A relaxing weekend in France

Would you like to get away for a few days to relax and unwind, far from the hustle and bustle of the city? Why not go along the coast or near the mountains in France? There's nothing like getting a good dose of fresh air to recharge your batteries.

Discover our top destinations for a relaxing stay in France, close to nature, by the sea or in the mountains.

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Relax on the French West Coast

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Looking for a relaxing time? Here are our tips for places to stay along the French west coast:

• Bayonne: Take a well-deserved break in this place, a stone's throw from the ocean. The more adventurous will be tempted by surfing lessons, while families and couples might be more excited by a walk along the Adour river. As the capital of chocolate, don't miss the chance to taste this local speciality in one of Bayonne's renowned shops or tea rooms.

• La Rochelle: There are many sunny beaches, ideal for walking or lounging. Stroll along the old port and take a trip to the Ile de Ré or the Ile d'Oléron, which you can explore by bike.

• Auray: This small medieval town will charm you with its port, its cobbled streets, its market and its local products as well as the nearby Basilica of Saint Anne.

• Les Sables d'Olonne : The starting town for the Vendée Globe, the famous solo sailing race. Discover the charming Sablais districts lined with typical fishermen's houses. Art lovers, marvel at the facades decorated with shells in the picturesque district of L'Île de Penotte.

• Arcachon : This seaside resort will seduce you with its stunning landscapes and varied gastronomy. Between gourmet strolls through the markets and sailing on the basin, you will never run out of ideas! 

Relaxing moments near the mountains

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Relax, between moments of relaxation in the spa and moments of disconnection in nature.

• Annecy : The Venice of the Alps, so called because of the canals that run through the town, offers an idyllic setting with its majestic castle and the beautiful Lake Annecy. You can take advantage of the surrounding mountains for quiet hikes and end your day in style at one of the town's massage centres.

• Evian : Plan a boat trip on Lake Geneva, organise a horse ride or a hike in the area and relax in the Evian thermal baths (massage, hammam, sauna, cryotherapy...) for a gentle stay.

• Albi : You will be able to plan beautiful days: cycling along the Tarne, tasting the best specialities of the south-west (magret, foie-gras, cassoulet...), walks, sports activities, picnics and even concerts during the summer, at the Pratgraussals park.

A trip along the coast of the English Channel

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Relax by the channel and enjoy the sea air in one of these towns:

• Avranches: Located by the sea, you can plan walks and hikes in the surrounding nature. Venture to Mont Saint Michel, an iconic French monument, which is just a short drive away.

• Saint-Malo : Walk along the ramparts and the old port and watch the wonderful spectacle of boats mooring and weighing anchor. Take advantage of your stay to go to one of the beaches on the edge of the town (those who are not too cold can even try a swim) and don't miss the Grand Bé, a small uninhabited island, which offers you a beautiful view of Saint-Malo.

• Le Touquet : Book a boat trip on the Bay of Canche to see seals and migratory birds, explore the Opal Coast and its beautiful scenery: fine sandy beaches, cliffs and majestic dunes. Visit the Canche lighthouse and the market to taste the local products.

And to help you have a good time in these cities, find our hotels: