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Gap - between Provence and the Alps
Gap is an aptly named town in the Hautes-Alpes department of south-eastern France. It occupies, literally, the gap between the hot sunny regions of Provence and the cool mountainous towns and villages of the French Alps, and is a fascinating blend of the two cultures and styles.
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Alpine or Provençal?
Although technically a town of Provence, in many ways Gap has more in common with the Alpine regions to its north. The economy is boosted by winter sports, and Gap is a great centre for cross country skiing among other snow pursuits. The countryside around the town also calls to mind the lush green summer meadows of the mountains rather than the dry, arid landscapes of the Mediterranean, yet you will still find glorious banks of lavender and other aromatic southern herbs, which are such a distinctive feature of Provence.
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Gap’s architecture
The architecture of the town marries both styles, with some Alpine chalet buildings on the outskirts and in the countryside nestling alongside the Provençal colours and architecture of the town centre. Perhaps it is best to conclude that in Gap you can have the best of both worlds!
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All amenities
The town, as capital of its department, offers excellent amenities for modern day living. There are schools, colleges, healthcare facilities and many shops and restaurants. In fact, the gastronomy is one of which the townsfolk are exceptionally proud, and the number of superb eateries bears testimony to its excellence. Here also, you can see the marriage of mountain and Mediterranean gastronomy, with regional dishes reflecting both cultures.
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Sports and pastimes
Gap is known as centre for mountain sports whether in winter or summer. It is particularly well thought of as a cross country ski centre, and if this is your chosen sport you should check it out sooner rather than later. Many other sports are available, and the lovely countryside lends itself to any number of outdoor pursuits such as walking, horse-riding, mountain biking, fishing, swimming and many more. Golfers take note... there is a truly wonderful 18-hole golf course with spectacular panoramic views... it might even persuade your non golfing partners to caddy for you just to enjoy the scenery!
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How to get there
There is no international airport in the department, but it isn't too difficult to fly to Chambéry, Marseille, Toulon, Nice, Avignon or Lyon. Chambéry is served by flybe and Jet2; Avignon by flybe; Nice by Air France, Aer Lingus, bmibaby, bmi, British Airways, easyJet and Jet2; Marseille by British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair and Aer Lingus; and Toulon by Ryanair. The town is on a TGV route so travelling either all the way from Britain with Eurostar (or the rest of the way from your chosen arrival airport) by rail is very easy.
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Property prices and availability in and around Gap
If you are in love with the Alps and Provence but can't quite afford the property you want in either of the overheated property markets that exist in those places, take a look at Gap. Prices here are considerably lower, the area completely unspoiled and the properties of excellent quality and value for money.
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HOTELS IN GAP
* online booking & great prices
* up-to-the-minute availability
* unbiased hotel reviews
* full confirmation with directions |
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