France

Here are our Top Hotel & Restaurant Recommendations in Biarritz, as prepared by intern Mathieu.

Hotels

La Maison du Lierre

La Maison du Lierre is a 3-star mansion of the 18th century in Biarritz. The hotel name refers to the Lierre on the terrace. Located near the public park of Biarritz, La Maison du Lierre is an authentic and cocooning atmospheric place to rest. Rooms are cosy and the bedding is comfortable.

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of La Maison du Lierre by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

“Excellent value for money centrally located 3-star hotel in Biarritz near all the attractions, shopping, bars, restaurants and the beach. Very beautiful exterior with simple and elegant patio and garden, inviting Reception and communal areas. The hotel seems to be in excellent condition and is well maintained. Lots of original features; the staircase in particular is noteworthy. Rigid check in times as the Reception is only open between 3.30pm and 8.30pm. Room was on the top floor with a lift. Shower was excellent and (free) Wi-Fi signal was also strong. Breakfast was typical French continental with good orange juice, pastries, fruit and cold cuts etc. but the coffee was very poor. Recommended - a great value 3 star”.

Restaurants

Bar Jean

Bar Jean is an institution in the west coast of Biarritz. Located in the Halles of the city, this bar is a meeting for locals to relax especially outdoors on a sunny day, drinking a glass of wine, with tapas for instance. Enjoy a mix between local high quality products and a Spanish warming atmosphere to while away the hours or as the French say "faire perdurer le temps" (literally: "when you are having a great time doing something and you don't want it to end").

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of Bar Jean by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

I arrived at Bar Jean around 6.30pm, sat in the sunshine, ordered a glass of Rueda and some tapas. Within an hour the entire area had transformed; the restaurant staff were run off their feet, the crowds spilled out onto the street and a festival atmosphere ensued...it was quite a spectacle. Interestingly, the excellent servers appeared to be used to this and were well prepared. I ordered a main course of shrimp a la plancha and side salad...it arrived promptly and was one of my best meals in the past few months; enormous succulent shrimp perfectly cooked and full of flavour. What struck me most however was the friendly, charming server; he couldn't have been more than 18 years of age yet he managed his section of the restaurant with aplomb - he seemed to know everyone, and was so charming and efficient that he always had a word, a smile, a greeting for everyone; at one point I saw him clear a table while taking an order and return change to a couple who were leaving all within a 30 second window and he still managed to greet 2 new arrivals while bussing the plates back to the kitchen. His enthusiasm was infectious and he perfectly exemplified the atmosphere of this wonderful establishment

Puig & Daro

In the heart of Biarritz, the wine bar Puig & Daro is a welcoming spot to try tapas, authentic dishes, cocktails and obviously offers you a selection of excellent wine. Pintxos are gorgeous.

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of Puig & Daro by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

«Puig et Daro is a must for those of you who want to experience authentic Basque style pintxos with a contemporary twist. Simply one of the better options in town the pinxos on display here are a feast of the eyes as well as the palate. A fine selection of wines to choose from also - the Txakoli dry white wine makes for a wonderful pairing with most of what is on offer. The streetside terrace is a fantastic place to people watch on Gambetta.Excellent, friendly service and superb value for money».

Marseille is a very beautiful and dynamic place. Located close to the Mediterranean Sea, it’s the oldest French City, which was founded by Greek Sailors around 600 B.C.

Hotels

Intercontinental Hôtel Dieu

This fabulous 5 star Hotel is simply the best Hotel in Marseille. In front of the Basilica “Notre-Dame de la Garde”, you will have a wonderful view of Marseille. This amazing place will offer you an unbelievable peaceful sanctuary despite being right in the thick of the frenetic atmosphere of Marseille.  Its a great idea to request a room with a balcony from which to observe the city by night.

  

Restaurants

L'épuisette

To enjoy a gastronomic dinner in one of the best restaurants in Marseille look no further than the “Landing Net”. Located on the “Vallon des Auffes” rock, this gastronomic restaurant allows for the savouring of refined local dishes whilst enjoying a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. The Cesar menu is a best enjoyed with a crisp white wine - the list here features whites predominately which is unusual for this part of France.

Attractions

Marseille Old Port

The Old Port is the heart of Marseille. Between restaurants, bars, street shows, boats and local souvenir shops, the Port of Marseille is an unavoidable place that promises an enjoyable seaside stroll. 

Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde

The Basilica “Notre-Dame de la Garde” is a must-visit site in Marseille. Located at the top of a hill, the Basilica offers an extraordinary view of the city and it’s a perfect place to take pictures. Marseille's locals call the Basilica "La Bonne Mère" (the good mother) because it takes care of the city and its sailors and fishermen below.

Les Calanques de Marseille

Marseille’s Calanques* are one of France’s areas of greatest natural beauty. The sea has forged it for more than one hundred million years! Enjoy a stunning stroll along the rocks. (*A “calanque” is a steep-sided valley formed within karstic regions either by fluvial erosion or the collapse of the roof of a cave that has been subsequently partially submerged by a rise in sea level.).  Scuba dive enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Cosquer cave. This stunning underwater cavern was once inhabited by prehistoric man before it was flooded. 

Here are our Top Hotel & Restaurant Recommendations for Lyon, as prepared by intern Mathieu.

Lyon is a elegant city, easily reached as a pre or post destination from your Fresh Eire Adventure in either Provence or Burgundy.  Lyon is very well known for its gastronomic restaurants and for it's festival of lights ("La fête des Lumières") which attracts almost 3 million visitors every year during December.

Hotels

Villa Florentine

The Villa Florentine is a fabulous, welcoming 5-star hotel ideally located on the heights of the city to enjoy a breathtaking view of Lyon. It's highly regarded gastronomic restaurant, Les Terrasses de Lyon, offers a wonderful menu mainly composed of regional products.

Restaurants

La Mère Brazier

La Mère Brazier restaurant is an institution in Lyon. Since 1921, this historic establishment welcomes you to discover their wonderful and refined cuisine. With its Michelin 2-star award since 2008, Mathieu Viannay will astound you and perhaps make for the gastronomic highlight of your trip to France.  Advance reservations are necessary.  

Attractions

Le Vieux Lyon/La Croix Rousse

The historical neighborhood Le Vieux Lyon is umissable - it's diverse restaurants, bars and shops are fantastic. You will appreciate its Renaissance architecture. One of the attractions in Lyon, is The Traboules - pedestrian crossings through building courtyards which allow you to go from one street to another one.

The neighborhood La Croix Rousse is really famous because of its history and influence in the silk industry. It’s divided into hills atop the city where you can find "Bouchon Lyonnais" a typical, atmospheric and authentic restaurant of the city, and a myriad of design shops. 

La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

The Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière was built in 12 years between 1872 and 1884. It's position on the heights allows you to admire the entire City of Lights, Lyon. You can go there by foot, or by funicular.

Parc de la Tête D’Or

The elegant garden of Le Parc de la Tête d’Or, located in the heart of the city, is one of the biggest in the country.  Comprising over 105 Hectares it combines many features such as an English Park, Rose Garden and even Zoological and Botanical gardens.

Hotels

Hôtel Les Hautes Roches

Located 4 kms from the city centre of Tours, the Hotel Les Hautes Roches (a 4 star hotel built in Troglodyte fashion into the mountainside) is our top recommendation for your stay in Tours following your Loire Valley bike trip with us. Enjoy a local bottle of sparkling "Crémant de Loire" from nearby Vouvray while sitting in the garden overlooking the mighty Loire fleuve*.

*A fleuve is a large arm of water which directly finishes in the sea. It's generally formed by the gathering of rivers.

Hôtel du Manoir

Located in the heart of the city, close to the train station and Da Vinci congress, this excellent 2 Star hotel is clearly punching above its weight. The Hotel offers a complete buffet service for breakfast that starts at 7.00am. Although basic and quite dated the rooms are clean, luminous and quiet to ensure an excellent night for you.

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of The Manor Hotel by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures

‘’Not at all a fancy place by any stretch of the imagination but this is a clean, well-run charming hotel in a charming location which offers exceptional value for money. Our Receptionist was very helpful. I pass through Tours all the time and will stay here again and would have no hesitation in recommending it to clients who are looking for a basic hotel at a good price.’’

Restaurants

Restaurant La Deuvalière

To enjoy a gastronomic dinner in the best restaurant in Tours look no further than The Deuvalière. Here you will experience wonderful, refined dishes in a modern renaissance decor inspired by the XVI century.

Attractions

Tours Botanical Garden

Tours Botanical Garden is a fantastic place offering a large range of gardens. You can find the Arboretum, the thematic gardens (the evolution garden, the biodiversity garden, the perennial plants garden, the medicinal plants garden) and also an animal space. For the botanists among you this is a must visit especially to compliment your chateaux garden visits on your Loire Valley Bike trip.

Tours Opera

The Opera house is a stunning 19th century building right in the city centre and is worthy of a visit - even if you are not a fan of the Opera! You will appreciate a show in a spectacular setting. The architecture is inspired by the Italian influence.

La Cave se Rebelle

The Rebellious Wine Cellar will be delighted to welcome you in their astounding wine-vault. It lists more than 120 bottles among which are over 40 foreign wines. This is an unmissable visit for the wine lovers out there.

Here are our Top Hotel & Restaurant Recommendations in Dijon, as prepared by intern Mathieu.

Hotels

Grand Hôtel La Cloche Dijon

The Grand Hôtel La Cloche is a charming, welcoming 5-star 19th century hotel. It's restaurant, Les Jardins by La Cloche, offers a gastronomic menu while their luxurious spa is a city paradise in which to relax. The hotel offers you a vineyard tour to those who wish to know more about the region's wine.

Restaurants

Restaurant Stéphane Derbord

Stéphane Derbord's Michelin star gastronomic restaurant in the city center offers creative Burgundian cuisine. Affordable for a gastronomic restaurant, this is a real opportunity to experience the finest gastronomy in a relaxed atmosphere.

Attractions

Les Halles de Dijon

Come and visit the Halles of Dijon to let you know about Burgundian speciality products, like snail, mustard, gingerbread or truffle. You can spend time meeting local producers every day (exept Sunday and Monday) to learn about the jewel of Burgundian food.

Parcours de la Chouette (The Owls trail)

The Owls trail is a fantastic way to spend time in the city and allows you to discover it step by step. With its 22 stage trail, you will go back in time, learning more about the history. It is possible to complete the trail in an hour, but I suggest that you make a day of it and explore thoroughly the town's terraces, shops and museums.

La Moutarderie

Mustard is centre stage in Dijon's history and is the source of the city’s prosperity. To visit the Moutarderie you go back in time and understand mustard evolution and associated cultural aspects.

Here are our top places to visit with recommendations for Paris.

Hotels

Hotel California

The California Hotel is four stars and it is located at five minutes of the Champs-Elysées street. There is a fantastic bar and a wonderful restaurant but more than anything it's the wonderful service here which has guests returning year after year.

La Maison de Champs Élysées (hotel)

So we all know that Paris is synonymous with Style. It's one of the undisputed centres of the fasion industry, and has a fine art pedigree that can be challenged by very few other cities, with its old world European grandeur, matched only by its stylish urban modernity. The La Maison de Champs Élysées is, as the name suggests, positioned right off the most famous boulevard in the city, not to mention the world. It's part of Paris's 'Golden Triangle' and as such, it fits into the strict and very beautiful 19th century architectural rules set down by Napoleon. Yet, once you step inside, modern Paris hits you right between the eyes. After all, it was recently remodelled by none other than the darling of the Fasion world Martin Margiela (his first interior project). It is playful, whimsical, quirky and sophisticated - deconstructing standard proportions with beautiful lashings of monochrome and design features throughout the property. With just 57 intimate rooms and attentive, polished service it is a fitting tribute to what was once the home of the Duchess of Rivoli

Restaurants

The Pur' - Jean-François Rouqette

The Pur’ – Jean-François Rouqette is a 1 Michelin star restaurant in Paris. Various menus are possible with fish or meat. It is located ten minutes from the Champs-Elysées and, if you stay at my recommended hotel, ten minutes by bicycle. Why not try rent a Velib (free city bike) on the way there to beat the traffic and look like a local!

Attractions

Château de Versailles (Versailles Castle)

It’s the second most visited attraction in France. Located several kilometres from the city centre and accessible by RER train, it was the home of the French King. It's gardens are a must see, but it is the Hall of Mirrors which is my favourite. It was to here that the insurgents marched from the centre of Paris to demand the head of Marie-Antoinette; bring your own cake!

La Tour Eiffel (The Eiffel Tower)

It’s the third most visited attraction in France. It’s a instantly recognisable symbol of France throughout the world. From there you can enjoy “le champ de Mars” garden and if you ascend to the top you can have a fabulous view of Paris - try to get there early to beat the lines!

Le Musée de Picasso (Picasso Museum)

The Picasso Museum was closed for over eight years for significant renovations. It reopened in 2016 and the result of the renovations, despite the politics involved in such a project, have produced phenomenal results. You will walk amongst many of Picasso's most famous signature pieces and periods. Very highly recommended! I suggest advance purchase of tickets because demand is very high.

Le Musée de la Légion d'Honneur et des Ordres de la Chevalerie (The Museum of the Legion of Honor and the Orders of Chivalry)

In front of the Orsay Museum, just behind the RER Station, you can go to the "Musée de la Légion d'Honneur et des Ordres de la Chevalerie". There you'll find a huge collection of medals from many differents countries and a permanent exibition about the Legion of Honour, the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits (also accessible to foreigners). You should check if one of your ancestors were suitably honoured on the register of the museum.   The museum is free off charge.  This is a wonderful, little-visited museum and is a must for anyone interested in WW1 or WW2 history.

Hotels

Hôtel d'Europe

What could be a better way to recuperate after a long biking tour than relax in a 5 star hotel in the centre of Avignon? The Europe Hotel offers comfort, relaxation and pleasure located just inside the city walls on the banks of the river Rhône.

Wine Cellar Chez Marie

Marie’s Place is my favourite Avignon Wine Bar where the lovers of wines can share an amazing moment in an atmosphere of Parisian Cabaret.  On a summers day there os nothing better than a chilled Tavel rose - you'll ride through Tavel on your first day of your bike tour.  Try a cheese like a St Marcellin or a Alpine Reblochon for something a little different.

Restaurants

Restaurant les 5 sens

This is simply the most prestigious restaurant in Avignon, overseen by Chef Thierry Baucher and his wife Christelle, and has been awarded a "Meilleur Ouvrier de France" - one of France's top restaurant accolades.   Located in the City Center, The 5 Senses Restaurant offers delicious tasty menus with a Southern Provençale inspiration. It will be an unforgettable gastronomic moment to enjoy before or after your Fresh Eire Adventures trip.

Attractions

Palais des Papes

The Popes Palace in Avignon is the largest Middle Aged Gothic construction in the world.  This was used as the principal papal residence during the fourteenth century and is the cooperative work of some of the most brilliant arhchitects of the day; Jean de Louvres, Raymond Guitbaud, Pierre Obreri and Pierre Poisson.

Island de la Barthelasse

The Barthelasse Island, a sand spit on the Rhone, is a perfect place to have a short stroll away from the frenetic energy of the city centre yet is only a 3 minute walk across the bridge from Place Crillon.  The island is one of the largest European fluvial islands and the largest in France. It will afford you an amazing panoramic view of the Avignon Bridge, the Doms Roc and the Popes Palace.

Here are our Top Hotel & Restaurant Recommendations in Bordeaux, as prepared by intern Mathieu.

Hotels

Hôtel de Sèze

The Hôtel de Sèze is a delightful, welcoming 4-star 18th century hotel. The hotel is located in the city center near the Place de la Comédie. They offer elegant rooms to create intimate, cosy and chic ambience. You will have the opportunity to take advantage of the spa and their restaurant.

Mama Shelter

Next to Saint-André Cathedral, Mama Shelter is a modern and trendy 2-star hotel. The interior is young even pop. You will enjoy the restaurant and the bar in the same place, with a varied menu and a beautiful wine selection.

La Boutique

La Boutique Hotel is a 4-star establishment near the “Grand theatre” of Bordeaux, Place de la Comédie. Rooms are modern and cosy; you can select rooms with Jacuzzi to enjoy a relaxing night. This hotel is also prestigious because of its wine bar which allows you to discover some wonderful bottles of wine with sommelier’s advice.

Hotel de France

Ideally located in Grands Hommes neighbourhood near the church Notre Dame, the 2-star Hotel de France is an affordable option which ticks all the boxes.

Hotel Gambetta

As the Hotel de France, the 2-star Hotel Gambetta, is also close to the church Notre Dame. However, you will find contemporary rooms in the Gambetta hotel. Affordable, this place is ideally situated to visit all cultural monuments of the city.

Here’s a the review from TripAdvisor of the Gambetta Hotel by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

"This is a wonderful tourist hotel ideally located close to all the main attractions in the city centre near some fantastic public spaces and buzzing bars, cafes and restaurants. While it is by no means a luxurious proposition, it is clean and well-run and represents very good value for quite an expensive town. Unpretentious and basic. Bed was comfortable and room was larger than expected but it overlooked a derelict building to the rear which attracted a lot of pigeons so I couldn't keep my windows open...no big deal. Bathroom was basic but clean and toiletries reflect the budget price point. I didn't take breakfast so I can't comment on this. Wi-Fi was good enough. Staff were very helpful especially upon departure; they advised me to take the regular bus (1.50 euro and not the 8 euro Airport shuttle bus) from Place Gambetta instead of a taxi (45 euro). The bus runs four times an hour from 5.30am and is very prompt with a journey time of less than 40 minutes. One of the night receptionists, a young enough guy in his 20s, recommended that I visit a local wine bar, L' Autre Petit Bois; this was an unmissable experience (which I would have missed had I not asked for a recommendation!).  I was very pleased with this hotel, a fine stay."

Restaurants

Le Pressoir d’Argent

Le Pressoir d’Argent will be delighted to welcome you to their Michelin 1-star gastronomic restaurant in the Place de la Comédie. Infamous Chef Gordon Ramsay uses mainly regional products. His creative food will surprise and astound you.

L’autre Petit Bois

L’autre Petit bois is a renowned wine bar is located in the Parliament Square. Bordeaux is very well known for it's powerful and amazing wine culture. Decorated with a Baroque style on two floors with doors which open out onto the Square. On a sunny day you can enjoy your wine on the pavement seating area and watch the world go by.

Attractions

The wine city (La Cité du vin)

With its amazing structure near the Garonne, La Cité du Vin museum will astound you with the history of Bordeaux wine. As everybody knows, this city is the wine capital of the world, so it makes for an interesting visit. No doubt, professionals, amateurs and even tee-totalers, will enjoy such a visit.

Water mirror (Le miroir d’eau)

The water mirror is located between  Louis XVIII and Quai de la Douane, in Place de la Bourse. It’s a new attraction for citizens and tourists. The pool combines artificial misting and miror effects. Opened in 2006, many people gather here, from children to parents, to enjoy cool water mists in summer but you'd need to be courageous during the rest of the year.

   

 The Cliffs of Kerroc'h

The magnificence and the height of the Kerroch’ Cliffs will astound you! Formed after many years of wave crashing upon the coast, the Kerroch’ Cliffs will allow you to have an amazing view of the ocean and you will feel Poseidon’s Power.

Creperie Le Chant du Rozell

What could be a better than tasty Crepes (either salty or sweet) to recover from your experience? The Rozell Song’s Creperie its waiting for you! Accompanied with a local delicious bottle of Cider, this lunch will be an amazing authentic Breton mating.  You should try the Crêpe Complète; eggs, ham, cheese and provençale herbs.

The Locked Castle

For the longest time, the Locked Castle dominates the coast of Guidel. Surronded by the water, in front of the Atlantic Ocean, the Locked Castle, along with the waves and the beach will offer you a vista you won’t forget in a hurry.  This is a favourite haunt of brave surfers.

Shamrock

At the end of a long day, in Lorient City Center, you will find the most atmospheric Breton Bar and Restaurant, is actually an Irish Bar! Here you will find lot of examples of Breton culture which has much in common with Irish culture. Tonight you can dine on local “moules frites” (mussels with french fries) or any of the other delicious specialties of the house.

Groix Island

At few kilometers form the Kerroch or Guidel’s coast, l’île de Groix is a fantastic and beautiful island!  Easily accesible by a public boat, it’s a perfect day trip. You will find restaurants, beaches, bars as well as spectacular scenery. For some extra miles either before or after your Fresh Eire Adventure the island of Groix offers a superb loop ride (40kms) following the coast.  The Plages des Sables Blancs (White Sand Beach) is worth a visit.

My name is Tony and I am 20 years of age.  This is my first time in Ireland and I am excited to be with Fresh Eire Adventures on an internship programme. I completed an Economics and Social Baccalaureat in Lorient and afterwards I attended an International Business School preparation course in Quimper.  Currently I am in International Business School in La Rochelle, France. I am a student of Business and Marketing.

I grew-up around Kerroch, Guidel, Groix, Ploemeur and Lorient in Brittany. I have visited many places in France and I am delighted to share with you my top tips to have an amazing extension either before or after your Fresh Eire Adventure in Brittany & Normandy.

Le marché des Lices

The market of lices is the second largest food market in the country. Open every Saturday morning from 8am you can spend time perusing the various food stalls meeting many local producers of everything from cheese to fish, meat to vegetables. This may be one of the best ways to start a day in Rennes.

La crêperie Saint-Georges

After a great morning in the market, it will be time to take lunch and you must consider a table at The Saint-Georges Crepery. You will definitely fall in love with this traditional food especially when accompanied by a bottle of local apple cider. This modern space is not only a restaurant but a meeting place for the citizens of Rennes to gather.

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of La Creperie Saint Georges by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

“I was a little non-plussed walking around Rennes the other evening looking for something authentic with an original twist. Crepes crepes crepes. As time was pushing on I spotted this place with an interesting menu - its plates were all named after one famous George or another...Reluctantly I took a seat and a menu and hoped for the best. I first of all went to their weine by the glass section - I was very pleasantly surprised to see a St Emiilion (a Saint Georges of course) and quickly ordered that. For my main course I had a buckwheat galette, the Georges Moustaki; a wonder of sliced baby potatoes fried with onion and melted Epoisses (I think?). Truly superb. Service was efficient if somewhat unfriendly. I had to go inside to pay the bill. The street side terrace where I ate was full while the interior was less so. Very reasonable at €19.90 total. Highly recommended”.

L’Abri du Marché

L’Abri du Marché is an authentic restaurant in the city center of Rennes next to Place des Lices to taste delicious Mussels and Galettes.

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of L’abri du Marché restaurant by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

“This atmospheric and very authentically styled Breton restaurant serves (like many of the places in the neighbourhood) staples like Galettes and Mussels. I opted for the mussels in a curry sauce (€9.60) with a side salad (€2.50) and a 50cl pichet of house red (Bordeaux; €5.10). Everything was excellent; service was friendly and helpful. For dessert I attempted (somewhat successfully) to have the server ask the kitchen to prepare a banoffee crepe (with banana, caramel sale and vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate)....close but no cigar. Top marks for trying to make a special request not on the menu however! Lots of groups of friends on the other tables...bathrooms were good. Excellent and very enjoyable. Highly recommended".

L’Epi de Blé

Located in front of the train station, L’Epi de Blé, simple but traditional, offers you a typical Breton cuisine with high quality products.

Here’s a review from TripAdvisor of L’Epi de Blé by Padraic, owner of Fresh Eire Adventures:

« While this is not a fancy place it is certainly very good. My potato, onion, emmental and mushroom galette was high quality, delicious and of a reasonable size. I also had a glass of house white (€2.10) and a bottle of mineral water (€3.50). This was a simple and enjoyable lunch. My server was friendly and efficient. And excellent value for money too - €11.50 total! Recommended ».

Le parc du Thabor

The elegant and romantic gardens of Le Parc du Thabor, located in the heart of the city are best explored using a locally hired rental bike.

The park combines many different features such as English park, French garden, a cave, music kiosk and even an aviary. Botanists and keen gardners should definately not miss this attraction as here you will find an exceptional rose garden with 2000 varieties.

Place de la Mairie