Symbol of European elegance, gourmet food, fine wines and sophisticated culture, France was one of the first destinations of the Grand Tours of the 19th century. This superiority as country number one for cultural tourism was never successfully disputed by any other territory, nation or destination.

From the cave drawings in Lascaux, to the ultra-modern architecture in La Défense, and from the Loire Castles to halls of the Louvre, the country breaths arts and beauty. Visitors find this splendor from the small streets in Paris to the majestic royal palaces, and from the endless treasures in museums to the shadowed courtyards in Provence.

Le term “Joie de vivre” (Joy of Living) was coined in France and it represents all its culture and approach to life: fascination with beauty, delight of food and pleasure of savoring its excellent wines. In spite the fact that France represents economically the fifth world power, the most important activity for the French people is life enjoyment and balance between work and free time.

Cultural Crossroads Tours to France at a Glance

• Gardens and Gastronomy in France
  

  This “colorful and tasty” program has been designed especially for Cultural Crossroads travelers who are particularly interested in discovering the secrets of French cuisine and some of the most interesting gardens including many private gardens not normally opened to the public. Cultural Crossroads travelers will enjoy a cooking demonstration by a well-known Chef, wine and olive oil tastings, and a private visit to a Renaissance castle which is now a private residence. We also visit a workshop that creates Provencal fabrics, a glass blowing museum, the impressive estate and winery of Val Joanis, and a class with a perfume expert in her laboratory in one of the most famous perfume factories of Grasse. Of course, every day will include local French cuisine.

• Treasures of Art in the Loire Chateaux Country
  

  Amboise will be our home for 6 nights, a perfect location in the heart of the Loire Valley, which is often referred to as the center of the French “Art de Vivre” because of its long tradition of elegant chateaux and delicious food. Cultural Crossroads travelers will follow our expert study leader, from castle to castle from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance to the 18th and 19th century, we will discover treasures of art, exceptional parks and gardens, arts and crafts of the region and enter the fascinating history of the châteaux country.