Three local-loved vacation destinations in France
We consulted three of our France correspondents about their top summer vacation spots that stray from the typical tourist path. Their selections showcase a diverse array of locales, from hidden coves on the Côte d’Azur to serene mountain trails leading to a medieval castle perched on a cliff.
Keep reading to discover lesser-known destinations in France you may not be familiar with, and start planning a detour on your next European getaway.
Experience the tranquil, clear waters of the serene Calanque De Port D'Alon, located near Bandol © Gugu Mannschatz / Shutterstock1. Bandol, Côte d’Azur
Daphné Leprince-Ringuet is a travel and technology journalist based in Paris.
What Makes Bandol Special?
Nestled between Marseille and Toulon, away from the bustling tourist spots of Cassis and La Ciotat, the delightful port town of Bandol is surrounded by the rocky inlets, or calanques, of the Côte d’Azur.
A breathtaking train journey along the coastline from Marseille leads you to this area of hidden treasures, which can be reached via a cliffside coastal path that offers countless picture-perfect views.
Essential Activities
The enchanting Calanque de Port d’Alon beckons for a refreshing dip. A quick 15-minute drive will take you to Le Castellet, a charming medieval village set high in the Var department. Enjoy a meal at Le Pied de Nez, where you can savor local dishes while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
No visit to Bandol is complete without exploring its renowned product: wine. The local wine bar Le 8.27 boasts an impressive range of regional cuvées. Be prepared to leave with one (or more) bottles from the many nearby wine shops.
Bandol Tips
The quintessential Provençal town of Bandol is a wonderful place to stay. If you have a car, consider seeking out more secluded lodging options closer to the calanques for an even more memorable experience.
Explore landmarks like the medieval Château de Fleckenstein while hiking in northern Alsace © Shutterstock / U. Eisenlohr2. Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord, northern Alsace
Jean-Bernard Carrilet is a writer, photographer, and videographer hailing from Metz, Lorraine.
Why choose northern Alsace? Alsace offers much more than just Strasbourg and the famed Route des Vins (Wine Road). For those eager to uncover hidden gems in this eastern French region, I highly recommend northern Alsace, particularly the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord, located an hour northwest of Strasbourg.
This tranquil, laid-back region features rolling hills, scenic lakes, lush forests, winding rivers, quaint villages, and majestic hilltop castles.
Essential activities
The breathtaking scenery of Northern Alsace provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor pursuits like hiking and cycling; the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord offers a vast network of trails that meander through untamed forests. For the most breathtaking vistas, visit Château de Fleckenstein, a striking red-sandstone castle perched atop a rocky outcrop near the German border.
Art lovers should not miss the remarkable Musée Lalique in Wingen-sur-Moder. This cutting-edge museum features an exquisite collection of jewelry, perfume bottles, and sculptures, all beautifully crafted by the celebrated French art-nouveau designer René Lalique, adorned with stunning gems and enamel.
Tips for Northern Alsace
Whenever I need to unwind and rejuvenate, I make it a point to visit Zuem Buerestuebel in the mineral spa town of Niederbronn-les-Bains. This traditional winstub (bistro) offers delightful Alsatian dishes such as tarte à l'oignon (onion tart) and grumbeerekiechle (potato pancakes). For a place to stay, I highly recommend Ferme-Auberge du Moulin des 7 Fontaines, a charming 18th-century farmhouse nestled in a beautiful rural landscape.
La Baule features delightful harbors, expansive sandy beaches, boutique shops, restaurants, and stunning sunsets over the bay © Sasha64f / Shutterstock3. La Baule and the Côte d’Amour
Sixtine Lerouge is a Parisian journalist with a passion for train travel.
Why La Baule?
From my earliest memories, summer vacations have been spent beneath the pines of La Baule les Pins. Located just a few miles north of the Loire estuary, this enchanting seaside spot on France's Atlantic Coast boasts a stunning 9km (5.5-mile) beach and the dramatic Côte Sauvage (wild coast) to the west. Tucked away among the cliffs and wild grasses, you'll find tranquil coves that are perfect for lounging with a good book.
Must-do activities
Two indulgences I can never resist are perusing the local market in the morning for fresh oysters and watching the sunset over the bay in the early evening.
This area is also home to plenty of hotels, fine dining options, and lively bars. For a place to stay, I highly recommend the Hotel Saint-Christophe, conveniently located near the Place du Marché and just steps from the shore. This charming stone villa is characteristic of the region, adorned with climbing vines framing its windows.
In the evening, a fantastic dining option is the Crêperie du Derwin, where you can savor delightful seafood and crêpes. For a drink, I recommend cycling east toward Pornichet’s marina, where La P’tite Case awaits—a beloved spot known for its superb cocktails.
La Bule tips
La Bule serves as the entrance to Brière Regional Nature Park, France's second-largest wetland area, offering opportunities for nature walks and wildlife viewing.
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