 |
Thinking of a French Gite Holiday in France
Author: Marty Davis  | Posted: 27-03-2008 | Comments: 0 | Views: 22 | Rating: (50)  (?) 
Although a Gite used to be a basic place to stay, but today you can get luxurious accommodation like swimming pools etc, that can offer excellent value for money when it comes to your family holiday, plus with thousands available all around France, many people find that staying in Gites is a good way of experiencing France whether it be whilst travelling through or for a memorable holiday in a specific region.
Technically speaking to be called a gite the owner must live close by in order to provide help, assistance and a warm welcome to guests, whereas if it is known as a French holiday cottage, then this normally means that it is owned by someone who does not live in France, like British, German or even American owned.
Gites are generally old farm workers cottages or converted outbuildings and barns within the proximity of the owners' principal residence, and this type of holiday accommodation is sometimes regarded as 'basic' in terms of facilities and the first ones we ever came across were extremely basic. In fact, in this tiny little village that only had a church, one shop, a restaurant and a bar all these so called gites were like wooden huts, just with beds, toilet and a wash basin, that were situated in the back garden area behind the local bar and restaurant!
However most gites these days are generally very well kept and a growing number of them will have excellent facilities such as fully fitted kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, TV, DVD and even access to a swimming pool and many other sporting activities that the whole family can enjoy, just what is needed when on holiday with the family.
Also, holiday gites in France are encouraged by the local tourist board and planning authorities as they attract investment and tourism into the area, and all owners are required to ensure that they are safe and comply with the necessary rules, regulations and insurance requirements, in turn giving the holiday maker peace of mind.
It is the Gites de France that assesses them, which means the quality has risen and they are far better equipped and comfortable compared to how they used to be, plus with the foreign investors who have purchased property in France for renovation, the standard has risen even higher and you will not come across many gites that are any where near as basic as what we mentioned earlier, to be honest, we have not come across one since that doesn’t at least have a kitchen, seating area and proper bathroom facilities so you will not need to panic too much when booking!
You can also find a number of classes of gites, which are graded by Gîtes de France and to give you a help in hand, some of these are as follows:
Known as Gite Rural, these offer self-catering accommodation and can be located in the countryside, by the sea, or in the mountains, they are completely self contained with one or more bedrooms, a lounge, sometimes a dining room, a kitchen and bathroom facilities and it is these particular types of gite that have come up in standard considerably over the years.
Then you have Gites d'Enfants, which are specifically for children and it is during the school holidays that host families will provide lodgings for children of various ages with a wide variety of activities. The big plus is that these Children's gites are very well regulated and inspected to ensure a safe and secure environment for each child.
The stopover and holiday getaways, known as Gites d'Etape, are normally situated well off the beaten track and are mainly for groups of walkers or cyclists, and the best comparison to this type of gite is most probably a youth hostel and these are basic.
So as you can probably realise by now, holiday gites can range from the very simple converted barns to part of a large chateau in private grounds and are located all over France, right through from rural villages, to the centre of towns, up in the mountains or right near to the beaches, the choice of accommodation is endless.
And with there being so many different gites to choose from, it is a good idea to get the family together and make a check list of the type of amenities that you feel are important to you, after all, like us, you may prefer having separate sleeping areas so that you have your own space, rather than being crowded in one large bedroom. Also, having entertainment on hand can be great for the children, especially if you happen to have bad weather for a day, so you may want to check what is available before booking.
Of course, depending upon your budget, you may also feel that a gite with its own pool and outside dining areas can be the best option for your relaxing holiday in France, but don’t forget that some of these are situated way out in the sticks, so location is also something that must be considered.
No matter what you decide, France is a vast country and you will be able to get the perfect gite for you and your family, but the motto we have learned is prepare and organise first, so that you can enjoy your holiday and enjoy everything to its fullest.
Rate this Article:
Current: 0 / 5 stars - 0 vote(s).
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/thinking-of-a-french-gite-holiday-in-france-370677.html
 About the Author:www.placesinfrance.com
Martyn Davis European Traveller, Author, Photographer and Business Development Manager, For all your French holiday needs and travel guide to France, with tourist information, landmarks and attractions - Holiday Gites In France
|
Submitting articles has become one of the most popular means to drive traffic to your website and promote yourself and your business. Join us today - It's Free! |
|
Related Articles
A Complete Guide to Gites and Holidays in France
By: Glynis Shaw | 17/06/2008 | Travel Tips
Staying in a gite has long been one of the most popular ways to take a holiday in France. A gite was traditionally a shelter. Now it is an independent, self-catering holiday home where the owner lives close by and is on hand to elcome visitors, ensure that all their needs are met and share inside knowledge of the local area.
Where to Visit in France for a Holiday - Seine-maritime
By: Glynis Shaw | 14/03/2008 | Vacation Rentals
If you enjoy sightseeing holidays and places with an interesting historic past then you need go no further than Seine-Maritime, department number 76, located in the region of Haute-Normandie France.
Where to Visit in France for a Holiday - Eure in Normandy
By: Glynis Shaw | 14/03/2008 | Vacation Rentals
Discover why you should visit this delightful area of Normandy in France and see for yourself what inspired the impressionist artists. There are plenty of things to see and do for either a long holiday or short break.
Sw France - Holiday Cottage Vacation Rental Near Cahors and Toulouse
By: Susan | 23/02/2007 | Vacation Rentals
Close to Toulouse (international airport), but in an unhurried world, you can discover what food used to taste like: fabulous peaches and melons, foie gras, beautiful farm house cheeses, cherries. . . . Stay in a cottage in a vibrant medieval market village Montcuq with many "commerces" and restaurants in a registered 3-star French gite for 2 or 4.
Family Cycling Holidays in France
By: Marty Davis | 28/01/2008 | Holidays
Whether you are looking for a guided leisure cycling holiday in France or a sport cycling holiday, these can all be catered for in the incredibly beautiful countryside around France.
Family Adventure Holidays in France
By: Marty Davis | 27/03/2008 | Destinations
Have you ever considered taking the family on an adventure holiday in France? it may be just what the whole of the family has been looking for.
The Most Beautiful Parks and Garden of Normandy in France
By: FrankStarc | 18/06/2008 | Destinations
In Normandy, the water, the light, the colours, the gentle landscape and the rich diversity of its heritage all lend themselves perfectly to the gardener’s art.
Golfing Holidays in France
By: Marty Davis | 01/03/2008 | Golf
France has become a top destination for golfers, and from Biarritz to Brittany, France can offer a great variety of uncrowded golf courses, which are suitable from the novice to the more experienced golfer.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
I have got a schengen visa which has been issued ...
By: mariyam | 06-11-2008
I have got a schengen visa which has been issued by the France Consulate. Now i changed my trip and I want to go to Spain. Do I have to visit France before Spain?
Unusual Thanksgiving Dish
By: dripbydrip | 06-11-2008
What is the most unusual dish you will cook for Thanksgiving?
Gravy Recipe for Thanksgiving
By: lavlav | 06-11-2008
Can I get a gravy recipe for Thanksgiving that doesn't use the turkey innards?
Who are the Mummers?
By: twincitiesmark | 06-11-2008
Who are the Mummers?
How are so many tickets ending up in the hands of ...
By: Bass champ | 04-11-2008
How are so many tickets ending up in the hands of fans for our opponents? Redskin fans quit selling your tickets to fans of our opponnents and take our stadium back!!!
Tourist Vehicle Into Turkey?
By: CeeBee | 03-11-2008
How many times can you take your vehicle into Turkey as a Tourist Vehicle? On the basis that it can only stay in Turkey for 6 months out of any 12 month period?
Q&A Powered by: 
Latest Travel Tips Articles
Great Experiences and Great Holiday Specials in Darwin, Northern Territory
By: Guy Fitter | 01/12/2008
Darwin, Northern Territory, is a vibrant and attractive city with a unique selection of budget and exclusive accommodation with many things to do for the visitor such as attractions and tours
Visiting London From Abroad? the Best Way to See the Sights
By: Keith McGregor | 01/12/2008
If you are visiting the Capital City of England from abroad the most visited site is the River Thames. The Thames in London is a beautiful tidal waterway carving through the heart of the City. Some of the most stunning architecture and most well known buildings in the World are dotted along the banks at various points. Big Ben, the palace of Westminster, Tower of London, Canary Wharf and of course Tower Bridge are all right on the river.
Benefits From San Francisco Shuttle Tours
By: JishnuRaj | 01/12/2008
San Fran shuttle is a smaller but more intimate, very interactive, informative and fun group tour. This group takes us to more tour spots, includes bay cruise to Sausalito and free refreshment. This tour group doesn't use large motor coaches. Instead, they use shuttle bus which has easy on and off access. Only this group gets you very near to Lombard Street so that you can walk down.
Benefits From San Francisco Shuttle Tours
By: JishnuRaj | 01/12/2008
San Fran shuttle is a smaller but more intimate, very interactive, informative and fun group tour. This group takes us to more tour spots, includes bay cruise to Sausalito and free refreshment. This tour group doesn't use large motor coaches. Instead, they use shuttle bus which has easy on and off access. Only this group gets you very near to Lombard Street so that you can walk down.
Driving a Vehicle Versus Public Transit: Which is Better?
By: Laura Zeimer | 30/11/2008
Statistics and tips on whether you should use public transportation or your own vehicle to reach your destination.
Cambodia Adventure Travel
By: Rom | 30/11/2008
Once you decided on taking this Cambodia adventure travel it is time to make yet another decision: do you mind travelling with other tourists or not? If you don't mind, your best bet is to try a travel agency who will assist you with your booking of the flights and hotels.
The travel agency will also be helpful with choosing the best tourist locations that will be sure to reveal as much of the Cambodian culture as well as Cambodian country sightseeing.
Why Biking to Work Saves Money on Travel and Gym Fees
By: Melanie Click | 30/11/2008
Exercise and savings at the same time!
Unfair Embassy
By: ishara | 29/11/2008
Now embassy has moved to chennai India. visa is very strict from srilanka. I have applied for a student visa. my friend got visa but i didn't . Although the documents are correct they refuse our visa. Some says they are doing this to give chances to Tamils and Muslims
More from Marty Davis
Top Table Paris Restaurant the Tour D'argent
By: Marty Davis | 24/09/2008 | Restaurant Reviews
With many different types of restaurants in Paris choosing the right one could become hard work, but if you are looking for some top table French cuisine you need to try The Tour d'Argent, which has become famous throughout the world.
The Champs Elysees Avenue in Paris
By: Marty Davis | 24/09/2008 | Destinations
Did you know that the Champs Elysees Avenue is actually the second widest avenue in Europe, and if you start at the Arc de Triomphe, you can then walk all the way down the avenue eventually reaching the Tuileries Gardens.
Disneyland Paris Theme Park in France
By: Marty Davis | 21/08/2008 | Holidays
Disneyland Paris is open every single day of the year but has a completely different feel in winter compared to summer, but whatever time of year you visit, you are sure to have a lasting memory of this magical theme park by Walt Disney.
Bistros and Restaurants in Paris France
By: Marty Davis | 21/08/2008 | Restaurant Reviews
There are thousands of different bistros, cafes and restaurants in Paris, which will range from having a quick snack to having a full blown A la Carte meal at one of the top table restaurants that serve haute cuisine.
The Louvre Museum in Paris France
By: Marty Davis | 21/08/2008 | Destinations
There are many fabulous pictures of The Louvre, but most people recognise this Paris landmark by the large glass pyramid that is situated in the central courtyard and serves as the main entrance to the museum.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris France
By: Marty Davis | 27/07/2008 | Holidays
Paris has many different monuments you can visit, but one that should be high on your list is the Notre Dame Cathedral that is over 800 years old, and is found in the middle of the River Seine.
Visiting Chateaux and Castles in France
By: Marty Davis | 27/07/2008 | Travel Tips
With numerous chateaux and castles all over France, it can become a problem to decide on what are to go to, like the Loire region with fabulous castles such as the Chateau Chenonceau, or Paris in the Ile de France region.
The Arc De Triomphe in Paris France
By: Marty Davis | 27/07/2008 | Destinations
The Arc de Triomphe is just one of many landmarks in Paris that you can visit when on holiday, and standing at over 51 metres high you can be sure to find this with ease.
|
|
Travel 
