Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
When it comes to rural idyl, it’s difficult to beat the French countryside. Travel through this part of the world, and you’re sure to encounter an impressive diversity of things to see and experience – and you’ll be able to enjoy it all at a more relaxed pace.
Discovering Picturesque Villages
At the heart of every rural community, of course, is a village. France is home to some of the most picturesque villages you could hope to stumble upon, some of which have even won awards for their beauty. For example, Eguisheim, in Alsace, is known for its distinctive medieval architecture – and for the quality of the local vineyards. If you’re unsure of which villages are worth visiting, then you might consider “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France”, which is a guide for travellers detailing exactly where it is worth stopping.
Embracing Local Gastronomy and Wine
Of course, a large part of the appeal of rural France stems from the quality of the food and drink you’ll enjoy there. In some cases, you’ll be able to visit the local producers themselves and see the techniques which have helped to shape some of the world’s most famous produce. In some cases, a visit to a region like Jura might expose you to the kinds of unique varietals that aren’t found on supermarket shelves back at home.
At the very least, you might pay a visit to a village market, where you can rub shoulders with the locals and see exactly which meals are worth picking up.
Engaging in Outdoor Activities
When you’re surrounded by natural beauty, as you will be in the French countryside, you might take the opportunity to go outside and enjoy a bit of physical exercise. Fortunately, there’s an amazing infrastructure for cyclists in rural France. Certain parts of the country, like the Loire Valley, provide an amazing selection of trails for those cycling in France. You’ll be able to take a trip through the countryside while sampling some of the country’s amazing castles, forests, and mountains.
Experiencing Cultural Festivals and Traditions
At certain times of the year, in certain parts of the country, there’s a local outpouring of custom and tradition in the form of a small festival. If you want to get in touch with the history and heritage of a given part of the country, then attending one of these events might be a great way to do it. For example, there’s the International Festival of Street Theatre, in Aurillac, which brings in both locals and travellers from all around the world.
Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
