Millions of visitors flock to France every year, many of whom arrive seeking a dose of romance promised by movies, books and tv shows set in the country’s capital city. After all, Paris is known worldwide as the city of love.
And while there is undeniably something special that tugs at the heart when gazing at the sparkling Eiffel tour or sharing a kiss with your loved one along the banks of the Seine, the spark may wear off rather quickly for some when faced with the less than pleasant smells in the metro or the pushy crowds that come along with most major cities.
Fortunately, that dose of quintessential French romance can be found in many other places throughout the country. Here are the first five of my top ten romantic French getaway alternatives to Paris.
1. Cassis
Cassis is without question a destination for lovebirds. Located on the Côte d’Azur about 20 kilometres east of Marseille, this small city is an old fishing port surrounded by pastel-hued buildings and vineyards. Cassis is also known for its impressive cliffs and viewpoints, with Cap Canaille being one of the highest maritime cliffs in Europe. The Route des Crêtes between Cassis and La Ciotat is a scenic drive that will make anyone fall head over heels for the area. If you’re up for a hike, visiting the majestic calanques of Port-Miou, Port-Pin and En-Vau and their turquoise waters is well worth it.
2. Annecy
One of the best places to cozy up with your loved one is in the hear of the French Alps. Annecy is a charming town surrounded by snow-capped mountains and set along the shores of the turquoise-coloured Lake Annecy, one of the largest lakes in France. The old town, dubbed the “Venice of the Alps” for its flower-lined canals, is the ideal setting for a stroll. Continue your walk to the “Pont des Amours,” or Lover’s Bridge, that connects two beautiful park areas. Legend has it that if you share a kiss on this bridge, you will stay together forever. For a more adventurous getaway, carve out some time together on the slopes by heading over to one of five nearby ski resorts.
3. Riquewihr
Nestled in between the Vosges mountains with the Rhine River running through it, the Alsace region is a feast for the eyes. Along the 170 kilometre wine route through the region lies the charming town of Riqeuwihr. As you walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the colourful buildings with their painted shutters and geranium-filled flower boxes, you might think it looks like something out of a movie. And you wouldn’t be wrong! Riquewihr was one of the inspirations for the village in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. If this town doesn’t leave you with butterflies in your stomach, then we don’t know what will. Riquewihr also hosts a number of Valentine’s Day-themed animations, such as a photo contest and vineyard visits. And in case you needed any more reasons to visit Riquewihr, check out these ten reasons to visit Alsace.
4. Saint-Malo
If your idea of romance is less about pastel facades and more about wild coastlines, then Saint-Malo is your match made in heaven. This fortified city, located along the Brittany coast, will give you the dose of fresh ocean air you’ve been looking for. Saint-Malo also happens to be home to Europe’s highest tides, which is great for couples who enjoy wave watching during the winter months. The city centre is walkable, and once you make it off the main tourist streets, you can easily escape the crowds and feel like you have the place to yourselves. After taking in the views of the beaches and forts while walking along the impressive ramparts, enjoy a local seafood platter or a crêpe with salted caramel.
5. Saint-Émilion
Whether you’re a wine connaisseur or just an occasional wine drinker, you will appreciate a visit to this world-renowned historic city. Saint-Émilion, located 40 kilometres north east of Bordeaux, is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape, recognizing its exceptional character and the importance of its vineyards. Steep in the more than 2,000 year history of winegrowing with a vineyard tour or a tasting. Then take in the medieval architecture by visiting the monolithic church or by climbing up to the top of the King’s Tower for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to share a few canelés or the famous macaron de Saint-Émilion with your amoureux.
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Which of these places would you love to see? Which cities do you think will be included in Part 2?
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