The Best Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in France

France is a beautiful country full of diverse culture, delicious cuisine, stunning architecture and breathtaking natural scenery. From the bustling streets of Paris to the picturesque coastline of the Mediterranean, there is something for everyone to enjoy. But while the well-known tourist attractions are certainly worth visiting, why not take some time to explore the lesser-known places in France, away from the crowds? Here, we will take a look at some of the best off the beaten path places to visit in France. So if you’re looking for something a little different, read on to discover some hidden gems.

Cascades de Gavarnie

The Cascades de Gavarnie is a spectacular waterfall located in the Pyrenees mountains of the Hautes-Pyrénées region of France. The waterfall is one of the highest in Europe, with a total height of 422 metres. The surrounding area is rugged and breathtakingly beautiful, with dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the valley below. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including chamois, mouflons and marmots. A visit to Cascades de Gavarnie is the perfect way to experience the majesty of the French countryside.

The Regional Natural Park of the Queyras

The Regional Natural Park of the Queyras is located in the Hautes-Alpes region of France, and is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of the country. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as picturesque villages and alpine lakes. Activities in the area include hiking, skiing, snowshoeing and mountaineering, as well as a variety of cultural activities such as traditional cheese-making and beekeeping. The park is also home to one of the largest colonies of golden eagles in Europe, making it a great spot for bird-watchers.

The Camargue

The Camargue is a unique landscape located in the south of France, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhone River Delta. It is home to a variety of rare species of birds, as well as wild horses, bulls and pink flamingos. The area is known for its stunning sunsets, and is a popular spot for photographers and nature-lovers alike. Visitors can explore the area by bike or on horseback, and there are also a number of traditional villages and fishing ports to explore.

The Dune of Pilat

The Dune of Pilat is the largest sand dune in Europe, located on the coast of the Bay of Arcachon in the Aquitaine region of France. The dune is over 300 metres tall, and visitors can take in spectacular views of the surrounding area from the top. The dune is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and wild horses. Visitors can also explore the nearby beaches and sand dunes, as well as enjoy a variety of activities such as horse-riding, windsurfing and sand-yachting.

The Grottes de Naours

The Grottes de Naours is a vast network of underground caves located in the Somme region of France. The caves were discovered in the 19th century and have since become a major tourist attraction. The caves are filled with a variety of fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, as well as numerous ancient carvings and sculptures. Visitors can explore the caves on an underground tour, and there is also a café and gift shop located nearby.

The Mont Saint-Michel

The Mont Saint-Michel is an iconic island located off the coast of Normandy in northwest France. The island is home to a stunning medieval abbey, as well as a number of small villages and shops. The island is accessible via a causeway, and visitors can explore the winding streets and alleyways of the old town, as well as visit the abbey and the famous tidal mill. The Mont Saint-Michel is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

The Gorges du Verdon

The Gorges du Verdon is a stunning gorge located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France. The gorge is Europe’s deepest river canyon, and visitors can explore the area on foot or by boat. The gorge is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles and vultures, as well as a number of ancient castles and fortresses. The area is also popular with climbers, and there are a number of spectacular views to be enjoyed from the top of the gorge.

The Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France. The aqueduct is the highest of its kind in the world, and is an impressive feat of engineering. Visitors can explore the bridge and the surrounding area, as well as take part in a range of activities such as kayaking, canoeing and hiking. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature-lovers.

The Château de Chambord

The Château de Chambord is a stunning Renaissance castle located in the Loire Valley of France. The castle is one of the most iconic and iconic buildings in the country, with its stunning architecture and breathtaking gardens. Visitors can explore the castle’s vast interior, as well as take part in a range of activities such as horse-riding, falconry and hot-air ballooning. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for animal-lovers.

The Drôme Provençale

The Drôme Provençale is a beautiful region located in the southeast of France, famous for its lavender fields, olive groves and vineyards. The area is home to a number of charming villages and historic sites, as well as a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, horse-riding and canoeing. Visitors can also sample the region’s delicious local cuisine, as well as its renowned wines.

The Île de Ré

The Île de Ré is an island located off the west coast of France, in the Atlantic Ocean. The island is home to a number of stunning beaches, as well as charming villages and a variety of activities such as fishing, sailing and kite-surfing. The island is also home to a number of historic sites, such as the 17th-century Fort des Lèves, as well as a number of museums and art galleries. Visitors can also enjoy a range of delicious local seafood dishes.

The Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is a historic canal located in the south of France, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. The canal is a popular spot for boat trips, and visitors can explore the area by boat or on foot, as well as take part in a range of activities such as fishing, swimming and bird-watching. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature-lovers.

The Ardèche Gorges

The Ardèche Gorges is a stunning river canyon located in the Ardèche region of France. The gorge is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the gorge on foot or by boat, as well as take part in a range of activities such as kayaking, canoeing and rock-climbing. The area is also home to a number of ancient caves, making it a great spot for history-lovers.

From majestic waterfalls to stunning canyons and ancient castles, there are a variety of off the beaten path places to visit in France. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing escape, these lesser-known gems are sure to delight. So, why not take some time to explore these undiscovered wonders and uncover some of the hidden treasures France has to offer?

In conclusion, France is a beautiful country full of unique and fascinating places to explore. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing getaway, there are plenty of off the beaten path places to visit in France. From cascading waterfalls to stunning canyons and ancient castles, these hidden gems are sure to delight. So, why not take some time to explore these undiscovered wonders and uncover some of the hidden treasures France has to offer?