The Best French Destinations For Romantic Breaks
February 2nd, 2010 by Romantic BreaksThe first and most obvious would be a trip to Paris, the City of Lights. There are many attractions to visit in the city but the most popular would the Eiffel Tower, a great place to go for a romantic dinner in the rotating restaurant but this can be pricey (e.g. €200 for dinner) and you can be queuing for a long time.
Some other places to visit include the Arc de Triomphe, the fee is only €9 and the view is definitely worth it; Notre Dame, access to the observation deck is just 7 or 8 euro though there is no elevator so you will have to climb the 387 steps yourself; or the Tour Montparnasse, the tower is not the most beautiful building ever constructed but the view from the observation deck is probably the finest in the city.
If heights aren’t your thing then another very romantic place is on one of the bridges over the River Seine. These are very popular with lovers who are strolling through the old world streets of Paris.
Getting to the city is not difficult as most international airlines fly into Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG) or Orly International Airport (ORY); both of which are located just outside the city with easy access into the city.
One of the other very popular destinations in France is the Loire Valley. The valley has a very high concentration of Chateaus, some of which have been converted into hotels which are ideal for a romantic getaway. Some of the most notable castles to visit include Château d’Amboise, a popular royal residence in the early 16th century was it is also the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci; Château de Villandry, which has some of the most exquisite gardens; Château de Chenonceau, Henry II gave the castle to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers, because she enjoyed the view; and the Château de Chambord, this is the largest and most recognisable castle in the Loire Valley and to think it was originally built to be a simple hunting lodge for François I!
The main city of the Loire Valley would be the city of Tours, though there are bigger cities such as Nantes and Angers, Tours is the most convenient to most of the castles of the area.
Another romantic destination in France would be Saint Paul de Vence in Provence. This village is located just outside the city of Nice. There isn’t much in the village that could be described as a tourist attraction though there are a number of art galleries and the fortified walls; the village itself is both quaint and charming, making it the perfect setting for ye to concentrate on each other.
To get to this romantic haven, you will want to fly into Nice and get a car from there to Saint Paul. While you have the car you could perhaps go for day trips to Monaco or some other areas of the French Riviera.
Montségur is a great romantic break destination for the outdoors types who would prefer to break out into the countryside rather than stay within a city. While at the town you can climb the Pog Mountain which though a tough climb has an exquisite reward at the top. At the peak you will find one of the Cathars last strongholds. The ruins of the castle offer a commanding view over the surrounding countryside.
This town is located in the Ariège department, which is close to the Spanish border and Andorra. To get there you will want to fly into Toulouse and then get a car to Montségur.
Mairead writes for Novacarhire.com where you can book low cost car rental at airports, ferry ports, rail stations, cities and towns all over the world.
Mairead writes for Novacarhire.com where you can book low cost car rental at airports, ferry ports, rail stations, cities and towns all over the world.
Visit Novacarhire.com for all you need to know before you take to the roads in France, like where to go and what to see with your car hire. To find some great deals on car rental in France visit our Car hire France page.
Possibly Related Posts:
Top Five Romantic Breaks Away
February 2nd, 2010 by Romantic BreaksThe ideal romantic break away is usually one that lasts for a full weekend or a week, at a quaint hotel, cottage or log cabin. These are not necessarily in an exotic location, but can be enjoyed in somewhere local within the UK or as a mere ferry trip across to France. Romantic breaks are meant for a short period of rest and relaxation with your loved one, as a way of keeping the spark. Sometimes they can be spontaneous and are very popular amongst new couples, making the experience much more exciting.
Some of the best romantic breaks are spent in a sunny location, overlooking glamorous scenery and residing in a comfortable cosy accommodation. The break together is normally enjoyed with no one else but each other, therefore, the setting will need to be right. Staying in a luxury bed and breakfast in an exotic location is one way of enjoying the break away, such as that of Madrid in the Casa de Madrid. Madrid is one of the most cosmopolitan cities of Spain, infusing a mixture of cultures an array of young people residing near the city centre.
The Casa De Madrid makes for a romantic location because of its historical theatrical decor and is neatly tucked away in one Madrid’s hot spots. This was once a regal apartment, later converted into an 18th century B&B offering guests the chance to step into a little known Spanish history. Rooms are complete with tall ceilings, extended high windows, hand carved bed posts, delicately painted walls and much more. Aside from the exquisite decor, the couple are bombarded with many an activity in Madrid – from restaurants, to trendy bars.
The next popular romantic spot for people looking to travel within the UK is an ideal place for couples for a more upbeat and wild party nights. This is none other than Brighton at the Regency Square townhouse. Brighton is well known for its crazy antics, wild parties, carnivals and general carefree atmosphere. Top this with a relaxing seafront and sandy beach; you have a good spot of frantic romantic break away together.
Others may feel a little overwhelmed by the Brighton scene; however, one can relax in this modern chic townhouse, dedicated to keeping a classy yet relaxed image. Square is situated right next to the seafront, at the heart of all the racy evenings; therefore, you will have no problems gaining access to some of the much demanded landmarks.
If going abroad is what your heart feels contented with for romantic breaks then the obvious trip to Paris is a must for people who have never experienced beauty of the Eiffel Tower. Paris shopping spree and the Centre Pompidou will keep any couple entertained. Top this with the vibrant buzzing Parisian atmosphere, an abundance of sights to tour and a variety of restaurants you will feel more than just spoilt for choice.
A short trip to Venice is also a popular choice, with many of the hotels ranging from 50 to 200 pounds per night depending on the location and the class of the hotel. Rialto bridge is a perfect romantic spot for just spending time together or even considering to propose! The gondola rides are also a much needed experience as you get to see the sights of Venice and if desired, experience the joys of romantic Italian music.
The final top spot for romantic breaks is an unusual one yet a good choice for a luxury experience is the ever historical and cultural St Petersburg. At night when the lights are bright and the snow blankets the streets, nothing glistens better than a glass of champagne at the balcony of the Grand Hotel Europe. This is on the expensive and you will need to save for this trip over time. However, it is worth the money and time if what you are looking for is a memorable time together, packed with gourmet delights and plenty of musical entertainment.
Possibly Related Posts:
Venice Italy for a Romantic Break
February 2nd, 2010 by Romantic BreaksThere are few European cities more romantic than Venice in Italy. Accessible all year round, it is ideal for a short break from the UK of three to five nights. For those travelling from outside Europe, a few days in Venice could be combined easily with a visit to London, or other European cities.
The most unforgettable way to arrive in Venice, from airport or station, is to take a private water taxi across the lagoon and view the imposing approach towards the Piazza San Marco.
Venice, Romantic City of Gondolas and Masks
Venice is an ideal destination for those who seek an interesting cultural experience combined with romance. The city has always attracted artists, musicians, film makers and lovers. The most famous lover of all, the Venetian Casanova, was part of the city’s decadent 18th century life.
With a myriad of narrow alleyways, canals and bridges, it is easy to get lost, but part of the fun of Venice is wandering around on foot to come across tiny shops or impressive churches.
Each February, the exciting Carnival takes place over ten days, when the city comes alive with revellers in exquisite masks and costumes. An annual event from the 11th until the 18th century, it was discontinued until it was revived again the late 1970s.
The Grand Canal
First time visitors to Venice should take the Vaparetto, a motorised waterbus, along the twisting Grand Canal, the main thoroughfare. The Number 1 waterbus takes in the whole canal, stopping on the way for passengers to alight whenever they wish.
The glory of Venice and its architecture is a magnificent sight. Gracious, crumbling or renovated palaces and ornate aristocratic homes line both sides of the canal, including the beautiful Ca’ D’Oro with its ornate Gothic façade.
Some Romantic Sights of Venice
- The Bridge of Sighs: the high arch over the canal leading from the Doge’s Palace to the prison gave condemned men their last view of the outside world.
- Doge’s Palace and Basilica: the Gothic 15th century Doge’s Palace contains lavish rooms and Tintoretto paintings. The impressive Basilica was built in the 11th century as a chapel for the Doges. The interior includes a feast of mosaics, and a gold and jewel-encrusted altar screen.
- St Mark’s Square and Florians: the Piazza San Marco is a gathering place for tourists during the day. The 324ft Campanile (Bell Tower) is worth an elevator ride to the top as it offers stunning views of the area. Relax with a drink at Florians, the famous café where musicians add to the romance. Beware of the cost, however, which includes a seating charge.
- Rialto Bridge: walking across the Rialto Bridge takes a while, as it is a busy and colourful marketplace, famous when Venice was the wealthiest trading centre of the world.
Music, Art and Churches of Venice
Venice is synonymous with Vivaldi, the great Baroque composer. Visitors should take in one of the many concerts available, with musicians in 18th century costume. A popular venue is La Chiesca di Vivaldi (church), where the composer wrote his music from 1705 to 1740.
Most of the churches in Venice are veritable art galleries, containing works of Tintoretto, Titian and Bellini, among others. One of the prettiest churches is the tiny, 15th century Santa Maria del Miracoli in the Castello district. Often used for weddings, the inner and outer walls are covered in marble veneer.
The Accademia art gallery is home to centuries of impressive Venetian art, and is limited to fewer than 200 visitors at a time. Nearby, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a testament to modern art and is one of the best collections in Europe.
Islands of Murano and Burano
It is easy to take a waterbus (vaporetto) to the famous nearby glass-making island of Murano. Visitors can watch the colourful glass being made and there are factories and showrooms selling the glass.
Burano is also within easy reach by waterbus. Famous for lace-making, this is a charming fishing village with brightly painted houses.
To fully appreciate Venice, visitors need three or four days. With so many day tourists around St Mark’s Square, or taking a trip down the Grand Canal, the best idea is to wander down the myriad of alleyways and discover the lesser known canals, bridges and squares.
A gondola ride is the epitome of romance, with the gondolier in his navy and white striped shirt, dark trousers and beribboned straw hat, but it is very expensive. Negotiate a price and duration before setting off.
In the evening, when the day trippers have gone, the square is bathed in romantic light, and the background music accompanies the wanderers. In the distance, the gondoliers serenade their passengers as they expertly steer their black gondolas through the canals. This is the romance of Venice.
Possibly Related Posts: