WATERSPORTS

With nearly 2000 miles of coastline, France offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports. This coastline extends from the English Channel, winds northwards to the French Riviera, and stretches to the Mediterranean to the south. This is dotted with beach resorts that are fully equipped with water sports facilities. Why not go swimming, or try the snorkeling and diving in Porquerolles and Corsica. But if you want to try your hand at sailing, the beaches near the English Channel are best. Biarritz., on the other hand, is favored by urfing enthusiasts.

CANAL CRUISES

There are about 5313 miles of rivers and canals that wind across France. You can rent a house boat to tour the country through these waters: cruceros. For example, you can take the Lorient–Redon route, or take a wine tour through the Burgunday Canal. If you go to private operators they can help you secure the needed permits. The boats can also accommodate big groups of up to a dozen people.

FISHING

France is also a wonderful fishing destination, with the waters of Brittany rich with trout and salmon, while the Midi Pyrenees is renowned for its fario trout. You can also fish at the lakes of Franche-Comte or the coasts along the Atlantic. You’ll find a wide array of lobster, shrimps, mussels, crabs, crayfish. If you want to go deep sea fishing, head for the Cote d’Azur. Get river fishing permits from the city halls.

HIKING

France has several picturesque trails that stretch for several thousands of miles. They are called Sentiers de Grande Randonnee and you can find them marked on the maps with a white and red logo (GR). Along the routes you can find gites and mountain refuges, which offer very affordable and comfortable rooms.

CYCLING

Bicycle riding is heavily promoted in France. The country has nearly 20,000 miles of cycling paths which are clearly marked. You can rent bikes from tourist offices and at the railway stations. You can also find pistes cyclables (cycling paths) along the Atlantic coast, all the way down to the Spanish border.

HORSEBACK RIDING

Go to Camaregue where you can enjoy horseback riding in Camargue, one of France’s favorite destinations. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced rider, since you will get much assistance, and the sandy beaches make for easy riding. You can hire horses from the stables.

GOLF

Choose from over 200 gold courses, or go on one of the many themed golf holidays. These let you try your favorite sport at different courses around the country while seeing the sights.