Guadeloupe, nicknamed the “butterfly archipelago” because of the shape of one of its central islands, welcomes over 600,000 tourists to its sunny little paradise every year. This French Overseas Territory abounds in opportunities to break from routine: hiking in the heart of the Basse-Terre rainforest, lounging on the deserted beaches of La Désirade island, swimming in its turquoise waters. Guadeloupe’s waters are an ideal place to observe dolphins.

Located in France's eastern Lorraine region, Amnéville Zoo is home to some 2,000 animals. These include 40 species that are considered endangered: from Siberian tigers to white rhinos, gorillas and small squirrel monkeys. Behind the scenes, some 150 zoo employees work tirelessly around the clock, taking care of the animals. Preserving endangered species and making visitors aware of the threats to wildlife are also a key part of their daily tasks. FRANCE 24 brings you a glimpse of this vast menagerie.

In a small village deep in central France, the same family has run the "La Promenade" restaurant for four generations. The story began in 1960, when Lucienne created a small bistro. Then Jacky, the son, took over and won the first Michelin star in 1989. Today, the grandson Fabrice watches over this mecca of French gastronomy, and now his son Clément is studying for his chef's diploma. "La Promenade" is a moving family story, whose finest pages are perhaps yet to be written.

We take you to the westernmost point of France; the last piece of civilisation before the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. Ouessant, located 25 kilometres off the Finistère coast in Brittany, is a rugged and fascinating island, where less than 500 people live all year round. We meet a fisherwoman, a doctor and a photographer who appreciate its raw beauty. The island is also home to no less than five lighthouses that have guided generations of sailors along this fearsome coast. The locals call them the "heroes of Ouessant".