7 Incredible Hidden Gems in France To Visit in 2024

France offers a unique blend of rich culture, history, and natural beauty and it comes as no surprise that it attracts millions of travelers every year. However, as the holiday season is slowly picking up, you might want to reconsider what’s on your itinerary to avoid annoying crowds.

If you want to go beyond the traditional tourist track and get a more diverse experience from your journey, you have arrived at the right spot.

In this article, you will find the 7 best hidden gems in France to visit in 2024.

Bonifacio

If we had to choose only one place to visit in Corsica, it would have to be Bonifacio. This medieval town is nestled on the top of a cut-off cliff, and facing the neighboring Sardinia, it boasts jaw-dropping views.

It’s divided into two parts. The upper town is known for the 9th-century citadel, romantic alleyways, and plenty of quaint plazas, while the lower town is filled with restaurants, bars, and cafés looking over the marina and anchored yachts. If you don’t feel like walking, the two bits are connected with a tourist train – kids will love it especially.

Rocamadour

If you’re looking to unwind and are willing to travel back in time, we recommend you take a trip to Rocamadour. Situated on the edge of a limestone cliff, this town and sanctuary complex is the destination of many pilgrimages and travelers seeking tranquility. Around the village, you will find plenty of walking paths and viewing points, the vistas are actually the best from there.

When in town, you definitely shouldn’t miss the authentic Rodamadour cheese. This soft goat puck is usually served on a piece of bread with honey or in salads, and you will find plenty of opportunities to savor it with a glass of good wine in local restaurants and bars.

Cassis

An escape to Southern France is always a delight. But there is one town that might take your holiday to a completely different level. Cassis is a quaint Provincial town and is often called the jewel of the Mediterranean.

Its port is dotted with small fishing boats, colorful homes, and restaurants serving fresh seafood, while its cobblestone streets are full of cute artisan shops, cafés, and patisseries.

What’s more, the whole region is known for its fantastic wine. Take a tour of one of the adjacent wineries and turn your trip to Cassis into a summer romance.

Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Set about an hour’s drive from Lyon, this peculiar piece of architecture is a must-stop if you’re into history and art. Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval was built by a self-taught artist Ferdinand Cheval. He was originally a postman and constructed it from stones meticulously collected on his daily errands. That makes the monument a symbol of craftsmanship and dedication, and even an inspiration of many creatives.

But it’s not just the story that makes this place special. The palace is decorated with inscriptions, sculptures, and stone stalactites that will enchant both adults and children. It’s also surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Étretat, Normandy

It’s not just the coast of Ireland and Great Britain that boasts breathtaking white cliffs. You can also find them in France. In Étretat in Normandy to be more specific.

This picturesque little town features several archways, cliff walks, and pebble beaches. Explore them on a hike or for a slightly different view of this natural beauty, you can rent paddleboards.

On the west end of the trail, there is also an 18-hole golf course. As you can imagine, the views from there are perfect. While at the other end, you will find the wonderful (and slightly weird) Étretat Gardens.

Eze, Cote d’Azur

Eze is another stunning seaside town in Southern France. It’s set atop a hill and provides views of the French Riviera coast that are out of this world. Even simply walking its crooked cobblestone streets and staircases is an experience in itself. On top of that, unlike in other destinations of Cote d’Azur, you’re likely to have them to yourself.

Not many people know that, but Walt Disney spent a significant part of his life there. Who knows. Maybe that’s where he found inspiration for its timeless fairytales. Ready to see yourself?

Meneham Village

Scenic shoreline, unique rock formations, thatched cottages, and a 17th-century guard house like from a fantasy movie. That’s Meneham – a tiny hamlet in Brittany perfect for a weekend escape full of hiking, biking, and slow walks on the beach. When the weather allows, you can also swim here.

It was built to guard the land from its enemies and became home to customs officers and their families at some point. Later on, they were replaced by peasants and fishermen. Today, you can learn about history by popping into the Meneham Museum or visiting one of the artisan workshops.

The post 7 Incredible Hidden Gems in France To Visit in 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Daniela Kaňková
Title: 7 Incredible Hidden Gems in France To Visit in 2024
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/7-incredible-hidden-gems-in-france-to-visit-in-2024/
Published Date: Mon, 27 May 2024 16:38:57 +0000

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