France DriveAway Holidays Self Drive Guide

Transcription

1 France DriveAway Holidays Self Drive Guide 1

2 Take a Self drive Holiday in France With over 25 years experience and award-winning service, let DriveAway Holidays plan your next self drive adventure. We offer an extensive range of vehicles to suit everyone s need and budget at over 8000 locations in 130 countries worldwide. Enjoy the freedom of having your own rental car and discover the world at your own pace. France is an amazing country that has it all and it's no wonder it is the most visited country in the world. With less traffic on the road than neighbouring countries, your hire car will give you a real feel for the true France. With beautiful countryside filled with unparalleled cities, orchards, vineyards, fortified castles and tiny cobblestone villages seemingly untouched by time, this is not one to miss! Contents Renting a car in France 3 Rental Vehicle Insurance 4 Take a self drive holiday in France / Driving laws in France 5 Driving in France 6 Paris 8 Self Drive Tours: Courts and Cars Tour / Back to Nature Tour 9 Page Central France 10 Self Drive Tours: Chateau s and Vineyards Tour / Volcanoes and Vol-au-vents 11 Northern France 12 Self Drive Tours: Champagne of Kings Tour / Route of Battlefield to Belfries 13 Eastern France 14 Self Drive Tours: Cultural Fusion Tour / Reflection and Art Tour 15 Southern France 16 Self Drive Tours: Wines, Castles & Caves Tour / The French Riviera 17 Western France 18 Self Drive Tours: Cathedrals to Conquerors Tour / Celtic History by the Sea Tour 19 France Autumn Travel Guide 20 Climate & Weather / Language & Useful Phrases 23 Stay Healthy / Stay Safe / Money Matters 24 Peugeot Open Europe 25 Cannes 2

3 Renting a Car in France When selecting a rental vehicle, take into consideration where you will be travelling, how many people will be travelling in the vehicle, luggage size and the kind of driving you intend to do. DriveAway Holidays offers a vast range of vehicles from small economy sizes to larger full-sized cars, 4WDs, convertibles and luxury vehicles. The ACRISS system will help you find a car that suits your needs. This is internationally recognised code which will ensure you get the same standard of vehicle wherever you rent. Automatic and Manual Transmissions Both automatic and manual vehicles are available in France. Automatic vehicles are generally more expensive than manual cars and may be scarcer at smaller depots. Do I need a Credit card? Yes. A credit card will be needed when collecting, which will be used for a security bond. The deposit is generally the insurance excess of the rental car which depends on the category of vehicle you have booked and the rate type. Collecting at an Airport in France At most French airports you will find your rental company has a desk in the arrivals hall, with the rental cars being located within walking distance. However, at smaller airports you may be required to collect your vehicle from a downtown depot. A courtesy transfer will be provided from the airport to the depot in this instance. DriveAway Holidays offer all-inclusive prices which generally include any location / airport fees and charges that may otherwise apply. Remember to check at time of booking to ensure your rental will include all airport fees. Can I collect my rental car in one French city and drop it off in another French city? Yes, this is certainly possible. In some cases there may be a one-way fee charged by our suppliers when you collect your rental. DriveAway Holidays will advise you of any additional fees before you travel. In most cases, there are no fees for one way rentals within France. Motorhome Rental Enjoy the convience of accommodation and transport in one. DriveAway Holidays offers 2-6 berth vehicles, with collection points at Angers, Annecy, Bordeaux, Corsica, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice, Paris, Rouen, Strasbourg, Toulouse and Tours. Explore some of the most scenic camping grounds France has to offer. 3

4 Rental Vehicle Insurance French law requires all vehicles to have compulsory third party (CTP) injury insurance, although your car rental supplier should already have comprehensive insurance covering their cars. In the case of an accident it must be reported to the insurance provider immediately and an excess will be due. Car Rental Companies in France will normally include: Third Party Insurance: Compulsory insurance and will be included in your car hire price. This covers you for other people s injury and damage to their vehicle. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This limits your financial liability for damage to the rented vehicle and is normally included in prepaid car hire prices. Rentals are normally subject to liability excess, which can be reduced at the time you collect your rental car or by taking out DriveAway Hire Car Excess Insurance. Theft and Loss Cover: This limits your financial liability for the loss or theft of the rented vehicle and is generally included in the prepaid car rental price. Fire and Liability: Limits your financial liability for bodily injury or death, and is normally included in the prepaid car hire price. Personal Accident Insurance: This covers the driver for personal injuries and is generally not included in your car rental rate. It is considered an optional extra that you can take out upon collection of the car. DriveAway Hire Car Excess Insurance When renting a vehicle, the rental rates include basic insurance, however, in the event that the vehicle is stolen or accidentally damaged, there is usually an Insurance excess amount which the driver is liable to pay to the rental company. To avoid any unexpected costs opt for DriveAway Hire Car Excess Insurance which will offer a reimbursement for the supplier s damage and theft excess to a maximum for AU$5,000. Simply add this onto your car rental booking prior to departure and you could save thousands of dollars in the long run! To find out more, simply call DriveAway Holidays on or visit the DriveAway website. Class Fuel Capacity Type Transmission Fuel/Air Cond. M = Mini B = 2 Door M = Manual R = Yes E = Economy D = 4 Door A = Automatic N = No C = Compact C = 2/4 door N = Manual 4WD D = Diesel Air F = Full size L = Limousine C = Manual AWD Q = Diesel No Air P = Premium S = Sports Car B = Auto 4WD H = Hybrid Air L = Luxury T = Convertible D = Auto AWD I = Hybrid No Air X = Special J = All Terrain Examples: E = Electric Air R= Recreational ECMN: E = Economy C = Electric No Air F = 4 Wheel Drive X = Special K = Commercial Van/Truck P = Ute X = Special E = Executive C = 2 or 4 door M = Manual N = No Aircon FDAR: F = Full Size D = 4 Door A = Automatic R = Aircon The DriveAway Hire Car Excess Insurance is managed by Accident & Health International Underwriting Pty Limited, ABN , AFSL and underwritten by CGU Insurance Limited, ABN , AFSL

5 Take a self drive holiday in France Drive on the RIGHT hand side of the road. The driver sits on the left hand side of the car. If you park illegally you will receive a ticket. You can pay by buying a 'timbre fiscal' (tax stamp) from a tobacconist, stick it on the ticket and mail it to the authorities. If you see the officer or warden you can pay them direct and keep the receipt. Car rental companies will bill you and apply a surcharge otherwise. On almost all motorways you will pay a toll, depending on the distance. Pick-up a machine-dispensed ticket upon entering the motorway, then pay on exit; don't lose the ticket or you will pay the maximum fee. Choose your lane to pay by person or machine with a credit card. At roundabouts, signs will indicate that traffic on the roundabout has priority. If there is no sign then the traffic entering the roundabout has priority. Don't drive in Paris. Make use of one of the world s best metro systems, or even walk to get the true Parisian feel and see the famous sites on foot. When it comes time to see to the countryside, then driving is definitely the best option, and you will see the true France. Driving Laws in France Drive on the RIGHT hand side of the road, and the driver sits on the LEFT side of the car. Overtake on the left lane. Drink Driving is a very serious offence. The limit is 0.05%. Exceeding this will incur severe penalties including imprisonment or confiscation of your licence. So be smart - don t drink and drive! Talking on a hand held device is forbidden. Pedestrians and Cyclist have right of way. In case of a breakdown all vehicles must be equipped with a Warning Triangle and a Reflective Jacket that must be warn when outside the vehicle and the triangle placed 100 meters behind. This should be provided with your rental car. Unless otherwise specified the speed limits are 80 mph (130kph) on motorways, 68 mph (110 kph) on urban motorways, 55 mph (90 kph) outside built-up areas and 31mph (50 kph) in cities. The driver is responsible for all persons under the age of 14 years. Children under 12 years of age must be in the back seat. The Law requires all children less than 135cm to use a child restraint appropriate to their weight and size: Rearward-facing Baby Seat - Birth to 15mth/13kg Forward-facing Child Seat - under 4 yrs/18 kg Booster Seat - under 11/36 kg 5

6 Driving in France Parking Alternate side parking or 'stationnement alterne semi-mensuel' means you can only park on one side of the road depending on the date. Signs marked 1-15 or mean you cannot park on that side between those dates. Parking on the left is only allowed on one way streets. Pay-and-display machines are common throughout France. Free parking from 7.00pm am, on weekends and public holidays, unless otherwise indicated. Licence Requirements A full driving licence is required to drive in France. All drivers must have held a full valid driving licence for a minimum of one year. Australian residents are required by law to have an international drivers licence. Contact your local motoring association for further information. Carry your driver s licence with you when you travel, as some authorities may not recognise the international driver s licence, and could ask for additional confirmation of your license. Min & Max Age Requirements Min Driving Age: Usually 18 depending on the supplier and vehicle type. Drivers aged years may be charged a young drivers surcharge. The majority of locations in France do not have a maximum driving age, however there may be restrictions for drivers aged in some regions. In some cases, aged drivers may be required to hold a letter from their GP stating they are healthy and fit to drive. Check with DriveAway Holidays for further details. Cross Border Fees and One Way Rentals Can I collect my rental car in France and drop it off in another European city? International one ways are definitely possible however, as with any international one way, this will incur a one way fee. Prices vary depending on the supplier, the length of the rental and the drop off destination. Can I collect my car in France, visit another European city, then return it to France? Most car rental companies based in France will permit travel to other European cities without an additional charge. However, luxury vehicles, such as Mercedes and BMW s are not permitted to enter Italy from France with certain suppliers and there may be restrictions to some Eastern Europe countries as well. Most car hire suppliers permit travel to the UK on the ferries from Calais to Dover at no charge, but you will have to pay for the cost of the ferry. Menton, French Riviera 6

7 More France Car Rental FAQs Can I collect my rental car in France and drop it off in Britain? No suppliers will permit international one ways from France to Britain, however travel is generally permitted into Britain. This will depend on the car rental supplier. Check with DriveAway Holidays when you book your car hire. Should I take out additional insurance on my car rental? Rental rates will include basic insurance: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third Party Liability and Theft Protection. In the event that your rental vehicle is accidentally damaged, regardless of who is at fault, or stolen, the Insurance excess is the maximum amount you are liable for. See page 4 for more details. Should I hire a GPS for driving in France? GPS hire is available from DriveAway Holidays. Our rates include the GPS unit, travel guides and entertainer. The GPS is delivered direct to your home or travel agent before you depart. GPS units can also be requested direct with some suppliers, however this will be at their own rates. If time is short, or you would simply prefer to collect your GPS unit together with your rental, then this may be an option for you. What do I do if I want to extend my car rental whilst I m in France? Once the car rental has commenced you will have to call the depot where you initially collected the vehicle, and if the car is available to be extended, you will be offered additional days at the local rate. Exploring France Paris Central France: Centre-Loire Auvergne Limousin Northern France: Picardy Nord Pas-de Calais Champagne-Ardenne Eastern France: Lorraine Alsace Southern France: Aquitaine Midi-Pyrenees Languedoc-Roussillon Provence Alpes-Cote d'azur Corsica Riviera Cote d'azur Rhone-Alpes Western France: Basse-Normandie Haute-Normandie Brittany Pays-de-la-Loire 7

8 Paris Paris is known as the 'City of Lights' and conjures many different images for many different people. It is a spectacular sightseeing city that contains a wealth of history and culture. The choices of things to see and do are limitless! Paris is a place where architectural and artistic heritage combine to make any visit an unforgettable experience. Savour its exceptional cuisine, indulge in its chic shopping and enjoy the nightlife. The river Seine weaves its way through the city and adds to Paris charm and romance. There is never a dull moment and there s something for everyone in this beautiful, bustling city. Events February Antiques Book Fair May French Open Nuit des Musées - For one night nearly every Parisian museum will open their doors for free in order for visitors to gain exposure to art and culture. June Fete de la Musique - Musicians perform on every corner, in doorways, gardens and squares throughout the city. July Fete des Tuileries - A Paris fun fair takes place in the beautiful gardens with side stalls, a traditional wooden merry-go-round and much more. Quartier d'été Festival - A cocktail of concerts, shows and theatre played out across Paris. Paris Jazz Festival - Held every weekend in July. Tour de France December Christmas Markets - Held throughout Paris. Attractions Visit The Eiffel Tower - Completed in 1889, it is one of the world s most recognizable and the most visited monuments. The Louvre Museum - One of the finest museums in the world, home to thousands of classic and modern masterpieces. Walk through the history of France and into the minds of kings, revolutionaries and phenomenal artists. The Cathedral of Notre Dame - The finest example of French Gothic architecture. Construction started in 1163 but was not complete until 1345, it tells the story of the bible in it's portals, paintings and stained glass. The Arc de Triomphe - Tells of the military glories and follies of France and was ordered by Napoleon in It is decorated with friezes of battle scenes and carved with the names of his victories. The Palace of Versailles - One of the largest and most opulent castles, boasting around 2,143 windows, 1,252 fireplaces and 67 staircases. It was considered for a long time the unofficial centre of power in France. A Cruise on the River Seine - This provides a unique view of the monuments and bridges with informative historical and cultural commentary on board, which you can enjoy at night on a dinner cruise. The Moulin Rouge - Seen as the birthplace of the can-can dance and can still be seen there today in this world famous club. The Champs-Élysées - With it's chestnut trees, shops, movie houses and block's of sidewalk cafes, this is the best vantage point to watch Paris roll by. The Latin Quarter - Pop in and out of cafes for wine, cognac and coffee, soaking up the Parisian lifestyle. 8

9 Self Drive Tours around Paris Courts and Cars Tour Drive time approximately: 4hours 10mins Chartres Cathedral Head south-west on the A11/E50 to the small city of Chartres, which is an hour away from Paris. On the way you ll pass through the beautiful Centre-Val de Loire region, which is famous for it's vineyards and chateaux. Visit Chartres Cathedral, listen to the choir and organist or walk the labyrinth built around 1200 AD, which is known as 'The Road to Jerusalem'. Out of town, the same road will take you on to Le Mans, which is a gloriously restored old city with cobbled streets and half timbered houses and is famous for the 24 Hours of Le Mans which is the world s oldest endurance sports car race. Then take the N157 to get to Vendome. Sitting on the Loire river on the south side is the ruined castle of the counts of Vendome that was founded in the 9th century, surviving still are numerous towers and extensive walls. The abbey is also worth a look with a fine florid gothic style and an interesting belfry from the 12th century. Heading back to on the N10 will take you to the Palace of Versailles. Back to Nature Tour Drive time approximately: 3hours 10mins Drive south-east from the centre of Paris on the A6/E15 for 60kms to Fontainebleau, a historic town that is surrounded by a large scenic forest. This forest is home to 3,000 different species of mushrooms, 2,000 animal species and 5,000 insect species. Formerly a royal hunting park, it is now protected and well regarded by climbers for bouldering, a type of climbing without ropes. Within the forest are dozens of villages and you can drive along the river Seine to visit them. Here you will also find historic châteaux which were once owned by kings. Take the D606 onto the N6 following the water to Sens were much activity awaits, head to the swimming pools, go carting or perhaps wander around the Serres municipales (greenhouses). Best of all it s free to visit. Head back to Paris on the A5/E54. Denecourt Tower, Fontainebleau Forest 9

10 Central France The Central region is dominated by the Loire Valley, and is one of the loveliest drives in France that never ceases to amaze tourists and locals alike with it's natural beauty. In Limousin, you can choose to drive through the Creuse, Correze or Haute-Vienne department. Here you will find breathtaking lakes, rivers, chestnut forests, heather and vast expanses of countryside. The Massif Central has a rugged landscape of granite and hardened lava, violet-coloured volcanic rock and deep river gorges which gives it an almost prehistoric feel. Regions/Cities: Centre-Loire - Chartres, Orleans, Blois, Tours, Bourges, Chateauroux. Limousin - Guéret, Limoges, Tulle. Auvergne - Moulins, Clermont-Ferrand, Le Puy-en-Velay, Aurillac. Events March Le Printemps de Bourges, Centre - Large music festivals held around the city. Many pubs and bars also celebrate the event by hosting bands as well. May Joan of Arc week, Orleans, Centre - Residents dress in traditional clothing, enjoy medieval food and local customs. August Festival of Light, Amboise, Centre - Listen to classical music and watch the fireworks. September Bird King Festival, Le Puy-en-Velay, Auvergne - A re-enactment of a medieval fair. Attractions Loire Valley, Centre - Visit one of the many wineries including Menetou-Salon and Bourgueil. Sample some of the regions exceptional cheeses such as Crottin de Chavignol and Selles-sur-Cher or discover a string of fairytale Chateaux including Blois, Amboise and the sprawling Chambord. The Marais, Bourges, Centre - An area of allotment gardens divided by canals, if you go on the weekend you will see the gardeners punting to their plots. Auvergne - Has a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy including skiing, rafting, biking, golfing, hiking and with so many other lake water sports. Monts Domes, Auvergne - This is an extraordinary area of extinct volcanoes, the highest is Puy de Dome with a stunning panorama of almost 100 other peaks. Vichy, Auvergne - Spa and resort town famous for it's sulphurous springs which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Blois 10

11 Self Drive Tours around Central France Volcanoes and Vol-au-vents Drive Drive time approximately: 3hours 55mins Starting in Bourges, take the A71/E11 heading for Clermont-Ferrand in the Massif Central, famous for the Chaine des puys (chain of volcanoes) surrounding it. Be sure to stop off along the way at Riom to see its Renaissance architecture fashioned out of the local black volcanic stone, which is best viewed from the 16th century clock tower. Head east on the A72/E70 to France s second largest city, Lyon. Known as the culinary capital of France, Lyon is full of the country s finest chefs. It is also known for it's professional football team, Olympique Lyonnais who participate in the European championships, so why not watch a match at the city's huge stadium. Châteaux and Vineyards Tour Drive time approximately: 2hours 55mins From Paris head south west on the E05 and join the A10 to Orleans, which in medieval times was the capital of France. Sitting on the banks of the Loire River, it is well worth a visit to stroll along the pretty streets and dine in the local restaurants. The Loire Valley is renowned for it's beautiful chateaux, fine wine vineyards and wonderful cuisine. Out of Orleans, re-join the E05/A10 or the free national highway N152. Stop off at Blois and see the famous renaissance Chateau which was once occupied by King Louis XII, in the centre of town. Then travel on the same roads to Tours, which is a large city famous for its fine wines, Cathedral and Art Museum. Vineyard, Loire Valley Lyon 11

12 Northern France Northern France is home to a diverse landscape of dunes, 200 metre white cliffs, crystal lake lands and deep forests, and is renowned for it's rich flora and fauna. This region is a bird lovers paradise and is a migratory route for many species. Northern France is a region of festivities and warmth and is where people are ready to celebrate with parades, carnivals and fun fairs. Monuments and belfries stand with Norman buildings and fortified constructions and this wealth of architectural heritage is enhanced by the region s natural surroundings. Regions/Cities: Picardy - Amiens, Beauvais, Laon. Nord Pas-de-Calais - Lille, Arras. Champagne-Ardenne - Reims, Charleville-Mézières, Chalons-en-Champagne, Troyes, Chaumont. Events April International Kite Festival September La Braderie, Lille, Nord-Pas-de-Calais - Street fair with everything from paintings, antiques and ornaments. October Jazz Festival Planètes, Tourcoing, Nord-Pas-de -Calais - A selection of concerts and international jazz. December Christmas Markets, Arras, Nord-Pas de-calais - A wide selection of arts, crafts and local delicacies. Ault, Picardy Attractions Notre Dame d'amiens, Picardy - 13th century gothic cathedral has a breathtaking nave and a stunning choir, it's a world heritage site. Hortillonages, Amiens, Picardy hectares of market gardens on small island's surrounded by a network of navigable canals. Castle-museum of Boulogne, Nord-Pas-de-Calais - Exhibition of mask, Greek ceramics, Roman sculptures and painting, an Egyptian collection and African art. Olhain Park, Lille, Nord-Pas-de-Calais hectares of national forest, the park provides numerous sports and leisure activities including several pools. Musee d'art Moderne, Lille, Nord-Pas-de-Calais - Get personal with Picasso's as there are no barriers, glass or rope to hold you back. Cathedral of Reims, Champagne-Ardenne - From 987 all but six kings where crowned here, it is a masterpiece of the middle ages. Palace of Tau, Reims, Champagne-Ardenne - Archiepiscopal palace served as the residence of kings during their coronation, where royal banquets took place. Epernay, Champagne-Ardenne - 20,000 hectares of vineyards, 200 million bottles ageing, in 120km of cellars carved out of the chalk soil over hundreds of years. Le Cirque, Chalons-en-Champagne - The old town circus completed in 1899 is the National circus arts centre the only higher education institution des Arts du Cirque in Europe. 16th Century Houses, Troyes, Champagne-Ardenne - Stroll the narrow streets lined with multi story wooden houses, decorated with carvings and sculptures. 12

13 Self Drive Tours around Northern France Champagne of Kings Tour Drive time approximately: 2hours 50mins Start in Reims, where kings were crowned and the German s High Command formally surrendered in WW2. Then head for the heart of Champagne in Epernay on the N51 and take the Route Touristique de Champagne. Travel a short way on the D3 to Chalons-en-Champagne and pass through the Porte Sainte-Croix, as Marie-Antoinette did on her way to marry the King Louis XVI, and visit the old town circus. Take the N77 to the city of Troyes which is shaped like the cork of a Champagne bottle with the body defined by tree-lined Boulevards and the rounded top circled by the river Seine. Reims Cathedral Route of Battlefield to Belfries Drive time approximately: 3hours 25mins Start in Amiens and follow the river Somme to the English channel down D3 to the medieval village of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme. Here you can take a stroll on the boardwalk and visit the beaches that are famous for the bloody battle in WW1. Travel along the coast and take in the spectacular cliffs of Cote d'opale on the D940 to Calais. On a clear day here you can see the white cliffs of Dover. If you re in the mood for some shopping, head to the huge Cite Europe and factory outlet centre. Head along the coast to Dunkerque, where the largest sea evacuation in military history took place. Then travel along the Belgium border on the A25/E42 to Lille, which is the 4th largest city in France and has all the great features of Paris without the crowds and price tag. Historic Buildings in Lille 13

14 Eastern France This region is one of France's best kept secrets and is home to many beautiful buildings, prestigious honours and treasures to discover. Situated at the European crossroads, Eastern France has resulted in a blend of cultural influences. It is a nature lovers paradise and abundant in wildlife, which includes deer, wild boar and mountain goats and migratory birds. The Vosges Mountains is home to huge forests, hilltops and endless vistas. With plenty of navigable waterways, you ll never be short of anything wonderful to see or do. Regions/Cities: Lorraine - Metz, Bar-le-Duc, Nancy, Epinal. Alsace - Strasbourg, Colmar, Mulhouse. Events May Sundays in Meuse, Lorraine - Hundreds of volunteers revive over 19th century trades and crafts at an event like no other. June Feast of St. John, Upper Vosges, Lorraine - Marks the lumberjack festival and bonfire nights at the summer solstice. August Mirabelle Festival, Metz, Lorraine - This festival celebrates the plum that forms the base for many desserts and liqueurs, with concerts, fireworks and the election of a queen. September Spectre Film Festival, Strasbourg, Alsace - Devoted to science fiction, horror and fantasy. December Christmas Market, Strasbourg, Alsace - The oldest in France in it's 431st year and one of the largest Christmas markets. Attractions Verdun Battlefield, Lorraine - Walk through the fortified hills that surround Verdun where a war of attrition took place in WW1 which lead to an enormous loss of life. Global Centre for Peace, Palace of Verdun - The world peace, freedom and human rights Centre is a place of reflection for promoting peace, freedom and human rights. Saint Stephen Cathedral, Metz, Lorraine - Very impressive Gothic cathedral built between 1220 and 1520, with more than 6500m2 of windows, it is the most luminous in France. Metz Flea Market, Lorraine - Everything you could ever want from pottery to antique furniture to fabrics to collectables. Palace Stanislas, Nancy, Lorraine - A square paved in light orchre stones with the harmonicons buildings of City Hall, Opéra-Theatre and the Fine Arts Museum, a World Heritage Listed site. Petite-France, Strasbourg, Alsace - On the 'Grande île, where the river III splits into canals and cascades, running through an enchanting neighbourhood of medieval houses and sandstone buildings. Strasbourg Cathedral, Alsace - With stunning pink sandstone facade and a lengthy show put on by the circa-1800's astrological clock at 12.30pm each day. Maison des Tetes, Colmar, Alsace - Meaning House of the Heads a marvellous Renaissance building decorated with faces, one of the oldest in town. Hotel de Ville, Mulhouse, Alsace - The 16th century town hall is built in a Renaissance style and is known for it's trompe l'oeil (trick of the eye) paintings. Cité de l'automoblie, Mulhouse, Alsace - Home to the Schlumpf Collection of classic automobiles, the largest collection of Bugatti automobiles in the world. Strasbourg 14

15 Self Drive Tours around Eastern France Cultural Fusion Tour Drive time approximately: 2hours 25mins Strasbourg is where France and Germany collide and culture fuse into one. The historic city centre, the 'Grande lle', was the first entire city to become a world heritage site. Head south on the E25 to Colmar, which is a stunningly beautiful and well preserved city. Travel on the A35/E25 to Mulhouse and visit many of it's distinct districts created from the culmination of different Centuries. From there, why not take a scenic drive in the Vosges Mountains on the 'Route des Cretes' and take in it s waterfalls, lakes and forested summits. Start in Cernay, then head back toward Colmar. You could also take the 'Route des Vins' though vineyards, castles, fortifications and convents. This route starts and ends near Strasbourg. Reflection and Art Tour Drive time approximately: 1hours 50mins Colmar Start this tour in the old town of Verdun, which is strategically positioned as it was the pivot of the French front line and was one of France s strongest fortresses in WW1. Take the D603 onto the N3 to Metz. Metz is known as the garden city and is home to over 20 miles of landscaped walks along rivers, canals and ramparts. Head south along the N57, which winds by the Moselle river and passes by Pont-A-Mousson. Continue on to Nancy, an art and architecture centre which sits on the Meurthe and Rhine River as well as Marne Canal. Metz, Lorraine 15

16 Southern France Sharing borders with the Atlantic, Spain, the Med, the French Riviera, Italy and Switzerland, this area is a favourite for driving holidays. The vast countryside includes Europe's largest forest 'Les Landes' and highest peak Mont Blanc, not to mention numerous Unesco World Heritage sites. By the coast you will find rocky inlets, turquoise waters, luxury Riviera resorts, chic cities, fascinating harbours and colourful fishing villages. Discover the Alpes with the largest skiing area in the world and is home to famous resorts, set above discreet little villages nestled in the valleys. Regions/Cities: Aquitaine - Périgueux, St Emilion, Bergerac, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Agen. Midi-Pyrénées - Cahors, Rodez, Montauban, Toulouse, Auch. Languedoc-Roussillon - Mende, Nimes, Monpellier, Carcassonne, Perpignan. Provence-Alpes-Cote d'azur - Gap, Digne, Avignon, Marseille, Toulon. Corsica - Bastia, Ajaccio. Riviera Cote d'azur - Nice. Rhone-Alpes - Lyon, St-Etienne, Valence, Grenoble, Chambery, Annecy. Events February Lemon Festival, Menton, Côte d'azur - Citrus sculptures, moonlight parade and the gardens of light. May Cannes Film Festival, Côte d'azur - World famous film festival. June Valréas Festival, Provence-Alpes-Côte d Azur - Celebrated since 1504 with costumed actors and a torch-lit parade. July Grand Falconer Day, Cordes, Midi-Pyrénées - A major medieval festival. August Feria de Béziers, Languedoc-Roussillon - Bullfighting which attracts a million visitor to the 5 day event. December Fete des lumières, Lyon, Rhone-Alpes - Houses place candles along all their windows and the Place des Terreaux hosts a light show. Attractions Bordeaux, Aquitaine - City devoted to the export of fine wine, with 18th century palaces, wonderful shops, medieval streets and plenty of vineyards. The Caves of the Vézère valley, Aquitanie - Containing a wealth of amazing prehistoric animal paintings up to 20,000 years old. La Roque-Gageac, Aquitaine - A magnificent village built into a golden limestone cliff sitting along side the Dordogne river, with troglodyte caves up above. Pilgrimage to Lourdes, Hautes-Pyrénées - Famous for the Marian apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes said to have occurred in 1858 to Bernadette Soubirous. Carcassonne, Languedoc-Roussillon - The largest medieval city in Europe and is encircled by towers and battlements. African Reserve, Sigean, Languedoc-Roussillon. Calanques of Cassis, Côte-d-Azur - Popular for swimming, snorkelling and rock climbers. The Popes Palace, Avignon, Provence - Built in the 15th Century. Aix-en-Provence - A favourite small city filled with beautiful 18th century fountains, elegant architecture, winding streets and lively markets. Carpentras, Vaucluse - An ancient city who's known history commenced in 5 BC as the capital of the Celtic tribe. Cairns 16

17 Self Drive Tours around Southern France Wines, Castles & Caves Tour Drive time approximately: 4hours 50mins Out of Bordeaux head north east to take the E70/N89 to the World Heritage site of Saint Emillion and visit one of France s principal red wine areas. From here, drive straight onto the D936, which follows the Dordogne river, to Bergerac which is the largest and most important town in the Region. Head west out of town following the river once again and join the D703 that will take you deep into the Perigord, an untouched area famous for its truffles. At Campagne, take the D706 which flows along beside the Vézére River on your way to Montignac to see the prehistoric cave paintings. After your visit, head back down the D704, passing Domaniale Barde Forest, on your way to Sarlat. Take the D704a onto the D703 and join up with the main highway A20/E09 to Cahors which is situated within the Lot river on three sides. It has been Beynac Village, Perigord famous for it's black wine since the middle ages. The French Riviera Drive time approximately: 2hours 50mins Jump on the coastal road from Nice to Antibes, then on to Cannes along the coastal road. From here, take the main highway A8/E80 exit onto the A57 to Toulon then onto the A50 which will take you to one of France s oldest cities, Marseille. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille is the second largest port in Europe. From there, take the E712 to Aix-en-Provence. Take the A8 onto the A7/E714 to Avignon. Cross the Rhone on the N100 then join the A9/E15 to Nimes. The same road will take you to Montpellier. Out of town take the E15 and continue on the E80 to the city of Carcassonne and visit the fortress, which was fully restored in 1853 it is now a World Heritage Site. To finish in Toulouse, take the A61/E80 out. Millau Viaduct 17

18 Western France For many, Western France is the first port of call on a driving holiday. This region is rich in gastronomy as fresh fish, shellfish, duck and dairy produce are in abundance. It is the birth place of many of France s famous cheeses and is home to a sophisticated landscape of manors, castles, neat orchards, stud farms, thatched cottages and tall hedgerows. The drink of choice is cider and Calvados, which is an apple brandy rarely seen outside of France. Take a journey through the western peninsula of Brittany and discover the Celtic history that is shown in the peoples language, customs and dress. Regions/Cities: Basse Normandy - Caen, Saint-Lo, Alencon, Evreux. Haute Normandy - Rouen. Brittany - Rennes, St-Brieuc, Quimper, Vannes. Pays-de-la-Loire - Le Mans, Laval, Angers, Nantes, La-Roche-sur-Yon. Events May Jazz under the apple trees - Festival at Coutances, Normandy. June Puy du Fou, Les Epesses, Pays-de-la-Loire - A historic theme park set in period villages with 800 actors and 50 horseman reacting scenes and battles of the past. July Festival of music - Song and dance in Rennes. August Sea shanty festival, Paimpol, Brittany - Attracts thousands of visitors over 3 days. September Musical September in the Orne, Normandy - Classical music throughout the region. Attractions The D-Day beaches, Normandy - The landing site for the invasion and liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany. Abbaye aux Hommes, Caen, Normandy - A magnificent monastery ordered by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Chateau de Caen, Caen, Normandy - Built in 1066 it is one of the largest medieval fortresses of Western Europe, housing the museums of fine arts and of Normandy. Cider Route, Cambremer, Normandy - Clearly marked and passes from village to village, producer to producer, through narrow lanes in the beautiful countryside. Bayeux Tapestry, Normandy - 70 metres long and one of the oldest complete tapestries in the world that chronicles the conquest of England in Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy - A rocky islet topped by a famous gothic abbey, an architectural masterpiece built in the 13th century, 1 km off the coast. Saint-Malo, Brittany - Walk the ramparts where the view of the Emerald Coast is mind-blowing, it should take two hours. Quimper, Brittany - Take a boat and drift down the prettiest river in France to the open sea at Benodet. Carnac, Brittany prehistoric standing stones dating from the Neolithic Age, the most extensive collection in the world. Mont Saint Michel 18

19 Self Drive Tours around Western France Cathedrals to Conquerors Tour Drive time approximately: 6hours 20mins Start this tour in Rouen, the capital of Haute region. Take the N15 all the way to Le Havre, which is a port for cruise ships and is a World Heritage Site because of the post-war contemporary architecture. Just across the river is the beautiful port of Honfleur, which is characterized by its 7 storey houses and continues to be painted by generations of impressionists who still set their easels on the quay. Continue along the English channel on the D513 to Caen, which is the capital of the Basse region and is famous for its historical buildings which were built during the reign of William the Conqueror. Take the N13/E46 to Bayeux and see the famous Tapestry. Follow the N13 along the coastline to Cherbourg. Then take the D900 and at Périers, change onto the D971 and then onto the D7 to Mont-Saint-Michel, which is one of the most visited attractions in France. Rouen Cathedral Celtic History by the Sea Tour Drive time approximately: 7hours 15mins Start in the walled city of Saint-Malo, whose history extends to beyond Roman times and used to be an island in the middle ages. Cross the river and visit Dinar. Dinar was made famous by the aristocrats who, in the 1830's, left behind 407 mansions in different architectural styles. From Dinar, follow the indented coastline along on the 786 to Paimpol, which is popular for it's port, beaches, markets and cobbled streets. Again follow the coast on the D786 to Morlaix, where you will find overhanging houses which are constructed out of stone and timber and bare religious and secular sculptures on their facades. Head across the peninsula and take the N12 onto the D785 to Quimper. Quimper is the oldest Breton city and is a relaxed place and famous for its hand painted pottery. Take the E60 down the coast to Vannes and visit the prehistoric Carnac. Travel a little further down on the same road and spend some time at Guérande. Finally take the N171 onto the N165 to Nantes. Vannes, Brittany 19

20 France Autumn Travel Guide Bordeaux, France Want to find out more about travelling in France during autumn? This France Autumn Travel Guide will tell you about the best spots to pop a cork, savour delicacies of French gastronomy and learn about French culture! Bordeaux and surroundings Start your drive in the very well-known city of Bordeaux and its provinces. Harvesting kicks off in September so a visit to this fabulous wine region is essential. Bordeaux is on the UNESCO world heritage list and is the world s major wine industry capital. Visit Saint Emilion, Margaux, Pauillac and Medoc which are some of the key wine-producing areas. Before leaving the region, you can also drop into the Arcachon Basin and enjoy stunning views while sampling the famous Arcachon oysters with a fresh glass of white wine. Pyrenees Region Take off south towards the Pyrenees region along the coast or through the countryside. If you drive through the Basque Country, there are wonderful beaches stretching all along the coast around Hossegor, some of which are renowned for being excellent surfing spots. Experience Basque folklore, traditional cooking and spectacular landscapes, that are dotted with little white and red houses. Travel to Saint Jean de Luz. Close to Spain, Saint Jean de Luz is home of the Pintxos, which is the Basque name for Tapas and will leave you wanting more! Chili of Espelette, Basque Country If you make your way direct to Toulouse from Bordeaux, be sure to travel on the countryside roads and discover the hospitality of the locals in this area. Stop by Castelnaudary and try the famous Cassoulet, which is a traditional French dish. 20

21 Toulouse and Eastwards Due to its brick architecture which looks pink in the sunlight, Toulouse is known as the Pink City. Here you will find some of the best value for money restaurants so be sure to try the confit de canard and the famous foie gras. If you are there between 4 th and 28 th of September, check out the Piano aux Jacobins, a festival devoted to classical piano music, which features numerous concerts in the atmospheric Jacobins cloister. Continue east to Montpellier and Avignon and pass by the ancient walled city of Carcassonne. Avignon is another historic site and is known as the City of Popes. This ancient city is full of history and perfect for strolling down the arrow streets inside the fortified walls. Avignon is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Old bridge, Toulouse Lyon and a Southern Turn French wine Before moving on to Lyon, you may wish to travel further east or south. The city of Nice and its surroundings offer local Provencal markets. This could also be the opportunity to step into Italy and experience the Italian culture, wines and gastronomy! Drive north to Lyon and the Rhone region. In Lyon, gastronomy is considered an art and this savoir-faire is largely due to mothers and raw materials. They have the greatest range of produce on their doorstep, with the widest selection of charcuterie including Charolais Beef, Poulet de Bresse, the fattest snails or the most succulent sausages! Lyon is definitely a must go for gastronomy lovers! Carry on driving up north to explore the amazing wines from Burgundy. Don t miss the little town of Beaune, which is a popular and friendly place to stay. This is also a fantastic base to explore the entire vineyard. In September and October, Jazz a Beaune Festival celebrates two great French passions, the local Burgundy wines and jazz music. Also on offer are classes on wine tasting and the jazz masters. 21

22 White Wine in the North Continue upper northeast to the Alsace region and the fantastic city of Strasbourg. Alsace produces almost exclusively white wines, many of which aren't produced anywhere else in France, and are known for their clean, fresh taste and compatibility with the often heavy but tasty local cuisine. If you want to visit more of Europe, then Germany and Switzerland are just next door! Otherwise, on your way back to Paris, be sure to pass by Reims and the Champagne region. Vine route, Alsace Eiffel Tower, Paris The Capital and a last loop to the French Castles Paris is home to world-renowned monuments, museums, visual arts, music, dance, theatre and cinema. Walk the streets, stop by a tea house or shop in the multitude of French designer boutiques. There is so much to see and do in this vibrant capital! By now you should have no problems playing the wine connoisseur in the sensational restaurants you will encounter! Paris boasts a wide assortment of fine cuisine in restaurants and eateries. The last stage is to experience a complete French wine and culture tour; spend a few days in the Loire Valley, which is about an hour south from Paris. Discover a part of French History and be overwhelmed by the beauty of amazing Castles such as Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Chenonceau or Chateau de Blois, all while sipping white wines from the region. 22

23 Chatel, French Alps Climate & Weather Such a diverse landscape brings differing climatic conditions and weather patterns. Western areas of France have a cool climate, with minimum of 4ºC and maximum of 18ºC and moderate rainfall through-out the year. Brittany has more frequent rain as it juts out into the Atlantic, but it's not always the case. The lateral mid section of France is drier particularly in the summer months as is on the eastern side but with colder winters (min 2ºC) and hotter summers (max 20ºC). The south coast avoids the colder winters with a minimum of 7ºC, due to the warming effect of The Mediterranean sea and has hot summers. Be aware of the three famous winds in the east and south-east, la Bise is a dry east wind which joins le Mistral in central Provence and Le Tramontane which blows over the Massif Central. All the mountains have an alpine climate being cold with plenty of rain and heavy snow in the winter. Language & Useful Phrases French is the official language spoken in France, while dialects are spoken in different regions. Basque is commonly spoken in the southwest, and Breton is spoken by some in Brittany. Most people can speak a little English, particularly in the main cities and tourist centres. You will find that if you try to speak some French, even if it s poorly, the locals will appreciate your efforts and respond in kind. Here are some common phrases that may help: Montpellier Hello: Bonjour My name is: Salut, Je m appelle... How are you?: Ca Va? Nice to meet you: Enchante Please: S il vous plait Yes: Oui No: Non Goodbye: Au revoir Thankyou: Merci I am lost. Where is Je suis perdu. Où se trouve the bathroom: la salle de bain? the hotel: l hotel the restaurant: le restaurant the airport l aeroport 23

24 Stay Healthy The French health care system is one of the best in the world and the level of care in hospitals is of a very high quality. All hospitals have an emergency room that is open 24 hours a day. You will need to pay for your health care and contact your private insurance for reimbursement. In the event of hospitalisation check with your insurer. Physicians and pharmacies are on call, but please be aware that home visits and consultations on Sundays and public holidays are always more expensive. If you need to see a doctor or go to a hospital, you will be given a signed 'feuille de soins' (a statement of the treatment carried out) and possibly an ordonnance (a prescription) so keep them in order to claim. To find a doctor ask a local, enquire at a chemist, police station or call 15. There is a wide network of pharmacies and one is always open, if the one you are at is not it will display the address of the nearest one that is. Stay Safe Statistically one of the safest countries in Europe, France is not dangerous and has a low crime rate. Pick-pocketing is the most prevalent crime affecting tourists so be vigilant with you personal effects, especially in crowded places such as trains, metro stations and popular tourist areas. Never leave your bags unattended, not only do you risk theft but they may be considered a security threat. Late at night, especially when travelling alone, avoid areas around metro stations or when the streets appear less crowded. Keep a low profile by not wearing highly visible jewellery or clothing that identify you as a member of a religious or political movement. The Gendarmerie is a military institution in charge of public safety with police duties, they work with the police to enforce the law. Money Matters Currency The Euro is the local currency of France. EURO ( ) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. Currency Exchange The best places to change cash in France is either at banks or post offices, where they offer the best rates of exchange. You can also exchange cash at the airport or Bureau de Change however the exchange rates may be more expensive. Banking Hours: Banks are open in France from Monday to Saturday 9.00am-12.00pm and 2pm pm. ATMs ATM s are readily available throughout France, and are available in cities and small towns across France. Look for the ATMs that show the Cirrus of Bankmate and the PLUS symbols as these will accept foreign debit cards. Credit Cards Major credit cards are widely accepted across France, particularly Amex, Visa, Diners and Mastercard and can be used for most purchases, in hotels and restaurants. Traveller s Cheques Traveller s cheques are still used in France, however they re being out-dated by credit and debit cards. It s a good idea to have cheques made in large denominations to reduce commission charges. You may need a form of photo identification to cash traveller s cheques. Tax Sales tax is called VAT which stands for Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée (Tax on Value Added) which is set to 19.6% applicable to most goods and services or 5.5% applicable to some goods and services Tipping Restaurants in France directly include a 15 percent service charge in your bill, it is required by law as tips are assessed for taxation. Clearly itemized are the words 'service compris' (tip included) that will appear on your bill. The prices on the menu include tax and tip. However if you wish to show your appreciation to your particular waiter feel free to do so. Taxi drivers don t get paid much and work hard so 5-10% of your fare is generous. It is customary to tip usherettes at the Opera house (a couple of euros) and at the theatres. One euro per bag is enough for your porter. If you take a guided tour at a museum you might leave one or two euros. 24

25 Peugeot Open Europe If you re planning to travel through Europe for an extended period of time, consider leasing a brand new, tax free Peugeot. Ideal for travel periods of between 21 days 175 days, Peugeot Leasing can often work out cheaper than renting a car for longer durations. Choose from a vast range of Peugeot Vehicles which come with a full factory warranty, unlimited kilometres, 24 Hour Peugeot Roadside Assistance, full vehicle insurance and with no excess. Collection and delivery is free from locations within France. The Benefits of Peugeot Leasing The Peugeot is fully insured with no insurance excess payable in the event of an accident or theft. A brand new Peugeot car and model is guaranteed, unlike car hire where it is "or similar". The fleet is predominately Diesel models so you'll save on fuel costs as diesel is cheaper than petrol. Travel is permitted in to most countries in Europe including Eastern Europe. The paperwork is completed in Australia so time is spared when you arrive at the collection point. Locations Avignon TGV Lyon Airport Paris City (Courbevoie) Basel-Mulhouse Airport Marseille Airport Pau Airport & City Biarritz Airport Montpellier Airport Perpignan Airport Bordeaux Airport Nancy (Laxou) City Rennes Airport & TGV Brest Airport & City (Gouesnou) Nantes Airport Strasbourg Airport Calais Ferry Terminal Nice Airport Toulouse Airport Clermont-Ferrand Airport Geneva Airport & City Nimes City Paris Aiport (Orly & Roissy CDG) Millau Viaduct 25

26 DriveAway Holidays The Self drive Specialists DriveAway Holidays are Australia s leaders in self drive holidays. Established over 25 years ago, we offer more than 60 self drive suppliers at over 8,000 global locations. We boast an extensive choice of world-wide car hire, luxury and budget motorhome rentals, Peugeot Leasing in Europe and motorcycle rentals in USA & Canada. Our expertise brings you highly competitive prices, alongside outstanding customer service and efficiency. Booking is easy! Once you have planned your self drive itinerary and are ready to book, simply visit or click on one of the links below: Book Car Hire in France Book Motorhome Rental in France Book Peugeot Leasing Alternatively call our dedicated Reservations Team on or visit your local travel agent. We look forward to hearing from you! DriveAway Holidays hopes that you find the information in this guide helpful for your self drive holiday in France. The touring information has been created to be used as a guide only. All information shown is correct at the time of publication. DriveAway Holidays - all rights reserved. Updated: May