Experience France through the people who make it unique.
When most travellers think of France, they picture world-famous vineyards, Michelin-starred restaurants, and iconic landmarks. While these experiences certainly deserve their reputation, some of the country’s most memorable moments are found far away from the usual tourist trail.
At High Point Holidays, we believe that travel is about more than simply visiting a destination. It’s about meeting the people who bring it to life. From passionate winemakers and artisan whisky distillers to talented chefs and food producers, France offers countless opportunities to connect with local experts, discover generations of know-how, and experience the country in a more meaningful way.
France: More Than Just Wine
France has long been recognised as one of the world’s leading wine-producing countries. Regions such as Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, the Rhône Valley and Beaujolais attract visitors from across the globe who come to discover legendary vineyards and exceptional wines.
Yet some of the country’s most rewarding experiences go beyond the vineyard.
Across France, independent producers, artisans and food specialists are keeping local traditions alive while sharing their passion with curious travellers. Whether through a private wine tasting, a visit to an artisan distillery, or a hands-on cooking class, these authentic encounters provide a deeper connection to the destination and the people who call it home.
A Lesser-Known Side of French Craftsmanship
Many travellers are surprised to discover that France has developed a thriving whisky industry over recent decades.
While France is internationally renowned for its wines, a growing number of independent distilleries are crafting distinctive whiskies inspired by regional ingredients, local traditions and a dedication to quality craftsmanship.
For visitors, these distilleries offer far more than a tasting. They provide an opportunity to step behind the scenes, meet the makers, and learn about a craft that remains largely unknown outside specialist circles.
These are the kinds of hidden experiences that reveal a different side of France, one that many visitors never have the chance to discover.
Meet the People Behind the Craft
What makes a wine, whisky or culinary experience truly memorable is not simply what you taste. It’s the people behind it.
One of the great privileges of travelling through France is the opportunity to meet passionate individuals who genuinely love what they do. Whether walking through vineyards with a winemaker, discussing ageing techniques inside a distillery, or learning family recipes from a local chef, these encounters create lasting memories and meaningful connections.
At High Point Holidays, we actively seek out these experiences. We regularly visit our partners, meet the people behind the businesses, and build genuine relationships with the local experts we recommend.
This allows us to design journeys that go beyond sightseeing and offer authentic insights into local culture, traditions and daily life.
Discover France Through Its Flavours
Food and drink have always been at the heart of French culture, making them one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country.
Imagine spending the morning with an independent winemaker in Beaujolais, discovering the influence of terroir on every bottle. Later, you might visit an artisan whisky distillery where centuries-old techniques meet modern creativity.
Just a short distance away, Lyon, often considered the gastronomic capital of France, offers yet another perspective on French craftsmanship. A hands-on cooking class allows travellers to learn from local chefs, discover regional ingredients, and gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions that have shaped French cuisine.
These moments transform a trip into something far more personal. They allow travellers to engage directly with local culture rather than simply observe it.
Why Authentic Local Experiences Matter
Today’s travellers are increasingly looking for experiences that feel genuine and meaningful.
They want to understand the places they visit, support local businesses, and return home with stories that go beyond the typical tourist highlights.
Visiting independent wineries, artisan distilleries and local culinary experts creates opportunities for real cultural exchange. Travellers gain a deeper understanding of a destination while helping support the communities that make those experiences possible.
For us, this is what thoughtful travel is all about: creating connections between travellers and the passionate people who make each destination unique.
Suggested Itineraries for Food & Drink Lovers
For travellers looking to experience France through its flavours, we can create tailor-made journeys that combine some of the country’s most authentic food and drink experiences.
Beaujolais & Lyon: Wine and Gastronomy
Explore the renowned vineyards of Beaujolais, meet independent winemakers, enjoy private tastings, and continue to Lyon for immersive culinary experiences and cooking classes led by local experts.
Hidden France: Distilleries, Vineyards and Local Producers
Venture beyond the famous landmarks to discover artisan whisky distilleries, family-run vineyards and passionate producers who showcase a lesser-known side of France.
Tailor-Made Culinary Journeys
Whether you’re passionate about wine, whisky, gastronomy, or all three, our tailor-made itineraries can be designed around your interests, offering exclusive access to local experiences and the experts behind them.
Discover the Hidden Side of France
France’s most memorable experiences are often found where you least expect them.
Beyond the famous landmarks lies a world of hidden distilleries, family-run vineyards, cooking workshops, artisan producers and remarkable stories waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a whisky lover, or simply curious about authentic local culture, these encounters offer a unique way to experience the country.
Because the best journeys aren’t just about the places you visit.
They’re about the people you meet along the way.
Experience France Through the People Who Make It Unique
At High Point Holidays, we create tailor-made journeys that connect travellers with passionate local experts, authentic experiences and extraordinary destinations across France and Europe.
Where Experience Is Everything.
