5 Luxury Destinations You Need to Visit in France
France often tops the list of some of the best destinations for luxury travel. It’s a fascinating destination that lures upscale travellers seeking sophistication and pleasure. The country has lots of beautiful places to visit that can be custom made for the mere purpose of relaxation, watching the world go by, or simply soaking up the beautiful surroundings.
If you’re planning a luxury trip to France, here are some of the best destinations to consider.
Provence
Home to charming medieval towns and scenic lavender fields, not to mention delicious food and wine, Provence has everything you need for a luxury holiday in France. Depending on what you prefer to do on your holiday, there are tons of activities waiting for you in Provence.
If you’re someone who loves to explore, check out the Historic Avignon. It’s an immaculately preserved city home to many Catholic chapels, convents, and a magnificent Gothic palace that’s said to be the largest in the world. If you visit Provence between June and August, make sure you visit the scenic lavender fields that Provence is known for.
Whether you’re a foodie or not, you should take time to discover the flavoursome food scene of Provence. The region is blessed with an abundance of locally grown produce, so every dish is guaranteed to be a gastronomic treat. Made from aromatic herbs, olive oils, and fresh veggies, they are best enjoyed with a glass of local wine. For a remarkable way of discovering the delights of the region’s best cuisines and wines, go on a luxury gastronomic cruise along the Rhône River.
The Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is synonymous with world-class wines, so it does not come as a surprise why it’s considered one of the best places to visit for luxury travel in France. Home to gorgeous vineyards extending all the way to the ocean, Loire Valley produces a wide range of exquisite wines suitable to every palate, from sparkling Sauvignon blanc to vibrant Sancerres. Of course, there’s more to this beautiful place than its delicious wine.
Aside from being the longest river in France, the Loire is also a haven for wildlife. It boasts some of the country’s most stunning scenery and offers lots of places perfect for stylish France glamping holidays. Most outdoor activities are centred around the river, where you can go on a day trip from Nantes, paddle at Ingrandes, or admire the scenic views from one of the many chateaux lining the riverbanks.
Dubbed the “Garden of France”, the Loire Valley is home to fantastic parks, as well as countless botanical gardens that are truly worth your time. History lovers will also have plenty to explore, from medieval towns to historic chateaux. For something unique, head to Gien and admire its 14th-century ramparts.
Cote D’Azur
The French Riviera is famous for its glamour and sophistication, making it a favourite destination for upscale travellers seeking relaxation. From the gorgeous beaches and scenic boardwalks of Cannes and Monaco to the medieval villages of Èze and the picturesque lavender fields of Grasse, there’s so many wonderful things waiting for you to explore in Cote D’Azur.
Every trip to the Côte d’Azur should start in Nice, a charming seaport city overlooking the Mediterranean. Start your day with a climb to the La Colline du Château. From here, enjoy a panoramic view of the Old Town and the boardwalk. The Old Town itself is a delight to explore, with its narrow streets lined with lively restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
Famous for its International Film Festival and has earned a reputation for being the playground of the rich and famous, Cannes is definitely worth checking out. Climb to the staircases at Le Suquet and marvel at the pastel-coloured houses. Stop by the Musée de la Castre, home for ethnographic arts housed in a medieval fortress that overlooks the stunning views of the ocean and the marina.
Dordogne
Home to an astonishing array of ancient castles, medieval towns, prehistoric caves, and having gardens, Dordogne is a must-visit on your luxury holiday in France. Not only is Dordogne a pleasure to explore, but you’ll also enjoy its plethora of gastronomical experiences. Best of all, it’s home to many picturesque rentable chateaus, especially along the Vézere River. In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy your visit to Dordogne is to stay in one of its beautiful French Chateaux.
While in Dordogne, make sure you check out the Vézere Valley. Famous for its many picturesque chateaux, the area is also home to graceful gardens and a magnificent 16th-century castle. Take a walk along its scenic grounds or stop into the charming garden cafes and treat yourself to homemade foie gras.
Perhaps, one of the most compelling reasons to visit Dordogne is that anywhere you go, you’ll be surrounded by magnificently preserved natural beauty. If you’re going to explore by car, use a map to explore the scenic back roads as well. When you do, you’ll be rewarded with the most magnificent scenery!
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is not only a city with a name synonymous with the famous French wine. It’s a gorgeous French city with hundreds of historical buildings, monuments, and tons of museums and art galleries. Aside from its excellent wine, Bordeaux also offers the best gastronomic experience in France, making it the best destination for foodies.
As one of France’s most bicycle-friendly cities, one of the best ways to explore Bordeaux is on a bike. Much of the city centre is car-free, so it’s easy and safe to pedal from one area to another. After a day of exploring the city, it’s time for a gastronomic feast from the city’s best dining spots. With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the seafood here is divine! Treat yourself to a serving of the freshest oysters paired with a glass of the finest Bordeaux wine. The region is home to thousands of wine chateaux producing millions of wine bottles per year, which means there’s no shortage of wine here.