Honestly speaking, I love winter and I believe you do too. Yes, it is a good thing to stay indoors and enjoy warmth when the outdoors is harshly cold. But that does not happen during summertime. In the summer, we all want to get out there, go to the beach, and swim to beat the heat. While I have been to so many countries during summertime, France seems to be a cut above most countries I have visited during this season. Planning to visit France in the warm season? I have sampled the following four French destinations which you may want to visit when the sun returns. They are all top travel hot spots and each one of them is as good as the other. Without any particular order, here they are.
Cannes
Do I have to introduce this one? Perhaps not, thanks to the fact that it is one of the most famous resort towns in France’s Alpes-Maritimes. The City has a rich history, which I could not help discovering when I visited. Playing host to Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals not only in France but in the world, this city has been known to attract dozens of big names in the film industry. That means seeing celebrities live is the norm here. Additionally, Cannes is a great choice if partying is your thing. And while everything in this iconic city may be relatively pricey, enjoying your summer here would be worth every dollar spent.
Biarritz
Once a somewhat dull fishing town in France, Biarritz is a top summertime destination in the country, known to open its gates to myriads of visitors every year. One feature of this city which pulls travelers is the Hotel du Palais, whose popularity stems from as far back as the Napoleonic times. It is well documented that this hotel was Napoleon’s summer home, back in the day. Who does not want to stay where this iconic figure once stayed! And that is not all. It is also said that Biarritz has been hosting European royal families since two centuries ago (at least). I was also quite thrilled with the French Basque country, which is located just a stone’s throw away in the southern part of the city. These attractions, together with all other goodies you will enjoy in this stylish French beach town, make it easy for me to strongly recommend that you give Biarritz a shot.
Albi
Albi, which is located on Tarna River is perhaps best known for being home to Sainte-Cecile Cathedral, one of the most iconic Gothic architectural structures. With lots of restaurants and cafes scattered around this French commune, I never lacked options to choose from during my visit here. The town is also not short of street markets, where you could shop for some cheeses and meats, as well as fruits and vegetables. Methinks that all you need is to pick what you want and enjoy a picnic in the heat. Like wine tasting? Well, Albi boasts some magnificent vineyards which you could visit and enjoy wine as you explore the scenery.
Antibes
Antibes is a resort town and one of the oldest in southeast France. While on my visit, I visited Fort Carre, from where I would view the entire town. If art is your thing, you can also enter the gates of the Musee Picasso where dozens of Picasso’s artwork is displayed. Did I mention that there are more than enough beaches here? What feels better than being on a beach on a sunny day? While on the shoreline, I was either swimming or hiking.