A French summer

August is a wonderful time on the Continent, especially in France. At no other time of year does the whole country wind down to collectively enjoy a holiday.

The languid days of August are about taking time away from work to spend time with the family, ideally relocating to the holiday home by the beach, in the mountains, or on the water (there could hardly be more options) where friends and relatives can visit too.

All across France, villages and town squares come alive with fetes to celebrate music, art or local produce – it is hardly a surprise that France is the most visited country in the world with its great diversity, whether you are seeking an historic, relaxing, gastronomic or family fix. It’s a great time for a much-needed break from day-to-day routines, whether cycling in the Alps, enjoying the ocean in Biarritz or having a lazy lunch of fruits de mer in Brittany.