Away
to France

A Comprehensive Destination Guide
for an experiential journey across France.

France, a land of timeless charm, rich history, and exquisite cuisine, offers a plethora of unique experiences for travelers. This guide will take you through the heart of France, highlighting authentic, unique, and local experiences, heritage and cultural landmarks, local dining and regional cuisine, and unique award-winning authentic stays. Whether you’re planning tours to France, a trip to France, or looking for the best experiences in France, this comprehensive guide will help you explore this captivating destination.

Authentic, Unique,
and Local Experiences
for a memorable
tour to France.

Away LogoExperiences in France

Truffle Hunting in the Dordogne

Embark on a truffle hunting expedition in the picturesque Dordogne region. Join local truffle hunters and their trained dogs in search of the prized black truffle, often referred to as "black diamonds." This hands-on experience offers a fascinating insight into the process of finding these rare fungi and provides a unique connection to the region's culinary heritage. After the hunt, enjoy a tasting session featuring truffle-based dishes, making this a must-do activity for any gourmet on a trip to France.

Cheese-Making in the Jura Mountains

Experience the traditional cheese-making process in the Jura mountains. Visit local farms and dairies to learn how Comté cheese is made, from milking the cows to aging the cheese in cellars. This authentic experience allows you to taste the rich flavors of the region's cheeses and understand the craftsmanship involved in their production. It’s a delightful addition to any journey to France, especially for cheese lovers.

Perfume Making in Grasse

Discover the art of perfume making in Grasse, the world’s perfume capital. Visit a historic perfumery and learn about the complex process of creating perfumes, from selecting the flowers to blending the scents. Participate in a workshop where you can create your own unique fragrance to take home. This sensory experience is perfect for those looking to explore the finer aspects of French culture on their trip to France.

Vineyard Tour in Burgundy

Explore the vineyards of Burgundy with a guided wine-tasting tour. Learn about the region’s renowned wines, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and the meticulous process of viticulture. Visit local wineries, stroll through the vineyards, and sample some of the finest wines. This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts and offers a deep dive into one of France’s most celebrated wine regions.

Lavender Harvesting in Provence

Join local farmers in Provence for the lavender harvest, an iconic symbol of the region. Learn about the cultivation and uses of lavender, from essential oils to culinary delights. Walk through fields of blooming lavender, participate in the harvesting process, and enjoy the fragrant beauty of the Provençal countryside. This unique experience provides a tranquil and aromatic retreat on your trip to France.

Oyster Farming in Arcachon Bay

Explore the oyster farms of Arcachon Bay and taste fresh oysters directly from the source. Join local oyster farmers on a boat tour to learn about the oyster farming process and the unique conditions of the bay that contribute to the exceptional quality of the oysters. Enjoy a tasting session paired with local white wine, making this a delightful culinary adventure on any journey across France.

Cultural Immersion
in France

The Palace of Versailles

Step back in time with a visit to the Palace of Versailles, one of the most opulent palaces in the world. Explore the grand halls, luxurious rooms, and stunning gardens that were once the seat of French royalty. Marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Grand Apartments, and the meticulously landscaped gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. A visit to Versailles offers a deep dive into French history and is a highlight of any trip to France.

The Medieval City of Carcassonne

Explore the medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved fortress and picturesque streets. Wander through the narrow alleys, visit the impressive Château Comtal, and admire the views from the ramparts. The city’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-see on any cultural expereince in France.

Roman Ruins in Nîmes

Discover the ancient Roman heritage of Nîmes, home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France. Visit the Arena of Nîmes, an ancient amphitheater still used for events today, and the Maison Carrée, a beautifully preserved Roman temple. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Roman past and are essential stops for history enthusiasts on their trip to France.

Mont Saint-Michel

Visit Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning island commune topped by a historic abbey. Explore the winding streets, climb to the abbey, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding bay. The island’s unique setting and rich history make it one of the most iconic heritage sites in France and a highlight of any journey to France.

The Châteaux of the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is renowned for its magnificent châteaux, each with its own unique history and architecture. Visit the Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of the French Renaissance, and the Château de Chenonceau, elegantly spanning the River Cher. These castles offer a glimpse into the opulence of French royalty and nobility, making them must-see attractions on any cultural experience in France.

The Historic City of Lyon

Explore the historic city of Lyon, known for its Renaissance architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and significant role in the history of cinema. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the traboules (hidden passageways), and the Musée des Confluences. Lyon’s rich cultural heritage makes it a fascinating destination on any trip to France.

The Roman Aqueduct Pont du Gard

Visit the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge in the South of France. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a marvel of ancient engineering and one of the best-preserved Roman structures in the world. Walk across the bridge, visit the museum, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The Pont du Gard is a highlight of any heritage journey to France.

The Historic City of Avignon

Explore the historic city of Avignon, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and significant role in the history of the Catholic Church. Visit the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, and the famous Pont d'Avignon. The city’s rich history and stunning landmarks make it a must-see on any cultural experience in France.

The Medieval Town of Sarlat-la-Canéda

Discover the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne region, known for its well-preserved architecture and charming streets. Wander through the town’s cobblestone alleys, visit the Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral, and enjoy the vibrant market. Sarlat’s rich history and picturesque setting make it a delightful destination on any trip to France.

The Historic City of Strasbourg

Explore the historic city of Strasbourg, known for its beautiful medieval architecture and the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral. Visit the charming district of La Petite France, the European Parliament, and the Alsatian Museum. Strasbourg’s blend of French and German influences and its rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination on any journey across France.

Local Dining and Regional Cuisine
of France

Dordogne Cuisine in Perigueux

Perigueux, the capital of the Dordogne region, offers a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy traditional dishes such as duck confit, foie gras, and walnut cake. Pair your meal with a glass of local Bergerac wine. Dining in Perigueux provides a delicious taste of the Dordogne’s rich culinary heritage.

Jura Cuisine in Arbois

Arbois, located in the Jura mountains, is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes such as Comté cheese fondue, poulet au vin jaune (chicken in yellow wine), and Morbier cheese. Pair your meal with a glass of local Jura wine. Dining in Arbois offers a delicious taste of the region’s culinary traditions.

Provençal Cuisine in Nice

Nice, located on the French Riviera, offers a vibrant culinary scene. Enjoy traditional Provençal dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and socca (chickpea flatbread). Pair your meal with a glass of local rosé wine. Dining in Nice provides a delicious taste of the Mediterranean’s rich culinary heritage.

Lyonnais Cuisine in Lyon

Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, offers a rich culinary experience. Enjoy traditional dishes such as coq au vin, quenelles (fish dumplings), and tarte Lyonnaise. Pair your meal with a glass of Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône wine. Dining in Lyon provides a delicious taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Breton Cuisine in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, located in Brittany, offers a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy traditional Breton dishes such as galettes (buckwheat crepes), seafood platters, and Kouign-amann (butter cake). Pair your meal with a glass of local cider. Dining in Saint-Malo provides a delicious taste of Brittany’s rich culinary traditions.

Loire Valley Cuisine in Tours

Tours, located in the Loire Valley, offers a rich culinary experience. Enjoy traditional dishes such as rillettes (potted meat), pike in beurre blanc sauce, and tarte Tatin. Pair your meal with a glass of local Loire Valley wine. Dining in Tours provides a delicious taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Provençal Cuisine in Avignon

Avignon, located in the heart of Provence, offers a vibrant culinary scene. Enjoy traditional Provençal dishes such as tapenade, aioli, and lavender-infused desserts. Pair your meal with a glass of local rosé or Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine. Dining in Avignon provides a delicious taste of Provence’s rich culinary heritage.

Seafood in Arcachon

Arcachon, located on the Atlantic coast, offers a rich culinary experience focused on seafood. Enjoy dishes such as moules marinières (mussels in white wine), seafood platters, and oysters. Pair your meal with a glass of local white wine. Dining in Arcachon provides a delicious taste of the region’s rich culinary traditions.

Bordeaux Cuisine in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, located in the heart of one of the world’s most famous wine regions, offers a rich culinary experience. Enjoy traditional dishes such as entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak in red wine sauce), duck confit, and cannelés (small pastries). Pair your meal with a glass of Bordeaux wine. Dining in Bordeaux provides a delicious taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Normandy Cuisine in Rouen

Rouen, located in Normandy, offers a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy traditional Norman dishes such as apple tart, Camembert cheese, and cider. Pair your meal with a glass of local Calvados. Dining in Rouen provides a delicious taste of Normandy’s rich culinary traditions.

Alsatian Cuisine in Strasbourg

Strasbourg, located in Alsace, offers a rich culinary experience. Enjoy traditional Alsatian dishes such as choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages), flammekueche (tarte flambée), and kougelhopf (Bundt cake). Pair your meal with a glass of local Riesling or Gewürztraminer. Dining in Strasbourg provides a delicious taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Unique Award-Winning
Authentic Stays

Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux

Les Sources de Caudalie, located near Bordeaux, offers luxurious accommodations set in the vineyards. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a world-class spa offering vinotherapy treatments. Enjoy activities such as wine tasting, vineyard tours, and gourmet dining. Les Sources de Caudalie provides a unique and luxurious experience, making it a highlight of any trip to France.

Hotel de la Cité, Carcassonne

Hotel de la Cité, located within the walls of Carcassonne, offers luxurious accommodations in a historic setting. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the fortress, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Château Eza, Eze

Château Eza, located in the picturesque village of Eze, offers luxurious accommodations perched on a cliff with stunning views of the Mediterranean. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and beautiful gardens. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the village, hiking, and gourmet dining.

Villa Florentine, Lyon

Villa Florentine, located in the heart of Lyon, offers luxurious accommodations in a former convent. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the city, wine tasting, and gourmet dining..

Castel Clara Thalasso & Spa, Belle-Île-en-Mer

Castel Clara Thalasso & Spa, located on Belle-Île-en-Mer, offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the ocean. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a thalassotherapy spa, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the island, hiking, and gourmet dining.

Château de la Treyne, Dordogne

Château de la Treyne, located in the Dordogne region, offers luxurious accommodations in a historic castle. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, beautiful gardens, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the castle, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

La Bastide de Gordes, Provence

La Bastide de Gordes, located in the heart of Provence, offers luxurious accommodations in a historic building with stunning views of the Luberon Valley. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the village, hiking, and gourmet dining.

La Bastide de Gordes, Provence

Les Roches Blanches, located in Cassis, offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the Calanques, hiking, and gourmet dining.

Hôtel de Pavie, Saint-Émilion

Hôtel de Pavie, located in the historic town of Saint-Émilion, offers luxurious accommodations in a historic building with stunning views of the vineyards. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Auberge Saint-Antoine, Honfleur

Auberge Saint-Antoine, located in the charming town of Honfleur, offers luxurious accommodations in a historic building. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided experiences of the town, hiking, and gourmet dining.

Château d'Isenbourg, Rouffach

Château d'Isenbourg, located in Rouffach, offers luxurious accommodations in a historic castle with views of the Alsace vineyards. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Les Maisons de Bricourt, Brittany

Les Maisons de Bricourt, located in Brittany, offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Mont Saint-Michel Bay. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and beautiful gardens. Enjoy activities such as guided tours of the bay, hiking, and gourmet dining.

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