Starting in St Emilion, South West France, the first leg of James’ journey visits the rural retreats of Charente, The Languedoc and The Dordogne to the south coast via a meander along the historic Canal du Midi.

James and his 2CV also visited the culinary capital of the country, Lyon and its neighbouring region of Burgundy to taste the world-famous wine and make Dijon mustard. After a boat trip on beautiful Lake Annecy, and a visit to the Jura region to see its magnificent cheese fort James visited Bresse, the home of France’s much-loved poultry – The Bresse chicken.

After a whirlwind tour of France’s second largest city, Marseille James stopped in the Camargue – with its salt flats and cowboys. It was then on to the Roman city of Arles to witness the world-famous sport of bull running. James dropped in to the picturesque riverside town of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and visited his good friend Michel Roux near St Tropez.

Of course, a trip to France wouldn’t be complete without a stop off in Normandy to soak up some wartime history…and a little Calvados! James also soaked up some artistic inspiration in Giverny, the former home of Claude Monet.

In the final leg of his journey James went to Paris, the home of world class restaurants and the world renowned Rungis market. After stopping in at Versailles it was time to hit the races in Bois de Boulogne. Beautifully shot, packed with fun and food inspiration James’ French Adventure is a real treat for the senses.

 

A selection of recipes from James Martin’s French Adventure book and TV show can be seen on our website:

 

There is also an accompanying book for James Martin’s French Adventure.