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From Jura to Champagne these are the most magical and picturesque places in France you need to visit

Netflix’s show ‘Emily in Paris‘ probably gave you some inspiration for your next trip, but did you know that France is overflowing with destinations as wonderful as Paris? These are the most magical places in France.

A marvellous spectacle that you need to see once in your life while discovering the country’s riches like gastronomy, wine, culture and obviously nature. Here are the most magical places in the picturesque countryside of France that you can book to go and visit on your next trip.

Read – 5 Secret Foodie Places to Visit in Paris

Places in France

1. Jura

Located next to Switzerland, Jura is a small French department known for its luxurious nature, forests, mountains, and lakes. Usually a green place, Jura is worthy of a painting when fall’s colours come out. Even if it becomes a more and more trendy place, Jura remains a rather private spot for nature lovers. Whether you want to travel alone, in a couple or with your family, you will not be disappointed by its beauty.

2. French Basque Country

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees, French Basque Country is a very popular touristic destination during summer. If you want to discover this gorgeous place without crowds of tourists, fall is the perfect time. Furthermore, fall temperatures allow you to hike all day long.

The distinctive feature of this region is its culture which came from a long and unique history. Even if it is part of France, its traditions are taking root in Spain, but don’t you dare say to a Basque person that he/she is Spanish. They have their own identity with a language only spoken and understood by them, Euskera. French Basque Country is a place like nowhere else where you can enjoy tapas (Pintxos) while watching unique landscapes in numerous cities like Hendaye, Biarritz or Bayonne.

3. Alsace

Imagine orange, red, and yellow vineyards as far as the eye can see. This is what Alsace looks like during fall, it is a sight that you don’t want to miss. Even if you are not a wine lover, you can just wander in these vineyards on foot or by bike. And for travellers who do like wine, Alsace looks like heaven on earth. Riesling, Pinot, Gewurztraminer, and Muscat are world-known wines that you can savour right where they are produced. Amazing right?

The gastronomy of Alsace is just as rich and tasty. You surely already know the Pretzel, but did you ever try the Baeckeoffe, the Flammekueche or the Kougelhopf? These are traditional dishes cooked by Alsaciens for centuries, and they love to share their traditions so go ahead! If Alsace is well known for the enchanting atmosphere of its Christmas markets, the region is worth the journey during fall to discover another side of it.

Read – 6 Unusual Places in Europe You Will Want to Visit

4. Champagne

Did you know that the word champagne came from the region where it is produced? A little region in the North-East of France, not far from Belgium. The place where this luxurious product is bottled is a lovely piece of countryside where nature is queen. Of course, there are hundreds of miles of vineyards, but there are also some magnificent forests to explore.

If you are lucky enough to have a car when you visit this place, you must do the “Touristic route of Champagne”. This route begins in Reims where you can admire its sumptuous cathedral and will bring you through numerous lovely villages on picturesque roads. A real cottage vibe emanates from this place where you can find perfect spots for your next Instagram posts.

5. Haute-Savoie

The French department of Haute-Savoie hosts one of the most beautiful cities in the country: Annecy. So pretty that it is nicknamed the “Venice of the Alpes” thanks to its turquoise lake and canals that run through the old town. You will immediately fall in love with it, and for sure won’t want to leave! Lovely streets, a breathtaking lake surrounded by mountains, and of course good food are waiting for you.

For the adventurous ones, Haute-Savoie is overflowing with mountains. Some of them are world famous like Mont Blanc for instance. Even if there is not enough snow to ski, you can hike in the mountains during fall to discover the beauty of its nature at this time. After a deep breath of fresh air, you can enjoy typical Savoyard dishes like Fondue, Tartiflette, and Raclette.

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About Author

Natalie Dixon is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Chic Style Collective, an editorial magazine covering affordable luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle for women. A graduate of Vogue College of Fashion and London College of style with over 20 years in fashion and beauty, she specialises in investment dressing, considered beauty, and helping women create an elegant, attainable life of luxury. Her work is read by over 4.5 million readers worldwide.