One of the most common questions I get about France is

"where are your favourite places"?

And it's TOUGH. There are so many incredible places around France to enjoy.

Before we start, I just wanted to acknowledge the awful wildfires happening in parts of France and elsewhere in southern Europe. My thoughts are with everyone affected, especially the local communities and emergency services working so hard.

The places I'm sharing below aren't intended as "go there now" recommendations - especially when the government is advising caution. They're simply places to add to your future road trip wish list, and explore when it's safe to do so.

Personally, I prefer mountains, lakes and natural scenery, rather than cities and towns.

So, after much debate (and changing my mind 700000 times), here are 5 of my favourite spots you need to add to your French itineraries:

1- The Verdon Gorge 🌊

It worries me that I didn't even know this place existed until just a few years ago!

Often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe," the Verdon Gorge is breathtaking canyon in SE France. The waters are incredibly bright turquoise and the views from the top of the gorge are beautiful. If you have time, you can go kayaking, hiking, or walking all around this area.

(If you visit after heavy rain, the water will probably be muddy brown, but wait a day or two and it will be stunningly blue again)

2- Lake Annecy 🌅

Known as one of the prettiest lakes in Europe, Lake Annecy is nestled in the French Alps, with spectacular views of the mountains across the lake. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, boating, or simply relaxing next to. The town of Annecy itself is well-worth a visit, with its canals, flower-covered bridges, and the fairytale-like Château d'Annecy.

If you do visit, have a look for my drone next to a pier with a small shed on the SW corner. We lost it there several years ago... *sob*

3- Cirque de Gavarnie (Pyrenees) 🏞️

The Cirque de Gavarnie is a HUGE natural amphitheatre hidden in the Pyrenees mountains. The sheer scale of it took my breath away and it's a fantastic place for hikers, horse riders and nature lovers. It's one of those places where you can't help but feel in awe of the beauty of the natural world. Even better, there's a beautiful aire right next door, so you can stay for a couple of days.

4- Aiguille du Midi 🏔️

For an unforgettable experience in the French Alps, the Aiguille du Midi is a must-visit. This peak offers one of the highest cable car rides in the world, taking you up to 3,842 meters for panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you can step out into the void in a glass box, which offers a thrilling (and slightly terrifying!) view straight down into the valley far far below.

Top Tip: Even if you're visiting in July, take warm clothes! It's FREEZING up there! You can also take another cable car across into Italy, but I think you needed passports or ID to do that.

5. Dune du Pilat 🏖️

This place blew my mind. It’s the tallest sand dune in Europe — and it’s HUGE. You literally climb up a sand mountain and get these amazing views across the Atlantic one way and pine forest the other.

Bring water (and energetic legs!) The climb is a workout, but the view at the top is completely worth it. We stayed nearby and walked up for sunset… absolutely magical.

So those are some of my favourite natural places in France. There are a million more man-made ones I could have added: Strasbourg, Biarritz, Carcassonne, Paris, Nimes, not to mention more natural spots like the Calanques or the pink salt lakes of Salin d'Aigues Mortes.

Just pick an area and explore- you really can't go wrong!

🇫🇷 Brittany Group Trip Spot available!!

I'm pleased to say a space has become available on this autumn's group trip in Brittany. Whether you're new to motorhoming, fairly confident touring the UK but want a little more support when going to France/ Europe, or if you'd just like to explore a new region with good company, then you're very welcome to join us.

Please note, this trip STARTS in France. All details can be found here. Please read carefully before booking.

I hope you can join us!

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P.S: Want to learn about more incredible places to visit in each region of France?

Get the workshop replay where I share my favourite spots across France with you, plus some itinerary ideas to help you plan your own French adventure. Get the replay & itinerary ideas for just £7​