Ten Unexpected Travel Ideas in France

France is our nearest neighbor and if you’re interested in a trip across the channel this summer, then Trips100 bloggers have some fantastic recommendations.

Kicking off our round-up is this magical exploration of Bordeaux from Adventures of a London Kiwi, where a surreal chain of events led to an invitation to stay in a chateau complete with acres of vineyards.

There’s something very grand about a chateau, and another amazing insight into the options available in France is over on Luxury Columnist, who recently stayed in a chateau in Vence. Just gorgeous.

Of course, a major attraction on any trip to France is the opportunity to sample the local wine, and Lovely Planet takes us through the wine festivals of the Alsace in this post.

Feeling a bit more active? You might not realize that France has a thriving surf scene, centred around the glitzy resort of Biarritz. KickBack Travel takes us through the sights – and waves – in this guide.

Alternatively, we loved this post from London Unattached, sharing Fiona’s passion for wine in Mirabeau, with an inspiring story behind some local wines.

Brittany and Normandy are well-trodden favourites for British travellers but there are gems to be found if you look a little further afield. This post from That Adventurer about the best sights in Grenoble certainly has us inspired.

Or how about the Haute Loire? This region of South Central France has amazing scenery and lots to explore – why not check out this post from Family Day Out for some ideas?

We also love the ideas of this art-themed trip to Arles, from Drifting Traveller. Not heard of it? Well Arles is actually the French city famed for inspiring many of the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh.

Want something more luxurious? What could be fancier than this trip to Champagne, from Silver Spoon London? We are very much open to offers to take us here, kind readers.

Lastly, we’re heading off to Île de Ré with Global Mouse Travels – this tiny island of the South West coast of France has beautiful coastline and some amazing restaurants to explore.

Have we missed your favourite, secret corner of France? Share your thoughts in the comments!