Menton is 'elegant' destination

Those wanting to get the best of both worlds from their winter holiday this year may enjoy a trip to the French town of Menton, according to a travel writer.

Zerbanoo Gifford, writing for the Daily Telegraph, said that Menton provided the ferry user with "sunshine 331 days of the year plus a perfect microclimate and no mosquitoes", meaning that one could enjoy the sun and snow should they desire.

She continued: "You can ski in the mountains in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean in the evening."

The hilly town is sandwiched between Monaco and the Italian Riviera, drawing from architectural influences from both its native France and Mediterranean influences, with the Alpes Maritimes behind to provide a dramatic backdrop.

Ms Gifford added that the area made her want to "jump out of bed and live" each morning, with palm trees and lemon groves also dotted around the area to please the eye.

Voted International Woman of the Year in 2006, Zerbanoo Gifford is a human rights campaigner born in India in 1950.

There is so much on offer for those looking for a taste of France. Read our guide to France for more information.

Get a ferry crossing quote with P&O Ferries

11 November 2008