On this page you will find a variety of items pertaining to France.
Check out the pictures from my 50th birthday trip to France at
www.france2005.smugmug.com
Check out the news around the world from a French perspective at:
www.france24.com
My Favorite Places to Stay and Dine in France:
Bordeaux: Pavillon du Margaux - Fabulous hotel with a great restaurant in the heart of Margaux. This is where we had my 50th and where I stay when I am tasting wines for the club. I also love Cafe Lavinal in Bages, and the restaurant Le Saint-Julien in St. Julien.
www.pavillonmargaux.com
The Loire Valley: La Roseraie - We first visited La Roseraie in 1999 while renting a house in the Loire for a month. The hotel/restaurant is located just outside the gates of the Chateau Chenonceau and we stopped in for dinner after visiting the chateau. The onion soup is the best in the world and Laurant and Sophie are wonderful hosts. We've returned several times and I always look forward to visiting this wonderful spot in the heart of chateau country.
www.charmingroseraie.com
Provence: Le Mas de Cante-Perdrix - Sean and Larainne run the best Bed and Breakfast in Provence. Their place is peaceful and beautiful and the food is fantastic. From Le Mas it is easy to access the small towns and markets as well as Chateauneuf du Pape and Avignon.
www.cante-perdrix.com
The Dordogne: Chateau Monrecour - My favorite place in my favorite place - the Dordogne. The castle has only been opened as a B&B since 2006 and is sure to be discovered by the guide books soon. With inspiring views from the patio, beautiful rooms and wonderful service - thanks to Stephanie - this is the perfect place to stay while visiting Sarlat, Baynac, Domme, Rocamadour and the rest of the Dordogne. For great meals check out Le Presidial in Sarlat, and Buffet de la Gare in Vezac.
www.monrecour.com
Paris: Hotel Eiffel Park - When in Paris I like to stay in the 7th because it is close to all the major spots while still maintaining a local feel. The Hotel Eiffel Park is idealy situated on a quiet street within walking distance of the Tour Eiffel, Ecole Militaire, Musee Rodin, Musee d'Orsay and Place du Concord. The hotel has all the typical amenities, decent rooms, internet access and air conditioning in the summer (a must). For dinner check out Fontain de Mars on Rue St. Dominique.
www.eiffelpark.com
Normandy, D-Day Beaches, Le Mont St. Michelle: I have just discovered Le Manoir de Crepon, a wonderful B&B near the landing beaches. Madame Poisson is a delightful host and the Manoir is lovely. Also, in Bayeux we loved Hotel d'Argouges with it's prime location and lovely rooms. For a wonderful dinner try Ferme de la Ranconniere just down the street from Le Manoir de Crepon.
www.manoirdecrepon.com
Of course when I'm looking for a new place I trust Karen Brown to recommend a great B&B or hotel. She finds great places with great people.
www.karenbrown.com
My Favorite books about France:
Poitraits of France by Robert Daly
Paris to the Moon by Adam Gopnik
Lafayette by Harlow Giles Unger
A Year in Provence by Peter Malle
