Top Road Trips in France
The freedom of the open road in France is exceptionally inviting, particularly for travelers arriving with their own vehicles via ferry or Eurotunnel. France, renowned for its rich history and gastronomic delights, is a prime location to explore by car. Here, we present five amazing road trips that take you through the heart of the French countryside while avoiding tolls.
1. Mont St-Michel to Étretat
Best for coastal exploration
Distance: 286 km (460 miles) — Allow three days
Begin your journey at the iconic Mont-St-Michel, a 9th-century tidal abbey and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The breathtaking views and rich history are sure to inspire. Drive approximately half an hour to Avranches to admire the remarkable chateau. Continuing your route, make your way to Bayeux, famous for its historic tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England.
- Must-see stops: Deauville, known for its film festival, and Étretat, famed for its dramatic sea cliffs and arches.
- Local tip: Parking can be challenging and costly at both Mont-St-Michel and Étretat, so consider parking further out and walking to the attractions.
2. The Loing Valley
Best for history enthusiasts
Distance: 50 km (31 miles) — Allow for one day
Your road trip begins at the magnificent Fontainebleau chateau, a former hunting lodge of French royals. The scenic route takes you through picturesque valleys and quaint villages, coming to a close at the charming town of Montargis, often referred to as the “Venice of the Gâtinais.”
- Planning tip: Visit Fontainebleau during summer for added activities like boat cruises and hot-air balloon rides.
3. A Loop through Hérault
Best for stunning coastal views without the crowds
Distance: 208 km (129 miles) — Allow three days
This journey starts from Sète, a vibrant city nestled between a lagoon and the Mediterranean Sea. Travel to Béziers, an ancient city with rich Roman history, followed by a visit to the lush landscapes of Haut-Languedoc Regional Park.
- Don’t miss: A scenic stop at Lac du Salagou to view its unique red rock formations.
- Planning tip: Arrive in Pézenas on a Saturday to enjoy its bustling weekly market.
4. Alpine Lakes and Valleys Loop
Best for extraordinary nature experiences
Distance: 324 km (201 miles) — Recommended five days
Leaving Grenoble, venture into the majestic Serre Chevalier valley, known for its delightful ski slopes and hiking opportunities. Continue to explore the stunning Lac de Serre-Ponçon before discovering the captivating Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet.
- Planning tip: This route is best tackled in summer, while winter travelers should ensure they are properly equipped for snow conditions.
5. The Massif Central
Best for cheese lovers and hiking fans
Distance: 196 km (122 miles) — Allow three to four days
Start in the gothic city of Clermont-Ferrand and travel south to Orcival to see its grand basilica. Enjoy hiking the extinct volcanoes in the area before concluding your trip in cheese-rich Aurillac, where many delightful cheese shops await you.
- Planning tip: This route is part of the Auvergne Cheese Route, featuring several farms where you can indulge in local cheeses.
Top Tips for Road-Tripping in France
- Be cautious of toll roads; while they can save time, they often incur high costs.
- Consider carpooling to share expenses — platforms such as BlaBlaCar are popular in France.
- Utilize navigation tools like ViaMichelin to estimate trip costs, including fuel and tolls.
Embarking on these beautiful road trips throughout France not only enhances your travel experience but also allows you to witness the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.
