Slow Travel in France: Scenic Routes & Serene Stays

Slow travel has become a major travel trend in recent times and risen to combat the fast-paced nature of modern life. Essentially, slow travel is the opposite of rushing to see every possible country ethos, and instead is all about staying longer in one place and getting a richer experience by connecting with the people, culture, and environment. France is the perfect place for slow travel, with many scenic routes and serene stays to experience. Read on to find out more.

Drift Along the Canal du Midi (Occitanie)

Cruising the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi by houseboat or biking along the towpath offers a peaceful pace and scenic beauty. This gives you the opportunity to pass through Quaint French villages, beautiful vineyards, and shaded towpaths. This is the perfect slow travel experience for picnics, wine tasting, and connecting with local life in Southern France.

Stay in a Stone Cottage in the Dordogne

A rustic gite in the beautiful and historic Dordogne region in southwest France can be the perfect base for your slow travel adventures. This will allow you to surround yourself with walnut groves and medieval towns to explore at a leisurely pace. Enjoy slow mornings at farmers’ markets, try river kayaking, or simply soak in rural silence and starry night skies.

Ride the Train Jaune in the French Pyrenees

The historic “Little Yellow Train” offers a slow climb through the dramatic mountain scenery of the Pyrénées-Orientales – a department on France’s Mediterranean coast, along the Spanish border. This is a nostalgic and relaxing journey through high viaducts, tunnels, and remote villages with medieval architecture.

Meander Through Provence’s Lavender Routes

By timing your visit for June or July, you can drive the gorgeous lavender routes near Valensole and Sault. This will allow you to stop for leisurely lunches in small hilltop towns, sip rosé in the sunshine, and take in views of the colourful, sun-drenched fields. Cycling tours France will be one of the best ways to experience the lavender routes and immerse yourself in the area.

Embrace the Breton Coast on Foot

Explore Brittany’s GR34 coastal trail – a long-distance footpath tracing cliffs, beaches, and charming ports. Stay in locally owned inns, eat crepes in seaside cafes, and take in dramatic views of headlands without rushing your travel experience. This is the best way to experience the Breton Coast and gives you the chance to embrace French seaside style.

Hopefully, this post will give you a few ideas for slow travel experiences in France. Slow travel is a growing trend that allows you to take your time and truly immerse yourself in a destination. France is the perfect place for this with its beautiful scenery, historic towns, and rich culture. By slowing down, you can have a truly authentic travel experience and recharge your batteries at the same time.

This is where I link up