Where to go on a trip in France? 22 ideas for trips in France by region

Traveling in France, close to home, can be as exotic as traveling to the other side of the globe. We are lucky to live in a country with an incredible diversity of landscapes, traditions and customs. From the paradisiacal beaches of the islands in the south of France to the endless beaches of the north and the forests of Canada in the Morvan, France has more than one tourist attraction and often offers an escape just a stone's throw from home.

We have been travelling the world for many years and have been feeding our blog with travel guides We have been travelling the world for many years and have been providing our blog with travel guides dedicated to far away destinations, but we have always been keen to highlight travel in France as well, at least in equal measure. So, after many trips to the four corners of France, we are now unveiling our 22 travel ideas for France, 22 proposals and as many adventures to be experienced in our own country.

Where to go on a trip in France? 22 ideas for regional trips

Here is the outline of this travel blog post on our 22 ideas for getaways and holidays in mainland France. Just click on the blue links to go directly to the paragraph that interests you.

Trips to the South East of France

1. Blog travel in France: Staying in the islands of Hyères in the south-east
2. Travel in France in the South-East: The Esterel massif
3. Travelling in France in Corsica: West Corsica
4. Travelling to Corsica in the Ajaccio region

Holidays in the South West of France

5. Travelling in France in the South West: The Landes
6. Travelling in South West France: Agen and its surroundings
7. Travelling in South West France: Visit Albi and explore the Tarn
8. Travelling in France in the Dordogne: Visit the great sites of the Périgord

Travelling in Western France

9. Travelling in Western France: South Finistere
10. Getaway in Western France: The Emerald Coast
11. Travelling west from Paris to Normandy: The Marais Vernier
12. Visiting Nantes in Western France

Escapades in the north of France

13. Travelling in the North West of France: The Bay of the Somme
14. Visit Flanders between northern France and Belgium

Staying in central France

15. Travelling in France between Paris and Lyon: The Morvan
16. Travelling southwest of Paris: Visit Chartres and its surroundings
17. Discovering France and the Beaujolais region on horseback
18. Travelling in the centre-west of France: A nature break in the Limousin

Ideas for trips in Eastern France

19. Cycling in France between East and South-East: ViaRhôna itinerary
20. Journey in Eastern France: The Montbéliard region
21. Mountain travel in France: Around Chambéry
22. Staying in the Alps in Grand Bornand

1. Blog travel in France: Staying in the islands of Hyeres in the South East

The islands of Hyeres, also known as the Golden Islands, off the coast of the commune of Hyeres Les Palmiers in south-eastern France, are in our opinion the best option to feel like you are escaping to the tropics. Porquerolles Island, Port-Cros Island and Levant Island, 3 dream islands that do not require a long-haul flight to reach. This trio of dream islands is like a promise of paradise only a few nautical miles from the Var coast. And yet, we are indeed going on a trip to France!

Each of the three Hyères islands in the archipelago has its own personality.

1.1 Staying on the island of Porquerolles

The best known, Porquerolles, is home to the most beautiful beaches spread over 2 radically different coasts. On the one hand, there is the wild south with its jagged coastline, its creeks and impressive cliffs, and on the other hand, a much gentler coastline with its fine sandy beaches, which are very popular with tourists, especially during the summer. The island can also be explored inland between pine forests, scrubland and vineyards.

Where to sleep on the island of Porquerolles?

At Porquerollais of course, in the heart of the village and it is also a very good address to taste fresh fish.

1.2 Staying on the island of Port-Cros

Port-Cros is the most mountainous and wildest of the 3 islands of Hyères but also the most authentic and best preserved. A real little emerald green gem in the heart of a turquoise blue sea, the island lends itself to diving and unforgettable hikes. Strolling along the 50 shades of turquoise Mediterranean sea, but also along the ridge line where breathtaking views follow one another, you will be faced with beautiful surprises at every moment in Port-Cros.

Where to sleep in Port-Cros?

Accommodation capacity is extremely limited in Port-Cros. This is why tourists usually only spend one day on the island. Once the last shuttle has left, the local life in the port resumes.

À the harbour house which offers a few very clean and functional rooms for rent, directly opposite the boats and close to the amenities.

1.3. Staying on Le Levant Island

As for Le Levant, the third component of the Golden Islands, it is shared between a military zone and a naturist village called Heliopolis. A perched village installed on the eastern tip of the island where nudity is the rule as soon as the temperatures allow it, with the greatest respect and tolerance for everyone.

Naturism, on the island of Levant, is a philosophy of life, a way of communing with Nature.

Where to sleep on Ile du Levant?

At Youkali Gilles and Thierry's guest house. They offer simple and quiet rooms in their "little lost paradise". You can take advantage of the large sunny terrace but also of the shady garden and its small installations which give a very singular charm to the establishment.

To find out more about the Hyères islands consult this article of our travel blog dedicated to the islands of Hyères with stories, addresses and good tips. There are several possibilities to reach the Mediterranean islands by river shuttle. Everything is described in our blog post.

2. Travelling to the South East of France: The Esterel Massif

In this top 22 where to go on a trip in France, we join the south-eastern coastline of our beautiful country. Welcome to the Estérel, a tourist destination between land and sea that stretches between Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus. Between the red rocks of the Esterel massif, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea, and the 9 authentic Provençal hilltop villages with their old-fashioned charm of the Pays de Fayence, the number of visits and activities, more or less sporty, are almost infinite.

L'Estérel is indeed a multi-faceted territory which is just as suitable for lovers of beautiful beaches and water sports as it is for hikers in search of breathtaking panoramas between scrubland and natural stone in large protected natural areas. The region can also be visited by air. A great opportunity to discover all the secrets of this French destination in the south-east in a different way.

The highlight of the area is the Corniche d'Or, a 38 km long scenic seaside road linking Cannes to Saint-Raphaël. The most beautiful coves and viewpoints on the wild coast are concentrated between Agay and Théoule-Sur-Mer.

3. Travel to Corsica in France: West Corsica

West Corsica may not mean much to you. And yet this tourist destination is well known for its visits to Porto and the sublime calanques of Piana. The region is home to a number of other authentic villages to visit and unsuspected natural beauties between the sea and the mountains to explore during a trip to France. West Corsica is only 30km north of Ajaccio and is definitely a great place to spend a relaxing holiday away from the hordes of tourists, even in the summer months. Provided, of course, that you know how to get lost in this incredible kaleidoscope of landscapes and villages that the destination has to offer.

This large territory is made up of 33 municipalities around Porto and is home to exceptional sites and a thousand places that invite you to go on exceptional walks in the middle of nature. Perched in the mountains or built on the Mediterranean coast, the villages of western Corsica also perfectly combine heritage and tradition. Inexhaustible sources of spirituality and renewal.

Exploring the Calanques de Piana is thenumber one natural attraction in Western Corsica, an exceptional natural site where the glowing cliffs plunge into the azure blue sea for miles. They can be explored by road, but also by sea, for example from Porto by zodiac.

Inland, we recommend several hikes such as the one to the Genoese bridge of Zaglia in the Spelunca gorges or the hike in the Aitone forest between pines and its natural pools. One does not necessarily expect to be immersed in this kind of landscape in Corsica. Surprises that make you happy.

When you go on a road trip in this region, you cross villages, each more typical than the other. Vico, a lively and friendly Corsican highland village, can be reached in about twenty minutes by car from the coast.

It is the perfect region to go and meet the small local producers who perpetuate the traditions and are proud of their culture and their land. Between the charcuterie, the cheeses and the good wine, there is plenty of time for convivial tasting and sharing.

Where to sleep in West Corsica?

Staying close to the sea...

Our favourite address is located near the sea in a green setting north of Porto and the Piana creeks. It is a beautiful and spacious building renovated with taste which has several furnished flats. Only the tinkling of the cowbells punctuates the soothing silence of the property. And you know what? L'Aiglon has an infinity swimming pool if you feel like taking a dip.

Staying inland...

L'hotel U Paradisu has several recently refurbished rooms with a beautiful view of the Sposata. You can also eat very well here, having dined with the owner. The local produce is obviously given pride of place.

For more information and ideas for escapades in West Corsicacheck out our full blog post with stories, addresses and tips.

4. Travelling in Corsica in the Ajaccio area

Visiting the Ajaccio region means exploring a colourful southern Corsica between sea and mountains.

Art of living, gastronomy, sports activities, heritage and music are on the agenda of any stay in Ajaccio.

Visiting the Ajaccio region means exploring the Imperial City but also 9 typical villages in the hinterland. Indeed, perched in the mountains of the Gravona and Prunelli valleys, these villages are also worth a visit. Afa, Appietto, Villanova, Alata, Cuttoli-Corricchiato, Peri, Tavaco, Sarrola-Carcopino, Valle di Mezzana, names of villages that make you want to sing.

The winding roads that one takes to reach the various villages also offer unique views of Ajaccio, the Mediterranean Sea, the mountain tops and the scrubland.

And what would Ajaccio be without its heavenly beaches?

Where to sleep in Ajaccio?

L'Dolce Vita hotel is located on the sea front on the Sanguinaires road and offers a superb view of the bay of Ajaccio from the quiet, air-conditioned rooms. The hotel has a pleasant swimming pool and a restaurant to try whether you are a resident or not.

Check out our full blog post dedicated to the Ajaccio region with stories, addresses and good tips. You will find other tested and approved addresses where to sleep in Ajaccio.

5. Travel in France in the South-West: Les Landes

Let's go to the south-west for this 5th idea of a holiday destination in France. The Landes is a department that evokes surfing, beaches, dunes and pine forests. The Landes is also home to lakes, nature reserves and lands where people have a sense of celebration and a taste for good local produce. And let's not forget the rich heritage of the tourist destination.

The Landes is of course first and foremost a territory known for being a leading destination for surfers from all over the world. Hossegor is indeed known as one of the best surf spots in the world. It is there that we took an initiation course. To our great surprise, the first sensations come very quickly even if the technique is not necessarily there from the start.

On the nature side, we fell in love with a visit off the beaten track, that of the Huchet current reserve also called the little Amazon Landes. It is a watercourse which connects the lake of Léon to the Atlantic Ocean without any damming up. This unique natural site of 618 ha in the Bay of Biscay seems to have remained frozen in time. It lends itself to outdoor activities with family or friends.

To immerse yourself in the heart of the Landes countryside, head for the Orx marsh in Labenne, a fifteen-minute drive from Capbreton. This 774 hectare protected natural area is the last large protected wetland on the Aquitaine coast.

If you prefer more cultural activities, we advise you to visit Hossegor from an architectural point of view, in order to have another look and to better understand the history of the seaside resort.

6. Travelling to the South West of France: Agen and its surroundings

Agen, known for its famous prunes, is located in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and more precisely in the department of Lot-et-Garonne, only about 1 hour drive from Bordeaux or Toulouse.

When you visit "La perle du Midi", as the emblematic Occitan poet Jasmin wrote, and wander through its streets, you open quite a history book. From one district to another, from one building to another, from one façade to another, you travel instantly from the medieval period to the end of the 19th century without realising it. This medium-sized town in the south-west has many treasures, such as its canal bridge which majestically spans the Garonne.

And then, to visit Agen, it is also to lose oneself in the splendid undulating landscapes of the surroundings and to stroll in the villages of the agglomeration like in that of Astaffort where we slept. It has an air of Tuscany and even Puglia in Italy at times. And like us, you may also come across some very good restaurants.

Where to sleep around Agen?

We stayed in the guest house La Maison d'Hôtes which is located in the old presbytery of the village of Astaffort, completely renovated after the realization of a project between 2 Auvergne inhabitants. The friendly couple welcomes travellers with a passion for exchanges and encounters.

Find here our complete blog article with all our good addresses and advices to visit Agen and its surroundings.

7. Travelling in South West France: Visit Albi and explore the Tarn

We continue our travel ideas in France with another focus on the southwest. Welcome this time to the Tarn, a department in the Occitanie region.

When you decide to visit the Tarn for the first time, Albi and its famous Sainte-Cécile cathedral, a real red brick vessel, are not to be missed. As soon as you arrive, don't hesitate to lose yourself in the charming alleys of the episcopal city and enjoy thepeaceful atmosphere and the architectural wealth that constantly catches the eye. It almost makes your neck ache to keep looking up at all the beautiful red brick facades. Buildings that shine even more brightly at dusk.

But the Tarn is obviously not limited to Albi, however beautiful it may be. The area known as the Pays de Gascogne is home to a number of authentic villages to visit.

Located at the foot of the Montagne Noire, the town of Sorèze and its famous abbey-school, which has a double museum and an unusual hotel in which we even slept, represent an essential stopover in the Haut-Languedoc regional nature park.

And how can we not mention the picturesque medieval village of Lautrec when exploring the Tarn? With its typical narrow streets, its central square lined with half-timbered houses, and the pastel mill which dominates the whole town, you will be amazed once again.

Visiting the Tarn also means visiting the Albigensian bastides such as Cordes-sur-Ciel, Castelnau-de-Montmiral or Puycelsi.

As for nature, the Sidobre park and its legendary rocks are a must if you want to rediscover your childlike spirit.

Where to sleep in the heart of Albi?

At the hotel Alchimy an old house renovated in the Art-deco style. All the visits of the city can be done on foot from the historical hotel. We recommend the restaurant on the ground floor of the hotel. On the terrace or under the glass roof, you will have a great time.

Read our travel blog on Albi and the Tarn with stories, addresses and good tips.

8. Travel in France in the Dordogne: Visit the great sites of the Périgord

The Dordogne is a beautiful and great love story for us.

This is the latest tourist destination in the southwest that we recommend in this article on our travel ideas in France. The Périgord is of course known for its world-famous gastronomy. The natural and prehistoric sites such as the famous and unmissable Lascaux caves also contribute greatly to the reputation of the area.

But there are many more places of interest in the Dordogne. The gardens of Eyrignac and Marqueyssac, the park of Thot, Sarlat-La-Canéda, Périgueux, the villages of Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, Monpazier and La Roque-Gageac, the caves of Rouffignac and Grand Roc, the castles of Bourdeilles and Biron, the cloister of Cadouin or the troglodytic village of La Madeleine are just some of the manyideas for visits that make any stay in the Dordogne unforgettable.

Where to sleep in the Dordogne?

At the charming hotel Edward I located in Monpazier. It is very convenient because the whole village can be visited on foot. It's impossible not to fall in love with the hotel's swimming pool to relax after a day of visits.

We advise you to read 2 blog posts that we wrote after 2 stays in the region. The first article gives you all the advice and good tips for travel 1 week in the Dordogne. The second article is a good complement to the first one with some great visits not to be missed of the great sites of the Périgord.

9. Travelling to the West of France: South Finistère

Let's go now to Brittany in the west of France for this 9th tourist destination where to spend a good holiday in France. We are getting closer to the sea! South Finistère has a jagged coastline, heavenly beaches, villages and lighthouses at the end of the world, a deep-rooted culture, a unique heritage and a lifestyle based on fishing. A tourist destination that has everything you need for a successful trip to France.

There are many natural sites in South Finistère. The Pointe de la Torche and the Eckmühl lighthouse, the famous Pointe du Raz, the Rospico cove and the village of Locronan are among our favourite places to visit. Don't miss the Tahiti beach, its turquoise water and fine sand. A change of scenery guaranteed!

As for the town and its heritage, Concarneau is a charming seaside town on a human scale where it is pleasant to lose yourself in the middle of the fortifications.

Where to sleep in South Finistère?

We have tested several addresses in the region. The Dalmore Manor which is located on the seafront at Port Manec'h near Névez is the accommodation that caught our attention the most. The remarkable manor house offers 10 rooms and suites with sea views. The establishment, built in 1926, marvellously combines the old and the new, even in the rooms.

Click here to read the full article on our travel blog on South Finistère with stories, addresses and tips.

10. Travelling in France in the West: The Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast is a great way to get a breath of fresh air and a great view of the countryside. A nature that is rejuvenating, that's what you come to Brittany for.

Richard has been visiting the Emerald Coast since his childhood. First walks on the beach, first swims in the waves, images and landscapes that often come back to him.

People come to this part of Brittany for its jagged coastline, which is ideal for hiking but also for exploring on a road trip by bike or car. On the way, we like to be surprised by a paradisiacal beach like the Chevrêts beach or an often windy point like the Décollé one, which invites us to relax in front of unique panoramas. The Pointe du Grouin, a rocky spur sheltering a protected natural area, offers hikers a splendid view of the open sea and the coast, with Mont Saint-Michel to the east and Cap Fréhel to the west.

Fort Lalatte is one of the most impressive sites on the Emerald Coast. Overlooking a 72-metre cliff beaten by the winds, the castle has a unique character that is not to be missed.

The queen here is the oyster! To taste them, go to the fishing village of Cancale. The Cancale oyster is internationally renowned, so if you want to buy some, get to the market early to make sure you get your fill.

As for the towns and villages, Saint-Malo is of course a must. The corsair city can be discovered on foot, walking along its cobblestones and along its ramparts. It is a pleasant city to walk around. Despite the crowds, especially during the summer, the magic still works.

On the other side of the Rance estuary, you can visit Dinard, known for its beautiful bourgeois houses.

For the rest, you have to trust yourself and get lost in the region. There are always nice surprises at the end of the road.

Where to sleep on the Emerald Coast?

If you are looking for a campsite*** on the Emerald Coast, go to the Chevrêts campsite in Saint-Coulomb. Tested and approved.

Check out our travel blog on the Emerald Coast with stories, addresses and tips. 10 favourites in one blog post.

11. A trip to the west of Paris in Normandy: Le Marais Vernier

Want a green getaway not too far from Paris? Go to the Marais Vernier in Normandy, a former meander drained from the Seine by an old dike built under Henry IV. Quite a history! This is a land of authenticity and tradition where you can travel in France, which has all the assets of a great region with its wet marshes, its orchards, its wooded hillsides, its charming thatched cottages, its courtils, its pastures and the well-known Normandy cows who have a great time.

When you arrive in the Marais Vernier via the hillside along the Seine, the view of this vast wetland area, which is a protected nature reserve of around 4,500 hectares, is breathtaking. This real natural amphitheatre is home to the first peat bog in France and an exceptional fauna and flora. It's the perfect place to go for a walk in a bucolic area with a thousand charms. From the hillside on a clear day, you can even see the Tancarville bridge in the distance.

The ponds, including the Grand Mare, are home to breeding and migratory birds (storks) in the reed beds. Irises and orchids punctuate the marsh with colourful hues. In spring, you can hear the croaking of the batrachians. Don't hesitate to do as we did and climb to the top of the Observatoire de la Grand Mare to get a better look at the site.

The Marais Vernier is a 100% natural experience which is also at the crossroads of many tourist destinations such as Deauville, Trouville, Honfleur or Étretat. A great way to extend your holiday by the sea.

Where to sleep in the Marais Vernier?

At the guest house Les Cigognes du Marais located on the route des Chaumières. A gîte run by the friendly Isabelle who offers to stay in charming thatched cottages situated in a garden planted with trees and flowers with taste. Real cocoons for lovers. Unusual accommodation is also available, such as the POD with a private outdoor jacuzzi.

The little extra is the bicycle rental service to get lost in the Vernier marsh.

Read our full blog post dedicated to the Vernier Marsh with stories, addresses, activities and tips.

12. Visit Nantes in the west of France

We stay in the west with this 12th French tourist destination but this time in the city. Welcome to Nantes, the city of Jules Verne. A whole trip to the water's edge which, between the visits to the districts and its rich heritage, as well as its good addresses, has enough to keep you busy for the holidays. And the countryside is never far away either!

As you can see, there's a lot to do in Nantes. During a sunny stay, we took the opportunity to visit the famous machines on the island in the Parc des Chantiers, the city's flagship attraction. The former shipyard district, a link between the northern and southern parts of the city, has undergone an extraordinary transformation and has become a must-see. Young and old alike are bound to fall under the spell of the giant machines it houses.

As you walk along the Loire towards the west of the district, don't miss the Quai des Antilles, made famous by its 18 particularly photogenic Buren rings. The site is ideal for a bite to eat.

Next, it is the picturesque Bouffay district that caught our attention. It is home to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul cathedral and the Jardin des Plantes. To visit the district easily, you just have to follow the green line painted on the ground on foot. This is original and very practical, as it ensures that you don't miss anything of this medieval district, its attractions and its shopping streets.

Finally, visiting Nantes also means strolling through the Graslin district amidst its 18th and 19th century buildings with their elegant architecture. The Passage Pommeraye is a must-see, especially as you can combine discovering the city's heritage with shopping. We invite you to taste the Rigolettes Nantaises or to take a little gourmet break at La Cigale. One thing is for sure, you will always find yourself at some point on the Place Royale, a well-known meeting place for the people of Nantes.

In Nantes, it is very easy to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city by taking a river shuttle to the unusual village of Trentemoult. A former fishing village on the banks of the Loire with colourful alleys, it has been voted one of France's best villages to live in. Here, time seems to have stopped, unlike in the city of Nantes. We strongly recommend this excursion without moderation.

Where to sleep in Nantes?

We have selected 2 original hotel concepts in Nantes. The Seven Urban Suites and the Okko Hotel. Read more in our dedicated article.

Consult here our city guide on Nantes with stories, addresses, activities and tips.

13. Trip to the north-west of France: The Bay of the Somme

For this 13th trip to France, we take you to the English Channel and more precisely to the Bay of the Somme. The Camargue du Nord, as it is called, is a classified nature reserve of 72 km² which is a delight for nature lovers and hikers. You can even see seals here! You will be overwhelmed by the serenity of the place, the beauty of the landscapes and the beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, but also by the kindness of the Picards.

To discover all the diversity of this territory in the north-west of France, go first to the Marquenterre Park, a park which extends over 260 hectares between land and sea, between sand dunes, forests and marshes. Many migratory birds can be seen here, including storks.

The must-do activity in this region is crossing the Bay of the Somme on foot. This hike allows you to immerse yourself completely in the heart of this nature reserve to be as close as possible to nature. But you must be very careful because the tides can be dangerous for the uninitiated. Here, in a few minutes, the current can quickly become very strong and carry everything away in its path, encircling the sandbanks or covering them over several metres. The best thing to do is to be accompanied by a guide who, as well as making your walk safer, will inevitably teach you a lot about this ecosystem which remains fragile.

The discovery of the Bay of the Somme on the natural side can also be accompanied by a stay in one of the seaside resorts located a little further north, such as Berck or Le Touquet-Paris-Plage. We tell you more in our dedicated blog post.

Check out our blog on the Bay of the Somme with stories, addresses and tips

14. Visit Flanders between the north of France and Belgium

We are staying in the Hauts-de-France region for this 14th trip in France, which promises to be original and off the major tourist trails of the region. Indeed, this time we take you to discover Flanders between Lille and Ghent in Belgium along the water, between the Deûle canal and the Lys river. Of course you don't have to follow all our steps on this route, but you'll see that there are manyideas for visits and activities in the countryside or in the city to choose from, depending on your tastes and your budget.

In addition, there are so many ways of getting around to discover the Deûle Canal and the Lys River. We have tested a number of them, such as the tandem, the historic tramway, the electrically-assisted bicycle or the boat without a licence.

And what would the north of France be without its local gastronomy, its waffles, its welsh, its delicious Flemish carbonnade or its legendary beers and homemade chips?

Where to sleep in Lille and Flanders?

In Lille, we stayed at the hotel du Couvent des Minimes **** in the historical centre of the city. We highly recommend this hotel as it allows you to visit Lille on foot very easily.

The rest of the tour was done by different means of transportation including a boat without a license. We slept inside but also in establishments that we describe in our dedicated blog post.

An unforgettable and original stay that we would never have imagined in this beautiful French region and that also took us to Belgium to discover Kortrijk and Ghent. Reading our travel blog post will hopefully make you want to discover this beautiful itinerary on holiday.

15. Travelling in France between Paris and Lyon: The Morvan

We leave the north to go to the centre of France and more exactly to the region of Burgundy-Franche-Comté between the departments of Nièvre, Côte-d'Or, Saône-Et-Loire and Yonne. The Morvan, one does not necessarily think of it and yet this territory is perfect to go green, especially if one lives in Paris (2h30 drive) or Lyon. The Morvan is above all landscapes that you discover according to the light, sometimes with colours reminiscent of the great Canadian, Irish or even Scottish spaces. Once again, it is possible to get a complete change of scenery and disconnect in the middle of nature and in the middle of a forest not so far from home.

There are plenty of natural spots in the forest to explore and they lend themselves to micro-adventure experiences. The picturesque site of the Gouloux jump in the Nièvre is one of them. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts in the heart of lush vegetation. The 10-metre high waterfall formed by the Caillot is the most famous spot. The remains of mills can still be seen there. There are also other curiosities such as the rapids of the Cure.

As for the lakes, the Settons lake is a must. Very well equipped, it takes about 2h30 to go around it. You can also practice a whole range ofwater sports.

For lovers of history and old stones, go to Mont Beuvray and the Bibracte archaeological site museum. In addition to the historical remains found thanks to the excavations begun in the 1980s, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Morvan forest.

The Morvan is a land of legends, but also the ideal territory for hiking and outdoor activities, sometimes with thrills, such as electrically assisted mountain biking or rafting.

Where to sleep in the Morvan?

A stay in the Morvan is finally an opportunity to recharge your batteries, cast off and disconnect. It is a region where "going green" takes on its full meaning. And unusual accommodation such as that of the Domaine de la Pierre Ronde which we talk about in our dedicated blog article, are perfect for this.

Our blog post blog dedicated to the Morvan with stories, addresses and tips.

16. Travelling southwest from Paris: Visit Chartres and its surroundings

When visiting the châteaux of the Loire from Paris, you will inevitably pass by the city of Chartres, which is located in the Eure-et-Loir department. The city's landmark is of course the imposing Gothic cathedral, which is the best preserved in France. Its spires can even be seen from the motorway! So why not take advantage of this opportunity to go on holiday in this tourist area with its unsuspected riches and where the quality of life is also very appreciable? Of course, Chartres and its rich heritage are worth a visit, but the surrounding area is also ideal for cultural visits and escapism. The castle of Maintenon is a perfect example.

And of course, spending a holiday in the Eure-et-Loir rhymes with the discovery of an undeniable gastronomic heritage. Why not discover it during a cookery course? We tell you all about it in our dedicated travel blog post.

Where to stay in Chartres?

Located in the heart of the historic centre of Chartres, the Maison Ailleurs is a 14th century mansion, very comfortable and welcoming. It feels like home. We love the view from the room over the garden, one of the few gardens in the upper town centre.

Read our article on visiting Chartres and its surroundings with stories, addresses and tips.

17. Discovering France and Beaujolais on horseback

We like to visit France differently. You will surely have understood. The Beaujolais region inevitably rhymes with famous vineyards and gastronomy. Rather than exploring this territory by car, we decided to indulge in the pleasures of a 2-day horseback ride to get lost even more easily. This is an opportunity to explore the hilly landscapes streaked with vineyards and dotted with charming ochre stone hamlets at the rhythm of our horses' steps between the Beaujolais des Pierres Dorées and the Beaujolais des Grands Crus.

An unforgettable stay which makes us discover the small village of Jarnioux, its famous viaduct and its "chemin du tacot", an old railway line which used to link Villefranche to Tarare and which is now a well-known hiking and horse riding route in the region.

We also take some ridge paths suitable for trotting and galloping while enjoying breathtaking views of a Beaujolais that transports us to Tuscany. Once again, it is possible to get a complete change of scenery not far from home.

From the village of Odenas, we set off the next day to the top of Mont Brouilly, a hill culminating at 484 m altitude which has the particularity of having a rounded summit dominating the Beaujolais Grands Crus. The first few kilometres are spent in the middle of the vineyards. After an ascent of about 1h30, we reach a chapel built in the middle of the 19th century dominating the vineyards of the Côte de Brouilly.

A final gallop and we arrive at the Château de la Chaize estate. This is an estate nestled in a natural cirque and whose castle gardens were designed by Le Nôtre. An ideal historical site that lends itself to a good tasting.

The feeling of freedom is extraordinary in the saddle. You invent new horizons at every moment.

Our blog on Beaujolais with stories, addresses and good tips.

18. Travelling in the centre-west of France: Nature break in the Limousin

A holiday in Limousin means exploring a peaceful and confidential region of France shared between the departments of Corrèze, Creuse and Haute-Vienne. Here, you are far from the hordes of tourists massed on the beaches of the coast! And yet this region has all the assets of the great tourist destinations with a lush natural environment, towns and villages with a rich historical heritage, talented craftsmen with internationally recognised know-how and a succulent gastronomy.

On the city side, don't miss Aubusson and its famous tapestry museum, but also visit Limoges and go to the sources of luxury to meet its creators.

In terms of nature, a road trip is the best way to see as much as possible while enjoying the countryside. The natural sites are exceptional and have unsuspected riches. In terms of outdoor sports activities, between canoeing, acrobatic courses in the trees and water skiing, you won't have time to get bored. We even tested geocaching, which is an excellent way to explore a region and hike in a different way. Lake Vassivière was our playground for our first experience.

Finally, as far as gastronomy and accommodation are concerned, we can say that we really had a lot of good addresses between unusual accommodation and charming establishments.

Read here our blog on Limousin with stories, addresses and good tips.

19. A trip in France by bike between East and South-East : Itinerary of the ViaRhôna

The ViaRhôna may not sound familiar to you, but this 815 km cycling route allows you to discover at your own pace the beautiful landscapes, the art of living and the French heritage from the mountains of the Alps to the beaches of the Camargue, crossing the emblematic landscapes of the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône and those of southern Provence. Of course, you don't have to follow the entire route on your next trip to France.

Cyclotourism or the pleasure of touring France by bicycle.

Here is one of our videos shot on a section of the ViaRhôna between Seyssel and Morestel. Links to other videos of the route are available on our YouTube channel.

The ViaRhôna greenway, sometimes urban, often in the middle of nature, allows you to follow the Rhône at your own pace from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean while discovering towns with a rich heritage such as Lyon, Vienne, Tournon-sur-Rhône or Valence, hilltop villages such as Malleval and famous hillsides such as those of Tain-l'Hermitage.

The European ViaRhôna cycle route alternates between safe greenways and shared roads. We have tested 3 sections of this route by electrically assisted bicycle. Find out more about our cycling adventures below, along with all the good deals on restaurants, visits and accommodation, as well as all our practical advice in the 3 articles below in our travel blog.

Cycling from Lyon to Valence
Cycling from Seyssel to Morestel
Cycling from Tain-L'Hermitage to Viviers near Montélimar

20. Travelling in Eastern France: The Montbéliard region

We are almost at the end of our top 22 travel ideas in France and frankly this 20th inspiration to spend your next holiday in France is worth a look. The Pays de Montbéliard, which includes 72 communes in the Doubs department in the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region, has indeed its place here. You will soon understand why.

Montbéliard is a well-known tourist destination in winter for its Christmas market, just like the one in Strasbourg. In the summer, the town and its surroundings are also a great idea for an authentic green getaway. It is also the northern gateway to the Jura mountains.

Montbéliard is a town on a human scale that already existed in ancient times. We advise you to visit the historic centre on foot or by bike following the Heinrich Schickardt urban trail set up by theOffice de tourisme du pays de Montbéliard. The route allows you to discover the castle of the Dukes of Wurtemberg built on a rocky spur overlooking the Peugeot factories on one side and the old centre of Montbéliard on the other.

The Peugeot Adventure Museum, which is actually located in Sochaux, presents 209 years of the Lion brand's adventure. Much more than a car museum, the site also offers visitors the opportunity to discover the innovations in which the brand has participated, notably through cycles and coffee grinders.

In the Montbéliard area, don't miss the exploration of the Roches site in Pont-de-Roide in URBEX mode. First you wander around the battery of Roches and then you go hiking along the Crêt des Roches, a vertiginous 100 m high limestone cliff which dominates the Doubs valley. Climbing is also practiced on the site.

If you want to have fun in the Montbéliard region, you can also enjoy an unforgettable experience in the air during a first flight in a hot air balloon. 2 departures are possible: in Lomont in France or in Porrentruy in the canton of Jura in Switzerland. The departures depend on the wind direction.

Where to sleep in Montbéliard?

L'Arianis Hotel is ideally located as it is right next to the Peugeot Adventure Museum.

Read our travel blog about Montbéliard and its surroundings with all our stories, addresses and tips for a great holiday in Eastern France.

21. Travel to the mountains in France: Around Chambéry

Let's stay in the East of France but this time between the lakes and the mountains of Savoie. We take you to the area around the Lac du Bourget, between Chambéry, Aix-les-Bains and the resort of La Féclaz. A whole programme that will delight the youngest and the oldest.

To take in the sights, we advise you to start your holiday with a hike in the forest towards the Dent du Chat. A path accessible to all offers a view of the Chambéry valley, Aix-les-Bains and the Lac du Bourget with an impressive panorama of the Alpine peaks on arrival. You can also enjoy an unforgettable view of the Dent du Chat from the top of its 1390 m.

The mountains in summer can be enjoyed on land but also on the water. Go to the Grand Port d'Aix-les-Bains which is located on the edge of the largest natural lake in France. To enjoy the beauty of the lake in complete freedom and independence, just like us, rent a boat without a licence. You will also fall in love with the beaches of the lake which allow you to enjoy the sun in complete peace.

Further up, the resort of La Féclaz is a great place to recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature. The forests and alpine pastures invite hiking for all, especially as the slopes are very gentle. You can set off to discover the many sights of the Bauges massif, such as the Revard belvedere and its paragliding departure point, the Himalayan footbridge at the trou de l'Enfer, or the Croix du Nivolet, the symbol of the Chambéry valley.

Where to sleep around Chambéry?

The Candie castle dates from the 14th century. Since its construction, it has of course evolved and currently offers 28 unique rooms including 5 family suites. There are also 2 restaurants in the castle, one of which is gastronomic.

We propose you other tested addresses, our complete stories and our good plans activities in this article of blog on Chambéry and its surroundings.

22. Staying in the Alps in Grand-Bornand

We conclude our 22 holiday ideas in France with a new inspiration for a stay in the mountains. The historic resort of Le Grand-Bornand is a must-see Alpine destination in Haute-Savoie in winter and summer.

The authentic village, dominated by the Aravis mountain range, lends itself to mountain hiking. Our favourite hike in Grand-Bornand is undoubtedly the one that leads to the Gramusset high altitude refuge.

Don't forget to taste the Savoyard specialities between 2 sports activities in one of the many establishments of the Alps resort. There is something for everyone!

Finally, a stay in Le Grand-Bornand is also an opportunity to visit the craftsmen and creators of the resort. And then Art is everywhere in the resort. Surprising, isn't it?

We tell you much more in our blog articles about Grand-Bornand with stories, addresses and good tips for staying there in summer as well as in winter. Inspiration guaranteed. By reading our blog posts you will realise that you can combine a stay in Grand-Bornand with trips to neighbouring Italy and Switzerland.

The Grand-Bornand in summer (tour of the Alps)
Le Grand-Bornand in winter