Thursday, January 27, 2011

France's Best Beaches

By Mark Walters


For tourists, France has long been a desired holiday destination. From the Eiffel Tower to the sights and sounds of Paris itself, the European country has much to offer those seeking an escape from trials and tribulations back home. As wondrous as the culture and history are, France also lays claim to some of the most remarkable beach towns and resorts. If you are going to France to visit its beach towns and resorts, here are some of the best...

Sete, a fishing town that is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, boasts a gastronomical experience in seafood that is second-to-none. Its economy depends on fishing, so there is always a fresh catch with which to concoct a sumptuous meal. Bouillabaisse is a hearty stew made with fish and shellfish and is Sete's claim to fame. Once a means for workers to whip leftovers into a quick lunch, it is now a local delicacy. If you wish to get outside and stay active, Sete's beaches provide endless scuba diving and sailing opportunities. For a step outside the norm, you can even take in a water jousting tournament.

St-Jean-de-Luz is another town found on the shores of France. It is a port town that provides a veritable boat exhibit to its visitors. Boats of all shapes, sizes, and colors weigh anchor here, and the downtown area is lovely as well. Shopping in St-Jean-de-Luz is eclectic due to its location in Basque Country. Its closeness to Spain brings products from various cultures, providing a wide array of souvenirs for visitors to take with them. Surfing is a favorite activity of the area, and even those new to the sport can seek lessons at one of the numerous, nearby shops.

No coverage of French beach towns and resorts would be complete without mentioning the French Riviera. Locally referred to as the Cote d'Azur, the resort is a popular holiday destination for tourists as well as the rich and famous. Some towns that you have certainly heard spoken of are Nice, Cannes (home to the famous film festival), and Saint Tropez. Nice in particular is considered the most affordable city in the region and is home to breathtaking architecture and plenty of art museums. Not only is the French Riviera littered with sparkling, sprawling beaches, the surrounding cliffs create scenery that only a few exclusive places on Earth can claim.

France enjoys a fortunate location between the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The geography provides ample sightseeing opportunities and outdoor activities. Culture and beauty abound in France's beach towns and resorts.




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