Kristin Blake, Author at French Side Travel

7 Most Underrated French Villages (According to Our Staff)

25 August 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

From Paris to Nice, most travelers flock to the bustling cities of France. It’s true that there’s a wealth of sights and experiences to take in: Louvre, Promenade des Anglais, calanques of Marseille. But so much authentic French charm is tucked in its villages. The quaint bakeries where the bakers know the locals by their first names. The natural music of cicadas chirping. The quiet monasteries coming up on a millennium of existence. Far out of the limelight, these villages may not attract the hordes. But it’s these places that best reflect French patrimoine, or heritage. On our quest for the most underrated French villages, we didn’t ask Lonely Planet or AI. We asked our very own travel designers and staff for their top picks. From Normandy to Provence, here are the most underrated French villages, according to French Side Travel.

The Cubist’s Guide to France

18 August 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

Abstract figures, geometric shapes and a shift of perspective. The Cubist movement is easy to spot from across a gallery for its avant-garde interpretation. From Monet’s waterlilies of Impressionism to Cézanne’s bathers of Post-Impression, France is well-known for its art. And although Spanish artist Pablo Picasso is typically associated with Cubism, the movement flourished in France and was born in Paris. Along with the related movements of Fauvism and Orphism, we’re doing a deep dive into Cubism in France. From the movements’ important artists to where to see artwork, here’s our guide to Cubism in France.

9 Slow Travel Destinations in France

4 August 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

The Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Versailles all in the same day? Nice, Cannes and Marseille back to back? It’s tempting to want to do it all while vacationing in France. And it’s true: there’s so much to see and do. But perhaps it’s not about checking monuments off lists but rather experiencing the trip to the fullest. Whether fetching a fresh baguette from the bakery to savoring a long meal, slow travel is all about embracing the moment and discovering the local culture. France is full of regions ideal for slow travel destinations. Charming villages, peaceful lakes, quaint wineries – there’s no shortage of slow-travel experiences. From the Gorges du Verdon to the Rhône Valley, here are several of our favorite slow-travel destinations in France.

The Impressionist’s Guide to France

21 July 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

From Claude Monet’s water lilies to Edgar Degas’ ballerina statue, Impressionism remains a hallmark movement in French art history. France produced a laundry list of Impressionist artists: Monet, Degas, Morisot, Manet, Pissarro, and beyond. Although the movement wasn’t embraced at first, Impressionism remains a fan favorite for its bright colors and subject matter. And Paris is a playground when it comes to Impressionist art. We’re sharing some of the top names in the Impressionist movement as well as where you can see their masterpieces in France.

5 French Beauty Brands to Know (And Love!)

7 July 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

The aroma of baguettes, history-laden monuments, and haute couture in the shop windows. There are some things that you’re sure to encounter during your trip to France. But one that you might not anticipate – but certainly shouldn’t overlook – is a small green cross. This seemingly insignificant symbol represents a pharmacy. Most tourists just move along with their itinerary or make a pit stop for over-the-counter medicine for a cough. But for tourists and locals alike, French pharmacies are a destination in and of themselves. Much more than just remedies for health problems, French pharmacies offer an extensive range of cosmetics and beauty products. Here’s a look at the French beauty scene that has dominated the global market as well as several French beauty brands to know.

The Post-Impressionist’s Guide to France

23 June 2025 - Reading Time: 5 minutes

From van Gogh’s “Starry Night” to Cézanne’s “Bathers,” the Post-Impressionist movement is all but forgotten. And France played a pivotal role not only in producing some of the most well-known artists from this movement but also inspiring creatives across the globe. Whether in Paris or Provence, Post-Impressionist art aficionados will find their bonheur all throughout France. You may not know Post-Impressionism by name, but you certainly have heard of some of its main players: Paul Cézanne, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gaugin and Georges Seurat. Here’s a brief guide to the Post-Impressionist movement in France as well as where you can see some of its key pieces today.

The History and Pioneers of the Champagne Industry

9 June 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

Wine is a story as old as time. From the Roman Empire to the biblical narratives, wine has been on this planet for millennia. Over the years, its craft has evolved and brought new techniques and methods. But one major player in the wine industry didn’t hit the tables until the 17th century when French champagne was invented, per World History Encyclopedia. Since then, champagne has gained popularity worldwide. From Moët & Chandon to Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot to Maison Ruinart, we’re heading back to the beginning of the story of champagne and the characters who shaped it. We’re looking back on the history of champagne as well as the evolution and milestones of this industry.

Long Luxury Weekend in the Basque Country

19 May 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

From surfing waves to wandering coastal villages, the Basque Country begs to be explored. This region offers adventurous activities, but it also serves as the ideal backdrop for luxury and rejuvenation. The Basque Country, or Pays Basque, promises Atlantic ocean views, rich gastronomy and wellness experiences. If you only have a few days in the Basque region, there’s plenty of experiences to please foodies and spa seekers. During your long luxurious weekend to the Basque Country, we recommend visiting Biarritz, Bayonne and San Sebastián.

8 Most Unique Spa Treatments in France

12 May 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

Dreaming of a relaxing massage or refreshing facial during your trip to France? This country is home to a plethora of luxurious spa facilities. You sure can opt for a classic treatment such as a hammam visit or pedicure. But that is only the beginning of what France has to offer in terms of wellness. At French Side Travel, we’re experts in luxury and aim to organize trips that are sure to please. Whether you’re longing for a wine-inspired wrap or thermal mud bath, we’ve rounded up some of the most unique spa treatments in France.

How to Spend a Luxurious Weekend in Annecy, France

28 April 2025 - Reading Time: 5 minutes

Mountain views, glistening lake, rich gastronomy and idyllic downtown. Look no further than the charming town of Annecy, located in eastern France. At the mention of the Haute Savoie department, most think of winter ski destinations such as Chamonix. It’s true that this corner of France along the border of Switzerland is indeed known for its winter sports and activities – but not only. From gastronomic experiences to luxurious spa treatments, this region offers a colorful variety of activities all year long. At French Side Travel, one of our favorite destinations in the Haute Savoie department is Annecy, a lakeside town known for its charming center and outdoor activities. Here’s how to spend a luxurious weekend in Annecy, France.

The 2025 Grape Harvest in France

22 April 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

It’s an exciting time of year for grape growers and wine lovers alike as the vendanges, the period of grape harvesting, has officially begun. Each year is slightly different depending on the region, mother nature, and the grapes themselves. Typically the vendanges begin in late August and can last through October. Read on to learn more about the process, how to take part, and how to celebrate the 2025 grape harvest in France.

A Brief Guide to the French Revolutions

14 April 2025 - Reading Time: 4 minutes

From the renowned musical Les Misérables to the French Revolution-inspired Coldplay Viva la Vida album, French history in pop culture is ubiquitous. Even the simple phrase of “let them eat cake” immediately brings to mind Marie Antoinette, her elaborate wigs and the French Revolution. It’s true that these various revolution references are sprinkled throughout pop culture, but there wasn’t just one French Revolution. We’re sharing a brief history of the different major French Revolutions as well as the best activities inspired by these revolutions and Les Mis.

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