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If you are thinking of taking a driving holiday, then the South-West of France is well worth a look, particularly
the charming river and rustic villages of Charente and the pretty market town of Montbron. Before you rush off and hire your
car, however, you must remember the different driving requirements in France. For example, you must plan your journey well,
as radar detectors are banned in all areas of France, which may preclude you from using certain types of sat-nav. Fines can
be severe and you should always keep all of your documentation on-hand, which should include your passport, full driving licence
and all the paperwork for your hire car. Of course, the biggest problem many of us have when driving in Europe is the sticky
fact we have to drive on the right, which can all too easily be forgotten when pulling out of a petrol station or car park.
Driving in France is easy, however and arguably the roads are clearer than those in the UK. This makes for a relaxing and
pleasant experience for everyone as you drive through picturesque towns and villages and marvel at the beautiful French countryside.
The South-West of France has many fantastic places to stop and explore on your driving holiday, with Montbron
a must-see market town in Charente, boasting fantastic fishing and regular markets nearby, packed full of the finest
produce in the South-West. Fishing permits can be bought in the town itself and both holiday and daily permits are available,
with the daily licence costing just 10 Euros. In addition to food and fishing, the whole family can try canoeing on the Tardiore
river, a pleasant experience on a warm day that will take you sedately past some of the finest scenery in the South-West,
including châteaux, mills and weirs. All the equipment you need can be hired in the town itself, making it an easy way
to take a short break from driving.
Of course, no visit to the Charente region would be complete without a tour
of Cognac, the famous home of the eau-de-vie that bears its name. A rustic yet modern town, Cognac has both the ancient French
streets and museums, as well as bustling and vibrant galleries, shops and restaurants. Relax in the beautiful gardens or visit
the Espace Découverte and the Museum of the Arts for a afternoon of discovery for all the family, exploring not only
information about the ancient town`s rich history, but also the history of cognac and how it is made - with an opportunity
to try some of the famous tipple, too!
Whether you choose www.erentals.co.uk (Bergerac) or indeed a number of other locations, the South-West of France makes for a fantastic
holiday. Making room for all the souvenirs in your car can be tricky - so plan in advance if you are planning to take advantage
of all the delicious foods from the local markets, wines, beers and of course, Cognac, you want to take home with
you!
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