August 1, 2023
As one of the most popular destinations to visit in the world, La Belle France is no one’s idea of a “hidden gem.” But most tourists concentrate their attention on Paris and Provence—and there is so much to discover beyond the capital and points south. What’s more, France boasts really strong regional diversity, so every destination within the country is distinct from the next.
I’ve been traveling to France for the past 30+ years and have gotten to know nearly every corner of the country. Here are my picks for the under-the-radar regions in France that rival the most well known.
Brittany
Welcome to a dynamic land where wild, windswept coastline gives way to a green interior studded with castles, storybook towns, and mysterious megalithic stone sites. In many ways, Brittany—in France’s Northwest corner—feels world’s away from the rest of the country. In fact, this remote region has strong ties to Celtic traditions; Breton, a language still spoken by some in the area, is Celtic in origin and legend has it that King Arthur once roamed Brittany’s verdant forests.
Must visit: The Pink Granite Coast—a stunning stretch of colorful rocky outcroppings and sandy beaches in the north of Brittany. Combine walking trails with visits to the area’s “outstanding towns of character” to take in the distinctive Breton coastal architecture.
Must eat: Oysters, kouign-amann (known as the most fattening pastry in France), and hearty buckwheat crepes.
Must drink: Cider brewed from local orchards.
Bordeaux
You certainly have heard of Bordeaux—and the region’s namesake wine—but few tourists take the time to visit. They’re missing out. The city of Bordeaux itself shares a lot of architectural similarities with Paris, but with a slightly less urban ambiance and a sense of warmth literally emanating from the buildings, which were constructed from a more golden-hued stone. Bordeaux has a youthful, propulsive energy and one of the best culinary (and wine, of course) scenes in the country. And a short train ride away is the town of Saint-Émilion, home to old-growth vineyards that produce grand cru wines that sell for thousands.
La Rochelle
Situated on France’s Atlantic Coast, La Rochelle has a strong maritime identity. Guarded by imposing port towers, the city is built around the rhythm of the sea. Stroll through the vieux port (the “old port”) to take in stunning Renaissance palaces butting up against half-timbered homes and covered passageways. There are a number of beaches and green spaces to explore; your toughest decision just may be whether to picnic on the seaside ramparts or sprawling parks that line the historic city center.
Must visit: Ile de Ré—Just cross a bridge from La Rochelle and you’ll find yourself on a stunning island with an eco-tourist bent. Paddleboard or kayak your way through marshes, get a little lost in the narrow village lanes, and visit a winery or two (yes, they even have vineyards on the island!).
Must eat: Any and all seafood, especially fresh HCM oysters farmed right around the city.
Must drink: Cognac—you can even tour the wineries in the area producing Ugni blanc, the white wine grapes that are eventually turned into this distinctive brandy.
The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is probably the least “under-the-radar” spot on the list, since it’s hard to ignore a region that’s studded with chateau after stunning chateau. But the sprawling Renaissance palaces are only the beginning of what makes this valley special. For one, there’s also Sancerre, the racy white wine grown in this fertile area. The Loire Valley is a wonderful region to cycle through, so you can stop off at vineyards, chateaux, and formal gardens at your leisure. Under 1.5 hours by train from Paris, The Loire Valley is an unmissable extension of any France itinerary.
Must visit: The Château de Chambord, the largest and arguably most magnificent chateau in France—it’s the crown jewel among jewels.
Must eat: Refined picnic food reigns supreme here, including rillettes, goat cheese, fresh strawberries, and tarte tatin
Must drink: In addition to fantastic wines, don’t miss the two liqueurs that hail from the Loire Valley—Cointreau and Chambord
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