France

Marina's brother lives in the country near Bazoges-en-Pareds., about a four hour drive southwest from Paris. It's lovely old village with a well-preserved historical center. While staying there and exploring the surrounding area we also made an overnight trip to Noirmoutier-en-L'lle on a small island just off the coast, renown for oysters, fleur-du-sel and the cobblestone causeway which connects it to the mainland at low tide.