French Gites

France is a popular holiday destination for UK tourists. We're always popping across the Channel to check out some holiday property or go on a booze cruise. Many of us have discovered the ultimate self catering French holiday by staying in gites. A gite is essentially a self catering holiday apartment. Some gites stand alone, while others are in groups in the grounds of an existing home. There's a great deal of variety in French gites, so it's important to think about what facilities you want and need.

What Is A Gite?
One of the reasons it's so difficult to describe a gite is that it's usually typical of the particular region in which it's found. Gites also vary considerably in size and grandeur. One gite may be a small holiday cottage, while another may be a restored chateau. As with other self catering holidays, staying in French gites offers holiday makers the chance to be truly independent. You can arrange meals when you like, avoid dressing up unless you really want to and have the freedom to set your own schedule. Unlike holiday apartments in other countries, gites are often an integral part of their location, giving holiday makers the chance to experience the true French lifestyle.

Choosing A French Gite
Since gites are all so different, it's important to take care when making your choice. Some gites have only the most basic facilities and may not even be clean. However, thanks to the internet, you can now see photos of thousands of gites, as well as read reviews from people who have stayed there, so it should be easy to find acceptable accommodation. Some gites are at the other end of the scale and are truly luxurious. If you end up in a restored chateau with a swimming pool in the grounds, you will really enjoy your self catering holiday. Don't forget to enquire about the on site facilities. While you will get basic cooking and washing facilities with all gites, it's worth checking for some of the extras and it may not cost you too much more.

Cost Factors
French gites are usually less expensive than other accommodation, but it pays to book early. Although there are thousands of these self catering homes in France, you may not get the one you want unless you reserve it well in advance. You may be able to book a gite through your travel agent, though this may be more costly than booking direct. With many gites you get the advantage of a peaceful setting while still being close to amenities. For example, the Brittany Farmhouse Gites are very quiet, yet you can be in the village within five minutes and in the town within ten.

French Gites provide the chance to experience the true France. Your gite may be owned by a local or by an expat who has been in the region for years. Either way, you'll be able to get tips on the best boulangeries, cafes and shops in the region. You'll soon be tucking into a baguette and glass of wine and enjoying your self catering holiday.