France Today Unpacked: Magazine issue 204 is out now

Packed with seasonal delights, inspiring stories, and insider tips, this edition is your ultimate guide to exploring the beauty and charm of France this winter and beyond. Whether you’re dreaming of festive Christmas markets, exploring hidden historical gems, or savouring French gastronomic treasures, there’s something for every Francophile in this issue…

Hearty season’s greetings from the whole team at France Today. There may be a chill in the air but France continues to provide heart-warming inspiration for Francophiles planning their next holiday escape. If you need a fix soon, this time of year offers particularly rich pickings with light and music festivals, snow sports holidays, untold shopping opportunities and, of course, wonderful Christmas markets – read our guide now!

If you love exploring historic France, there is much to enjoy in our back-in-time exploration of the Pas-de-Calais; while for a city break off-the-beaten-track, why not head to compact Bourges in the Cher department? Its abundant architectural marvels are easily explored on foot. And if you are heading to Paris over the winter, why not head to the Basilique Cathédrale de Saint-Denis? It is one of the most fascinating and history-loaded edifices in the whole of France.

Two new writers join our roster this issue, with Nigel Bruce following in the footsteps of Stevenson in the glorious Cévennes and Chris Allsop taking it slow on a leisurely river cruise in Mayenne. Two further watery escapades may tempt you – a revitalising thalassotherapy spa break in Royan; and a trip to some of France’s most attractive fishing villages. All of these destinations are perfect for a French break once temperatures begin to rise come late spring.

Here’s our all new France Today Unpacked, a recorded discussion of the latest issue:

Please note: AI is used in the production of this video

Now for a detailed look at some highlights, complete with page numbers to guide you through:

Explore Historic France

• Pas-de-Calais Trail: Dive into the region’s rich past, from medieval battles to industrial heritage, as Gillian Thornton guides you through its layers of history (page 96).
• Bourges – European Capital of Culture 2028: Discover Bourges’ UNESCO-listed cathedral and its dazzling stained-glass windows, plus the city’s peaceful gardens and medieval streets (page 34).

Artistic Highlights

• Monet & Clemenceau: Read about the unexpected friendship between artist Claude Monet and politician Georges Clemenceau, united by their love of gardens and art (page 25).
• Tarsila do Amaral Exhibition: A retrospective at the Musée du Luxembourg explores the Brazilian artist’s vibrant works and their celebration of cultural identity (page 26).
• Jackson Pollock Meets Pablo Picasso: The Musée Picasso in Paris hosts an exhibition exploring how Picasso influenced Pollock’s early work (page 18).

Winter Adventures

• Christmas Markets Galore: From Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik to Colmar’s enchanting smaller markets, get lost in festive cheer (page 17).
• Icy Challenges in the Alps: Brave ice swimming or snowshoeing in Samoëns for a unique winter experience (page 92).

Culinary Escapades

• Thalassotherapy in Royan: Relax by the sea with treatments harnessing the rejuvenating power of seawater and mud wraps (page 46).
• Caviar de Neuvic: Learn about sustainable sturgeon farming and the exceptional Baeri Signature caviar, perfect for festive feasts (page 24).
• Classic Recipes: Try your hand at lemon meringue tartlets or apricot and blackberry galettes in your own kitchen (page 62).

Exciting Events and Exhibitions

• Fête des Lumières in Lyon: Witness this breathtaking December light festival as the city transforms into a luminous masterpiece (page 14).
• Angoulême International Comics Festival: Explore the world’s largest comic-themed gathering in January (page 16).

Reader Perks and Insights

• Competitions: Win a half-case of wine or Marcus Wareing’s latest cookbook (page 84).
• Reader Contributions: From charming letters to stunning photos of France, readers share their personal Francophile stories (page 8).

We’d love to hear from you! What did you enjoy most about this issue of France Today? Are there stories, destinations, or topics you’d like us to explore in future editions? Perhaps you have a personal French travel tale or tip to share with fellow readers? 🌟 Drop your thoughts, suggestions, and experiences in the comments below – let’s make this a social space for all things French! 🇫🇷