Six less touristy places to visit in the South of France
And it's not Saint-Tropez or Nice, for a change.
Mind you, if you've never visited these towns, put them on your list, but bear in mind that they can get very crowded during the summer months.
That's why we've also given you six places that are at least as nice and, above all, less crowded.
1. Marseille
Less glitzy, less flashy and at least as much fun as Cannes or Saint-Tropez.
The sunny city - France's second-largest - is perhaps a little like Lisbon. The port district has been transformed into a veritable art scene, and there's no shortage of taste buds on the gastronomic front either. Hospitable and affordable, local and authentic - four words that perfectly describe the city's gastronomic flair. So, it's up to you?
2. Cassis
When visiting Marseille, make a detour to the Calanques de Cassis. Discover some of the highest maritime cliffs in France: imposing white cliffs interspersed with a series of intense blue, fjord-like coves. They emerge from the sparkling turquoise seawater and stretch for 16 km, from sprawling Marseille to tiny Cassis, a beautiful port town surrounded by limestone landscapes. Overlooked by a 13th-century castle and pretty pastel-colored houses, you won't be able to resist the lure of a waterside terrace to sip a Pastis de Marseille at the end of the day.
3. Chin
This ancient fishing town is a delightful combination of Italy's picturesque offerings (think regional tomato dishes) and Nice's beauty.
Start with a leisurely stroll through one of the town's many gardens (don't tell anyone, but the centrally located Val Rahmeh garden or the Serre de la Madone, just outside town, are the two most beautiful), then head to the waterfront to soak up the sea air and enjoy great cuisine based on fresh fish and fine wines.
4. Porquerolles
In just 10 minutes, you can leave Hyères for a charming crescent-shaped island on the Côte d'Azur, Porquerolles. Here, life flows quietly and nature steals the show. Forget glitz and glamour, the dress code is comfortable with a touch of adventure. 80% of the island is a national park. So there's no better place than Porquerolles for hiking, biking or sailing. Dive into the clear blue waters and, with goggles and snorkel, explore the superb underwater world populated by colorful fish and neon starfish. And don't forget your binoculars, because who knows, you might spot a whale on the horizon as you enjoy the wind in your hair on a boat trip. After a day spent thrilling to hidden coves, towering cliffs and secluded sandy beaches, you're still not feeling insular enough? Don't worry, set off to discover the neighboring îles d'Or, such as Port-Cros and Ile du Levant.
5. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Situated on the sunny coast just west of the historic city of Aix-en-Provence, the Camargue reveals a lively natural paradise, yet surprisingly little frequented by tourists. Here, wild horses, pink flamingos and thousands of migratory birds reign over the vast salt marshes and spectacular coastlines where they call home.
Get ready to explore this breathtaking and varied landscape on foot or by bike. For those seeking adventure on horseback, Le Palomino Le Boumian offers saddle rides that will take you through this vibrant tableau. Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, once a modest fishing village and now a charming seaside resort, is your ideal starting point. This village, with its rich artistic heritage, attracted Vincent van Gogh, who was enchanted by the waterside town and was inspired to capture the fishing fleets at sea.
6. Montpellier
Bathed in sunshine, the city of Montpellier is considered the radiant heart of Languedoc-Roussillon. Uniquely combining the grandeur of Haussmannian architectural styles with the charm of winding honey-colored mansions, this city is buzzing with energy thanks to a dynamic student population and a creative international community.
A day in Montpellier isn't complete without a treasure hunt in the flea markets and antique stores, where the finds are as sunny as the weather. Thanks to Montpellier's status as a port city, you can find unique and eclectic treasures from far beyond France's borders. Don't miss the weekly Lez market, where you're guaranteed to find something special.
Strolling through the town, you'll discover medieval architecture, vast surf beaches and, for those with an adventurous spirit, the quaint, old-fashioned village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, just a short bike ride away. And of course, in a town where the sun shines 300 days a year, sun worship is a favorite pastime. After visiting Saint-Guilhem, the return journey offers the opportunity to cool off under the majestic Pont du Diable. Don't forget to bring your swimsuit to cool off in the shade of this imposing bridge.
Fancy a trip to the South of France? Contact Ann, she'll be happy to help!