France is one of the most visited countries worldwide. Paris, Bordeaux, Marseille, and countless other French places are visited by millions of tourists every year.
This ranking is for you if you want to get off the beaten path and explore places of exceptional beauty. Here are your top picks for France’s best-kept secrets.
Estérel Massif, Golden Island – Var
One of the most amazing natural treasures of France is this towering volcanic mountain range. The Massif de l’Esterel is located in the Var, a region known for its magnificent scenery and for having some of the best beaches in Europe.
Eze, Cote d’Azur
The town of Eze is only 40 minutes by car from the famous city of Nice.
A rocky hill with a town called Eze facing the Mediterranean dates back to the 13th century. Come here for the breathtaking scenery and the historic charm of the small village with its medieval houses.
Cancale, Brittany
Travelers from all over the world flock to this small town of 5,000 residents every year to sample its wild oysters, take in its brilliant blue waters and enjoy its gorgeous beaches. Le Mont Saint-Michel is about 50 minutes by car from Cancale.
Menton, Cote d’Azur
Menton has become one of the most famous destinations on the Côte d’Azur, although it is less popular than Nice or Cannes. Menton is the ideal place for a day vacation or a stay of several days, as it is only 50 minutes by car from Nice airport.
L’ile Louet, Carantec – Morlaix – Brittany
The Carantec Tourist Office now allows overnight stays on this tiny island although the site is often occupied. We recommend you to take this into account and book well in advance.
Riquewihr, Alsace
One of the prettiest villages in Alsace and one of France’s best kept secrets is Riquewihr.
This little village’s success as a tourist destination is primarily attributable to the preservation of its architectural past during the two World Wars.
Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, which is approximately an hour’s drive from Strasbourg and only 15 minutes from Colmar, has long been a favorite French village. Eguisheim is a place right out of a fairy tale with its vibrant facades, traditional Alsatian homes, and stork nests.
Monet’s Garden, Giverny – Normandy
Every now and then, men use their hands to create spectacular landscapes and exquisite gardens. The gardens of Giverny fall into this category. The artist Claude Monet had to leave Paris because he had little money and settled in this house in Normandy as a single tenant.
The construction of three greenhouses and extensive landscaping work on the property included the creation of a pond. After renting the house for 7 years, Monet eventually bought it. His most famous works, such as “Les Nymphéas,” were inspired by these gardens.