Unusual Summer Destinations in France

This summer will be French! We have listed for you some ideas for French destinations that are off the beaten track and allow you to fill up on wide open spaces and authenticity. Have a nice summer!

The Dentelles de Montmirail (Vaucluse)

The majestic Dentelles de Montmirail stand in the middle of the vineyards of Vaucluse, between Gigondas and Beaumes-de-Venise. These imposing limestone cliffs rise towards the blue sky of Provence over 8 km long.

There is something for everyone, but especially for the more sporty, because the site is renowned for climbing enthusiasts, whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber. The view at the top is simply breathtaking.

In the surrounding area, the villages of Suzette or Vacqueyras bring you the authentic charm of the villages of Provence. A tasting of the famous Côtes du Rhône wines is essential: Gigondas, Beaumes-de-Venise or even Séguret.

The Valensole plateau (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence)

Near the Gorges du Verdon, take a mountain bike and set off on the trails of the Valensole plateau, for example from Gréoux les Bains then via the Colostre valley, crossing the Provençal villages of Saint-Martin de Brômes or Riez. On the Provençal heights, there are fields and fields of lavender as far as the eye can see. Vast panoramas of the surrounding massifs are available to you.

Carcassonne (Aude)

Carcassonne is one of the most brilliant transmissions of medieval architecture. Built in the 13th century and renovated by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century, Carcassonne still welcomes residents today at the heart of its 3 kilometers of ramparts, its 52 towers, its lists, its private mansions and its open-air theater dating from 1907. Climb to the top of the ramparts and enjoy the 360-degree view. The proximity of vineyards is ideal for preparing aperitifs along the Canal du Midi, or between Place Marcou, Place Saint Jean or the famous Wine Bar frequented by locals.

Pink Granite Coast

The Pink Granite Coast (Côtes-d’Armor)

The north of Brittany, between Perros-Guirec and Trébeurden, unrolls enormous blocks of pink granite on a 10 km coast aptly called Pink Granite Coast. These blocks are polished by the sea, and can be discovered on foot by following the customs officers' path. The village of Ploumanac'h is a must, as is the Sept-Îles nature reserve where you will find water as transparent as in the Seychelles (12 degrees less). To set sail to better admire it, go sailing, kayaking or paddleboarding.

Ocher Trail

Ocher Trails (Vaucluse)

Starting from the village of Roussillon in the Lubéron, the Sentier des Ocres owes its name to the omnipresence of ocher which displays its natural color variations in landscapes shaped by water, wind and the hand of man . Not far away, you can also discover Provençal Colorado, just as breathtaking in its ocher colors.

Lozere

The authentic villages of Lozère (Lozère)

Lozère is one of the most beautiful Cévennes villages, which we visit one after the other, getting lost in their medieval streets. La Garde Guérin is undoubtedly the most picturesque with its thirty fortified houses in its ramparts. Don't miss Florac, headquarters of the Cévennes National Park, Bagnols built near the sources of the Lot and where you can enjoy its thermal spa. Le Bleylard and Altier will appeal to lovers of the great outdoors. This is hiking country.

Palombaggia

Palombaggia (South Corsica)

Located a dozen kilometers from Porto-Vecchio, Palombaggia is the most beautiful beach in Corsica. Golden sand and crystal clear blue water are highlighted by pink granite promontories. The ideal is to reach the south of the Beach, to get a little peace and quiet during the summer period. Here you can also practice snorkeling

The vines of Champagne (Marne)

From the Saint-Thierry massif to the Marne valley, don't hesitate to open the cellar doors, the producers will know how to help you taste the last vintage of this exceptional wine which has become our national pride. The vineyard is divided between four regions: the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne, the Côte des Blancs and the Côte des Bar. The Champagne Tourist Route is very easy to explore by bike.

Virgin Island (Finistère)

It is among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Located near the village of Morgat on the Crozon peninsula in Finistère, the island impresses with its turquoise waters, its maritime pines, wild coves and caves accessible both by sea and by land. The natural heritage is fragile, and hikers are asked not to trample everywhere so as not to precipitate erosion. Crozon is part of the Armorique regional natural park.

The Grand Ballon in Alsace (Haut-Rhin)

Arsène, the ancestor of the founder of the brand, knew these rounded peaks commonly called Balloons well. The Grand Ballon peaks at 1423 m and on a clear day you have a view of the Black Forest, Jura and Alps. Numerous hiking trails crisscross the massif and are punctuated by authentic farm inns where you can quench your thirst and discover local specialties.

Whatever your destination, opt for responsible tourism, by adopting simple actions to reduce your impact on the environment.

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