Green Guides -

Main Index : France Maps & Guides : Michelin Maps and Guides : Green Guides Green Guide France (Ref. Code. GGFrance) France is a land where memories are made. The song of the cicadas is the symphony of the south, where tall stalks of elegant lavender and the silvery leaves of olive trees dance in the breeze. On the Atlantic Coast the thunder of the surf grows distant as the tide recedes far out, revealing a long expanse of sand, where pools of water reflect the colours of the sky. Better than any camera, your mind's eye will capture and recall the vivid green craters of now-still volcanoes, the startling beauty of a Romanesque church in a small country village, the graceful facade of a Renaissance castle mirrored in the waters of its ornamental moat. In the heat of summer, glazed roof tiles radiate the sun's warmth, while in the wine cellar the constant cool preserves the treasures of the vine in perfect conditions. The great vintages are brought out with ceremony to accompany the many and varied specialities which are the pride of all the regions of France. And if the sun, the wine and beauteous works of man leave you sated, you may stand on the hisgh cliffs of an untamed coastline, or follow the wind inland, where it winds its way among the great stne megaliths of a landscape steeped in ancient legends. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.  More...   Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Alsace Lorraine Champagne (Ref. Code. GGAlsace) The crossroads of Northern Europe, this region is a sparkling blend of diverse landscapes extending from the foothills of the Vosges mountains to the undulating plains of Champagne. The many vineyards produce the very different wines that are so closely associated with each area: bubbly champagne, subtly fragrant wines in Alsace, golden liquers of Lorraine. Discover the landscapes as you travel through the vineyards of Epernay or Riquewihr, or admire the plum orchards of the Moselle Valley. From time immemorial, people here have sought to live life to the fullest, despite the vicissitudes of the wars that have befallen them. The smiling angel of Reims cathedral seems to extend an invitation to relax and enjoy the beauty around you: the great Gothic cathedrals, the thick forests, ruined castles perched atop the hills and also the allure of age-old traditions lovingly preserved. Delight in the villages of half-timbered houses, gaily decked with red geraniums; soak up the joyful spirit of grape harvest festivals; take your time to savour fine regional dishes. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Atlantic Coast: Poitou Aquitaine, The Basque Country (Ref. Code. ISBN 2067119214) If you love the outoors, you will enjoy every minute of you holiday, the fine sand beaches of Vendee and Les Landes, the rocky Basque coastline, the grandiose landscapes of the Pyrenees, the orchards in the Agen region and the old bastide towns. Enjoy a cool trip along the quiet canals of the Marais Poitevin - the "Green Venice" of the region - or seek another meaning of cool among the surfing crowd on the south-western coast. Ride a bike on trails through Europe's largest pine forest, and treat yourself to a seawater spa afterwards. Travel back in time in the footsteps of pilgrims on the way to Compostela, or travel forward at the Futuroscope, an exciting theme park devoted to the moving image. Everywhere, you will be surrounded by beautiful architecture, as well as stunning natural settings. From the lively towns of Bordeaux and La Rochelle by the sea, to the charming and unique Basque villages tucked away in the remote hills, this is a region drenched in sunshine, in history, in fine food...all ripe for discovery. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Auvergne Rhone Valley (Ref. Code. GGAUVERGNE) The Auvergne is a region known for its exceptional natural environment: a rugged landscape where water springs forth from the outcrops of rock formed by the lava flow of ancient volcanoes. As eruptions occurred over the millennia in ranges composed of different types of minerals, the mountainsacquired various unique features. Some are fragmented and craggy, others have rounded domes with sharply sloped sides, still others are topped with magnificent crater lakes. The region, although it is in the centre of the country, was long cut off from the rest of France because of a lack or roads and railways. In contrast, the Rhone Valley has always been an important trade and communication route. In addition to the river itself, road and rail transport have made it a European artey for both commerce and culture. Lyon, the regional capital, is renowned for culinary excellence and fine arts. Since Roman times, marvellous wines have come from valley vineyards. North of the region of Cotes du Rhone production lie the famous vineyards of Beaujolais. In these two regions, you will find distinctive traces of the evolution of the natural world as well as traces of two thousand years of culture and history; have ample opportunity to engage in sports or enjoy haute cuisine; be able to choose to admire a work of art or to close your eyes and relax in the warm waters of a thermal spa resort. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Brittany (Ref. Code. ISBN 2 06 000060 2) A popular holiday destination, Brittany is a region which offers a variety of pleasures. It is a maritime region, with a rocky peninsula separating the English Channel from the Atlantic Ocean; the sea-faring folk who live there are both old-fashioned fishermen and high-level international sailing champions. Whatever their profession, those who live here are proud of their region, of its distinction character and the magnificent coastline which has been preserved from the ravages of unbridled resort construction. Brittany is simply a wonderful place to live or to visit, whatever you like to do: enjoy a leisurely walk through the countryside on the paths used by customs inspectors of old; ride a bike off-road over hill and dale; sail along the breathtaking coast; travel horseback through a landscape where time has stopped; or delve into the rich history and Celtic influences of the region while visiting its cities, towns and hamlets. Brittany welcomes you, whether you choose to lie back on the warm sand, shoulder a rucksack and put on your walking shoes, sail windward with the tide, or settle in to a fine meal of fresh and delightful seafood. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Burgundy Jura (Ref. Code. GGBurgundy) The land of Burgandy rolls east from the Loire to the celebrated vineyards stretching south to Beaujolais. Echoes of the past are found in superb Romanesque churches, while the Jura mountains harbour deep forests, sparkling rivers and winter resorts ideal for cross-country skiing. THE GREEN GUIDE, the perfect travel companion: a discerning and up-to-date source of information. Practical and comprehensive, it offers suggestions on what to see and what to do, and background on history and cultural heritage. An ideal guide for the independent tourist, THE GREEN GUIDE explores destinations both near and far. Sights are rated - *** "worth a journey", ** "worth a detour" and * "interesting". Maps and itineraries make planning easy, whether visiting the highlights or venturing off the beaten track. Travel with THE GREEN GUIDE for an exciting and memorable experience.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Chateaux of the Loire (Ref. Code. GGChateux) Beginning in the Middle Ages, the Loire Valley, with its mild climate and abundant game, was the favoured residence of kings and their kin. Along the winding river, vast and beautiful castles were built to accommodate crowned heads, lords and ladies and their extensive entourages: Amboise, Angers, Azay-le-Rideau, Blois, Chambord, Chenonceau, Langeais, Loches, Le Mans and Tours. Entering yet another new century, the region has lost none of its appeal. It remains a corner of paradise, with its dream-like palaces, elegant towns, quiet landscapes and majestic river. Ramble the forest pathways on foot, or ride a horse or bike to discover them; the many rivers and lakes that make the Loire Valley so green and appealing in summer are great for fishing, swimming and boating. The vineyards are a feast for the eyes and their fruits a joy to the palate. Whether you are just passing through, staying for a holiday, or lucky enough to settle here for a while, you will find that the Loire Valley is a land of fine living, as celebrated by the prodigious author Rabelais; a land where historic old stones, golden in the sun, harbour deep secrets in cool wine cellars; a land of harmony, grace and sensuousity. Welcome to the Garden of France. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide French Riviera: Cote d'Azur (Ref. Code. GGFRENCHRIVIERA) Along the rocky coast where lovely inlets lie, the corniche roads twist high above the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Celebrated by painters, the light bathes nature in a stunning grace, burnishes the red porphyry rocks of Esterel, outlines the dark woods of the Maures massif, intensifies the beauty of the botanical and marine reserves on the Hyeres Islands and the heavenly gardens of Menton. Cap Ferrat and Cap d'Antibes, the docks at Toulon and Villefranche, the Gulf of St-Tropez all welcome yachts and pleasure craft. Inland, the rolling landscape is carpeted in olive groves and vineyards, or fields of flowers around Grasse, Vence and St-Paul. The Gorges du Loup, the hilltop villages and the painted chapels of the Nice hinterland are a delight to see. Because so many artists have found inspiration here, the Riviera is home to many fine museums and galleries of modern and contemporary art. There is glamour here too: the film festival at Cannes, the Monaco Grand Prix, the celebrity playground of St-Tropez. Nice, the capital city of the Riviera, has the grandest fete of all in its yearly carnival, a riot of colouful flowers and fruits, and a riotous good time, too! Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Dordogne Berry Limousin (Ref. Code. GGDordogne) Berry, with its splendid cathedral of Bourges, was the historic heart of the Capetian monarchy, while Perigord and Quercy, in their cookery and local accent, begin to merge with the southern regions of France. The rural tradition is kept alive in the love of fine fresh produce: nuts, duck and goose dishes, truffles, fruits and wines. The exceptional prehistoric sites testify to centuries of human habitation. Today, some of the most charming villages of France are found here, and many more grandiose and spectacular sites too, such as the castles dominating the opulent valley of the Dordogne and the many caves with their fantastic rock formations. Men have created wonders too, such as the Aubusson tapestries and the porcelain and enamels of Limoges. Popular music is celebrated every spring at the Bourges festival, and contemporary art holds pride of place at the Lac de Vassiviere. The Brenne wetlands, the Millevaches plateau and the Creuse Valley, immortalised by the impressionist school of Crozan, provide romantic and unspoiled natural settings for your travels. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide French Alps (Ref. Code. GGAlps) The majestic French Alps are best qualified by superlatives: the most nature parks in the Alpine range, the highest peak in Europe, the most popular ski resorts. From the banks of Lake Geneva, bathed in a nearly Mediterranean climate, to the vertiginous ridge tops of the Grand Canyon du Verdon, this region is a succession of contrasts and a symphony of colours:magic of the lakes of Savoy, ultra-modern ski resorts, humble chapels with extravagant Baroque frescoes, dizzying roads through the Vercors forest, spectacular railways at la Mure and Montenvers, the lonesome valleys of Queyras, where the light heralds the southern climes of the Midi, vast fields of sweet lavender in Haute Provence and hilltop villages merrily adorned with campaniles. Visit the Alps and fall in love with this mountain range where nature still rules. From the north, where the steep-sided valleys have an end-of-the-earth look aout them, to the south, where the colours and customs of Provence invite a more languorous attitude, you will surely meet your heart's desire. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Languedoc Roussillon Tarn Gorges (Ref. Code. GGLanguedoc) Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Normandy (Ref. Code. GGNormandy) Among the French provinces, Normandy is remarkable for its outstanding achievements in economic growth and development as well as cultural wealth, Sculptors, faience artists and painters have found inspiration here, giving the region prominence on the European landscape. Normandy has played a significant role in history over the ages: the conquest of England in 1066 proceeded from here, as represented on the Bayeux tapestry; the Allied Landing in 1944 also changed the destiny of nations. In addition to the famous Mont St Michel, the many churches, cathedrals and monasteries make up an impressive architectural heritage. The coastline is a series of contrasts: along the Contentin Peninsula and around Eretat, high waves beat against steep cliffs; Trouville, Deauville and Varengeville are popular seaside resorts with pleasant beaches. Nature parks such as the Parc de Brotonne with centuries-old trees or "Swiss Normandy" keep rural traditions alive. The peaceful Pays d'Auge is a paradise for horse lovers, and everywhere cows graze on lush green pastures. Normandy is famous for the escellent quality of its dairy products: nowhere else is creme fraiche or Camambert quite as delicious as here in its country of origin. For an adventure, you may also travel to the Channel Islands, set like jewels between the sky and sea. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Northern France & the Paris Region (Ref. Code. GGNorthern) Northern France is a lively and welcoming region, whether you visit the dynamic modern city of Lille, the port of Dunkirk, the ancient cathedral in Amiens or the chic seaside resort of Le Touquet. During carnival time, giants parade the streets and merry-making is everywhere. Stop for a rest and savour the region's many varieties of beer along with hearty local specialities. Ile-de-France, with Paris at its centre, is the heart of the old French monarchy. Its symbol is the fleur-de-lis, the stylised emblem long associated with the French crown. Some of the architectural jewels of that crown include palaces in Versailles, Fontainebleau, Chantilly and Vaux-le-Vicomte. Travelling the area described in this guide, you may choose to discover the Gothic splendour of Chartres cathedral, the sumptuous Second Empire decor of the palace in Compeigne, or the eternal childhood of one of the many theme parks located here. It is also a region of surprising natural delights, great forests, lovely river valleys, wide open fields, nature reserves and dramatic cliffs on the coastline between Calais (entrance to the Channel Tunnel) and Boulogne. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Paris (Ref. Code. GGparis) At the dawn of the 21C, Paris has renovated the Grand Louvre and built a new national library, placs to cherish and preserve the gifts of the past, and at the same time has created a modern complex devoted to science and the arts in the lovely park of la Villette. Artistic achievements from every nation and from every age have a home here. The city at the crossroads of the world thrives on culture in every form and fashion. The lively mixture of people keeps this dynamic European capital moving apace as the fast-beating heart of a large urban area. No other city gives as much care to its appearance and beautification, parks and gardens, the illumination of its monuments. The hustle and bustle of Paris life is an amusing mixture of old-fashioned markets brimming with fresh foods whose virtues are sung out by each vendour; of brightly-lit boulevards lined with shops, arcades, cinemas and cafes; of crowds spilling into and out of theatres and concert halls; of the inviting scents wafting from the doors of restaurants and bakeries. The River Seine meanders through town, inviting you to stop and rest a moment, and contemplate the mystery of a city which is ever changing and ever the same. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: Green Guide Provence (Ref. Code. GGProvence) Provence extends an invitation to your senses. Listen to the music of cicadas through a summer evening. Breathe the invigorating fragrance of a filed of purple lavender as the breeze sways the long, elegant sprays of colour. Feel the warmth of the spring sunshine on your bare skin, or step into the shade of a fig tree in high summer and enjoy the sudden cool. Savour the lush tomatoes, juicy melons, fat black and green olives, the fresh local goat cheeses. Look around you. In Niolon, the blue waters of the creek are unruffled by wind, protected by the abrupt cliffs encircling the beach. In Aix, see how the stone buildings seem to glow golden. In Nimes, at carnival time, you might be excused for thinking you are in Spain; standing below the Pont du Gard, you may expect to see Roman legions marching towards you. All this and a hundred small details will fill up your experience of visiting Provence: the cry of a shepherd piercing the clear air of the Luberon mountains; the clink of metal petanque balls in a sand lot where the villagers gather to play; the refreshing sensation of a midday nap in a house where the shutters have been drawn against the heat. Provence is more than a place on a map, it is a way of life. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, for your annual holiday or just a weekend, take The Green Guide with you and discover for yourself the delights of this region. This guide includes a Principal Sights Map, practical information, and introduction to the culture and lifestyle and descriptions of local sights.    Price:  £14.99  Quantity: