The most beautiful regions of France for nature lovers

The most beautiful regions of France for nature lovers

17.06.2021

5 min. to read

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Your children dream of a vacation, and so do you? No need to travel to the other side of the planet! In just a few hours by car, you can admire breathtaking landscapes in France. What could be better than rediscovering your own country? Crystal-clear lake waters, secret coves, steep cliffs, canyons, and forests await you this summer in the Hexagon.

Do you dream of majestic landscapes and spectacular panoramas?

Are you passionate about Roadtrips and adventure? In just a few hours by car, you’ll find yourself in the rugged, wild natural landscapes of the Hautes-Pyrénées—a fabulous adventure. It all begins with friends, behind the wheel, navigating steep roads with impressive elevation changes and dizzying turns. Your goal?

The Cirque de Gavarnie, where majestic mountains border Spain. In the heart of the Mont Perdu massif, a circular wall 1,700 meters high offers striking symmetry. Hiking enthusiasts, take to the trails to explore the surrounding nature! A massive waterfall awaits you there. You’ll be awed by the wild beauty of Lake Gaube and the surreal atmosphere of this remote region.

Escape! Come breathe the pure air of the Auvergne volcanoes

Do you dream of leaving the concrete jungle to dive into a sea of greenery? The Auvergne volcanoes are calling your name! Straddling the Cantal and Puy-de-Dôme departments, the Auvergne Volcanoes Park spans nearly 400,000 hectares. How could you not reconnect with nature when faced with the unique panoramas shaped by volcanic activity?

You’ll quickly fall under the spell of these 80 volcanoes, harmoniously aligned along the Chaîne des Puys. Are you familiar with the Artense Plateau? You won’t be disappointed! Get ready to be enchanted by picturesque villages of old stone, nestled among forests, rivers, and lakes. A remarkable natural heritage to discover as a couple or with your children!

Go shellfish hunting on the Pink Granite Coast in Brittany

For you, no real vacation is complete without seeing the ocean? We agree! There’s nothing more refreshing than breathing the salty sea air of the Atlantic. The best spot to enjoy it is at the very tip of Brittany!

The Pink Granite Coast will immerse you in landscapes with astonishing colors. It’s the perfect time to don your striped sailor shirt and take your kids to collect cockles and watch crabs in the rocks. They’ll be thrilled! Meanwhile, you and your partner can quietly admire the pink granite boulders that the region is famous for. Looking for a romantic getaway? You’re in the right place! The pastel hues of this Côtes-d’Armor gem at sunset are truly stunning!

Try new outdoor activities in the Tarn Gorges

Want to reconnect with nature? Head to the Tarn Gorges! This jewel of beauty can be admired by car or canoe. Your family can cool off in the turquoise waters while you enjoy the tranquility of the spectacular surrounding landscapes.

You’ll fall in love with the straits, where the valley narrows into a simple water corridor between steep cliffs, from La Malène to the Cirque des Baumes. Along the river road, charming old-world villages invite you to relax and unwind. A perfect getaway for a breath of fresh air!

Take a romantic horseback ride on the beaches of Camargue

Looking for the perfect spot to reconnect with nature? Welcome to Camargue! Take your partner to discover extraordinary settings, spectacular wildlife—including wild horses and flamingos—and salt marshes in surreal colors.

Situated along the Mediterranean, between Bouches-du-Rhône and Gard, Camargue is a secret, wild region. Nature lovers will be dazzled by the myriad facets of this magical, contrasting land. Ride horseback through breathtaking landscapes and let yourself be carried away by the serene charm of the Camargue.

Embark on a delightful escape to the Agriates Desert in Corsica

Don’t be fooled—the Agriates Desert is anything but barren! Located in northern Corsica, this paradise consists of a vast expanse of arid land bordered by the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. The wild, rocky landscape invites you to dream and wander. It’s the perfect destination for a vacation with friends or as a couple.

Wild beaches and hidden coves are scattered along a dazzling sea. To find them, follow the coastal path from La Roya to Saint-Florent and breathe in the scents of pine and heather. Long rocky ridges, a crystalline coast, valleys, and maquis are waiting for you!

Drive through the Ardèche Gorges to discover unique viewpoints

The Ardèche Gorges promise a complete change of scenery in a breathtaking natural setting. This 1,950-hectare nature reserve features 32 kilometers of gorges surrounded by gigantic limestone cliffs. Your choice: a sporty kayak descent of the river or a peaceful stroll close to the wild, preserved Ardèche nature. You’ll fall in love with the pretty sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation and swimming, at the foot of the famous natural arch, Pont d’Arc.

Your children will love visiting the museum dedicated to the Chauvet Cave, known for its extraordinary prehistoric paintings. A unique journey through stalactites and stalagmites recreates the magic of the original cave, offering a total immersion into the Paleolithic period. A great way to combine fun and learning!

From remote villages to steep mountains, France’s roads take you to places of unsuspected beauty. Explore the most stunning natural landscapes of France at the wheel of your Europcar rental car and enjoy nature’s wonders in complete serenity!

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