Photo of the month: La Rochelle

With distinctive 14th and 15th-century towers flanking the port entrance, an abundance of fabulous seafood restaurants presenting the fresh daily catch, intriguing maritime heritage and a massive pleasure port, beautiful arcaded shopping streets (and boutiques aplenty), an exceptional aquarium, churches and medieval townhouses, La Rochelle in Charente-Maritime is one of the most beloved coastal destinations in the whole of France.

Boasting great beaches nearby and cycle routes all around, the city is perfect for those who love the great outdoors and activity holidays. Try visiting out of season, not only to swerve the throng, but to better embrace the atmosphere of a living, working port.

The city has a lively social scene, not just in its bars and cafes but culturally speaking. Music festivals Francofolies (rock and pop) and Entre les Deux Tours (jazz) wow fans in July and October respectively.

Also not to be missed in February...

February 17–March 7
Fete du Citron, Menton - a Riviera celebration of all things citrus
All over France, local produce is lauded and celebrated with fairs and festivals. In Menton on the Côte d’Azur, the lemon is the juicy source of local pride. For 2018 the theme for displays and parades is Bollywood.

February 17–March 3

Nice Carnival
As with Menton’s lemon festival, Nice carnival offers a great reason to head to the Riviera for some winter sun. The annual floats and dancers parade was an understandably, security-heavy affair in 2017 but the joyful embrace of life will always be abundant.