First one the list has to be the medieval city of Clermont Ferrand in the heart of France in the Auvergne region. It is a university city, so has a huge choice in eateries, from traditional fine French cuisine to a little creperie off the Main Square, or scores of tempting patisseries. It is the best place for shopping in the area, and the little narrow streets hold surprises such as art galleries, and crumbly old antique shops. The central square has a huge black cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The black is not from pollution but from the volcanic rock used in its construction.
Issoire, also in the Auvergne, is 21 miles south of Clermont Ferrand. With a beautiful 12th century cathedral in the middle of the town, Abbatiale Saint-Autremoine, and cobbled streets, it is definitely a place to explore. There is also an historic clock tower in the center which can be toured and climbed for a view of the town. Markey day here is on a Saturday, when the main square with its colourfully painted houses, becomes home to local farmers and cheeses makers with a wealth of delicious produce to sell.
Southwest France
Next a medieval town in the south west of France called Villeneuve sur Lot. The wide ribbon of the Lot River runs right through the middle of the town, and is spanned with three bridges at various points. One of them dates back to the 13th century which you can't help thinking about every time you walk across it! Either side or towering up steeply from the banks of the river, are 4, 5 and 6 story brightly coloured houses dating back hundreds of years. Some of them look so rickety that it's a wonder they haven't fallen into the river! It is a bustling town with 3 weekly markets, one of which is organic. It has one of the best pizza restaurants in France called L'Intermezzo on Rue Parmentier, which also serves traditional cuisine in its dimly lit and low ceilinged rooms just off the main high street.
Cote d'Azure
Last is a little town on the south coast and 6 miles from Nice. Beaulieu sur Meris full of little pavement cafes and chic shops. It has all the glamour of Nice without being a large city, but is close enough to easily visit by car or by train. A short walk from the town center brings you to a surprisingly large marina, with all manner of water craft, from little fishing boats to million dollar yachts. A row of restaurants faces the water, with a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. There is no better place to kick back and watch the sun go down, with a glass of wine.
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