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Best Destinations in France to Visit in Spring
After the quiet of winter, the country comes alive with vibrant blooms, mild temperatures, and a renewed energy that makes it the perfect time to explore.
For those who love travel but want to avoid the high-season crowds, spring is the perfect time to explore France at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Whether it’s wandering through Monet’s gardens in Giverny, admiring the pink-hued coastline of Brittany, or indulging in fresh seafood along the Atlantic, each region reveals a unique side of itself in spring. The weather is ideal, nature is at its peak, and there’s a sense of ease in discovering France before the summer rush.
With so many incredible places to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. To help you plan your perfect springtime getaway, we’ve rounded up our favourite destinations in France for this season; a mix of iconic must-sees, hidden gems, and breathtaking landscapes that truly shine in spring.
Giverny – Monet’s Garden
If there is one place that captures the essence of spring, it’s Giverny. This charming village, home to Claude Monet’s iconic house and gardens, is a masterpiece of colour at this time of year. The Japanese bridge draped in wisteria, the famous water lily pond, and the lush flower beds create a scene straight out of an Impressionist painting. Inside the house, Monet’s collection of Japanese prints adds another layer of artistic inspiration.
Spring is undoubtedly the best time to visit, before the summer crowds arrive, when the garden is at its freshest, bursting with tulips, irises, and cherry blossoms. If you’re a lover of art and nature, Giverny is a must-see.
The Arcachon Bay
A paradise for nature lovers, the Bassin d’Arcachon on the southwest coast of France is a place of contrast, golden sand dunes, pine forests, oyster farms, and charming coastal villages. Spring is an ideal time to visit before the summer crowds, with perfect weather for climbing the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. From the top, the views over the Atlantic and the Cap Ferret peninsula are simply breathtaking.
For a different perspective, take a boat trip to Île aux Oiseaux, home to hundreds of bird species and the iconic “cabanes tchanquées” (wooden houses on stilts). And if you love seafood, don’t leave without indulging in fresh oysters at a local oyster farm, the perfect taste of the region.
The Camargue
The Camargue, a vast wetland in the south of France, feels like a world of its own. Spring is a wonderful time to explore this untouched landscape, as the migratory flamingos gather in the shallow waters, and the famous white Camargue horses roam freely.
One of the best ways to experience the Camargue is by taking a bike or walking along the Digue à la Mer, a scenic coastal path that runs from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer to the Phare de la Gacholle. It’s a peaceful escape, where you’ll pass salt marshes, lagoons, and dunes, all while feeling completely immersed in nature.
The Basque Country & The Pyrenees
For those who love both the ocean and the mountains, spring is the perfect time to visit the French Basque Country and the nearby Pyrenees. The coastal town of Biarritz is an elegant blend of French and Spanish influences, with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and fantastic seafood.
Venture inland to picturesque villages like Espelette, famous for its red chili peppers, and Sare, a perfect stop before hiking up La Rhune, the iconic mountain that offers panoramic views over the Atlantic and Spanish countryside. Spring is the ideal season to explore this region, with mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds than summer.
Annecy
Nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy is a dream destination in any season, but in spring, it feels particularly magical. The snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the crystal-clear lake, while the town’s pastel-coloured buildings and flower-covered canals make for picture-perfect strolls.
Spring is also the time when locals swap their skis for hiking boots and bicycles, taking to the surrounding trails and cycling paths. The Lake Annecy loop is a favourite, offering scenic views at every turn. And of course, after a day of exploring, you can still indulge in a classic raclette or fondue, because melted cheese is always a good idea, no matter the season.
The Brittany Coast & The Pink Granite Cliffs
For a breath of fresh sea air, Brittany’s Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast) is an absolute must in spring. The soft pink-hued rock formations along the coastline are stunning at golden hour, and the archipelago of Sept-Îles is a haven for seabirds, including puffins, which start arriving in the spring months.
A perfect day here? Start with a coastal walk along the Sentier des Douaniers (GR34), explore the charming harbor town of Perros-Guirec, and take a boat trip to see the wildlife up close. There’s a rugged beauty to Brittany that feels even more special when experienced in the crisp, bright air of spring.
MFCH Travel Experiences
Enchanting Coastlines & Gardens of Brittany
Discover the northern coast of Brittany with our expert guide, Amy Kupec Larue, who has been visiting the region for over 20 years. Amy’s deep connection to the region will enrich your experience as she guides you through its stunning coastal landscapes, charming towns, and beautiful gardens.
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