The South of France is home to some of the most picturesque towns along the Riviera. Indeed, the entirety of France boasts stunning locations, from the captivating regions in the north to the glorious spots in the west. However, I hold a particular fondness for the Southern region of France.
Spanning from east to west, the French Mediterranean coastline is adorned with charming hamlets and quaint villages that beckon exploration.
Whether it’s the scenic towns, historical allure, or the abundant offerings of brie, camembert, and exquisite wines, the South of France has an undeniable draw.
To facilitate your journey, I am pleased to present a selection of exquisite towns you should consider visiting during your trip to the South of France.
1.) Narbonne
Narbonne, a traditional port town, showcases an array of Roman relics, making it a noteworthy destination for cultural enrichment and relaxation, situated merely 15 miles from the Mediterranean Sea. My admiration for Narbonne stems from its association with Aosta, one of my favourite Italian towns, which I recently highlighted in relation to our Italian road trip.
2.) Le Baracés
Le Baracés stands as one of the smaller communes on my list of must-visit locations this year. Its rich French heritage, alongside its proximity to Perpignan, makes both Le Baracés and its neighboring town Leucate conveniently accessible stops while exploring the southern coast.
3.) Grasse
For those seeking a delightful aromatic experience, Grasse should not be missed. Renowned as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse offers opportunities to visit prestigious perfumeries while touring the eastern coastline of France.
4.) Rocamadour
An enchanting town nestled in a gorge, Rocamadour perpetually captivates my interest. With its scenic beauty and cultural significance, it presents an ideal place for an extended stay while visiting the southwest of France.
5.) Gordes
Gordes has gained substantial popularity lately, and understandably so. The striking beauty of this town left me astounded. How had I not discovered it sooner or included it in my last visit to the South of France? A multitude of questions linger without clear answers.
If your plans include spending time in the city, I recommend visiting on a Tuesday morning when local vendors open their stalls to present a delightful array of homemade products, cheeses, and wines.
6.) Saint-Tropez
Famous for its golden glow that resembles a spray tan, Saint-Tropez has evolved from an exclusive tourist destination to a place that is accessible for many travelers. Be sure to indulge in the fresh seafood harvested daily from the harbor.
7.) Bandol
This quaint commune, celebrated for its fertile soils over the past 500 years, might not seem intriguing at first. However, the exceptional wines produced here make it well worth a visit. I encourage you to explore one of the local wineries for a delightful tasting experience.
8.) Martigues
Located near Marseille, Martigues presents an ideal alternative to the busier tourist spots, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the region’s historic ambiance. Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, Martigues enjoys abundant sunshine during summer and warmer, drier winters than other regions in France.
9.) Saumur
While Saumur is technically not situated in the South of France, it merits a mention due to its picturesque charm. This town is notably recognized for its cavalry school and delicious escargots. Consider renting a small boat on a sunny day for a truly enchanting experience.
10.) Cerbère
Often overlooked as merely a transit point between France and Spain, Cerbère holds much more appeal. If you are traveling by train, consider planning an afternoon in Cerbère to savor the hidden local restaurants along the Mediterranean coastline.
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