France
A lunch time visit to La Cigale enroute back to the UK lifted our post vacation spirits. La Cigale dates back to the 1890’s and the décor is truly breathtaking.
Ornate tiling between the wooden panels and gorgeous mosaics. The white-aproned waiters were straight out of Allo, Allo.
The Cigale can be seen in various poses in the tiles and mosaics. Apparently the cigale plays and eats all summer, a creature of the moment. The ambiance of La Cigale coupled with the delicious food, sea food is a speciality, encourages you to live in the moment.
www.lacigale.com/
Nantes, 4 place Graslin, 44000 Nantes
+33(0)2 51 84 94 94
Google map: bit.ly/zoklEU
Right in the centre of the city, easily accessible by public transport (the Duchesse Anne stop on the tram/busway will put you right in front of the chateau), the newly refurbished Chateau is now a great space to visit, especially with kids. Lovely courtyard, lots of exhibitions and very accessible for disabled visitors - a must see! Take a wander into the fabulous Bouffay restaurant district - our family's favourite restaurant there is La Mangeoire with perfect prix fixee deals for all budgets and a good, classic French menu. Enjoy!
www.chateau-nantes.fr/
4, place Marc Elder, 44 000 Nantes
+33 (0)2 51 17 49 48
Google map: bit.ly/pxj8ss
La Mangeoire
16 Rue Petites Ecuries, 44000 Nantes, France
+44(0)2 40 48 70 83
Google map: bit.ly/q5Fr41
We hired bikes for €10 a week each at Christmas and New Year from the large car parks that ring the city of Nantes.
Family owned and run - Madame Papillon is the stuff of legends - this little gem is situated in the tiny village of St Jean du Bruel about30km from Millau. It lies in the Dourbie valley with views of the surrounding hills. Come here if you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy swimming, walking and cycling. It's a warm, friendly establishment but its real selling point is its fantastic restaurant (which is worth a visit regardless of whether you decide to stay here - try the trout). Remember to book in advance as it is extremely popular.
www.hotel-midi-papillon.com
Le Bourg
12230 Saint Jean de Bruel
Tél : 05 65 62 26 04
Fax : 05 65 62 12 97
Knowing Nantes - a place where you can get to know Nantes and the English speaking people who live there.
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