On January 4, 2025, viewers tuning in to 'Echappées Belles' on France 5 will be swept away on a remarkable exploration of Colorado, the state famous for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Hosted by Sabine Quindou, this episode promises to be not just visually captivating, but also thought-provoking as it dives deep beneath the surface of the Centennial State, known for its breathtaking scenes and diverse outdoor activities.
Colorado is depicted as a majestic land of mountains, canyons, and deserts. ‘When one arrives here, it’s hard to leave!’ as Quindou reflects, encapsulating the powerful allure of this wild territory. The episode will showcase vibrant activities available from the cosmopolitan city of Denver, to the rugged outdoors, presenting ample opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, horseback riding, and kayaking on the iconic South Platte River, which first drew gold seekers to this area back in 1858.
Denver itself, born from the gold rush, provides not just recreational experiences but also cultural ones. Viewers will hear from locals like Anne-Fleur, who runs the 'French Expat' podcast, as she reveals her love for the city and offers insights for those considering relocating to the U.S. From awe-inspiring Union Station to the natural splendor of Red Rocks Amphitheatre—where musical legends like The Beatles once performed—this episode will venture outside the city limits to explore Colorado's more rugged beauty.
Further adventures await with Quindou alongside Maureen Beck, who is not just any local but also a champion of para-climbing, eyeing her opportunity to shine at the 2028 Olympics, where this discipline will take center stage for the first time. Together, they navigate fishing through pristine waters where magnificent rainbow trout await, tackle the excitement of white-water rafting down the Colorado River, and even try their hand at cowboy life with immersive experiences at local ranches.
Yet, amid all this excitement, the program does not shy away from discussing more serious matters. Colorado is grappling with environmental issues, particularly the severe scarcity of water—a resource that's become increasingly precious due to climate change and prolonged droughts. This poignant backdrop serves to highlight the struggles and resilience of local communities. The show takes special care to address these challenges, demonstrating what proactive measures are being employed by those committed to preserving their beloved environment.
Quindou’s exploration will premiere at 9 p.m. on January 4, setting the stage for both adventure and consciousness. The storytelling weaves harmoniously between the past and the present, establishing the golden history of Colorado alongside its current vulnerabilities. 'Echappées Belles' intends to not only amaze spectators with the lush scenery of Colorado’s national parks and nature reserves but also instill appreciation for the conjuncture of human effort against the backdrop of nature's magnificence.
After this stunning episode, the programming will continue with a mouthwatering rerun of 'Finistère Gourmand', where chef Anto immerses himself deeply within the culinary traditions of Brittany—promising to complete the night of cultural exploration beautifully.