Discover the Undiscovered Secret Spots in France

Photo Credits: Camille Brodard

When it comes to France, most of us have heard of the iconic Eiffel Tower, the historic Louvre Museum, and the charming streets of Paris. But beyond these famous tourist spots, France has much more to offer. This beautiful country is home to many undiscovered secret spots that are just waiting to be explored.

Paris, a city known for its exquisite architecture, towering landmarks, and romantic vibes, is also home to one of the world’s most intriguing and mysterious sites – the catacombs. This underground network of tunnels is home to the remains of over six million people and has been a source of fascination for tourists, travelers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Before we dive down to the catacombs, here’s a quick history lesson. The catacombs of Paris came into existence in the late 18th century when the city’s cemeteries were overflowing. To solve the problem, authorities decided to relocate the remains of millions of people to an underground space, which resulted in the creation of the catacombs. But, this is no ordinary cemetery. The catacombs consist of well-organized rows of skulls and bones, giving it a surreal and haunting ambiance.

One of the biggest draws of the catacombs is the mysterious ambiance it exudes. While walking through the tunnels, you’ll not only be surrounded by bones, but the atmosphere is eerily quiet and bathed in a dim light that only adds to the spine-tingling experience. This unique ambiance creates a sense of the macabre that history enthusiasts and adventure buffs will appreciate.

The catacombs aren’t for everyone, as the tunnels can be a bit unnerving for some. But, if you’re an adventure seeker, then exploring the Parisian underworld is a must-do activity. To access the catacombs, you’ll need to make an appointment and book a guided tour. It is advised to wear comfortable shoes as the tunnels can be slippery in places. Once inside, the tour will take you through the tunnels while sharing interesting historical facts and stories about the catacombs.

The catacombs’ overall experience may only last an hour, but it’s an hour you’ll never forget. You’ll marvel at the beauty of the organized bones and skulls, see firsthand how massive the network of tunnels is, and gain a deeper appreciation of Paris’s rich and storied past. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book a nighttime tour of the catacombs, which takes visitors into the depths of the tunnels and is not for the faint of heart.

The Lascaux Caves are a series of underground caves located in southwestern France, near the village of Montignac. The caves are famous for their Paleolithic cave paintings, which are highly realistic and vivid, depicting animals and other figures. I was fascinated by the sheer artistry of the paintings and couldn’t believe that they were created over 17,000 years ago. As you walk through the dark and damp caves, you truly appreciate how much effort and skill must have gone into creating such breathtaking art.

To ensure that you get the most out of your visit, it’s highly advisable to book a guide who speaks your language. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and offer a wealth of information, not just about the caves but also about the surrounding region and culture of the era. They explain the meaning behind the paintings and cave structures, and their stories will take you on a journey back in time.

One of the highlights of the Lascaux Caves is undoubtedly the Great Hall, a vast chamber filled with hundreds of animal carvings. The hall itself is enormous, and the thought of creating such great art in a confined space is baffling. One can’t help but visualize the painters using torches made of animal fat or pitch to create art in such dark, damp, and confined spaces. Visiting the Great Hall felt like a pilgrimage for me, and I left feeling a newfound appreciation for the skills and artistry of our ancestors.

Exploring the Lascaux Caves is an unforgettable but also a fleeting experience. The caves are open to visits, but due to the vulnerability of the paintings, the number of guests per day is limited. It’s advisable to book your visit well in advance, especially during peak seasons. So hurry and add this mesmerizing experience to your travel list.

The private gardens of the Château de Versailles are not accessible to the public, but they can be accessed with a guided tour. Book your tickets ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on the exclusive tour. Once inside, you’ll be amazed by the sheer beauty of these private gardens. The gardens are vast and diverse, featuring a mix of English and French landscapes. You’ll witness a variety of flora and fauna inside these gardens, as well as beautiful fountains, and sculptures. The gardens have many paths and hidden corners, giving visitors a more peaceful and calming experience.

One of the highlights of the private garden tour is the Queen’s garden. This garden is tucked away from the public gardens and is named after the famous Queen Marie Antoinette. The garden is a beautiful mix of colors, with pink, blue, and white flowers adorning the area. The garden has its own lagoon, complete with a small temple that offers stunning views of the landscaped gardens. The Queen’s garden is a must-see if you want to experience the romantic and elegant side of Versailles.

The Orangerie garden is another highlight of the Château de Versailles’ private gardens. The garden features a stunning collection of orange trees that date back to the 17th century. The trees are neatly arranged in rows and make for a beautiful walk. It’s best to visit these gardens in the summer when the fruit is ripe, offering a lovely fragrance and perfect ambiance. The Orangerie garden is the perfect spot for an afternoon break from touring the expansive château buildings.

Discovering the Old Town

One of the most charming areas of Villefranche-sur-Mer is its old town, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and ancient architecture. Here you will find plenty of hidden corners and historic buildings, such as the 14th-century Chapelle Saint-Pierre, the colorful Place Amélie Pollonnais, and the impressive Citadelle de Villefranche.Take a leisurely walk and get lost in this beautiful area, soak up its authentic atmosphere and enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in one of the many cafes and bistros.

Enjoying the Local Cuisine

No trip to Villefranche-sur-Mer is complete without indulging in the authentic local cuisine. From fresh seafood to delicious pastries and colorful desserts, you will find plenty of mouth-watering delicacies to try.Some of the must-try dishes include the famous pissaladière, a delicious local pizza made with onions, anchovies and olives, the bouillabaisse, a rich seafood stew, and the socca, a crispy chickpea pancake that is a staple of the region.

Exploring the Artistic Side

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a hub of artistic expression, and you will find plenty of galleries, workshops, and museums to explore. Take a stroll through the Villa Nellcôte, a famous townhouse that once housed the Rolling Stones, visit the Musée Goetz-Boumeester, which features works by modernist artists, or explore the many art and craft shops for a unique souvenir.

Relaxing on the Beach

The beaches of Villefranche-sur-Mer are some of the most stunning in the French Riviera, with crystal blue water and golden sand. Whether you prefer to sunbathe on the Plage des Marinieres, hike to the secluded Plage de la Darse, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Plage de la Petite Afrique, you will find the perfect spot to soak up the sun and relax.

Experiencing the Festivals

Throughout the year, Villefranche-sur-Mer hosts a variety of colorful festivals, from the Fête de la Mer, which celebrates the town’s maritime heritage, to the Fête de la Saint-Michel, which features lively music, dancing, and fireworks. Attending one of these festivals is a great way to experience the local culture and meet the friendly locals, who are always eager to share their traditions with visitors.

Located in Eastern France, this is the perfect place to escape into the peace and quiet of nature. With breathtaking landscapes, serene natural trails, and local tradition deeply rooted in indigenous culture, this remote area will give you the rejuvenation you need to get back to your daily routine.

The park is a visual treat
The Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges is home to some of the most awe-inspiring sights France has to offer. The park is characterized by rolling hills, vast meadows, clear streams, and dense forests. Each turn showcases a different shade of green and the natural landscape is truly a sight to marvel. From rolling hilltops to crystal-clear streams, the park offers a nature lover’s paradise. Take a stroll through the park and explore the different trails, and you’ll be surprised at how peaceful and tranquil the landscape is.

Great Accommodation options
There are a variety of accommodation options in the park, so finding the perfect spot is easy. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a remote Airbnb, you can find a place that suits your budget. Many of the accommodations are located right in the heart of the park, so you can wake up to the smell of fresh air and the sounds of the forest. While visiting the park, you can also opt to stay in a rustic cabin to really immerse yourself in the natural environment.

Ideal for outdoor activities
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then Ballons des Vosges will spoil you for choice. From hiking and cycling to fishing and skiing, there are endless activities to indulge in. Traverse the park on foot, hop on a bike, or even take a horseback ride through the peaceful surroundings. You can also try your hand at fishing for trout in one of the exquisite streams, or perhaps pick up some skiing or snowboarding skills at the ski resort. Make sure to leave plenty of time for exploration and relaxation during your trip.

Experience the local culture
Apart from the beautiful landscape, the park is rich in local traditions. The park has a lot of traditional heritage that is deeply rooted in the indigenous culture. From the local cuisine to the traditional music, there is plenty to learn and experience. The park is home to several small villages, where you can stop and sample local dishes such as Munster Cheese and Tarte Flambée along with Alsatian wine and beer. The towns in the park host local festivals where visitors can enjoy the traditional music and dances that have been preserved for centuries.

Convenience and accessibility
The Regional Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges is easily accessible by car or train, making it a convenient destination for travelers. The park is located just a couple of hours away from Paris, so it’s easy to combine the trip with other destinations in France. If you plan to visit the park for an extended period, you can even rent a car and explore the surrounding areas. The park has several visitor centers where you can get maps, brochures, and valuable information about the natural and historical aspects of the park.

France is a beautiful country that has so much more to offer than just its famous tourist spots. From the elegant coastal towns to the charming villages and vibrant cities, France boasts many undiscovered secret spots that are just waiting to be explored. So, if you’re planning a trip to France, be sure to check out these hidden gems and experience the true beauty of this remarkable country.