As many of you know, when Headwater was born (some 22 years ago!), we only offered walking and cycling holidays to France. We've since introduced many other destinations - in Europe and further afield - yet there's little doubt that our hearts remain very much fixed with our neighbours just across the Channel!

Every region is special, but in its own different way. So you've got Brittany's spectacular Emerald Coast with its pink granite cliffs, wonderful white beaches, and hidden coves; in Burgundy, you'll see fine fortified villages, churches and half-timbered houses; visit Provence and enjoy the famous luminous light that has attracted countless artists over the years: Matisse and Dufy, Brac and Picasso have all painted here.

French cuisine needs little introduction: in the Loire, regional dishes are refined and delicate relying on freshwater fish from the rivers and game - supplemented with rich wine and cream sauces - from the great hunting forests; in the Jura, famous for its charcuterie, look out for farmhouses with wooden chimneys for smoking mountain hams and sausages and, in the Dordogne, truffles, the 'black diamonds' of French gastronomy, are snuffled out among the roots of the oak trees that grow on the limestone causes. Nature lovers will not be disappointed either. In the Pyrenees, isard and mouflon graze the mountain passes, while griffon, bearded vultures and golden eagles circle the thermals overhead. Head for the Alps and, once the snow has melted, carpets of white and purple crocus appear followed by rock roses, narcissi and bright blue trumpet gentian.

For further details of our holidays in France please visit our website at www.headwater.com or call our reservations team on 08700 662650.