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#ExploreFranceThisSummer No. 2: 5 new places to discover!

Published on
19 October 2026
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Updated on
19 October 2026
By
Welkeys
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About two weeks ago, we suggested 5 places to visit for a total change of scenery without leaving France. Yes, this year, you will certainly want to prioritize local destinations for your vacation. But don't panic; the French territory is full of surprising places in every region. Today, let your Airbnb concierge guide you with a new selection of locations that are as magnificent as they are unusual. #thisSummerIVisitFrance!

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Roussillon, one of the most beautiful villages in France

This time, we are starting our expedition in the Vaucluse department, specifically in the commune of Roussillon. Ranked among the most beautiful villages in the country, it is a place surrounded by splendid landscapes. It must be said that Roussillon is located in the Luberon Regional Natural Park and in the heart of the largest ochre deposit in the world, hence the sumptuous ochre cliffs and quarries that adorn the town. Shimmering colors that you never tire of admiring!

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Whether you are coming from Avignon or Aix-en-Provence, it will take you about an hour by car to get to Roussillon. Once there, we recommend that you explore the Sentier des Ocres, a set of several must-see trails to properly enjoy the flamboyant colors of this picturesque place. Whether with family or friends, on foot or by bike, the change of scenery is total, so much so that many people nickname this place the "Provençal Colorado."

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Between small squares, narrow streets, artisan workshops, markets, and renowned restaurants, the village of Roussillon is just as worth the detour as its surrounding trails. We particularly recommend including the Saint Michel Church and the Clock Tower in your visit.

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Are you planning to stay in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence? Then plan a day in this dazzling place. You won't regret it!

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The Calanques of Piana, a paradise between Ajaccio and Calvi

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Next, we invite you to another exceptional natural site located on the west coast of the "Island of Beauty": the Calanques of Piana. Between sea and mountains, this magnificent area of Corsica offers a landscape composed of red rock cliffs with sometimes unexpected shapes. Yes, a heart has notably formed in the rock thanks to erosion. We challenge you to find it! Added to this true painting are the green of the Corsican maquis and the blue of the Mediterranean. A sublime mix of colors!

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Want more? Just ten kilometers from these beautiful calanques is the seaside village of Porto and, further north, the Scandola Nature Reserve. The latter is part of the Corsica Regional Natural Park and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, too, you can admire impressive red rocks of volcanic origin. Whether by boat, car, on foot, or by bike, treat yourself to a beautiful excursion in the region!

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Pont-en-Royans, the village with perched houses

Next stop: Pont-en-Royans, a magnificent village located an hour from Grenoble and an hour and a half from Lyon. Mainly known for its colorful houses that seem to hang over the water, the medieval town of Pont-en-Royans is one of the gateways to the Vercors Regional Natural Park and attracts many tourists every year. Several guided tours are available. And one thing is certain: lovers of picturesque places will be won over!

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With its narrow streets, ramparts, bridge, and landscaped riverbanks, the village seems to have been perfectly adopted by the nature that surrounds it, so much so that a museum has been entirely dedicated to one of the four elements there. This is the Water Museum, a fun and interactive complex perfectly suited for family outings.

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The Domaine du Rayol, a green oasis halfway between Le Lavandou and Saint-Tropez

Located less than an hour's drive from the city of Hyères, the Domaine du Rayol is a protected natural area of about twenty hectares. This splendid site actually belongs to the Conservatoire du Littoral and faces the sea. In addition to the lush vegetation of the estate, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.

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Once you have purchased your entrance ticket, set off to discover the world without leaving the Var thanks to the Mediterranean Garden, designed by landscape architect Gilles Clément. All created around the theme of the Mediterranean climate, the different areas of the estate allow you to get to know species of trees, plants, and flowers found in Chile, Australia, the Canary Islands, or even New Zealand.

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A fun and exotic visit that you can punctuate with a stop at the Café des Jardiniers, the Domaine du Rayol Nursery, or the Gardeners' Bookstore. Furthermore, throughout the year, thematic tours, concerts, and cultural events are organized within the estate.

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The Clamouse Cave, a must-see for tourism in Occitanie

It is forty minutes from Montpellier that we finish our selection of places to discover with the Clamouse Cave. Classified by the Ministry of Ecology, it is located in the heart of the Hérault Gorges, not far from the Devil's Bridge and the medieval village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert.

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Featuring a wide variety of crystalline formations, the cave has been attracting many visitors since 1964. Over time, the Clamouse teams have innovated by offering the public unusual activities to provide an unforgettable visit. From escape games to sports courses, experience an underground adventure like never before!

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Welkeys supports you from A to Z

Do you want to list a property for rent in one of these regions but don't have the time to handle all the logistical management? Your Welkeys bnb concierge is here to help! From creating your listing to assisting travelers and handling cleaning, we take care of the entire rental process and help you maximize your rental income.

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