Download a FREE copy of our School Groups Abroad Brochure to find out more about Cactus and browse a selection of our most popular school travel locations (4mb).
The striking volcanic landscape
of France’s Massif Central can
take much of the credit for Vichy’s
popularity and fame. Since the visits
of Napoleon III in the 1860s, people
have swarmed to this beautiful spa
town seeking relief from ailments
such as rheumatism and arthritis in
its curative thermal
baths, whose mineral water is literally on tap
due to the underlying topography. When not immersed
in water Vichy has plenty more to charm its visitors,
from faded belle époque architecture
and tranquil parks to a lively music and dance
programme at the Salle d’Opera and a surprisingly
low cost of living to match. It is also on the
doorstep of a huge adventure playground for outdoor
enthusiasts, with the added advantage that once
you’ve exhausted yourself hiking or skiing
you’ll know exactly where to go to cure
aching limbs.
The
School
The school is located in the
centre of Vichy and offers a variety
of French language courses for foreigners
year-round. It attracts students from
some 90 countries worldwide, including
China, Germany, Japan, Spain and Switzerland.
Students can enjoy unlimited use of
the school's multi-
media resource centre which includes a library,
several multi-media labs, video workstations and
DVD access, and a computer room equipped with
36 work stations. Internet access is free of charge.
All teachers are university qualified and students
also benefit from a Student Welfare Department
which offers support in all aspects of their stay.
Client
Feedback
" I stayed with a wonderful family,
the mother was a great cook and
the father invited me to taste different
local drinks which was very nice
of him.
The courses, teachers and people in Vichy are very nice and the whole experience
was super.
Ave no. of lessons:
20 lessons per week Airport Transfer: Clermont Ferrand airport
Accommodation: Host family, shared room,
full board
Sample Programme
Sunday: Transfer to host families directly
from Clermont Ferrand airport Monday: Morning lessons with level test
and guided tour of the city. Welcome drinks
party. Tuesday: Morning lessons and half day
excursion to the historic town of Ricomagum, a city of art
& rich history. Wednesday: Morning lessons and ice skating
in the afternoon and evening out in local French
restaurant. Thursday: Morning lessons and Cheese
& Wine tasting afternoon. Friday: Morning lessons and free time
for shopping. Farewell party. Saturday: Full day excursion to the famous
old French cities of Beaune & Dijon. Sunday: Return airport transfer to Clermont
Ferrand airport.
Cactus Rates Vichy
Because...
* It sits in stunning
surroundings that make it perfect for outdoor
activities...
* It is a beautiful spa town that has been attracting
visitors for years...
* There are a string of cultural activities
to enjoy year-round.