I WISH to explore France extensively, especially the regions steeped in culture, and the wine regions. Where do you suggest I visit?

Louisa Zhang

According to SA Tours, regions that are culturally rich and less touristy include Caen and Mont Saint-Michel, where the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey is located.

Mont Saint-Michel is a rocky tidal island in Normandy, about 1km off France's northern coast.

Once a monastery, the Mont SaintMichel Abbey sits on the highest peak of the island and was used during the French Revolution as a prison. It has been extensively restored and gives the visitor an idea of how life used to be in mediaevel France.

The city of Caen in north-western France is also a good choice for culture fans. It is full of old churches and castles. The abbeys there are modelled after Romanic architecture.

For good French wine, head to Burgundy in the east, which is famous for its vineyards. Burgundy, which also means red, produces both red and white wine that has been touted as among the best in the world. The region is also noted for its remarkable castles and Roman churches.

This article was first published in Life!, The Straits Times on July 29, 2008.