From Normandy to Provence: little-known places in France that everyone should see

Thanks to the Olympic Games, France has become a real tourist pilgrimage destination for the summer 2024 season. It is a truly unique country with a rich history, incredible landscapes and atmospheric medieval architecture.

In addition to the traditional routes that include Paris, Loire castles, Lyon and Marseille, it is worth paying attention to little-known places where there is usually a minimal risk of encountering crowds of tourists. The Guardian has published a rating of the best routes that will help you to get to know the real France.

Chantel, Auvergne

In the village of Chantel, 65 km north of Clermont-Ferrand, you can feel the unique culinary taste of France. It is a real gourmet's paradise. Gastronomic tourism should start with farmers' markets offering game, pates, and wine. Don't forget to try fresh croissants from the colorful local boulangerie. A visit to Chantilly will be an unforgettable experience with hiking through the Gorge de la Boublée, swimming in the lake, farmers' markets in the surrounding villages and live music throughout the summer. Chantilly is also home to majestic abbeys and castles dating back to the Middle Ages that tell the story of the region.

Roussillon, Luberon

The village of Roussillon near Luberon is a truly spectacular sight. Built on a steep red cliff, the village seems to be made entirely of ochre, and the buildings radiate a warm sunshine under the rays of the Provencal sun. Wander through the winding streets, admire the spectacular valley views and enjoy the gastronomic delights of the region.

Egisheim

Egisheim is located 80 km from Strasbourg. When you arrive there, it's as if you're in a fairy tale. Wherever you look, colors are everywhere, and you return to the fabulous imagination of your childhood. There are many cafes where you can enjoy appetizing and authentic crepe suites and traditional wine presses. Experts recommend traveling by Le Petit Train through the beautiful vineyards.

The ruins of a medieval village in Peyrousses-les-Roches, Occitania

A 30-minute drive north of Villefranche-de-Rouergue is the village of Peyrousses-les-Roc with 200 inhabitants, an herb shop, a pottery workshop, and authentic shops. But this area is known primarily for its medieval ruins. The lower part of the village overlooks a valley with steep slopes where silver and lead mines used to be. There is also a former castle (captured by the English in 1163) that stands proudly above the ruins of the abbey. This city once had 4000 inhabitants - which is quite a lot for the period of the Middle Ages.

Collioure, Port d'Aval beach

On a trip from Perpignan, you can stumble upon a little secret treasure of a beach town - Collioure, on the Vermillion coast between France and Spain. Imagine: a beach in a bay with calm sea, fish restaurants, a medieval city castle, and the peaks of the Pyrenees rising sharply above the village. There is even a museum of modern art with paintings by Matisse and a beautiful 17th-century bell tower that used to be a lighthouse overlooking the harbor.

Laurage near Toulouse

In the beautiful Lauragé region between Toulouse and Carcassonne, there is a town called Revel, located 50 km southeast of Toulouse. Every Saturday morning, one of the best markets in France unfolds there - and not just anywhere, but in a unique 14th-century market hall. There are hills and beautiful little villages like Sorez and Saint-Félix. In Villefranche de Lorraine you can take a train to Toulouse or Carcassonne.

Montflanquin

Approximately 40 km southeast of Bergerac is the town of Montflanken, which hosts an annual medieval festival in August. Enjoy reenactments, craft markets, and traditional music against the backdrop of beautiful stone buildings from an ancient era. You can stay at Domaine de Pautard, a picturesque chateau with a swimming pool tucked away in the peaceful countryside.

Larocque de Albert

Not far from the popular seaside resort of Argeles-sur-Mer near Perpignan, unspoiled mountain villages await you. From the charming chateau of the village of Larocque de Albère, you can take a two-hour trail to Le Chalet de l'Albère, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Albère Mountains and classic French dishes served in a beautiful rustic restaurant.

Lubéjak

This region offers some of the finest countryside dining in southwestern France. Head up to the small hilltop village of Loubéjac in the Lot department. Local producers have everything you need for a cheap and tasty dinner: from grilled duck, garlic potatoes and salads to cheeses and local fruits.

Saint-Cenery-le-Gereuil, Normandy

Saint-Senerie-le-Gereuil is located to the west of Alanson. Take a walk to the church to see the stunning views before following the path down to the small chapel nestled in the middle of a dense forest. The beauty of the village attracted many artists who stayed at the Auberge des Sœurs Moisy, a so-called artists' shelter that is now a museum. There are several bars and restaurants in its narrow winding streets. This area is ideal for those looking for peace and inspiration.

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