The South of France (or “le Midi” as it’s known by the French) is an incredibly popular location with holidaymakers. And it is certainly not difficult to understand why. From the luxurious coastline of the Riviera to the historic villages of Provence, there is something beautiful for everyone. If you are considering a holiday in France this summer, here is a whistle-stop tour of the region that will hopefully help you choose the right area for you.
The French Riviera (La Côte d’Azur)
The French Riviera is a stunning strip of coastline in the South of France. Although the region has no official boundaries, it is generally believed to stretch between the Italian border in the east to Cassis in the west. One of the most luxurious and warmest locations in the country, it is a hot spot for tourists as well as the rich and famous. Enjoy a typical St Tropez holiday in a beautiful private villa or stay in a gorgeous apartment in Cannes with a view of the port. The area is also home to a number of art galleries and museums and has a very vivacious nightlife.
The Languedoc
The Languedoc region is perfect for holidaymakers who want to mix sunbathing with sightseeing. With plenty of long sandy beaches to choose from, you will find both lively and quiet locations to top up your tan. When you’ve had enough sunbathing, a trip to the medieval city of Carcassonne will give you the culture you crave. There is also an abundance of vineyards in the region, as well as spas and opportunities for water sports.
Provence
For holidaymakers who are not accustomed to baking themselves by the sea, the inland region of Provence may offer more appeal. This historic area is full of beautiful villages perched up high or nestled into the hillside, notably Roussillon, Gordes and Bonnieux. Here you will find many rustic, but charming villas for rent, as well as a number of quaint hotels in historic villages. There are plenty of activities to do in Provence. From exploring caves to tasting wine. This is a great location for history buffs, food lovers and adventurous travellers.
The Rhône-Alpes
The Rhône-Alpes is one of the largest regions in France, making it a very lively and appealing destination for tourists. If you are looking for a city-based holiday, Lyon is a great destination. This city is bursting at the seams with interesting attractions from museums and galleries, to restaurants and bars. It is considered to be one the best cities in the country for food, so make sure you sample some of the local dishes. There are also a number of other interesting things to do in this area of France. Paraglide over the stunning landscape, go hiking in the Cirque Du Fer-a-Cheval or canoe in Lake Annecy.
The South of France is as versatile as it is beautiful. The landscape, attractions and culture of keep holidaymakers coming back year after year. I hope you enjoy your trip to this incredible part of the world.