Feel like a couple’s getaway? If you’re still hesitating, here are 5 novel destinations for sweethearts to explore in France. From Nantes to Etretat, with Cassis, Annecy, or Lille in between...
Book a train ticket
Book a train ticket
Étretat, the Norman
The Norman coast with its blue-grey sky lends itself perfectly to a detour with your love. Étretat is a magnificent setting, promising a breath of fresh air, walks along the famous chalk cliffs, and exploring a charming village where everything can be reached on foot.
Along the Channel
After taking in the sea spray in a walk by the water by day, you will be able to choose from a plethora of good restaurants to discover the Norman specialties.
The perfect spot?
Take your better half to the coast at the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. There, you’ll have the best view of the cliff made famous by Lupin, the biggest thief of all time!
How to get to Étretat by train?
Take the train to Bréauté-Beuzeville station, and then the line 504 bus from the station will take you to the village of Étretat.
Cassis, the sunny
If you are looking for a bit of calm and sunshine, head for the south and the Mediterranean landscapes. Cassis, a little seaside resort not far from Marseille is an ideal destination.
The calanques
Wandering in the famous rocky inlets, known as calanques, seafood restaurants and aperitifs at the port to enjoy the sunset. Cassis, a choice romantic destination and plenty of vitamin D, guaranteed!
The perfect spot?
You can tell them “I love you” in the port, but the impact will be even greater if you take them for a walk along the calanques of Port Pin and En Vau. Bring your walking shoes and above all a little picnic basket.
Nantes, the dynamic
Head west, to Nantes! A dynamic, cultural city, Nantes is an excellent choice for exploring with your love.
Places to visit in Nantes
You are awaited at the fascinating Les Machines de l’île, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the very romantic botanical garden... Don’t miss the “Lieu Unique” (unique place), the former LU biscuit factory, converted to a cultural space, go take a look at the magnificent Passage Pommeraye, an Art Deco shopping arcade, and walk along the quays.
The perfect spot?
Take the river shuttle to the lovely fishing village of Trentemoult, to declare your passion for them while you sail the Loire.
Annecy, the amazing
Annecy is the romantic destination par excellence. They don’t call it the “Venice of the Alps” for nothing. The old town criss-crossed by waterways, is the ideal playground for sweethearts who can wander hand in hand. The city centre is pedestrian-only.
On the shore of Lake Annecy
You can peacefully enjoy the flowery quays admire the colourful buildings and marvel at the spectacular view of the must-see lake and the dizzying mountain heights in the surroundings. Hikes, lake, pure air... Annecy is low-cost oxygen. It’s enough to breath new life in your partnership!
The perfect spot?
Clearly, Lake Annecy itself is enough to impress your soulmate. Also, you can tell them oh how much you love them on the canals or on the lake shore. But the real plus is a little pedal boat rented around the immense expanse of water.
Lille, the surprising
From the Grande Place to the Vieille Bourse, with the Belfry in between, you are going to adore old Lille and its inner suburbs. With a warm atmosphere all its own, the city offers a romantic getaway with a cool vibe. The basic essentials of the city can be visited on foot.
A gourmet destination: Aux Merveilleux de Fred
A destination for sweet tooths: Aux Merveilleux de Fred, to enjoy this delicious specialty featuring meringue, chocolate whipped cream covered in dark chocolate shavings.
The Roubaix swimming pool
If you like unusual places, don’t miss the Roubaix swimming pool, right near Lille, a former swimming pool converted to a cultural space in the Art Nouveau style, with works by Rodin and Camille Claudel.
The perfect spot?
If you are a bit of a foodie, then on Sunday don’t miss the market at Wazemmes, and try a tarte au Maroilles to the sound of accordion music. It’s the biggest market in Northern Europe, so feast your eyes.