The Most Scenic Road Trips in France You Need to Take!
Are you ready to embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of France? Imagine weaving through lavender fields in Provence1, savoring the grape harvest in Châteauneuf-du-Pape1, or soaking in the rugged beauty of Corsica’s coastline1. France’s scenic roads offer a captivating way to explore the country beyond the typical tourist traps. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time visitor, these must-take routes will leave you awestruck and eager to plan your next French adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the lavender fields of Provence and the grape harvests of Châteauneuf-du-Pape during the summer months.
- Explore the military history and natural wonders of Normandy, including the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel.
- Indulge in the world-renowned wine regions of Bordeaux and the stunning Atlantic Coast.
- Traverse the breathtaking French Alps and the Massif Central for a thrill-seeking road trip.
- Plan your journey based on your interests, from coastal drives to countryside escapes.
Inspiration for Exploring France’s Scenic Roads
France offers a diverse array of road trip inspiration, from the scenic drives in France through the lavender fields of Provence to the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations along the coastal cliffs of Normandy. While the country is renowned for its high-speed TGV trains, driving allows travelers to discover the charming towns, picturesque landscapes, and renowned culinary delights that make France such a captivating destination2.
Starting in the south, the coastal town of Menton, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, serves as a picturesque first stop on a scenic road trip2. From there, travelers can venture to the nearby principality of Monaco, a popular day-trip destination known for its opulent casinos and stunning coastline2. Continuing north, the vibrant city of Nice beckons with its beautiful beaches, fantastic climate, and rich artistic heritage, attracting both tourists and artists alike2. Further up the coast, the glamorous Cannes hosts the famous annual Cannes International Film Festival and boasts glorious white sandy beaches2. Just beyond Cannes lies Saint Tropez, once a humble fishing village that has transformed into a destination for the social elite, with its superyachts and beachfront restaurants2.
Venturing inland, the charming village of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, which has been voted one of the most beautiful villages in France since 1981, offers a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage2. The dramatic Verdon Gorge, the deepest gorge in France located in Provence, is a popular destination for its vibrant turquoise river and stunning natural beauty2. And no trip through this region would be complete without a stop in Valensole, known for its iconic lavender fields that bloom from the last week of June to the beginning of August234.
From Mont-Saint-Michel to Étretat: The Coast Crawling Road Trip
Embark on a scenic Normandy road trip that showcases the best of France’s picturesque coastline. Start your journey at the iconic tidal abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that rises majestically from the sea5. As you wind your way along the coast, make a stop in the historic town of Bayeux to marvel at the renowned Bayeux tapestry, which depicts the Norman conquest of England5.
Continue your coastal crawl, taking in the dramatic sea cliffs of Étretat, where nature has carved extraordinary formations into the chalk. Along the way, discover charming seaside towns like Deauville, known for its boardwalk and film festival heritage6. Breathtaking coastal views will be your constant companion as you explore this picturesque stretch of Normandy5.
This road trip offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and French coastal charm. Whether you’re marveling at the tidal phenomenon of Mont-Saint-Michel or strolling along the picturesque streets of Honfleur, this journey is sure to leave you with lasting memories of France’s stunning Normandy region756.
The Loing Valley: A Historical Journey Through French Countryside
Starting from the grand Château of Fontainebleau, this road trip through the Loing Valley offers a glimpse into France’s rich history and natural beauty8. As you wind your way through the Gâtinais-Français Regional Park, you’ll discover picturesque riverside towns like Souppes-sur-Loing and Fontenay-sur-Loing, each with its own unique charm8.
The highlight of this journey is the arrival in Montargis, often referred to as the “Venice of the Gâtinais.” This enchanting town is known for its quaint canals, bridges, and historic architecture, providing a delightful contrast to the rural landscapes you’ve traversed8. Exploring Montargis’ picturesque waterways by boat is an absolute must, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the town’s tranquil ambiance8.
Throughout this road trip, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Loing Valley, a region that has long captivated visitors with its rolling hills, meandering rivers, and lush forests8. Take the time to stop and admire the breathtaking views, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming villages that dot the landscape8.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the serenity of the French countryside, the Loing Valley road trip offers a truly unforgettable experience8. So pack your bags, hop in your car, and embark on a journey through this enchanting region, where the past and present seamlessly blend together8.
France scenic road trips: A Loop Through the Hérault Region
Nestled in the picturesque Hérault region of southern France, a scenic road trip loop offers a captivating glimpse into the diverse landscapes and charming towns that dot this corner of the country9. Begin your journey in the coastal city of Sète, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Thau Lagoon, and meander through the winding canals that have earned Sète the moniker “the Venice of Languedoc”9.
As you head inland, the road winds through the rolling vineyards of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region, one of France’s largest wine-producing areas9. Stop in the historic city of Béziers, with its stunning 14th-century cathedral and lively markets, before continuing on to the striking Lac du Salagou, a lake surrounded by vivid red rock formations that offer a striking contrast to the verdant countryside9.
Explore the hilltop villages of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Park, such as the charming town of Pézenas, former home of the renowned playwright Molière9. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the weekly market, where you can sample regional specialties and browse the vibrant stalls9.
This scenic loop through the Hérault region showcases the diverse natural beauty and rich history that make southern France a must-visit destination for road trippers9. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal charms of Sète, the rugged landscapes of Lac du Salagou, or the quaint hilltop towns, this road trip offers an unforgettable journey through one of France’s most captivating regions9.
Alpine Lakes and Valleys Loop: Nature’s Grandeur on Full Display
Departing from the vibrant city of Grenoble, this breathtaking alpine road trip takes you through the stunning landscapes of southeastern France. Discover the charming ski town of Briançon, renowned for its art galleries and historic architecture. Paddle your way to the serene island chapel on the serene Lac de Serre-Ponçon, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Écrins National Park10.
As you venture deeper into this alpine wonderland, cross the swaying Himalayan-style hanging bridges over the pristine Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet, marveling at the dramatic vistas of the Vercors Regional Park. The scenic drive through the Écrins National Park offers a true feast for the senses, with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush alpine meadows11.
Embrace the serenity of the Lac Blanc, a stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the heart of the Écrins National Park. The hike to this alpine gem offers breathtaking views, with the possibility of spotting marmots, ibex, and other wildlife along the way11. As you wind your way through the valleys, be sure to stop and savor the local cuisine, from the hearty raclette of Briançon to the delectable cheeses of the Vercors12.
This alpine lakes and valleys loop is a true testament to the natural grandeur of France, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and scenic delights. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the French Alps, this road trip is sure to leave a lasting impression10.
The Massif Central: Cheese, Hiking, and Volcanic Landscapes
Anchored by the austere, volcanic city of Clermont-Ferrand, a road trip through the Massif Central region offers a bounty of outdoor activities and artisanal food experiences. Clermont-Ferrand is an industrial town with the Michelin company headquartered there, boasting a population of 140,000 inhabitants and a suburban region with 300,000 residents13. The city’s economy is led by Michelin, followed by pharmaceutical companies like Merck-MSD and Théa, as well as metallurgy and IT companies13.
Hike the extinct volcanoes of Puy de Sancy and Puy Mary, explore the medieval film set town of Murat, and stock up on regional cheeses like Salers, Saint Nectaire, and Cantal in the sleepy town of Aurillac14. The Parc naturel régional des Volcans d’Auvergne, one of the most outstanding regional parks in France, spans 1,500 square miles14. Moreover, the Chaîne des Puys, a string of volcanoes running north to south in Auvergne, boasts approximately 80 volcanoes14.
Along the way, stop to admire the monumental Viaduc de Garabit near Saint-Flour, a bridge constructed by Gustave Eiffel that stretches 565 meters in length14. Explore the steep volcanic pillar in Le Puy-en-Velay, where the Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe chapel can be reached by climbing 268 steps carved into the rock14. The region also boasts the Parc naturel régional Livradois-Forez, a vast natural park spanning 1,200 square miles with a mixture of forests, moorland, and meadows14.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, artisanal culinary delights, or a glimpse into the region’s rich history, the Massif Central delivers a truly unforgettable road trip experience13. The Train to Clermont-Ferrand takes approximately 3½ hours from Paris, offering a scenic journey through middle-class exurbs, strip malls, industrial parks, green pastures, white cattle, plowed fields, and bare woods131415.
Tips for Embarking on the Ultimate French Road Trip
Planning a road trip through the picturesque landscapes of France can be an exhilarating adventure, but it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure a seamless and cost-effective journey. One crucial aspect to be mindful of is the prevalence of toll roads, or péages, which can significantly increase your overall expenses16. To avoid these costly tolls, opt for scenic secondary routes, even if they take a bit longer to reach your destination16.
Another way to save on your French road trip is by taking advantage of carpooling services like BlaBlaCar. This not only helps reduce fuel costs but also allows you to connect with fellow travelers and potentially discover hidden gems along the way16. Additionally, be sure to utilize a route planner like ViaMichelin to calculate your total trip expenses, including fuel and toll fees, ensuring you have a realistic budget in place16.
When it comes to planning your French road trip, it’s wise to consider the overall duration and distance16. For instance, the drive from Bordeaux to Marseille is estimated to take around 5-6 hours16, while the journey from Castellane to Nice is approximately 2 hours16. These estimates can help you manage your time and schedule effectively, ensuring you have ample opportunity to explore the breathtaking scenery and charming towns along the way.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to embarking on the ultimate French road trip, filled with scenic routes, cost-saving measures, and unforgettable experiences161718.
Conclusion
France’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and renowned culinary traditions make it an ideal destination for an unforgettable road trip19. From the lavender fields of Provence to the dramatic coastal cliffs of Normandy, these scenic routes offer travelers the opportunity to discover the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that make France such a captivating country to explore20. By embracing the freedom of the open road, visitors can immerse themselves in the true essence of la belle France.
Whether you opt for a short 3-day jaunt along the French Riviera19, a more relaxed 7-day itinerary19, or an in-depth 10-day exploration of Provencal towns19, the rewards of a French road trip are endless21. From the iconic landmarks of Barcelona to the charming towns and cities of Normandy, each destination offers a unique cultural experience, gastronomic delight, and breathtaking scenery to savor.
So pack your bags, hop in your car, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of France19. By discovering the country’s scenic drives19, you’ll uncover a world of beauty, history, and adventure that will leave you eager to return again and again. France’s France road trip, scenic drives, and countryside exploration await.
