France is a country renowned for its rich culture, history, and gastronomy. But it is also a land of world-class sporting events and experiences.
Western France is home to some of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Vendée Globe. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an iconic endurance race that attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year. The Vendée Globe is a solo, non-stop, round-the-world yacht race that is considered one of the most challenging sporting events in the world.
But these regions are not just about watching world-class athletes compete. They also offer a wide range of sporting experiences for visitors to try themselves. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner, there is something for everyone.
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Le Mans: A Must-See for Racing Fans
Whether you are a fan of Formula 1, trucks, or motorcycles, the 24 Hours of Le Mans is a must-see event. This world-famous race is a highlight of the motorsport calendar, and it attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators from all over the world.
If you are planning to attend the 24 Hours of Le Mans, it’s important to book your tickets and accommodation well in advance. Our agency can also help you plan your trip, but it’s important to contact us early, as hotels are often booked up more than a year in advance.
Even if you can’t make it to the race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit and museum are well worth a visit. The museum is home to a collection of classic cars and motorcycles, and it tells the story of this iconic race.
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The Vendée Globe: A legendary solo race around the world
The Vendée Globe is a world-famous sailing race that takes place every four years. It is a solo, non-stop, round-the-world race, without any assistance. The skippers have to face some of the most challenging conditions imaginable, including storms, icebergs, and strong winds.
The race starts and finishes in Les Sables-d’Olonne, a town in the South of the Loire Valley. The next race will start in late 2028.
If you are interested in seeing the Vendée Globe, it is important to book your trip well in advance. The race is a very popular event, and accommodation in Les Sables-d’Olonne can be difficult to find.
©Melanie CHAIGNEAU – Anjou Tourisme
Equestrian Heaven: Discover Western France
Western France is a paradise for horse lovers, with its lush countryside, charming villages, and world-renowned equestrian traditions. Normandy and the Loire Valley are particularly famous for their horses, and they offer a wide range of equestrian activities for visitors of all levels.
Normandy: A land of horses
Normandy is known worldwide for its horse breeding, both for racing and equestrian sports. The region is home to many prestigious stud farms, including two national ones at Le Pin and Saint-Lô. Normandy also hosts major horse races and equestrian events throughout the year. With its beautiful landscapes and well-maintained bridle paths, Normandy is the perfect place to get in the saddle and explore the region on horseback.
The Loire Valley: The French capital of equestrianism
The Loire Valley is another great destination for horse lovers. Saumur, in the heart of the Loire Valley, is known as the French capital of equestrianism. The town is home to the Cadre Noir, a prestigious equestrian school. Visitors can take a tour of the Cadre Noir and watch the riders train their horses in dressage and other equestrian disciplines. Magnificent equestrian shows are also organized throughout the year!
Equestrian experiences for everyone
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there are plenty of equestrian experiences to enjoy in Western France. You can go for a leisurely ride through the countryside or even participate in a horse-drawn carriage ride. And what about a horseback riding tours that take you along the beaches of Normandy or through the vineyards of the Loire Valley?
©BERTHIER Emmanuel
Cycling and hiking in the breathtaking countryside of Western France
Looking for an active and nature unforgettable getaway? Discover the breathtaking beauty of Western France! From the rolling vineyards of the Loire Valley to the dramatic cliffs of Normandy and the pristine beaches of Brittany, there is something for every nature lover. Experience these diverse landscapes up close with our guided bike and hiking tours. Whether you are interested in a single-day excursion or a multi-day adventure, our expert guides will lead you on a journey through the heart of these regions, sharing their local knowledge and passion for the outdoors.
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image sources:
- France Trip Secrets – Chambord castle in the Loire Valley and bike tour © Ludovic Letot: © Ludovic Letot
- France Trip Secrets – Women tour in the Loire Valley – ©L’amour de Paris – 2: ©L'amour de Paris
- France Trip Secrets – Brittany city cultural tour Saint Malo – ©VERNEUIL Teddy – LEZBROZ: ©VERNEUIL Teddy - LEZBROZ
- France Trip Secrets – Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley – © Léonard de Serres: © Léonard de Serres
- France Trip Secrets – Honeymoon in the Loire Valley – ©photographfrance – Mark Playle: ©photographfrance - Mark Playle
- France Trip Secrets – Christmas magic Loire Valley castles – ©ADT Touraine – JC Coutand: ©ADT Touraine - JC Coutand
- France Trip Secrets – Luxury castle accommodation Loire Valley – Candes Saint Martin: Hadrien BRUNNER www.hadrienbrunn