There's so much to discover in France, from the unspoilt scenery of sun-ripened grapevines and walnut orchards of the Lot Valley to the style and sophistication of the French Riviera, with its glamorous resorts, enticing blue seas and world-famous film festival.

In between, there's the pretty seaside resorts of the Normandy Riviera – Honfleur, Deauville and Trouville – and medieval Breton towns such as Quimper, with its half-timbered houses, and where you can sample its famous crêpes,washed down with refreshing local cider. Or savour the atmosphere of the colourful working harbour at Concarneau, with its famous early morning fish auction, or the picturesque fishing village of Cancale, where you can sample a few oysters at one of the many seafood stalls.

For a tour with a difference and a taste of the true essence of France, travel coast to coast: from La Rochelle, through the old sandstone town of Bergerac, and the ancient fairytale walled city of Carcassonne, with its collection of drawbridges, towers and atmospheric cobbled streets. Continuing on through the lively town of Montpellier, the beautiful towns of Agde and Sète, where the waterways through the town are lined by tall, terraced houses and seafood restaurants. Then ending with the picturesque medieval town of Aigues-Mortes, and impressive Roman city of Nimes and with its half-timbered houses and gothic churches.

You'll never forget a visit to the Abbey of Mont St Michel, rising magnificently on its rocky isle, surrounded by waves. Or combine a trip to one of the many majestic chateaux of the Loire Valley with a visit to a wine cellar for a tasting of Vouvray wines, or the famous orange liqueur at the Cointreau Museum in Angers.

We haven't even mentioned Paris yet, where shopaholics can browse the department stores of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, whilst culture vultures can get their fix at museums and galleries from the historic Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, to the contemporary Pompidou Centre. Then take in all the famous sights in one fell swoop on a leisurely cruise down the Seine by Bateau Mouche, with iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, the bohemian Sacré-Coeur, and the bombastic Arc de Triomphe.

Whether it's romance or relaxation you're after, France has it all.