Discover hidden treasures: Tips for visiting and exploring France

Paris is likely the top destination on many travelers' itineraries for France — and understandably so. This amazing city offers a wealth of activities, sights, and culinary delights. Additionally, popular regions such as Brittany, Marseille, Nice, and the French Riviera provide endless options, including ski resorts and wellness retreats like Evian.

At TPG, we focus on enhancing your travel experiences, particularly by showcasing off-the-beaten-path destinations you may not be familiar with. Here are some hidden gems to consider for your next trip to France.

Annecy

Known as "the Venice of France," this charming little city will captivate you with its stunning beauty. Almost everyone in Annecy seems to engage in some sport, whether it’s rollerblading, tennis, hiking, or cycling; it’s rare to find someone who simply stays home to watch TV.

The reason is simple: no one wants to miss out on the outdoors. Situated on a beautiful artificial lake, the city offers endless opportunities for water sports. Additionally, incredible hiking trails wind through the foothills of the Alps, providing breathtaking views, including glimpses of Mont Blanc on clear days.

For those who prefer staying grounded, wandering the enchanting streets of the old town is a must. Located in the Haute-Savoie region, Annecy boasts a famous local dish you simply cannot miss: a warm serving of potatoes, onions, and lardons topped with reblochon cheese, known as tartiflette.

Getting There: The nearest airport with the most regular flights is Geneva (GVA) in Switzerland, about a 30 to 45-minute drive away, depending on traffic. In winter, Chambery (CMF) has flights, but it often experiences fog, leading to delays and cancellations. Consider taking a train to Geneva and then an intercity bus.

Cassis and Les Calanques

Nestled on the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera), the quaint fishing village of Cassis features charming streets and vibrant houses. Its beaches may be pebbly, but they boast the crystal-clear waters typically found in the Caribbean.

Venture a bit further west and hike through Calanques National Park for breathtaking views from the cliffs. Les Calanques are steep, long inlets made of limestone and dolomite, with serene blue waters and picturesque beaches.

Getting There: The nearest airport is Marseille (MRS), located just a 50-minute drive from Cassis.

Corsica

Known as "the island of beauty" in French, Corsica is a breathtaking gem in the Mediterranean. This small French island offers over 600 miles of coastline, featuring numerous white sandy beaches that are accessible year-round.

The charming restaurants in the old towns of Ajaccio and Bastia are definitely worth exploring, where you can enjoy local delicacies such as charcuterie, jams, and honey.

Getting There: You might consider flying to Mediterranean coastal cities like Marseille, Genoa, or Rome (for the port of Civitavecchia) and taking a boat from there.

La Clusaz and Grand Bornand

France is famous in the skiing community for its extensive, meandering, tree-lined Alpine slopes. Additionally, the après-ski scene here is unmatched anywhere else, with La Folie Douce locations being the ultimate spots to socialize after a day on the slopes.

If you've experienced skiing at some of France's most renowned resorts like The Three Valleys, Tignes/Val D'Isère, or Chamonix, you're likely aware that peak season often leads to frustratingly long ski lift lines. This is where Le Grand Bornand and La Clusaz come into play.

Getting There: Since these resorts are near Annecy, the routes are quite similar. From Geneva, expect a journey of just over an hour to reach either resort. During winter, Chambery (CMF) offers flights, but unpredictable weather and frequent cancellations can make this a risky choice.

La Dune de Pilat/Bordeaux

As the largest sand dune in Europe, the Dune de Pilat certainly has a reputation to uphold. Nestled at the edge of the Landes de Gascogne regional park, it’s an excellent spot for sports enthusiasts. You can go paragliding from the dune's summit, and at the base, kayaking is available.

While a visit to the dune is definitely rewarding, you might not want to spend more than a day there. Luckily, Bordeaux is just nearby, perfect for those who enjoy luxurious hotels and exquisite wines.

Getting There: The nearest airport is Bordeaux-Merignac (BOD).

Le Lac de Sainte Croix, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Lakeside getaways offer a wealth of benefits. The water tends to be calmer than the ocean, the views are distinctly different from coastal scenery, and you can often enjoy a day by the shore without worrying about sand lingering in your shoes for months.

Take Le Lac de Sainte Croix in Alpes de Haute Provence as an example. This serene, peaceful location is far removed from the throngs of tourists that invade the French coast in summer, making it ideal for a relaxing family holiday.

Getting There: Just like Cassis and Les Calanques, the nearest airport is Marseille.

Bottom Line

France is a vast country filled with forests, lakes, beaches, mountains, and so much more; we've only scratched the surface. Sometimes, venturing off the beaten path can lead to the best discoveries — bon voyage!