9 Slow Travel Destinations in France
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.
9 Slow Travel Destinations in France
Gorges du Verdon
Virtually everyone knows about its southern neighbor, the French Riviera. But it’s truly a shame that most international travelers haven’t heard of the Gorges du Verdon. This quiet yet ever-so stunning destination is just a couple hour’s drive from Cannes, Aix-en-Provence and St. Tropez. This river canyon is tucked between mountains and lavender fields. Spend the day paddle boating or kayaking on the gorge’s turquoise waters. Or perhaps get lost in a novel while soaking up the sun in this calm region.
The region surrounding the Gorges du Verdon is sprinkled with quaint villages. Named as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Moustiers Sainte Marie feels like stepping into a storybook. This village boasts a population of less than 1000 inhabitants and is particularly known for its faïence, or earthenware goods. Word to the wise: you’ll want to make the trek up to the Chapelle Notre Dame de Beauvoir. It’s sure to take your breath away not just for the walk up but also for the views from this chapel dating back to the 1100s. From its quaint villages to its nature experiences, the Gorges du Verdon is a perfect slow travel destination in France.
Luxury Private Tour of the Verdon
Let us be your guide as we show you the highlights of the Verdon region. Our driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Verdon River, where you’ll enjoy an electric boat ride. Kick back and take in the beauty of Sainte Croix Lake and its surrounding villages. Our guide will then bring you to the idyllic village of Moustiers Sainte Marie. Here you’ll visit one of its artisanal earthenware workshops, where you’ll uncover this village’s ancient tradition. And if your visit falls during lavender season in the summer, our guide will include a stop in Valensole.
Dordogne
You may have never heard of the Dordogne region of France, but the greenery, castles and tranquility of this region east of Bordeaux are sure to win you over. Cycling enthusiasts will adore the bike trail between the villages of Sarlat-la-Canéda and La Roque-Gageac. This journey provides excellent views of the Dordogne Valley and also has great stopping points for picnics and swimming.
Or perhaps take it easy with a cruise on the Lot River, where you’ll admire the village of Cahors and the cliffs of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Wander the Marqueyssac Gardens, which boasts more than 50 acres of manicured greenery. Sip on a beverage in its tearoom, or take on new heights by discovering the Dordogne Valley via ferrata.
Dordogne Castles and Villages Guided Tour
The Loire Valley is well-known for its châteaux, but that’s not the only region of France sure to enchant you with its castles. On this full-day guided tour, which begins in Sarlat-la-Canéda, you’ll discover some of the region’s most loved spots. Wander Beynac, named one of France’s most beautiful villages, and its eponymous castle. Next, you’ll discover the Château des Milandes, the former residence of American dancer Josephine Baker. Later you’ll stroll through La Roque Gageac and Domme, both named some of the most beautiful villages in France. Nothing says slow travel in France like getting lost in charming villages that remind us of life long ago.
Beaujoulais and Rhône Valley
Both the Beaujolais and Rhone Valley regions are well-known for their wine, but that’s just the beginning. Experience the Beaujolais wine region on one of our private tours, where you’ll have the chance to explore the medieval village of Pérouges. Nosh on local delicacies and learn how to pair your wine in this region not far from Lyon.
Farther south, the Rhône Valley also boasts more wine activities. Indulge in a slow travel experience with wine tasting or truffle hunting. In Grignan, you can visit a domain, boasting several wine appellations as well as truffle and lavender. On our private tour, your guide – and the domain’s trained dog – will show you how to search for truffles.
Learn about the region’s beloved lavender with a visit to a local distillery. Uncover how this fragrant plant is harvested and transformed into essential oil.
Evening Boat Cruise with Wine and Cheese Tasting
Indulge in the slow travel attitude with a boat cruise on the Rhône. Sip on three local wines: Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, and Hermitage. And snack on goat cheese and a pâté called caillette. The boat’s terraces allow you to fully experience the local scenery and gastronomy.
Where to Stay in France
La Bastide de Moustiers
Decades ago, Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse purchased this property dating to back to the 18th century and has since turned it into a luxury hotel in the heart of Provence. La Bastide de Moustiers is composed of 11 rooms and two suites, all with their own special names such as the Lavender Room or the Olive Suite. Take it slow and enjoy a calm morning in the cozy king-sized bed and sip on your espresso in its private garden sprinkled with fig and olive trees.
Château de la Treyne
Once a residence for nobility, this five-star hotel welcomes guests today in the heart of the Dordogne Valley. Take a dip in its heated pool, play a round of tennis, rent a canoe, or wander on one of the nearby hiking trails. After exploring the gorgeous region, feast on a meal at its Michelin-recognized restaurant.
Longing just to slow down? When it comes to slow travel, less is more. It’s about discovering the local culture and taking your time. From the Gorges du Verdon to the Dordogne, there are plenty of slow-travel destinations in France. At French Side Travel, we’re here to help you experience your trip to the fullest — and without the hassle. Contact one of our travel specialists today to start planning. You might also like: A Culinary Journey through Lyon and Southern France or From Bordeaux to Dordogne.
