past vineyards withprestigious names, stopping off at delightfulhotels offering delicious menus. Travel at a pacethat allows you to enjoy the good things in life,to meet the local people, discover the heritage andappreciate how life is really lived in Burgundy.

Day OneArrival 1 BeauneArrive in Beaune, Hotel des Remparts or Hotel Central B&BBoth in the centre of town with plenty of restaurants nearby.B&B

Day TwoBeaune ➜320 miles 1 Chassey-le-CampCollect your bicycle from our local agent near the railstation. Cycle through vineyards on quiet lanes throughthe wine villages of Pommard, Volnay, Meursault, PulignyMontrachet, and Santenay to the Auberge Camp Romainat Chassey-le-Camp. Two nights half board.

Day ThreeChassey-le-Camp ➜320 miles1 Dracy-le-FortDescend 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 Hotel Dracy,two nights half board. 3 star hotel with outdoor pool.

Day FourDay trip from DracyToday you could simply have a day off beside the pool witha good book or cycle south to wine village of Givry and thenfollow the Voie Verte to the medieval village of Buxy.

Day FiveDracy-le-Fort➜320 miles1 Verdun-sur-les-DoubsFollow the cycle track through the Forest of 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.

Day SixVerdun-sur-les-Doubs ➜325 miles 1 BeauneQuiet roads cross-country and through forest takes you backto Beaune for your final night B&B.

Option for additional nights at St Boil, Cluny, Tournus orNuits St Georges. We can tailor-make this holiday to suityour requirements.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trainsin Dijon, arrive Beaune late afternoon.

Return: Depart Beaune, change trains in Dijon and stations in Paris, arrive LondonSt Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

Something for everyone; from a 3-star town centre hotelto Logis de France hotels tucked away in sleepy villages.Two nights B&B, four nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/bestof





Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. Extra night add £90 per person.



Best of BurgundyFrom bustling Beaune to sleepy villages 6-8 nights

NEW

For the wine enthusiast our cycle routes takeyou through the vineyards with endless tastingopportunities with easy and more challengingroute options.

Day OneArrival 1 BeauneArrive in Beaune and go directly to our local agent close tothe rail station. Drop your luggage, collect your bicycle andsettle in at 3 star Hotel de la Paix or Hotel des Remparts.Dinner is arranged at a nearby restaurant.

Day TwoDay in BeauneCollection by our Guide for a short tour of the famous spotsin Beaune including the famous Hotel Dieu. This eveningselect your own restaurant. B&B

Day ThreeBeaune ➜325 miles 1 Puligny Montrachetand RullyA great cycle ride along the Hautes Cotes through thevillages of Saint Romain and Orches before descending toPuligny Montrachet for a Vineyard Lunch accompanied bytasting a selection of wines from fifteen different varietieson the Premier Cru option.

You stay two nights at the charming Clos Belloy chambred’hote in Rully.

Day FourDay trip from RullyEasy riding along the canal towpath or more challengingrides into the hills provide more wine tasting opportunitiesor simple château visits.

Day FiveRully ➜330 miles 1 Nuits St Georgesor Morey St DenisThrough fields of wheat and sunflowers or the morechallenging Hautes Cotes route to Nuits St Georges for twonights at the Hostellerie St Vincent or the Castel de TresGirard in Morey St Denis (Premier Cru).

Day SixDay trip around Cote de NuitsVisit a number of wine villages including the most expensiveRomanée Conti and the historic Clos de Vougeot.

Day SevenNuits St Georges ➜315 miles 1 BeauneThrough the blackcurrent fields to return to Beaune for theafternoon and your final night at Hotel de la Paix or Hoteldes Remparts. B&B

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stationsin Paris and trains in Dijon arrive Beaune late afternoon.

Return: Depart Beaune, change trains in Dijon and stations in Paris,arrive London St Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

A variety of hotels range from a delightful chambre d’hote,Logis de France and three star hotels in the centre ofBeaune. Upgrade includes character hotelsand wine-tasting lunch.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/vintage






Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. For Premier Cru upgrade add £120 per person.


Vintage Burgundy Classic & Premier CruA ride through renowned vineyard countryside 7 nights

NEW

For the wine connoisseur we have teamed up witha local agent to offer some in depth wine tastingcombined with gourmet dining. Cycling offerseasy or more challenging options through thevineyards and the Hautes Cotes.

Day OneArrival 1 BeauneArrive in Beaune and go directly to our local agent close tothe rail station. Drop your luggage, collect your bicycle andsettle in at 3 star Hotel de la Paix or Hotel des Remparts.Dinner is arranged at a nearby restaurant.

Day TwoDay in BeauneCollection by our Guide for a short tour of the famous spotsin Beaune including the famous Hotel Dieu. This eveningselect your own restaurant. B&B

Day ThreeBeaune ➜325 miles 1 Puligny MontrachetA great cycle ride along the Hautes Cotes through thevillages of Saint Romain and Orches before descendingto Puligny Montrachet. This evening you stay at the Maisond’Olivier Leflaive for a vineyard dinner accompanied bytasting a selection of wines from fifteen different varieties.

Day FourBeaune ➜320 miles 1 ChagnyCycle to the village of Rully and return along the canaltowpath to Chagny for a truly gourmet meal at the Michelinstarred Hotel Lameloise.

Day FiveChagny ➜330 miles 1 Gilly les CiteauxThrough fields of wheat and sunflowers through NuitsSt Georges for two nights at the Château de Gilly.

Day SixDay trip around Cote de NuitsVisit a number of wine villages including the most expensiveRomanée Conti and the historic Clos de Vougeot.

Day SevenNuits St Georges ➜315 miles 1 BeauneThrough the blackcurrent fields to return to Beaune forthe afternoon and your final night at Hotel le Cep.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trainsin Dijon arrive Beaune late afternoon.

Return: Depart Beaune, change trains in Dijon and stations in Paris, arrive LondonSt Pancras International station late afternoon.

Your hotels

A delightful collection of prestigious hotels, you can expecta warm welcome and some amazing meals and, of course,some splendid wine. One night B&B, six nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/burgprestigecycle



LOW SEASON from £1769 £1999 £1719


Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry.* 17 July to 6 September start days.


7 nights

Burgundy Grand Cru PrestigeSample the Grand Cru vineyards

Gentle cycling through the Périgord-LimousinNatural Park with just a couple of longish climbsleaving the towns. Spend a couple of nights ineach of the two most enchanting market towns inthe Périgord Vert, Nontron and Brantôme, withinstriking range of prehistoric caves andopportunities to hire a kayak.

Day OneArrival 1 MontbronYour holiday begins at the Château de St Catherine justoutside Montbron, a delightful château in a peaceful parkwith swimming pool.

Day TwoDay trip to Rochefoucauld ➜326 milesAn easy ride along an old railway track to Rochefoucauldwith its interesting château, where you can choose todress in medieval garb for your visit. Afterwards returnalong a river valley with just a short climb back to theChâteau St Catherine.

Day ThreeMontbron ➜319 miles 1 NontronCross country for a coffee stop in the ancient village ofVairaignes before following the Bandiat valley to Nontron.Enjoy two nights B&B at the chambre d’hôte la Maisondes Arts, which has a pool and is just a few minuteswalk from the town centre. B&B

Day FourDay trip from NontronSimply explore this charming market town with ancientchâteau and knife-making museum, or take a circularride through woodland to the Château de Beauvais.

Day FiveNontron ➜318 miles 1 Brantôme A steep climb over the mountain to St Pardoux-la-Rivièreis followed by a level ride along the valley of the RiverDronne to Brantôme. Stay at a 2 or 3 star town centrehotel or why not upgrade to the 4 star Moulin du Roc atChampignac-du-Belair three miles outside the town.

Day SixDay Trips down the river to the pretty medieval village ofBourdeilles, or along the River Trincou to the Grottes deVillars, with prehistoric cave paintings. Alternatively take ariverboat cruise, try your hand in a kayak, or simply browsethe stalls at the Friday morning market.

Day SevenSpend a final morning in Brantôme before being collectedafter lunch for transfer back to the Château de St Catherinefor your final night.

Option to upgrade to the four star Moulin du Roc justoutside Brantôme.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris and trainsin Angoulême arrive La Rochefoucauld station late afternoon. Transfer to hotelincluded (20 mins).

Return: Transfer to depart La Rochefoucauld and change trains in Angoulême,change stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station mid afternoon.






Starting days: Saturday (recommended), Monday, Wednesday. Extra night Brantôme £90 per person.Moulin du Roc upgrade £90 per person per night.


Périgord DiscoveryDiscover the river gorges of the Perigord Vert 7 nights

UPGRADE OPTION You can upgrade your Brantôme hotel tothe delightful 4 star Moulin du Roc at Champagnac-du-Belair,about 3 miles before reaching Brantôme. The hotel is aconverted 17th century watermill set in a peaceful riversidepark with outdoor pool and tennis court.

Your hotels

The charming Château de St Catherine chambre d’hôte for yourfirst and last night. A 2 star hotels with pool in Nontron. Option toupgrade to exclusive 4 star Moulin du Roc with pool and tenniscourt just outside Brantôme. Two nights B&B, five nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/perigord

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris andtrains at Clermont Ferrand, arrive Arvantor Brioude station late afternoon.Taxi transfer from station to hotelincluded.

Return: Taxi transfer to Brioude or Arvantstation included, change trains atClermont Ferrand and stations in Paris,arrive St Pancras International stationlate evening.

Based principally in Brioude, this region offers somegreat cycling with daily circuits from 16 to 36 miles.Midweek you transfer to Reilhac with scenic ridesalong the valley of the River Allier.


www.bellefrance.co.uk/auvergnedisc





Starting days: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. Option for overnight at Chavaniac Lafayette add £30 per person.


CyclingYou cycle from the charming 3 star Hotel la Sapiniere with

pool in Brioude to the modern 2 star hotel at Reilhac with

great regional cuisine. We detail optional circuits to visit

Auzon, Blesle, and Chavaniac Lafayette, often taking your

cycle on the local train in order to cycle back to Brioude.

7 nights

Auvergne DiscoveryHidden rivers and secret villages

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras Internationalstation, change stations in Paris andtrains in Angoulême arrive LaRochefoucauld station late afternoon.Transfer to hotel included (20 mins).

Return: Transfer to depart LaRochefoucauld and change trains inAngoulême, change stations in Paris,arrive St Pancras International stationmid afternoon.

With a backdrop of rolling hills this circuit takesyou along quiet lanes through honey colouredhamlets, past glittering lakes and dominant castlesthat have witnessed many battles and seiges.


www.bellefrance.co.uk/limousin





Starting days: Saturday, Monday, Wednesday. Extra night at Massignac £90 per person.


CyclingFrom the Château St Catherine at Montbron to a ruralchambre d’hôte at Marval for two nights. Then you pass thecastle at Chalus, fatal to Richard the Lionheart, on your way toRochechouart for two nights at Hotel Meteorite. Pass by theLacs de Haute Charente returning to Château St Catherinefor your final night or break the journey with an extra nightat Massignac, Château de la Redortiere.


6 nights

Limousin Lakes and CastlesLittle known region of rural France

Dramatic castles, cliff hugging villages andmysterious grottoes make for an exhilarating ridethrough one of the earliest cradles of civilisation,an enchanting landscape just waiting to beexplored. The Dordogne countryside means thatthere are regular inclines, but you’re neverclimbing for too long.

Day OneArrival 1 SouillacSettle in at La Vieille Auberge, a charming, rambling 3-starhotel, set in the pretty little town of Souillac by the riverDordogne. Make the most of the hotel’s facilities - take a dip in the heated outdoor pool or limber up in the gym.

Day TwoSouillac ➜319 miles 1 Laval de JayacToday’s route takes you away from the hustle and bustle ofthe main tourist attractions as you head for the family-run 2-star Hotel Coulier in Laval de Jayac, with time to relax bythe pool before sampling some regional fare.

Day ThreeLaval de Jayac ➜329 miles 1 Les EyziesFirst stop today is Saint Geniès whose golden stone buildings typify the Périgord, next comes the pretty villageof Saint Leon sur Vézère, an idyllic spot for refreshments,before the last leg to Les Eyzies. Your base for the next twonights is the tranquil 2-star Hôtel de France.

Day FourDay trip from Les Eyzies ➜316 milesLes Eyzies has so much to offer that you may choosesimply to explore the cave paintings or the magnificentGrotte du Grand Roc. Or there’s a lovely cycle trip alongthe river that takes in the tucked away villages of Le Bugue,Limeuil and Tremolat.

Day FiveLes Eyzies ➜321 miles 1 VitracYou now leave behind the picturesque green valleys to spend time in Sarlat, a wonderful market town that housesthe world’s biggest grouping of medieval buildings. Yourdestination is the 2-star Hotel Plaisance.

Day SixDay trip from Vitrac ➜39-13 milesHead for La Roque Gageac, nestled in the cliffs on a bend in 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.

Day SevenVitrac ➜320 miles 1 SouillacA pleasant journey along the shady banks of the Dordognetakes you back to Souillac, with chances to admire thechâteaux of Montfort and Fénélon en route.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris,arrive Souillac early evening. Transfer to hotel included (10 mins).


Your hotels

Small, friendly hotels, all with swimming pools and all part ofthe Logis de France group, which is a sure sign of good food!

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/dordexp






Starting days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (Not Saturday by rail). Extra night in Vitrac £75 per person.


Dordogne ExplorationPrehistoric treasures and stunning valleys 7 nights

CANOE OPTION Although we cannot include canoe hire in ourpackage you may consider an extra night at Vitrac to spend aday canoeing down the river. Local canoe or kayak hire is lessthan 20€ per day and includes transfer back to the hotel in theafternoon. (For competent swimmers minimum age eight).

The meandering valley of the Dordogne is a visualfeast. Honey-coloured villages, slowly crumblingin picturesque disorder typify this delightfulregion. Graded moderate although the valleysand plateaux are fairly flat there are sharpinclines between the two.

You can make this an 8-night holiday by adding in Carennac.

Day OneArrival 1 SouillacSettle in at La Vieille Auberge, a quaint 3-star hotelcomprising three buildings tucked away in a quiet street.

Day TwoSouillac ➜39-18 miles 1 MeyronneTo reach the charming 3-star Hotel la Terrasse you canopt to cycle along the flat and peaceful riverside or riseup on to the limestone plateau with its spectacular views.

Day ThreeDay trip from Meyronne ➜318 milesTake a trip out to Gluges wedged below soaring cliffs. Stop at the idyllic village of Cressye with its watermill.

Day FourMeyronne ➜39-24 miles 1 Rocamadour Either go straight to Rocamadour and spend the dayexploring this fascinating town hanging on the cliff-sideor head off to the dramatic Gouffre de Padirac.

Day FiveDay trip from Rocamadour ➜318 milesExplore 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.

Day SixRocamadour ➜39 miles 1 SouillacVisit La Cave with its amazing rock formations andunderground pools and rivers. Stop at Bel Castel withwonderful panoramas before returning to Souillac.

Eight night optionOn 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 TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris,arrive Souillac early evening. Transfer to hotel included (10 mins).


Your hotels

A delightful selection of 3-star accommodation from town-centre auberges to rural hideaways, all with swimming pools.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/drama





Starting days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday. 8 night option add £180 per person.* 17 July to 6 September start days.


Drama of the DordogneRocky crags and gorgeous gorges 6-8 nights

An easy-going tour that soaks up the Provençalatmosphere with plenty of time for sight-seeing.Ideal outside July and August when the air isfresh and scenery is at its best. The grade iseasy. Distances between hotels are short andmostly flat; longer options are available whichtake you over hills worth pedalling up.

Day OneArrival 1 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 the cycling begins.

Day TwoGraveson ➜311-15 miles 1 Beaucaire Head west towards the Rhône and have the option of ridingthrough the small range of hills behind the hotel past thepretty village of Boulbon, or choosing a flat lane running past the smallholdings below the dykes. Your destinationis the secluded Hôtel Robinson. The pretty terrace providesthe perfect setting for an evening meal at this 3-star hotel.

Day ThreeDay trip from Beaucaire ➜316 milesToday you have the opportunity to explore the many canals,stopping off at the port of Beaucaire, en route to the typicalProvençal village of Vallabrègues. It is worth extending thejourney to visit the Abbey of St Michel de Frigolet beforereturning via the Celtic village of Aramon.

Day FourBeaucaire ➜39 miles 1 FontvieilleThis relatively easy journey from Beaucaire to Fontvieilletakes you back across the Rhône and through orchards. There is plenty of time to take in the sights of the historictown of Tarascon. Or, a longer jaunt south will take you pastpaddy fields before picking up the Sète canal towpath. Your3-star hotel is on the edge of this charming Provençal townwhere a day’s cycling is rewarded by a meal in one of thechoice of local restaurants. B&B

Day FiveDay trip from Fontvieille ➜310-20 milesToday you have the opportunity for a leisurely spin to thevillage of Paradou, or to cover another 10 miles (mostly flat)to reach the wetlands of St Martin de Crau where migratorybirds are in abundance.

Day SixFontvieille ➜313 miles 1 GravesonThe journey back to Graveson takes in the spectacular rockformations of Les Baux de Provence where buildings arecarved into the white limestone. From this vertiginous pointyou can freewheel down to the village of St Remy beforeambling across the fields back to Graveson.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe,arrive Avignon late afternoon. Taxi transfer to hotel not included(20 minutes, about 25€).


Your hotels

A delightful range of hotels from an old farmhouse to acomfortable modern hotel set on the edge of a lively Provençalvillage. All hotels have pools except Remoulins and St Giles.Two nights B&B, four nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/dreams






Starting days: Any day except Sunday. 2 extra nights half board at Remoulins or St Giles add £180 per person.* 17 July to 6 September start days.

Provençal DreamsWild herbs and lavender 6-8 nights

8 NIGHT OPTIONS

To visit Pont du Gard add 2 nights at Remoulins.To visit the Camargue add 2 nights at St Giles.

Absorb the essence of Provence – sleepy villages,sun soaked vineyards, roman ruins, themagnificient Pont du Gard all under sunny blueskies. Easy going cycling along quiet lanes andcanal paths the air fragrant with wild thyme toyour destination where you are guaranteed acomfortable room and delicious food.

Day OneArrival 1 GravesonArrive at the delightful Moulin d’Aure hotel on the edge ofGraveson. After settling in to your attractive room, take timeto explore the grounds and relax by the pool before dinner.

Day TwoGraveson ➜325 miles 1 ColliasIt is a level ride to Remoulins and then you cross the riverbeneath the Pont du Gard on your way to the Hotel lesCastellas at Collias, which boasts a small secluded pooland a Michelin star restaurant.

Day ThreeCollias ➜329 miles 1 Tarascon or FontvieilleA short climb before taking quiet lanes to Beaucaire andcross the River Rhone to Tarascon. After exploring one orboth of these bustling riverside towns, it is just a short ridesouth for two nights at the Mas du Comtes de Provence,a first class Chambre d’Hôte with pool, or the Auberge deRegalido in Fontvieille with its Michelin starred restaurant.

Day FourDay trip from Tarascon or Fontvieille➜318 milesToday we propose a short ride to historic Arles with itsRoman amphitheatre.

Day FiveTarascon or Fontvieille ➜321 miles1 St Remy (Valmouriane)After visiting the Olive ‘Boutique’ at the Château d’Estoublonclimb to les Baux en Provence for lunch in this charmingmedieval village before descending to St Remy and theDomaine de Valmouriane, situated in peaceful countryside.

Day SixDay trip from Valmouriane ➜38/24 miles A short circuit through St Remy to seek out the hauntsof Van Gogh or visit the Roman sanctuary of Glanum.Alternatively you could take a more challenging 24 mileride across the Alpilles to Maussane and Eygalières.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change at Lille Europe,arrive Avignon late afternoon. Taxi transfer to hotel not included(20 minutes, about 25€).


Your hotels

A delightful collection of prestigious hotels each with its owncharm and character – from a charming Mas set in the midstof an ancient olive grove to a country house hotel just outsideSt Remy en Provence. All the hotels have pools very welcomeat the end of days cycling.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/provprestigecycle



LOW SEASON from £1249 £1499 £1169


Starting days: Any day. 1st Class Rail. Club Class Ferry. Auberge Regalido upgrade £50 per person.

Extra night at Valmouriane £125 per person. Cookery class with lunch £50 per person.

Spa treatment £115 per person. * 17 July to 6 September start days.


Provence Prestige en VéloVineyards and olive groves 6 nights

OPTIONS AT VALMOURIANEPerhaps add an extra night for a Friday morningcookery class including lunch or pamper yourselfwith a spa treatment.

Linear tour through the network of quietwaterways encompassing tranquil canals, prettyvillages and sandy beaches, ending up in thelovely port of La Rochelle. Cycling is mostly flat,with some enjoyable climbs and many dedicatedcycle trails that criss cross the Venice Verteheading down to the coast.

Day OneArrival 1 NiortSettle into your first hotel, situated close to Niort’s mainsquare. There’s plenty of history on offer; why not explore the remnants of the 15th century keep overlooking the river.

Day TwoDay trip from Niort ➜328 milesA pleasant day trip which takes you along the slow movingwaters and canals of the ‘Green Venice’. Why not hire a boatto discover its network of emerald green waterways beforeheading back to Niort.

Day ThreeNiort ➜328 miles1 Fontenay le ComteYour leisurely exploration of the watery labyrinth of theMarais Poitevin continues as you head towards Fontenaythrough peaceful back lanes. You’ll pass by quiet waterwaysscattered with water lilies. laced with canals and hump-backed bridges, and home to a variety of migratory birds.Visit one of the last working watermills at Nieul sur l’Autise.

Day FourDay trip Fontenay le Comte ➜324 milesToday you have the chance to explore the historic Merventforest, rich in oak and chestnut. It’s a hilly ride offering idyllicviews over flatlands and lakes. ‘One of France’s prettiestvillages’, the village of Vouvant is worth exploring. Or why not take it easy and just wander around Fontenayitself, soaking up the atmosphere.

Day FiveFontenay ➜341 miles1 La RochelleThere 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 is locatedin a prime position in the picturesque old port.

Day SixDay trip from La Rochelle ➜320-55 milesThe 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 over the town of La Rochelle.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris, arriveNiort early evening. Transfer from station to hotel not included – 10 minute walk.

Return: Hotel is 400m from La Rochelle station, change stations in Paris,arrive St Pancras International station early evening.

Your hotels

Two of the hotels on this route have swimming pools andthe final hotel in La Rochelle has wonderful views overthe harbour.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/charente






Starting days: Any day from 15 June to 29 Aug. Saturday, Sunday and Thursday outside these dates.Extra night B&B in La Rochelle £55 per person.


Charente WaterwaysTrailing willows and emerald waters 6 nights

Explore enchanting Carcassonne before gentlecycling along the Canal du Midi. Finally arriveat the Mediterranean coast at Grau d’Agde andthe port of Sète, where you can soak in theatmosphere and perhaps indulge in a fruits demer seafood platter.

Day OneArrival 1 CarcassonneArrive in Carcassonne at 2 star Hotel Montmorency or Hoteldu Château. An evening meal will be booked at a nearbyrestaurant.

Day TwoDaytrip from Carcassonne ➜317 milesPerhaps simply explore historic Carcassonne or takea short ride to Pennautier and return along the canal fromVillesèquelande. Your second night is B&B enabling youto choose your own restaurant in the old town.

Day ThreeCarcassonne ➜326 miles 1 HompsCycle along the canal through picturesque Trèbes andMarseillette to the Auberge de l’Arbousier.

Day FourHomps ➜316 miles 1 Le SomailLeave the canalside today to pass through olive groves toBize-Minervois before returning to the canal and hotel GrandSomail or B&B at a chambre d’hote in this pretty port village.

Day FiveLe Somail ➜319 miles 1 Nissan-les-EnséreneFollow the canal again through Capestang and perhapsvisit the Roman remains of Oppidum on your way toNissan-les-Ensérene and the Hotel Residence.

Day SixNissan-les-Ensérune ➜320 miles1 Grau d’AgdeIn six miles you reach Béziers with an interesting old quarterand an aqueduct carrying the canal over the River Orb. AtAgde is the large circular lock as the canal meets the RiverHerault, from here you follow the river to the coast at Graud’Agde, a charming little port with a small sandy beach. Youstay B&B at the Hotel l’Ephebe with a number of restaurantsnearby offering seafood specialities.

Day SevenGrau d’Agde ➜318 miles 1 SèteCycle along the sometimes busy coast road or transfer toSète for a day sightseeing in the ancient port town. You stayat either the Grand Hotel or the Hotel Port Marine.

Day EightDepart by rail – just a ten minute walk to the station eitherback to Carcassonne to collect your car or by TGV homevia Lille.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change trains in Lille and Narbonne,arrive Carcassonne early evening. Transfer to hotel not included (10 minutes, about 20€).

Return: Train from Sété, and change stations in Paris or Lille, arrive St PancrasInternational station early evening.





Starting days: It is not possible to book single lone travellers on this route. Single supplement £175. Own travel

transfer to Carcassonne £20. Extra night B&B in Carcassonne or Sète £70 per person. Ferry price includes rail

tickets back to Carcassonne. * 17 July to 6 September start days.


Canal du Midi to CoastAncient cities and idyllic waterways 7 nights

Your hotels

A variety of hotels from ranging from chambre d’hote andauberge village accommodation to 3-star hotels in the towns,some with pools. Three nights B&B, four nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/midi

NEW

Easy cycling with a moderate grade for distanceon some days as you explore this delightful cornerof France.

Day OneArrival 1 StrasbourgSettle into the Hotel de l’Europe situated in the heart ofStrasbourg. Ten minutes walk from the rail station, it isjust a short walk to the old streets of Petite France andthe Cathedral area where you’re sure to find a restaurantto your liking.

Day TwoStrasbourg ➜334 miles 1 OsthouseFollow the Canal du Rhone au Rhin to reach Osthouseand the charming half-timbered Hotel à la Ferme.

Day ThreeSand ➜333 miles 1 ColmarPass the beautiful Baroque church of Ebermunstere, throughtypical Alsace villages to the city of Colmar, famed for its artand culture. Stay at the Hotel Beausejour, close to thepicturesque historic quarter. Book early for an extra night andthe Colmar Music Festival during the first two weeks of July.

Day FourColmar ➜332 miles 1 MurbachTurn away from Mulsheim towards the foothills of theGrand Ballon to arrive at Murbach near Guebwiller andthe Hostellerie St Barnabé.

Day FiveGuebwiller ➜330 miles 1 RiquewihrAt the foot of the Vosges through the wine villagesEguisheim, Turckheim, and Kaysersberg to Riquewihrand the Hotel Schoenenburg.

Day SixRiquewihr ➜331 miles 1 ObernaiFollow the route des vins to discover the villages ofHunawhir, Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, Andlau and Boersch toObernai. Stay at Hotel à la cour d’Alsace.

Day SevenObernai ➜325 miles 1 StrasbourgLeaving Obernai you pass through Molsheim, where Bugatticars were built, to return to Strasbourg and your final nightB&B at the Hotel de l’Europe.

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International, change in Paris or Lille for TGV toStrasbourg arriving late afternoon. Transfer to hotel 15 mins on foot not included.Return: Depart Strasbourg, change trains in Paris or Lille, arrive St PancrasInternational early evening.

Your hotels

All 3 star hotels ranging from city centre elegance to quietcountry retreats. Two nights B&B, five nights half board.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/alsatian




LOW SEASON from £1199 £1299 £1099


Starting days: Any day.* 17 July to 6 September start days.

Alsatian AdventurePicturesque historic towns and scenic country 7 nights

NEW

Discover the Bordeaux vineyards on the banks ofthe Garonne. Sample the sweet whites of Loupiacand the deep reds of St Emilion as you meanderthrough the landscapes and culture of thishistoric region with easy/moderate cycling.

Day OneArrival 1 BordeauxRelax in the centrally located hotel Sainte Catherine, a warmwelcome awaits you, with a presentation of what to expectfor the week ahead.

Day TwoBordeaux ➜318 miles 1 CadillacTransfer to Latresne to start your route. Follow a cycle trackto the ancient town of Sauve Majeure. Continue through hillsand vineyards to Cadillac for your overnight at hotel Châteaude la Tour.

Day ThreeCadillac ➜315 miles 1 Saint-MacaireCycle through the villages of Loupiac and Sainte Croix duMont, whose names are given to the famous syrupy winesof this area. Pass the Château Malromé once owned bythe Toulouse-Lautrec Family! Why not stop and taste thechâteau wines. Overnight stay at hotel Feuilles d’Acanthesin the fortified town of Saint-Macaire.

Day FourSaint-Macaire ➜331 miles 1 Saint EmilionFollow the right bank of the Dordogne and continue alongworld heritage listed landscapes to the wine region ofSt Emilion. A two night stay at Le Logis des Remparts.

Day FiveDay trip from Saint EmilionSpend the day discovering Saint Emilion and its surrounds:Saint Christophe des Bardes, Saint Etienne de Lisse, andthe town which saw the final battle of the 100 years war:Castillon la Bataille.

Day SixSaint Emilon ➜335 miles 1 BordeauxThe journey back takes you through the vastest vineyardsof the Bordelais, passing through the pretty regional villagesof Saint Suplice de Faleyrens, Branne and Le Moulon.

Day SevenBordeauxDiscover the world heritage city of Bordeaux, an 18th centuryarchitectural gem, take in some shopping in the vibrantquarter of Saint Michel before indulging in that last glassof Bordeaux wine...

Rail TravelOutward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stationsin Paris, arrive Bordeaux late afternoon. Transfer to hotel not included.Return: Depart Bordeaux, change stations in Paris, arrive St PancrasInternational early evening.

Your hotels

A variety of charming 3 star hotels throughout, somewith pool.

View pictures, hotel descriptions and sample menus. www.bellefrance.co.uk/bordeauxbybike



LOW SEASON from £1331 £1549 £1299


Starting days: Any day. Single supplement £40 per night.



A Taste of BordeauxSweet white or deep red, wine for all tastes 7 nights

In response to clients who don’t wish to

indulge in gourmet meals every night we can

offer the following destinations on a bed and

breakfast basis. The price includes cycle hire,

local transfers, maps and route notes. Day

trip suggestions may be less detailed than

routes between hotels.


B&B OptionsFlexible freewheeling

Loire Amboise DiscoverySix nights at Hotel Belle Vue in Amboise, a bustling little tourist town with anabundance of restaurants and pavement cafés. Discover Leonardo da Vinci’sClos Lucé, and cycle to the châteaux of Chaumont and Chenonceau or thevineyards of Vouvray.

Own Travel Price £499 per person two sharing. For return rail add £200.Two centre option with Chenonceaux add £30 per person.

Emerald Coast DiscoveryStandard Emerald Coast Itinerary on page 45 but staying in two and three starhotels throughout, 7 nights on a B&B only basis.

The Hotel Crystal in Dinard, Hotel Avagour in Dinan and the Oceania in St Malo.

Own Travel Price £749 per person two sharing. For return rail add £250.

Provence les Alpilles DiscoveryFour nights in St Remy at the Hotel du Soleil and two nights in Fontvieille at theHotel Val Majour. Explore Van Gogh’s haunts, Roman Glanum, les Baux de Provenceand Arles.


Dordogne DiscoveryThree nights in Souilhac at La Residence and three nights in Rocamadour at theHotel de Lion d’Or. Stunning scenery, some steep climbs.


NEW

Starting days: Thursday, Friday.

Extra night plus golf £200.

Single room supplement £60.

A luxury weekend just across the channel in fourstar château hotels plus golf on a couple of thefinest courses in France.


www.bellefrance.co.uk/golftour


Ferry Inclusive

from £469

FridayArrive at the Château de Montreuil near Le Touquet andless than two hours drive from Dunkirk. Enjoy your gourmetdining experience.

SaturdayA morning round of golf on one of the prestigious Le Touquetcourses. In the afternoon drive to Château de Beaulieu atBusnes between Arras and St Omer.

SundayA morning round of golf at Golf d’Arras or St Omer. In theafternoon drive to Dunkirk for your return ferry crossingto Dover.

Option to add an extra night including dinner and a furtherround of golf.

Your hotels

The elegant Château de Montreuilset in parkland just a few minutesdrive from Le Touquet offers gourmetcuisine. The Château de Beaulieu isa 17th century mansion in secludedgardens with a masterclass restaurant.

Starting days: Any day. Mid Feb to mid Nov.Including Club Class Dover-Calais Channel

crossing. Reduction of £75 for non-golfing

partners. Single room supplement of £110.

A terrific break for golf enthusiasts as we takeyou to three first class courses and include apersonal wine tasting at our partner Tourainevineyard. Your final night is in a château hoteland plenty of interesting visits are availablefor non golfing partners.


www.bellefrance.co.uk/golftour


Ferry Inclusive

from £569

Day OneArrive in France in the early afternoon and drive to Rouen tostay at the 3 star Auberge de l’Abbaye du Bec Hellouin withdinner included.

Day TwoA round of golf at Champ de Bataille, recognized as one ofthe foremost courses in France. In the afternoon drive southto the Loire Valley to stay two nights half board at theAuberge du Centre in the quiet village of Chitenay.

Day ThreeA round of golf at Château du Cheverny, a lovely flat coursesurrounded by a pine forest with views of the château,(partners may visit the château).

In the afternoon a special wine-tasting at Domaine duPrieuré where your British host will guide you through arange of local wines. Afterwards perhaps visit the GardenFestival at Chaumont Château before returning to your hotel.

Day FourDrive to Golf de Touraine at Ballan Miré, a delightful courseto the southwest of Tours, (partners may wish to exploreTours central shopping area). Return to Amboise for yourfinal night and a gourmet meal at Château du Pray.

Day FiveDepart north for your return Channel crossing in thelate afternoon.

4 nights

Gourmet Golf - TouraineGreat golf courses, vineyard wine-tasting and a Château hotel


3 nights

Gourmet Golf - Pas de CalaisA fabulous golfing weekend with gourmet meals

Your hotels

The Auberge de l’Abbaye is a half-timberedproperty in a small village oozing withcharacter and boasting a fine restaurant.At Chitenay the Auberge du Centre is oneour most popular cycling hotels with apeaceful garden terrace and delicious food.The Château du Pray on the outskirts ofAmboise has an outdoor pool and the chefwill recommend his gourmet meal of theday – a mouthwatering experience of fivecourses or more.


It’s all on-lineLearn more about the Belle Franceriver cruising on our website

www.bellefrance.co.uk/river-cruises

This is an all-inclusive holiday to which we can add

overland travel and additional nights in hotels before

or after your cruise.

Prices from £1859 per person

For more information visit

www.bellefrance.co.uk/river-cruises

Share our French “Art de vivre” for a while, forget the land

and relax aboard LE PHENICIEN, 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.

Learn 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 the back country and

enjoy being pampered by our crew.

Daily excursions might include Avignon and its monumental

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 famous Roman city of Arles,

the wildlife and ranches of the Camargue and the walled city

of Aigues-Mortes.

With just nine comfortable cabins, each with en suite

bathroom, you can enjoy the intimacy of joining a small

group from which new friendships can grow.

Perhaps add a golfing option that offers five different courses

to play as the barge makes its way along the River Rhone and

associated canals.

River Cruising in Provence

2009 Self Drive Wine Trails

With our specialist knowledge of many of Frances wine

regions we can offer our clients personal introductions to

great vineyards and arrange accommodation in quality hotels

along the way.

In addition to the vast number of hotels featured in our

walking and cycling holidays we have teamed up with a major

hotel group so that we can offer accommodation to suit the

discerning client in all regions of France.

The CHATEAUX AND HOTELS DE FRANCE collection offers

three and four star hotels of quality and distinction, often with

gourmet restaurants boasting Michelin Stars.

Ranging from authentic auberges, beautiful houses, properties

of character and genuine châteaux, they all have their own

special charm.

We can book accommodation and inclusive channel crossings

to suite your requirements and our specialist knowledge of the

regions enables our staff to recommend hotels and locations

specific to your holiday plans with regard to wine-tasting,

historic visits, activities and scenic routes.

Just let us know which areas of France you wish to visit and

we will offer suggestions of the best hotels for your stay.

We can arrange visits and recommend vineyards in the Loire

Valley, Burgundy, Champagne, the Cotes du Rhone and

Cognac. For those who enjoy a little gentle exercise we can

often include a short ramble or cycle ride through the

vineyards.


It’s all on-lineTo find links to your hotels andwineries go to

www.bellefrance.co.uk/motoring

Self Drive HotelsChâteaux & Hotels de France pick of 100 favourites

Whatever your travel plans we can assistby booking accommodation for you from theChâteaux & Hotels de France Collection.

For Example:

Loire ValleyA two night stay at the Château du Pray set in peaceful Loire Valleycountryside a Touraine Dégustation Terroir at the Domaine de Prieuré,a visit to a family-run Vouvray vineyard and a Dover to Dunkerque returnchannel crossing

from £359 per person – 2 nts Half board.

ChampagneTwo nights at the Villa Eugene in Epernay with a Dover to Dunkerquereturn channel crossing and recommended Champagne houses to visit.

from £299 per person – 2 nts B&B.

CognacTwo nights at the 4-star Château de l’Yeuse in Cognac and a Privilegeguided visit of the Martell distillery with a return Portsmouth to Caenreturn channel crossing

from £449 per person – 2 nts Half board.

Cotes du RhoneReturn Dover to Dunkerque channel crossing, overnight at the Hoteldes Remparts in Beaune, two nights at the 4-star Château de Mazan, awalk through the vines at Vacqueyras and a Tasting Lunch at Gigondas,overnight at the Hotel de la Paix in Reims on the return journey.

from £399 per person – 4 nts B&B.


Why not break your journey at one of our hotels

conveniently located throughout France?

If you’re travelling by car then we have a wide selection

of hotels ideally situated close to the main routes that

cross France, perfect for an overnight stop. Your journey

will be that bit more relaxed knowing there’s a bed

awaiting you, rather then having to rely on pot-luck at

the end of a day’s travel.

Or if you’re flying, we have many hotels close to the

airports, be it Paris or one of the smaller destinations

such as Carcassonne or Nimes. Budget airlines are great,

but the times of the flights are often an inconvenience,

leaving early in the morning or landing late at night. We’ll

help find you a hotel close to the airport so you can catch

as many winks as possible.

It’s all on-lineTo view further details of ourovernight stops

www.bellefrance.co.uk/overnight

Breaking your JourneyRelax en route

You may wish to extend your holiday by a few days, perhaps to explore

a nearby city for window shopping or to visit museums and galleries,

or simply to stroll the boulevards.

We’ve teamed up with specialist hotel groups to ensure that we can

offer whatever you’re looking for and find a hotel to suit your

requirements.

We can offer a choice from the Inter-Hotel Group with many hotels in

Paris well placed for a night out or a day’s sightseeing, and never far

from a Metro station.

Popular choices are the Hotel Vieux Saule near Place de la Republique,

or La Bourdonnais near the Eiffel Tower. 3 star hotels with prices from

£100 for a double room with breakfast.

For a little luxury we offer a choice from the Châteaux & Hotels de

France Collection, all character hotels with bed & breakfast prices

typically around £100 per person.


Cycling and walking prices

The prices featured on each holiday page are based on

two people travelling and sharing a room. However, we are

more than happy to quote for other arrangements for

single travellers, parties of three or more, or for families.

High Season

Prices apply for hoildays starting between 17 July

and 6 September.

Single travellers

If you are travelling on your own, our walking and cycling

holidays have a single supplement of £20 per night for

rail inclusive and own travel unless stated otherwise.

On ferry inclusive holidays there is a further £32 single

supplement. For ‘Prestige’ holidays ask for a quote for

single occupancy.

Own travel pricesYour holiday with us starts on your arrival at the first hotel

and ends at your last hotel. You may require additional

transfers from or to your points of arrival and departure

or back to the start to retrieve a vehicle. We are happy

to arrange these for you at supplementary cost.

Overseas bookings

We make a charge of £40 on bookings from overseas

clients to cover the additional administration costs and

dispatch of travel pack by courier.

Please do give our friendly team a call should you require

any assistance with pricing your holiday: 01580 214010.

Triple roomsFor a party of three adults, most hotels can provide a triple room,

usually containing a double and single bed. If you’re booking a triple

room, the price per person is £30 less than the published “two people

sharing” price.

Family rooms

Rooms for four people are very limited, and the fourth bed is often

likely to be a sofa-bed or folding bed (suitable only for small children).

Where required please ask for a family room and we will check

availability and cost.

Children aged three and under:

The price for a child aged three or under sharing a room with two

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

from the brochure price. (Excluding ‘Prestige’ holidays - when a

quotation is necessary).

Children aged twelve to fifteen inclusive:

Sharing a triple room with two adults, receive a discount of £100

of the brochure price (excluding ‘Prestige’ holidays when a quotation

is necessary).

Ferry

When more than two people are booking a ferry-inclusive holiday, the

additional passengers pay only the “Own Travel” price for their holiday.

Upgrade to Club Class for £25 per traveller and priority loading for £20.

Rail

Upgrade to First Class seating £120 per person. For bookings made

within 12 weeks of departure our rail prices cannot be guaranteed.

In this instance please ask for a quotation.

Pricing InformationHow to price your holiday


We’re confident that our carefully

researched holidays already offer

excellent value for money, but there

are further savings for you to make

– just read on…

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 them a £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 a future Belle

France holiday.

Discounts and Promotions

Keep an eye on our website as from

time to time we advertise special

offers, such as early booking or certain

holidays during a particular period.

Discounts are not cumulative and only

one discount can be applied to any

given holiday.

Second holidays

We know that some of you like to take more than one Belle

France holiday a year – sometimes there’s an old favourite that

you like to revisit, or maybe you’re working your way through the

brochure, sampling some of the new experiences on offer. To say

thank you for your loyalty, if you’ve booked one holiday in 2009

and are planning on seeing a different corner of France (or even

the same corner!) later in the year then we’ll discount the

booking by £50 per party.

Tell us more

We love to hear about your holiday experiences. Of course

we’ve heard tell of the odd blister, but that aside we’ve enjoyed

tales of picnics shared with fellow walkers you’ve met en route,

siestas by bubbling streams, friendly locals opening their

museum specially.…

Your experiences really bring the holidays to life, so if you send

us a story that we publish on our website then we’ll offer you

£25 off a future Belle France holiday.

It’s all on-lineOur website features special offers thatchange monthly, so for extra value visit

www.bellefrance.co.uk/offers

Ways to SaveWe reward your loyalty

We work with Rail Europe in order to book your rail

journey. Travelling by rail to your destination couldn’t

be simpler: using the state of the art Eurostar & TGV

networks you will have an unforgettable journey through

the French countryside as you travel in comfort and style

to your destination, arriving relaxed and ready to enjoy

your holiday.

Departures available from London St Pancras International,

Ebbsfleet or Ashford in Kent. Just 2 hours 15 minutes

journey time to Paris, at st Pancras you’ll find shops, bars

and restaurants catering for all your needs.

Ebbsfleet is just 3 miles from junction 2 on the M25

with over 2,000 parking spaces only 5 minutes walk

from the station.

Upgrade to First Class seating for £120 per person, which

includes a meal and complimentary drinks on Eurostar.

A break in your outward or inbound rail journey of more

than 24 hours will usually incur a travel supplement of £50.

For bookings made within 12 weeks of departure our

rail prices cannot be guaranteed. Please ask for a

quotation.

As timetables change throughout the season the train

times given at your time of booking may be subject

to variation. Exact times of your rail journey will be

confirmed at least three weeks prior to departure.

Channel crossing by car

Ferry inclusive prices in this brochure are base prices to include the

cost of an off-peak return crossing for a car and passengers between

Dover and Dunkerque. Other routes and timings will incur a supplement.

When more than two people travel in the car the additional passengers

pay the ‘Own Travel’ price for the holiday.

We act as agents for all the cross-channel operators and can book all

your travel arrangements with the minimum of fuss and at the best

possible rates.

We shall be pleased to give you a quotation at the time of your

booking for any of the following operators.

On Dover crossings you can upgrade to Club Class for £25 per

passenger and priority loading is an option for £20. Club Class offers

comfortable lounges with complimentary drinks and continental

breakfast.

Norfolkline - Approximately four sailings a day on newly refurbished

ferries offering a high standard of comfort. Dover to Dunkerque in

2 hours.

P&O Ferries - Sailings every 30 minutes peak times and a 90 minute

crossing from Dover to Calais.

Seafrance - Regular sailings for the 90 minute journey between Dover

and Calais.

Brittany Ferries - A great choice of sailings on the western channel

routes from Portsmouth, Poole or Plymouth to Caen, Cherbourg, St Malo

and Roscoff. Overnight crossings can save time for your onward journey

with a 2-berth cabin costing from £80.

Fastcraft services operate on some routes.

Condorferries - Speedy same-day arrival from Poole to St Malo,

or from Weymouth with a change of vessel in the Channel Islands.

Can be combined with Brittany Ferries Fastcraft services.


Travel PlansInclusive travel

Book direct - save money

Many of our holiday destinations are conveniently served by a wide

choice of flights operated by low cost airlines. However there is no

benefit in us booking your flights for you, and many low cost airlines

only sell direct anyway.

Ryanair and Easyjet are just two of the most well-known low cost carriers

but there are others, including BmiBaby, EUJet, Flybe and Thomsonfly.

New routes are frequently added so check the latest options available.

The national carriers like Air France and BA can also offer keen prices

at certain times so it pays to look around.

Plan carefully

The low cost airlines offer some fantastic prices. But it pays to plan

carefully and to observe some basic principles:

•It can be costly and complicated to get from theairport to your first hotel.

•Generally it pays to book early for the lowest fares.

•Children are the same costs as adults.

•Peak dates can actually be expensive comparedto other carriers.

•Full payment is required at the time of booking.

•Changes and amendments can be costly.

www.ryanair.com

www.easyjet.com

These websites can also offer attractive prices at certain times on

various routes

www.travel4less.co.uk www.expedia.co.uk www.travelbag.co.uk


Travel PlansInclusive travel Flights - own travel

Euro-Tunnel - If a crossing by sea is not

to your liking, or you wish take less time

reaching France, then Euro-tunnel may

be the solution. A 35 minute journey fromFolkestone

to Calais/Coquelles, the service runs 24 hours a day

with departures every 15 minutes at peak times.

Simple check-in procedures and drive-on carriages,

where you stay with your car throughout the

crossing, make this an easy option.

Price supplements on top of our Ferry inclusive price

given on the holiday page.

Eg Weekday afternoons outbound, weekday mornings

inbound from £45

Travel requirements

The E111 which allows eligible travellers free or reduced cost

medical treatment has now changed to an EHIC (European

Health Insurance Card). You can apply for your EHIC* by filling

in a form in the ‘Health Advice for Travellers’ booklet or by

applying online at the Department of Health website. The EHIC

is not mandatory, and in fact our own insurance will cover you

anyway. However you might be saved from paying a large bill

while away.

* Please allow up to 21 days for delivery of your EHIC if applying via post,

or 7-10 days if applying via the website.

Go to: www.doh.gov.uk for the Department of Health

Go to: www.hmce.gov.uk for HM Customs and Excise

Passports

A valid passport is mandatory. Information and application

forms are available at main post offices and cost around

£72 (£46 for a child). Allow plenty of time for the

application process. Non EU passport holders may need

a visa and should contact the French Embassy.

Go to: www.passport.gov.uk for Passport Service

Go to: www.fco.gov.uk for Foreign and Commonwealth Office

tel: 0870 521 0410 for advice

Money

To take cash in large amounts is unnecessary though, clearly, some

Euros will be essential. Credit cards and debit cards are increasingly

useful when travelling abroad. The majority of cash points accept Switch

and Maestro cards as well as Mastercard and Visa, although usually

there is a transaction charge (minimum charge £1.50).

Luggage

We transport baggage between hotels but each item must be closed,

sturdy, easily portable and clearly labelled with your name and the next

destination hotel. Some local agents charge extra for overweight luggage

or too many pieces.

What to take

When packing it’s important to remember that

you’re only away for a week or so! If travelling

by car, make sure you have unhindered rear

vision and pack your luggage so that items

needed en route or on an overnight ferry

crossing can be easily reached.

Clothing

These are outdoor holidays, so it is best

to bear this in mind when packing.

Lightweight, comfortable clothing that

can be layered is best.

Left is a useful reminder list of things

to take with you, but we will send you

further details when you book.

- Cagoule

- Trainers for the cycling routes

- Hiking boots for walking routes

(make sure the boots are well worn

in and comfortable!). Trainers are

NOT suitable for walking routes

- Sun hat

- Sunglasses

- Rucksack to put your lunch

and bits in for the day

- Water bottle

- Sunscreen

- Insect repellent

- Plasters & antiseptic crea

m,

just in case!

- Camera

- Binoculars


Holiday AdviceAll you need to know before you go It’s all on-line

For expert advice onpreparing for your holiday

www.bellefrance.co.uk/advice

We understand that the Holiday Insurance pages of any

travel brochure are amongst the least exciting. To be

honest, we don’t particularly like the idea of suggesting

that things might go wrong on your holiday but we do

consider it essential that you have appropriate cover for

your holiday with us. Please do take the time to read

through the information on these pages.


Holiday Insurance

We have arranged a choice of travel insurance policies. The personal

insurance and vehicle assistance are arranged by Voyager Insurance

Services Ltd with UK Underwriting Ltd on behalf of AXA Insurance UK

plc. All are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

As we have an important responsibility to ensure the success of your

holiday we will automatically arrange personal insurance for you unless

you provide details of your cover at the time of booking. We cannot

accept your booking without proof of adequate insurance.

24 hour assistance

Our personal insurance provides access to the services of Primary Assist.

Experienced multi-lingual personnel provide a caring, sympathetic and

efficient service 24 hours a day.

•24 hour medical assistance

•Authorisation of medical costs and payment guarantees

•Air ambulance repatriation/evacuation

•Repatriation due to serious illness of relatives at home

•Medical escorts and regular liaison with overseas

doctors providing treatment

European Vehicle Assistance cover is provided by Green Flag who, with

over 25 years’ experience, provide assistance to over 3 million people

each year. With a Europe-wide network of over 7,500 garages and

agents you know you’re in very safe hands. Both Primary Assist and

Green Flag are very familiar with the location of our hotels and have

contacts at garages, doctors and hospitals nearby.

DEMANDS AND NEEDS

Personal Insurance. This insurance will suit the Demandsand Needs of an individual, or group (where applicable) whohave no excluded pre-existing medical conditions, are travellingto countries included within the policy terms and who wish toinsure themselves against the unforeseen events detailed inthe cover section below. Subject to terms and conditions andmaximum specified claim limits.

Vehicle Assistance. This insurance will suit the Demands andNeeds of an individual wishing to insure themselves againstunforeseen costs following the breakdown of a vehicle. Subjectto terms, conditions and maximum specified claim limits.

IMPORTANT

We will not provide you with advice about the suitability of thisproduct for your individual needs but we will be happy toprovide you with factual information.

SAVE WITH ANNUAL POLICIES

If you are likely to make more than one trip to Europe over thenext 12 months then our Annual multi-trip policies will saveyou money.PLEASE CALL FOR DETAILS

The policies outlined on these pages are only applicable fortravel within Europe. If you need Worldwide cover please askfor a quote.

IMPORTANT NOTICEWe would like to draw your attention to some important features of yourinsurance including:

1 Insurance document. You should read this carefully. It gives full detailsof what is and is not covered and the conditions of the cover. It will besent with your holiday invoice.

2 Conditions and exclusions. Specific conditions and exclusions apply toindividual sections of your insurance, whilst general exclusions andconditions will apply to the whole of your insurance.

3 Health. This insurance contains certain restrictions regarding pre-existingmedical problems concerning health of the people travelling and of otherpeople upon whose health the trip depends. You are advised to read thedocument carefully.

4 Property Claims. These claims are paid based on the value of thegoods at the time you lose them and not on a ‘new for old’ orreplacement cost basis.

5 Limits. This insurance has limits on the amount the insurer will pay undereach section. Some sections also include other specific limits, forexample, for any one item or for valuables in total.

6 Excesses. Under some sections of this insurance, claims will be subjectto an excess. This means you will be responsible for paying the first partof the claim as follows: £50 per person for Cancellation, Curtailment orAbandonment, to limit of £100 per party. £50 per person for EmergencyMedical & Repatriation claims. £50 for Baggage or Money Claims. £50for Tents and camping equipment. £100 for Personal Liability and LegalExpenses. There are no excesses on European Vehicle Assistance claims.

7 Reasonable Care. You need to take all reasonable care to protectyourself and your property, as you would if you were not insured.

8 Dangerous Sports and Pastimes. If you are going to take part indangerous sports or pastimes where there is a risk of injury, check thatthis insurance covers you.

9 Cooling-off. This insurance contains a ‘cooling-off’ period of 14 daysduring which you can return it and get a refund if you have a justifiablereason for being dissatisfied with the cover provided.

Important Advice

We strongly advise clients to ensure

that they are covered by Travel

Insurance 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.

Personal Holiday InsuranceThe above is a summary of cover only. You will receive the full policy wording at the time of purchase, which defines

the cover, conditions and exclusions. You have a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can return it and get a

refund if you have a justifiable reason for being dissatisfied with the cover provided. The insurance is underwritten by

UK Underwriting Ltd on behalf of the insurers identified above

This insurance does not exclude claims relating to existing medical conditions provided you can agree to the

following important declaration. By taking out this insurance, you declare that:

1. No holiday shall be booked or undertaken against the advice of a medical practitioner or for the purpose of

obtaining medical treatment.

2. Nobody insured or anyone on whom the holiday or journey depends has received a terminal prognosis from a

registered medical practitioner as far as you are aware.

3. Nobody insured or anyone on whom the holiday or journey depends is on a waiting list for treatment or

investigation at a hospital or nursing home, nor do they have knowledge of the need for such treatment as far as

you are aware.

4. You are not aware at the time of issue of this insurance of any reason why the holiday or journey may be

cancelled or curtailed.

5. In the event of circumstances arising after the issue of this insurance which may give rise to a claim, we shall be

contacted as soon as possible.

If any Insured is in any doubt concerning their ability to comply with this declaration we must be notified for

consideration and acceptance of this risk. Failure to do so may affect your rights under this Insurance. Please

contact Voyager Insurance Services Ltd on 01483 562662 if you are in any doubt.

Vehicle AssistanceThe above is a summary of cover only. You will receive the full policy wording at the time of purchase, which defines

the cover, conditions and exclusions. You have a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can return it and get a

refund if you have a justifiable reason for being dissatisfied with the cover provided.

By taking out this insurance, you declare that the insured vehicle:

1. Is either: a car, light van, motorised caravan, estate car or motorcycle privately registered in the UK.

2. Is under 15 years old (or under 10 years old for annual multi trip) and has been regularly serviced in line with

manufacturers recommendations and holds a current valid MOT certificate if applicable.

3. Does not exceed (including any load carried) the following gross vehicle weight and dimensions: 3,500kg in

weight, 7m in length, 3m in height and 2.25m in width.

4. Will be roadworthy at the start of the trip and has a serviceable spare wheel and tyre.


It’s all on-lineDetails of our insurance policiesare on our website

www.bellefrance.co.uk/insuranceLevels of Cover – Personal Insurance

Description Cover

Cancellation/Curtailment £5,000***

Medical Expenses £5,000,000*

Hospital Benefit (£50 per day) £600 max

Personal Accident £20,000

Maximum payable in the event of death £10,000

Travel Delay £200 max

Abandonment £5,000***

Missed Departure £600 max

Baggage & Money - overall (under 18) £1,500 (£500)*

- Single item £250

- valuables £250

- money (under 18) £300 (£50)*

- emergency purchases £100

Passport Indemnity £500

Personal Liability £2,000,000***

Legal Expenses £20,000***

Transport disruption - additional accom. (per night) £500 (£50)

- additional travel expenses £200

Tents & camping equipment £500 *

Additional winter sports cover subject to the appropriate premium having been paid

Winter sports equipment £800*

£500

£400

Ski pack £400

Piste closure (inc Avalanche) £300 (£30)

Excesses £50 per person*

(the amount you have to pay if you make a claim) £100 per party**

£100 per person***

Levels of Cover – European Vehicle AssistanceDescription Cover

Cover prior to departure £2,000

Road side assistance £250

Location & transport of replacement parts No limit

Break-in emergency repairs £100

Vehicle out of use £2,000

Alternative driver No limit

Repatriation Limited to vehicles current market value

Customs regulations No limit

Motoring legal protection Telephone advice Covered

Bail bond £1,000

Motoring defence £1,000

Legal expenses £10,000

Single Trip Gross Premiums - Europe OnlyDuration Personal Vehicle Assistance

Up to 1 day £3.49 £9.91

Up to 2 days £6.32 £18.95

Up to 5 days £12.66 £31.55

Up to 10 days £15.10 £42.57

Up to 18 days £17.72 £45.94

Up to 31 days £25.18 £55.44

Each Additional Week/per week £10.10 £5.51

Personal Insurance• Maximum age – 79 years• Child age (3 to 17 years inclusive) – 50% reduction in premium• Infants (under 3 if travelling with an insured adult) – Free of charge• Family Policy – 2.5 x premium• Seniors 65 -79 – premium is doubled• Winter sports personal only – 2.5 x premium• Maximum duration – 91 days• Note - A family is defined as husband and/or wife or common law partner and their

dependent children under the age of 18 years

Vehicle Assistance• Maximum vehicle age under 15 years old at the date of departure• For vehicles aged 10 years and over but under 15 years at the date of departure

– premium is doubled• Maximum duration – 91 days• Trailer or caravan to be charged at flat rate of £16.54

Combined Gross Premiums - Europe Only Duration 1 car under 10 years and up to 5 passengers under 80 years

Up to 1 day £15.66

Up to 2 days £31.34



Each additional week £25.08

Personal Insurance:• Maximum age – 79 years at the date of departure• Winter sports personal only – 2.5 x premium• Maximum duration – 91 days

Vehicle Assistance:• Maximum vehicle age under 10 years old at the date of departure• Maximum duration – 91 days• Trailer or caravan to be charged at a flat rate of £16.54

All premiums shown include Insurance Premium Tax

Belle France is a trading name of Mark Hammerton Travel Ltd, who are an AppointedRepresentative of ITC Compliance Ltd (FSA Registered Number 313486), who are authorisedand regulated by the Financial Services Authority. ITC Compliance Ltd’s registered officeis 1 Charnwood House, Marsh Road, Bristol, BS3 2NA.


Fair Trading Terms

Our Agreement With You

This agreement has been drawn up in accordance with the

ABTA code of conduct and the Package Travel, Package

Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 (as amended),

‘the Regulations’.

Throughout this agreement, ‘we’, ‘us’ and ‘our’ means Mark

Hammerton Travel Ltd of Spelmonden Old Oast, Goudhurst,

Kent TN17 1HE. Belle France is a trading name of Mark

Hammerton Travel Ltd. ‘You’ and ‘your’ means the person who

makes the reservation with us or any other person nominated

as party leader. We will only accept reservations from a person

who is 18 or over at the time the reservation is made and who

will be one of the party taking the whole of the holiday.

The contract between you and us comes into force when your

booking is accepted by us. If you wish to cancel your booking

you must notify us within fourteen days of the date of the

confirmation invoice. If we receive such notification from you

we shall refund the deposit paid.

We act as agents for the transport operators featured in

this brochure. This means that when you ask us to make a

reservation for transport we will notify the transport operator of

your request. If the transport operator confirms the availability

of the service you have requested we will advise you in our

confirmation invoice. You enter into a contract with the

transport operator based on their conditions of carriage

and these conditions accompany our confirmation invoice

to you. However, some transport operators do not provide

us with their conditions and in these cases we will enclose

information on how to obtain them. Your contract with the

transport operator comes into force on the date your booking

is accepted by us.

By asking us to arrange your cross-Channel travel in

conjunction with your Belle France accommodation, we are

usually able to offer competitive prices under this scheme. You

should note that the transport operators for whom we act as

agents are involved in your holiday solely for the provision of

transport and must not be construed as being a tour operator

as defined under the Regulations.

1 The Price of Your Holiday. Our staff will always try to give accurate information and pricequotations. If we notice we have made a mistake we will notify you as soon as possible.We reserve the right to increase our prices published in this brochure before you book.If there is any increase we will draw it to your attention at the time of booking. If thenew information or price would constitute a significant change, then we will offer youthe options set out below in Term 2.

Before final payment is due: The price of your holiday is subject to review, but only where thereare increases in: (a) transportation costs, including the cost of fuel; (b) dues, taxes or feeschargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports;(c) Government action, such as increases in V.A.T. or any other Government-imposedincreases; (d) currency in relation to adverse exchange rate variations.

Even in this case, we will absorb an amount equivalent to 2% of the holiday price whichexcludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges. Only amounts in excess of this2% will be surcharged and we will send you a separate invoice for the amount of the surchargeor a replacement invoice for the new cost of the holiday. If this means paying more than 10%on the holiday price previously confirmed and invoiced, you will be entitled to cancel yourholiday with a full refund of all money paid except for any premium paid to us for holidayinsurance and amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel because of this you mustexercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on the new invoice.The price of your holiday was calculated using the Sterling to Euro exchange rate quoted inthe Financial Times on 28/9/08.

After final payment for your holiday: We guarantee not to increase the price of your holiday oncethe final balance, due twelve weeks before departure has been paid.

2 Alterations. Alterations made by us before departure: Occasionally we may have to amend yourholiday arrangements but we will notify you of any amendment as soon as possible. If this wereto constitute a significant change you would have the option of either accepting the change,booking any other available holiday from this brochure or cancelling your booking and receiving afull refund. These options do not apply where we cancel the holiday because of your non-payment.A significant change would include a change of ferry or train time by more than twelve hours,where this has been necessitated by us changing your holiday arrangements. You will notify us ofthe option you wish to take as soon as possible.

Where any alteration amounts to a significant change we will pay compensation according tothe table below. However, you will not be entitled to compensation where we have cancelledyour holiday because of your non-payment. Further, you will not be entitled to compensationwhere the holiday is cancelled by reason of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyondour control and the consequences of which could not have been avoided even ifall due care had been exercised by us. These circumstances include industrial action ordisputes, closure or congestion of ports or airports, road blockades, technical problems totransport, war, threat of war, civil strife, terrorist activity, natural or nuclear disaster, epidemicor disease, adverse weather conditions or similar events.

Period of notification given to you Compensation per booking:of any significant changes % of Total Holiday Cost

If holiday is taken: If you cancel:

More than 42 days Nil Nil

29 - 42 days 10% Nil

15 - 28 days 15% 10%

00 - 14 days 20% 10%

Alterations made by us after departure: Should alterations be necessary after your departureon holiday, we will make suitable alternative arrangements (at no extra cost to you) for thecontinuation of the holiday and will, where appropriate, compensate you for the differencebetween the services to be supplied and those services actually supplied.If it is impossible to make such suitable alternative arrangements (or you do not acceptthe alternative arrangements, for good reasons) we will, where appropriate, provide you withequivalent transport back to the place of departure or to another place to whichyou agree, and you may be entitled to compensation.

3 Delays to Transport Services. Where we are notified of a delay by the transport operatorwe will make every reasonable effort to contact you before departure to advise you of suchdelay. You may be covered for additional expenses incurred due to such delays under the termsof your insurance policy but we make no representation to this effect.

4 Marketing Information. We make every effort to ensure that the information in our guides andbrochures is accurate and comprehensive. It is based on our best knowledge at the time ofgoing to press. However, changes may be made in the particulars contained inthe brochure before the contract between you and us comes into force. Where possiblewe shall advise you of any changes at the time of booking.

5 Our Liability To You.

a) We accept responsibility for ensuring that the holidays that you book with us are suppliedas described in this brochure and that the services we are contractually obliged to provideare to a reasonable standard. If any part of your holiday is not provided as promised, we willpay you appropriate compensation, if this has affected the enjoyment of your holiday. In allcases (other than death or personal injury) our liability to you from the total of all claims

arising out of your contract with us is limited to twice the cost of the relevant person’sholiday (less any insurance and cancellation premiums). We accept responsibility for theacts and/or omission of our employees, agents and suppliers, save where they lead todeath, injury or illness, except as provided in the following paragraph.

b) We accept responsibility for death, injury or illness caused by the negligent acts and/oromission of our employees or agents, together with our suppliers or sub-contractors,servants and/or agents of the same whilst acting within the scope of, or in the course of,their employment in the provision of any part of your holiday that we are contractuallyobliged to provide. We will, accordingly, pay to our client such damages as might have beenawarded in English Law.

c) In respect of carriage by air, sea and rail and the provision of accommodation our liabilityin all cases will be limited in the manner provided by the relevant international convention.

d) If any client suffers death, accidental illness or personal injury whilst overseas arising outof an activity which does not form part of the foreign inclusive holiday arrangement orexcursion arranged through us, we shall, at our discretion, offer advice, guidance andassistance to help you in resolving any claim you may have against a 3rd Party, providedwe are advised of the incident within 90 days of the occurrence. Where legal action iscontemplated, authority must be obtained prior to commencement of proceedings and besubject to your undertaking to assign any costs recovered or any benefits under anappropriate insurance policy to ourselves. This financial assistance is to a maximum sumof £5000 in total per booking.

6 Special Requests. We always do our best to comply with any special requests made at thetime of booking but these are not guaranteed.

Your Obligations

1 Satisfaction. If you believe that we have made a mistake with your holiday booking, or havefailed to provide the services that you are entitled to under your agreement with us, or if youare dissatisfied with your holiday you should seek to resolve any issue with the supplier of theservice concerned, and if still dissatisfied, notify us, in writing, on your return.

2 Regulations. You and your party must abide by the rules and regulations of the rail operators,ferry companies, hotels and other operators. You must accept the jurisdictionof the accommodation management during your stay. You are further expected to beconsiderate towards everyone you come into contact with during your holiday. If you or anymember of your party fail to observe such rules or behave in such a way as to cause (in ouropinion, or the opinion of the supplier) danger, distress or annoyance to anyone or damage toproperty your holiday may be terminated without prior notice. In this situation the person/sconcerned will be required to leave immediately and we will have no further responsibility. Norefunds will be made nor will we pay any expenses. Costs for any damage must be paid by you.

3 Your Accommodation. In booking you undertake to accept the accommodation allocated byour local representative. You must take reasonable precautions for your own safety and thatof members of your party.

4 Facilities in Low Season. You must accept that provision of certain services and facilities maybe restricted in low season or times of bad weather.

5 Planning Your Journey. If travelling, by car or making independent flight arrangements, it is yourresponsibility to plan your journey and provide a roadworthy vehicle. We cannot make refundsfor unused accommodation where insufficient time has been allowed for journeysor if you have broken down.

6 Holiday Insurance. We believe insurance is necessary for a worry free holiday and we relyon your representation at the time of your booking that all members of your party areadequately insured. If, at the time of booking, you do not provide us with details of yourinsurance company and policy number, we will arrange cover for you and the members of yourparty and the cost of our insurance policy will be automatically added to your invoice.

7 Payment. We accept the deposit as part payment for your holiday. The final balance is due 12 weeks before departure. It is a condition of our contract with you that we receive the final balance by that date. If we do not receive the balance by the due date we reserve theright to cancel the holiday with the consequent cancellation charges (see right). Bookingsmade less than twelve but more than four weeks before departure may incur a higher deposit and must be paid for within 7 days of the date of the invoice. Bookings made within andup to four weeks before departure must be paid for in full at the time of booking.

8 Alterations or Cancellations. We reserve the right to charge an amendment fee of £25 payablefor any alterations made to your holiday arrangements.

Alterations within eight weeks of departure: If you wish to alter your holiday dates by more thantwo weeks this will be treated as a cancellation (see below) and your new holidayarrangements will be treated as a new booking.

Alterations within two weeks of departure: All alterations will be treated as a cancellation (seeright) 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 but reservethe right to charge an amendment fee of £25 to cover administration and telephone costs.You will be required to pay extra costs (if any) for alternative accommodation or facilitiesnot pre-booked.

Cancellations: You must confirm in writing all cancellations made before your holiday departuredate. No action will be taken by us until we have received your written instructions. Clients arestrongly advised to send such notification by recorded delivery as we cannot be responsible fornon-receipt of written instructions.

Our preferred holiday insurance provides cover against cancellation in some circumstances.Some or all of the following charges and fees may be recovered under the policy. If you cancelyour holiday before final payment is due you will forfeit your deposit. Once final payment hasbeen received, the following cancellation fees (including the amount of the deposit) arepayable:

• Within 8 weeks of departure - 40% of the total holiday cost plus insurance premiums.



Alteration and cancellation of travel bookings: Changes, alterations and cancellationsof ferry, rail or other transport operator bookings are subject to their own terms and conditionsand cancellation charges are likely to be payable to them in addition to anyof our amendment fees. You are responsible for arriving in good time for your journey.

Cancellations of hotels only: Once final payment has been received the cancellation fees aboveare payable. For amendments to existing hotel bookings made on holiday a feeof £25 will be payable.

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.

9 Complaints. Should you experience a problem during your holiday, please see the hotelmanagement or the representative of the supplier of the service who will normally be ableto sort it out immediately. If the problem cannot be resolved to your satisfaction pleasetelephone us during office hours. If you still feel that a complaint remains unresolved,please write to us within four weeks of your return from holiday. All letters received by us willbe answered within 14 days. Disputes arising out of, or in connection with, this contract whichcannot be amicably settled may be referred to arbitration under a special scheme arranged bythe Association of British Travel Agents and administered independently by the CharteredInstitute of Arbitrators. The scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitrationon documents alone with restricted liability on the customer in respect of costs. Full details willbe provided on request or can be obtained from the ABTA web site (www.abta.com). TheScheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person. There is alsoa limit of £25,000 per booking form. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respectof physical injury or illness or their consequences. The Scheme can however deal withcompensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of£1,000 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Theapplication for arbitration and Statement of Claim must be received by the Chartered Instituteof Arbitrators within nine months of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limitarbitration under the Scheme may still be available if the company agrees, but the ABTA Codedoes not require such agreement.

10 Data Protection. In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangementsrun smoothly and meet your requirements we need to use the information you provide (suchas name, address, any special needs etc).

We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protectyour information. We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travelarrangements such as hotels, transport companies etc. The information may also be providedto public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them, or as required by law.

Additionally, where your holiday is outside the European Economic Area (EEA), controls on dataprotection in your destination may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country.We will not however, pass any information on to any person not responsible for part of yourtravel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as detailsof disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to therelevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, 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 of offers orto send you brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches in the future, please writeto us at Spelmonden Old Oast, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1HE.

We may also provide your details to selected third parties for similar purposes. If you do notwish to receive such approaches in the future, please write to us at Spelmonden Old Oast,Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1HE.

11 River Cruising Holidays. There are additional Terms and Conditions that apply to passengers onour cruise holidays, a copy of which will be sent on request or with your cruise bookingconfirmation.

Publication date of this brochure 1st December 2008

Please note that some information in this booking guide is provisional andsubject to change. English law shall apply to the contract between you andus which incorporates these terms. Any dispute arising out of the contractmay be referred to any court in England or Wales to be heard anddetermined. If you are normally resident outside the United Kingdom all suchdisputes shall be referred to an English court.


Your holiday is important, so take time to browse

through this brochure. When you’re ready, call us and

ask for a costing on the holiday you have in mind or

to check availability. Maybe you need advice on

travel options, or you may want to

secure your first-choice holiday or dates.


How to Book - Phone 01580 214010The first step to your holiday in France

Friendly advice

Don’t hesitate to use our expertise and specialist knowledge

- we’re friendly and helpful and we’re waiting for your call!

Better prepared

Before you call it might help to have the following to hand:

•Which holiday you’ve chosen and preferred dates

•Names of all in party and D.O.B of any children

•Height and inside leg measurement for cycling holidays

•Any special dietary requirements

(vegetarian, vegan etc)

•Insurance requirements

•Travel plans

•Credit or debit card

•Pen and paper...!

Booking by phoneThe quickest way of booking is by phone. There are no forms to fill inand we can confirm many of the arrangements immediately. Simply quote your credit or debit card number to cover the low £100 per persondeposit (and insurance premiums) and you know your holiday is secure.(30% deposit on our River Cruising holidays).

If you’d rather pay by cheque we’ll hold an option booking for 3 days- just send us your cheque together with the holiday reference numberyou’ll be given.

We’re waiting to hear from you!

9.00am - 5.00pm Monday - Friday.(We are often available outside these hours too!)

Should you phone when we’re closed please leave a message and we’ll call you back.

Alternatively you can email us at:

[email protected]

Keeping costs downBelle France represents incredible value for money and we do all wecan to pass on great savings and real value to you. However we mustmake a surcharge of 2% on all balance payments made using creditcards (deposit payments are not affected). Balances paid by cheque or debit card incur no surcharge and we welcome these.

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Our Walking Holidays Region

The Opal Coast - Weekend Pas de Calais

Charm of Champagne - Weekend Champagne

Picardy Pastures Picardy

Seine Valley Secrets Normandy

Mulberry March Normandy

Château to Château Loire

Loire Prestige à Pied Loire

Wine List Wanders Burgundy

Burgundy Prestige à Pied Burgundy

Classic Cognac Charente

Sparkling Champagne Champagne

Tranquil Dordogne Dordogne

Dordogne Prestige à Pied Dordogne

Volcanoes of the Auvergne Auvergne

Untamed Cévennes Cévennes

St Bonnet and Beyond Auvergne

Secrets of Savoie Alps

Ardèche Discovery Ardèche

Van Gogh’s Provence Provence

Provence Prestige à Pied Provence

Stevenson Trail Cévennes

Cathar Castles Languedoc

Breathtaking Brittany Brittany

Catalan Coast Pyrenees

Mountains to Med Pyrenees

Our Cycling Holidays Region

Mellow Mayenne Mayenne

Emerald Coast Brittany

Loire Discovery Loire

Garden of France Loire

Along the Leisurely Loire Loire

Loire Prestige en Vélo Loire

Loire en Famille Loire

Best of Burgundy Burgundy

Vintage Burgundy Classic & Premier Cru Burgundy

Vintage Grand Cru Prestige Burgundy

Périgord Discovery Charente Dordogne

Limousin Lakes and Castles Limousin

Auvergne Discovery Auvergne

Dordogne Exploration Dordogne

Drama of the Dordogne Dordogne

Provençal Dreams Provence

Provence Prestige en Vélo Provence

Charente Waterways Charente

Canal du Midi to Coast Languedoc

Alsatian Adventure Alsace

A Taste of Bordeaux Aquitaine

Touring Holidays Region

Gourmet Golf - Pas de Calais Pas de Calais

Gourmet Golf - Touraine Loire

Our River Cruise Holiday Region

River Cruising in Provence Provence


Map of FranceFrance at a glance It’s all on-line

Discover more about thevaried regions of France

www.bellefrance.co.uk/regions

Belle France, Spelmonden Old Oast, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1HE

tel 01580 214010 fax 01580 214011 e-mail [email protected]


Belle France Holiday Brochure 2009

Documents

Transcript of Belle France Holiday Brochure 2009