South of France, where you have beautiful landscapes, beaches, mountains, lakes, picturesque villages, and that Mediterranean atmosphere all in one. There's so much beauty to discover in the south of France, with each place having its own charm and uniqueness. Vodatent has created a top 5 list of attractions in this region, so you can already daydream about your upcoming vacation.
1. Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon is the second-largest canyon in Europe and is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of France. It's a paradise for rock climbers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. In addition to the stunning views, there's a river that flows through it. This allows for various water activities alongside activities like hiking, biking, and abseiling. Rent a canoe or pedal boat to glide past towering cliffs, waterfalls, and explore the beautiful nature. When you want to relax, you can unwind on one of the many lakeside beaches. Although the water can be a bit chilly at times, a refreshing swim on a hot summer day is delightful!
2. Carcassonne
If you're a fan of history and ancient architecture, then the city of Carcassonne is a must-visit! This medieval city, completely walled, is located in the south of France, between Toulouse and Narbonne. As you approach, you'll see the beautiful towers rising above the surrounding area. Carcassonne offers plenty of charming restaurants and souvenir shops, along with remarkable attractions to explore. Take a stroll along the Canal du Midi while cycling over the famous Pont Vieux bridge, or visit the Carcassonne Castle. The Saint-Nazaire Basilica and several museums are also highly recommended for a visit.
3. Marseille
Are you looking for a city that has it all? Then visit the city of Marseille. This multicultural port city is one of the most historic cities in France and is home to the country's best museums. Le Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée and Le Musée des Beaux-Arts de Marseille are definitely worth a visit! For excellent restaurants, cafes, and bars, head to Le Vieux-Port. This is an old harbor, the heart of Marseille, and a lively place to enjoy all the local delicacies. Don't forget to visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which is located at the highest point of the city and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
4. Nice
Nice is a true attraction for tourists from all over the world. The city offers interesting museums, a charming seaside resort, and beautiful beaches. Explore the city's history at the Roman remains of Cemenelum, where you can admire the remains of the ancient amphitheater, among other things. There is also a nearby museum, Musée Archéologique, dedicated to Cemenelum. When the weather is sunny, you can take a leisurely walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, where you'll find the covered botanical garden, Parc Phoenix. This tropical greenhouse is one of the largest in Europe, featuring unique plants, trees, and animals like tropical birds, baby sharks, and tarantulas. For a fun day trip, you can take the train from Nice's central station to Tende, a village high in the mountains near the Italian border. The scenic train ride takes you through beautiful mountain landscapes and picturesque villages.
5. Nationaal Park Pyrénées
The Pyrénées National Park is a stunning area with towering, snow-covered mountains, deep valleys, waterfalls, lakes, and beautiful hiking trails and mountain passes. The Cirque de Gavarnie and Cirque de Troumouse offer fairytale landscapes where you can fully enjoy the flora and fauna. Here, you also have the chance to see bearded vultures and griffon vultures. If you walk from Cauterets to Le Pont d'Espagne (a stone bridge), you can also see a beautiful waterfall. About 200 meters above the waterfall is the picturesque mountain lake, Lac de Gaube, with its blue-green color, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. This lake is about an hour's walk from Le Pont d'Espagne or you can take the cable car.
