The French Alps have long been attractive for those who want a holiday with a difference. From the amazing scenery to the welcoming locals, there is something here for everyone. However visitors prefer to travel, they can easily explore the region. There are some great options for road trips, and rail journeys are a very laid-back way to see the area.
When is the best time to visit?
The French Alps are known for their beauty throughout the year. During the summer they are filled with hikers, mountain bikers and climbers, while in winter they attract hundreds of thousands of winter sports enthusiasts. For a truly spectacular sight, most visitors head towards Mont Blanc, an area of the Alps that has played host to the Winter Olympics on no less than three occasions. With some of the best ski resorts in the region, it is easy to find a charming French Alps hotel all year round where visitors are sure of a warm welcome and can make the most of the famous French hospitality while spending enjoyable days on the slopes.
The northern part of the Alps is great for the winter sports enthusiast and there are plenty of hiking trails that lead around mountain lakes, forests and pretty villages. The city of Grenoble is also a must for those who want a break from the countryside. Here, tourists can enjoy a little retail therapy or make the most of the café culture and watch the world go by while relaxing with a cup of coffee. This is also a great place to try some local produce, particularly the French cheeses such as Beaufort.
Head for Provence
Alternatively, tourists can head south. As they travel they pass through some of France’s most beautiful countryside, including the lavender fields. The region of Provence is widely considered one of the finest areas of the country, and it provides warmer temperatures. When travelling through the Alps drivers come close to borders with countries such as Switzerland and Italy, so are able to spot the influences that France’s neighbors have had in the area.
However, not everybody wants to spend the whole of their vacation time in the Alps, so why not make a break a two-centered holiday? Part of the time could be spent in the Alps and the rest of the time could be on a beautiful island such as Corsica. This island has a long and interesting history and is a great place to go if you want to spend a couple of days soaking up the sun. Corsica’s charming hotels offer a great place to stay while guests enjoy the delights of the island.
While many consider the French Alps to be only a winter vacation destination, nothing could be further from the truth. To get a taste of everything that France has to offer, a trip through the Alps will be very rewarding.