With its vineyards and knotted beech trees, France's Champagne region conceals many treasures. In Fleury-la-Rivière, Thibault produces a champagne with iodised notes because of a Lutetian-era sea that used to flow underneath. His father Patrice, an archaeologist, digs the soil which is full of shells. The nearby Forest of Verzy is also full of mystery. It's this wild and sublime nature that gives such a unique taste to the Champagne region's bubbles. FRANCE 24 takes you to discover it.

There are those who cross France’s River Saône by boat and those who discover it by bike. The route between Saint-Jean-de-Losne and Verdun-sur-le-Doubs, in eastern France, boasts plenty to discover. Tourists can enjoy nature and the treasures found along the river's banks. From time to time, they stop to visit a castle or meet a ceramic artist. FRANCE takes you along for the ride.

FRANCE 24 takes you to meet an extraordinary woman working in a male-dominated business. Myriam fishes and sells wild mussels on France's northern Opal Coast. Since the age of 16, she has been doing this difficult job and has been recognised for all her hours spent combing the beach. The 51-year-old has been made a Knight of the Order of Merit and now takes bosses of France's top companies out fishing.

Located in France's Hautes-Alpes region, the Écrins National Park offers many hiking opportunities. Mountain lovers have the choice between cross-country skiing, walking or snowshoeing. Experienced walkers can go all the way up to the hamlet of Dormillouse, perched at 1,700 metres. This is where Serge Baridon, the only permanent resident of the park, resides. FRANCE 24 invites you along to discover this stunning part of the Alps.

In southern France, we discover the Tarn gorges – Europe's longest and deepest canyon with cliffs plunging 600 metres in parts. The area is home to a whole host of myths, such as the village of Sainte-Enimie, named after a princess. Legend has it that Sainte-Enimie cured leprosy with the healing powers of the river. Meanwhile, perched at the top of the mountains, we meet a group of friends living in a community: away from the rest of the world, in an idyllic location.

Named after the French minister of war from the time, the Maginot Line went down in history as the symbol of the French defeat of 1940. This long succession of underground fortresses, from Alsace to the Ardennes, was said to be "impassable" but did not keep the German troops at bay for long. Today, enthusiasts are making sure the Maginot Line is not forgotten, by taking care of what remains of the fortifications.

The central French region of Allier is peppered with over 500 castles. These historic buildings are difficult to maintain in good condition, but the owners can count on the support of local residents. At the Château de Fourchaud, for example, some thirty enthusiastic volunteers are busy cleaning and repairing the monument. Prince Charles-Henri, a direct descendant of the Bourbons, appreciates their efforts.

Located in the Northern French region of Normandy, Étretat is a natural wonder which seduced the Impressionists and continues to inspire today’s painters. Whether they're seen from above or below, its white chalk cliffs dazzle residents and visitors alike. FRANCE 24 takes you to discover this coastal gem in the company of Alexander Grivko, a Russian landscape artist who has fallen in love with this corner of France.

His name appears on the credits of films by Pedro Almodóvar, Lars von Trier, and Claude Chabrol. Like his father before him, Julien Naudin is a sound effects specialist. In his studio just outside Paris, he is able to reproduce any sound, from a car's screeching brakes to a glass of wine being poured. In his 30-year career, he has participated in more than 1,000 films and TV movies. FRANCE 24 went to meet him.

In France's south-western Gers region, you can spend the night in a mill or even a castle. In Lomagne, nicknamed "little Tuscany", an old flour mill has been transformed into a fully restored gite. Meanwhile, the Viella castle, built in 1763, dominates the Madiran vineyard. Tourists now sleep in the castle's old farmhouse, where they can fully appreciate the beauty and calm of the Gers region while tasting the local wine.