This French Life

Review of The Camargue, Portrait of a Wilderness

FOR centuries man has attempted to control and master the Camargue, from the creation of vast salt pans to the promotion of modern day tourism.

And it is many of these attempts that Edwin Mullins chronicles in his book The Camargue, Portrait of a Wilderness, as well as the rich stories and often violent history of a region that still excites and intrigues.

Starting with the river Rhone that sets out from the Alps you are introduced to the Romans and the important role they played in establishing trade links and creating an infrastructure, evidence of which can still be seen today.

Explore the Lot Valley this autumn

NOW is a great time to get out and experience some of the beautiful colours of autumn, wherever you are in France.

Here courtesy of Maison de la France is a look around the Lot valley and some of the activities you could enjoy.

French regions – Bretagne

BRITTANY (Bretagne) is probably the region most people automatically think of when talking about life in France.

Its popularity as a holiday destination has been reinforced by the appeal amongst many Brits of living in this most westerly tip of France and enjoying a true rural idyll.

French regions – Bourgogne

BOURGOGNE, or Burgundy as it is commonly known, lies to the south east of Paris and is primarily recognised for its wine.

It is a region rich in history that is reflected in the many chateau and castles dotted around the countryside and is a popular destination for Parisians.

French regions – Basse Normandie

FOUND in the north west of France, Basse Normandie is a popular destination for both Brits and Parisians looking for a holiday home.

Many Paris holidaymakers are drawn to the picturesque port of Honfleur that is linked to Le Havre across the mouth of the Seine by the Pont de Normandie.

French regions – Auvergne

IF getting away from it all is what you are looking for then Auvergne, in the centre of France, is the place to head for.

It is one of the least populated areas in Europe, with around 50 people per square kilometre, but enjoys stunning scenery, extinct volcanoes and rolling hills.

French regions – Aquitaine

THE draw of life in Aquitaine ensures it is one of the most popular areas in France for both holidays and for people to head to and start a new life in the country.

It is the largest région of France and features the sweeping Atlantic coast in the west, the stunning Pyrennes in the south and the lush green forests of the Dordogne in the east.

French regions – Alsace

SQUIRRELED away in the north east corner of France is Alsace, bordered by the Rhine to the east and the Vosges mountains to the west.

It is a region of dense forests, but also well known for its wine and beer production and during the winter is popular with cross-country skiers.