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France has been facing issues with excessive tourism even before the rise of Instagram tourism. Despite having a similar population to the UK, it is the top destination for foreign visitors and also a popular choice for domestic travel among the French. Popular tourist spots like Mont Saint-Michel and the Eiffel Tower are frequently crowded with tourists, while St Tropez has experienced a decline in its traditional residents. Is it still possible to discover tranquil spots in France?
After relocating to France more than two years ago, my job writing guidebooks and travel pieces has taken me all over the country, from heavily visited destinations to remote locations that the French might call “the middle of nowhere.” While I understand the allure of the well-known places that are always included in “top 10” lists for France, I prefer not to compete for a spot on the beach with half of South East England. Instead, here are some alternative places you should consider visiting.
Learn more about traveling in France.
Forego touring Paris in favor of Nancy.
Nancy is similar to a smaller version of Paris.
Inspired by the architecture of Versailles and Place Vendome in Paris, Nancy resembles a miniature version of the French capital without the bustling crowds. When Louis XIV married the daughter of the former deposed king of Poland, Stanislas, and made her father the Duke of Lorraine, Stanislas expressed his gratitude by reconstructing the city to welcome the king. He replicated the most lavish structures in Paris, and the facades surrounding the main square of the city, Place Stanislas, are adorned with a generous amount of gold. Despite all the effort put into its construction, Louis XIV supposedly only visited a few times. As it is only a 90-minute train ride from Paris, those who have already experienced the City of Light can opt to visit Nancy instead.
Avoid visiting the lavender fields in Luberon and instead consider visiting Rochefort-en-Valdaine.
In June, the Luberon region is filled with aspiring influencers wielding selfie sticks, making it a potential hazard for losing an eye. However, just 100km north, the peaceful sound of buzzing bees can be heard instead of the constant clicking of camera shutters. In the Drome region, at the lavender fields of Rochefort-en-Valdaine, quiet roads meander through fields of fragrant lavender. Hiking trails lead up into the hills on the outskirts of Vercors Regional Natural Park, offering stunning views of the purple landscape.
Avoid skiing in Chamonix and go to Oz-en-Oisans instead.
Alpe d’Huez offers beautiful mountain vistas
Chamonix has an impressive annual visitor count of 2.5 million. Visiting a bar in town may give off a familiar feeling of being back at your local in Peckham, with even the staff hailing from London. Located about 250km south, Oz-en-Oisans offers activities such as ice climbing, mountaineering, and access to the 250km skiable area of Alpe d’Huez. While Alpe d’Huez is well-known (partly due to hosting the winter Tomorrowland festival), it also attracts many local visitors, creating a diverse atmosphere and avoiding the feeling of intruding on a British boarding school ski trip. Additionally, Alpe d’Huez is relatively affordable compared to other large French resorts and boasts exceptional mountain views.
Avoid going to the Côte d’Azur and explore the Crozon Peninsula instead.
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Crozon presents natural and pristine scenery along the coast of France.
Although the weather in this region may be unpredictable, Brittany’s corner is known for its rugged and pristine beauty, making it a hidden gem among the popular French coastline. While tourists flock to the bustling city of Nice, Crozon remains tranquil even during the busiest times. This is partly due to its remote location, which makes having a car essential for visiting. Instead of luxurious five-star hotels, a campsite with a picturesque view of Brest Bay is the recommended accommodation. Take a stroll along the cliff path, surrounded by lush ferns, and you’ll surely discover a secluded patch of shimmering sand, even on the sunniest of days.
Avoid visiting the castles in the Dordogne region and instead explore Cantal.
Cantal offers picturesque rural landscapes that are comparable to those in Dordogne.
Did you know that the Dordogne is a popular destination in France for retired British individuals? In fact, the western region of France is known to attract elderly British citizens in search of a pleasant lifestyle. If you prefer to avoid fellow Brits while traveling, consider visiting Cantal in central France instead. This area is also home to many historic chateaux, such as the mysterious-looking Chateau d’Alleuze and the lakeside Chateau de Val, both dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The idyllic countryside offers numerous walking trails where you can enjoy the peaceful sounds of cows rather than noisy neighbors.
Exclude past events in Carcassonne for Viviers.
The most prized possession of Viviers is its cathedral from the 12th century.
“JL Rigaux from Auvergne Rhone Alpes Tourisme”
France has numerous walled cities, with Carcassonne in the southwest being a popular destination for tourists. The city, which was established in 122BC, receives up to 16,000 visitors per day and boasts a rich history. However, the high number of tourists can lead to crowded and chaotic streets. Another charming walled city in France is Viviers, located on the banks of the River Rhone in the Ardeche region. Its cobblestone streets wind through archways to the impressive 12th-century cathedral, a reminder of its Roman origins. Visitors can even stay within the cathedral complex, but should be prepared for basic accommodations.
Please take a look at our top-rated hotel reviews for Paris.
Source: independent.co.uk
