France is considered by many to be the most romantic country in Europe, possibly even in the world. Whilst it is a challenge to choose its most romantic destinations, I have lots of wonderful memories of these 11 destinations, and hope to help you create your own romantic memories, when you decide to visit France. Discover 11 top romantic outdoor places in France and get ideas for a romantic French getaway.
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1Montsegur
If you and your beloved are both of the outdoorsy type, go to Montsegur and climb the famous Pog Mountain. Although the climb can be rough, an intense reward awaits you at the top. The ruins of a Cathar castle and a religious sect’s final stand during the Middle Ages are both situated there. The atmospheric ruins definitely leave lasting positive impressions. You may also take in stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
2Les Ecrins National Parc:
With their mountains that reach over 4,000 meters into the sky, everlasting snow caps, and ever-present glaciers, the Ecrins Mountains are truly a wonder in the Southern Alps. The views are breathtaking no matter where you are.
3Parc Naturel regional de Camargue
The natural scenes in Camargue make for the ideal postcard. I first visited the Camargue as a child, and had never seen landscape like it, and haven’t ever since. There are wild horses and bull exploring the marshes, an unbelievable number of flamingos, quaint little villages which have great fish restaurants, and expansive beaches with lovely sand dunes. It is not just a postcard, however – it is all reality! It is a very real beautiful yet fragile place of excellent nature preservation.
Photo by
Wolfgang Staudt from Saarbruecken, Germany (Creative Commons)
4Parc Naturel regional du Luberon
From Aix en Provence, the low lying Luberon can be found a little north, with many natural hidden wonders. Aside from the ochre Roussilon quarries and the village of Gordes which are both overrun with tourists, there are many other authentic villages located in high places upon rocks. There are also many narrow roads and trails that take you to lovely forests, lavender fields, and small cliffs…
5Cap d’Agde
What could inspire a couple’s romantic natures more than taking off their clothes? Visit the world nudism capital of a gate-enclosed miniature village devoted exclusively to naturism. Do your banking, lay on the beach naked, or just shop.
6Loire Valley
Follow in the footsteps of the elite by taking a tour of the beautiful, elegant, and luscious Loire Valley. This countryside is full of luxurious chateaux (castles). The food and wine here is extraordinary. You’ll find that there are many converted hotels which used to be castles. Can you think of a better honeymoon hotel than a genuine chateau?
7Gorges du Verdon (Verdon River Gorges)
Gorges du Verdon in France offers what is one of the most breathtaking views in the entire Provence. The gorges fan out in between the quaint cities of Castellane and Moistiers Ste Marie. The top of the cliffs reach a height of 700 meters. This makes the river that lies at the gorge’s bottom appear to be a small green or blue ribbon. Many people like to hike or rock climb on these wonderful cliffs or just tour the banks on both sides. A brief stop for lunch or dinner or even to spend an entire night in the true village of La Palud is mandatory.
8The Calanques (Marseille)
Calanques, Cassis, French Riviera – Cote d’Azur
Very simply Marseille’s gem! The Calanques are part of Marseille, France’s second-largest city. Tall white limestone cliffs provide a stark contrast to the deep blue sky and sea, where you’ll see seagulls and pine trees. There have been numerous forest fires which as a result, has made the forest become fragile and rare. In addition to being a paradise for rock climbers and hikers, the Calanques offer a gift for the eyes. Because they are located in close proximity to the city, many visitors come to see them and it is an ongoing project for the authorities to protect this wonderful area.
9Corsica, France
This whole island is romantic, starting with its gorgeous beaches, some of which are hidden gems awaiting discovery, and others which are large. Contrast this with its quaint mountain villages, where you’ll find a life from days of old and you can see farm animals wandering on the mountain roads.
10Tarn River Gorge
The Tarn River slices through many stunning landscapes and during this process it has been the architect of lots of beautiful gorges. While driving on the scenic, one never stops encountering castles, villages, and wonderful landscapes that set the green river at his or her feet. The Tarn River runs all the way from Albi to Millau.
11Drome Provencale
Purple is the dominant color while the lavender blooms and captures your senses. It is a delight to your sense of sight and smell, leaving its mark on your subconscious ever after. The villages are enveloped by apricot tree orchards and lavender fields.
Photo by Marek Gehrmann (Creative Commons)
I hope this feature will help you deepen the romance in your life!