THE ULTIMATE SOUTH OF FRANCE ADVENTURE GUIDE
South of France Adventure / Image: Hanna Zhyhar
When it comes to France, travellers generally think of Paris, Bordeaux or St Tropez when opting for a French adventure. All are incredible destinations to visit but France has a multitude of other amazing regions to travel to which are just as good, or in our opinion even better!
If you are planning to travel to France, be sure to go on a South of France adventure. The French Riviera is our favourite place in France and the regions of Provence and Marseille are just as incredible. The French Riviera is the Mediterranean coastline of Southern France and includes the unbeatable villages and towns of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Cannes, Nice, Antibes and Menton as well as the tiny country of Monaco!
If you are looking to go on a South of France Adventure and not sure where to start - look no further! We have the ultimate guide here:
THE FRENCH ESCAPE ADVENTURE
Uncover Beautiful Provence To The Stunning French Riviera On Our Magnificent Road-Trip Through Southern France
South of France Adventure
TOP DESTINATIONS IN A SOUTH OF FRANCE ADVENTURE
The South of France has many beautiful destinations and with so many to pick from, it’s hard to select the best. On any South of France adventure, it’s essential to combine the classic French towns, with the beautiful mountainous regions as well as of course the fragrant lavender fields and glistening coastline towns. Here are our 4 best destinations for any South of France adventure:
South of France Adventure / Image: Destine Galani
St Jean Cap Ferrat.
Good for dreamy coastline walks, chic sailing village and to visit the Villa de Rothschild.
St Jean Cap Ferrat is the epitome of French chic and is a magnet for the aspirational traveler. Situated on a peninsula between the gorgeous villages of Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Villefranche-sur-Mer, this old fishing town has made its mark in the South of France as well as being one of the places to be seen on the French Riviera. St Jean Cap Ferrat is a staple on any French Adventure as well as having some of the best South of France beaches too.
On the subject of South of France beaches, we have two magnificent beaches to recommend. Plage Paloma and Plage des Fossettes. Plage Paloma is a picturesque beach that's surrounded by lush green vegetation, glistening seas and stunning views. Stop by the beach club for a delicious meal and cold drink before you take a dip into the warm waters. Plage des Fossettes is a hidden jewel that is a must on your South of France adventure. Its coved-like shape gives it a small but beautiful appeal and is only reachable by foot making it very exclusive. The hiking trails surrounding the beach are incredible, have been a backdrop for many a film and allow for the most beautiful views of the mediterranean seas. This beach attracts a wealth of yachts that sit on the shores and enjoy the peace and tranquility that this stunning little beach has to offer.
Take a tour of the peninsula whilst there and dare to hike the entire region, which is doable during a day's visit. From its intriguing winding streets, unique landscapes to its chic boutique stores. Cap Ferrat makes for an enchanting South of France adventure.
Monaco.
Great for the Prince’s Palace, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Exotic Garden of Monaco and the extravagant yachting marina.
Monaco is the most famous place on the French Riviera. It is also the second smallest country after the Vatican City in Italy. To visit the thrills and spills of Monaco is ideal for any South of France Adventure because it is so renowned and so legendary.
When you visit Monaco, there are endless South of France activities to choose from. Zoom along the Formula 1 race track and try your hand at driving one of the most famous paths known to history. Why not stop by the glittering casino’s and place a bet in the world's most legendary country known for its gambling.
If you prefer a more historical and quieter Monaco experience. We recommend visiting the Prince of Monaco’s Palace followed by a short but beautiful walk to Saint Nicholas Cathedral and onto the gorgeous Monaco Marina studded with the most extravagant yachts. Monaco levels up a French adventure no end.
South of France Adventure Guide / Image: @elisasch
Marseille.
Perfect to see the Old Port of Marseille, Notre-Dame de la Garde and the beautiful Massif des Calanques National Park.
If you go on a South of France adventure - make sure you give this stunning city a visit. Marseilles is one of France’s most popular cities and it has the activities to match. Marseilles is the capital of Bouches du Rhone, a beautiful region of Southern France.
Marseilles is great for a French adventure as it has so many things to offer. From history to michelin star eateries to a renowned harbor. Marseilles became famous because of being one of the main commercial ports in France, used mainly for freight and cruise ships. Marseille is the biggest city in the South of France and is one of the most historic too.
If you venture to this wonderful South of France city, make sure to visit the interesting old port to see Marseille through the eyes of history. Take a trip to Notre-Dame de la Garde (otherwise known as ‘The good mother’), which is a catholic church that is a key attraction to visit when coming to Marseilles. It is also one of the most visited landmarks in the whole city.
Drive a little outside of Marseilles and visit one of the best South of France activities in the region. The Calanques National Park. It’s most well known for its rock climbing, hiking trails and magnificent views but it is also home to over 140 animal and plant species which is hugely interesting to look at whilst venturing the area. The Calanque National Park is an absolute go-to on any South of France adventure.
Let Us Plan Your Next French Adventure
BornWild specializes in crafting customized French adventures to suit your preferences and budget. Whether you dream of exploring the stunning French Riviera or delving into Marseilles famous history we are here to make it happen. Reach out to us today to begin planning your next adventure HERE
Provence.
Ideal for hiking the Verdon Gorge, Colorado Provencal, visiting the many lavender fields, vineyards and classic French villages.
Provence is on our fabulous South of France adventure, and it should be on yours too! Provence offers so many endless opportunities to discover an array of diverse landscapes and varied South of France activities. It is known to be one of the most beautiful and well-visited regions in France.
If you love the great outdoors then take advantage of the most spectacular scenic hot spots in the whole of France - Gorge du Verdon and Colorado Provencal. Both are unique in landscapes and both attract thousands of visitors each year. Gorge du Verdon is spectacular because of its high white cliff tops, shadowing down on the turquoise waters of the Verdon River. Colorado Provencal is known as France’s version of the Grand Canyon. Smaller and more compact, enjoy a day's hiking here to view the ochre stone colored formations and wander in this unique region and landscape. Both perfect for an ultimate South of France adventure.
Not forgetting the lavender fields, vineyards and picturesque South of France villages. There is just so much to explore in bucket loads when you visit Provence. Our pick of French villages is to visit the charming town of Moustiers Sainte Marie - it is voted the most beautiful village in the South of France and we happen to agree.
Contact one of our travel advisors to hear more about our South of France Adventure HERE
South Of France Adventure Guide / Image: @paulrysz
BEST TIME TO VISIT THE SOUTH OF FRANCE
Whether you love to travel in the summer or fall seasons, we have written a helpful guide below, outlining what weather you can expect every month of the year in the South and France.
We can customize our ‘French Escape’ South of France adventure anytime you wish - all year round. Take a look at the adventure HERE
January
Welcome to the coldest month of the year in the South of France. Even though temperatures range from mid 30’s to mid 50’s F - the South of France still makes for a warmer climate than other US and European countries in January. The climate here is still relatively mild and pretty sunny. For example, parts of the South of France region have double the amount of sunshine than other parts of northern France.
February
The temperature in the South of France during February gets a little warmer than January, but only a few degrees warmer. Reaching around 55 F on a good day, February is still a rather cold month with some heavy rains to be expected. The South of France is still much sunnier than other parts of the country and if you travel to the French Riviera then you will be in store for a sunnier climate, however temperatures are still very much similar to the South of France in general.
March
The South of France is getting warmer in March and as the days get longer by mid March, spring is on its way warming this region to 61 F. This month doesn't give a lot of rain, so you can expect many clear sunny days. This is why many people travel to the South of France during March as the weather is just so pleasing. However, be prepared to wait till you can swim in the sea, as this month's weather isn't quite warm enough for a dip.
April
Like most European countries, the South of France experiences April showers during this month. Temperatures reach a little higher than March, around 66 F in the most southern parts of the country - the rains are pretty short and always leave way for sunny blue skies that are typical to the Mediterranean coast. April is a great time to visit the South of France if you don’t mind avoiding the occasional shower - it’s a great place to travel to during this off-peak month before the crowds pile in throughout the summer months.
Off-peak great months for the South of France are typically from April - to mid June, and mid-September to early October. These months are ideal to visit the South of France.
May
Reaching 68 F temperatures, the month of May is the warmest in the most Southern part of France. The days are longer, brighter and beautifully sunny! May is still not a well traveled month as for most tourists it's still too cold, however it's still a fantastic and recommended month to visit. If you don’t mind a cool dip in the seas, brave the crisp waters and enjoy the solitude this month brings before the crowds start bustling in. There is still so much to enjoy in the South of France during this month, especially if you want to enjoy the gorgeous region of Provence - this classically sunny but cooler month is ideal to explore other Southern regions of France too.
South Of France Adventure Guide / Image: @dreiimos
June
Welcome to the peak summer months to travel to the South of France. June is one of the most in demand months to visit this region and for good reason. The temperatures are idyllic which entices an array of travelers from all over the world. Temperatures are in the highs of 81 F and are gorgeously warm and sunny, without being too hot. See prices rise during these peak summer months but equally get to enjoy the very best of the South of France during this time.
July
July is a delightful month to visit the South of France. The weather is warm, sunny and is known to be the hottest month of the year. Still, the temperatures aren't extremely hot, and never usually exceed 85 F. It's a perfect month to travel to the South of France’ various regions but equally, great to dive into the ocean too. The seas are lovely and warm which enables you to enjoy any water sport activity as well as swimming. July is a busy month to visit, however you can rely on the weather!
August
Like June and July, August is a great time to visit the South of France. Remember, during these summer months - schools are off and you will expect to see double the amount of tourists than you normally do. If that doesn't bother you, you will love exploring the South of France to its full potential during this month. Temperatures lowering a few degrees to highs of 82 F, it's still an ideal heat to enjoy the inland, coastline or wherever you decide to venture to in the South of France. However, just bear in mind that the French Riviera will allow you to feel a pleasant cool breeze during these months - if you journey inland, you will notice the heat is a little more oppressive.
September
Getting a little cooler, September is still a fabulous month to visit the South of France. The crowds are dispersing and there are still highs of around 75 F - which is why it’s ideal to visit because of these two reasons. The sea is still warm enabling you to enjoy swimming and boating. Just remember to bring a light jacket, umbrella and sweater for evenings as the temperature drops a little after dark.
October
October is rid of the tourists but is still a relatively great month to visit. Highs of 64 F hit this month along with plenty of long sunny days, even though it's a lot cooler than the summer months, it’s still worth visiting. Expect rainy days during this month too.
November
November is a good month to explore South of France’ inland as temperatures get too low to enjoy the coastline and the seas. Enjoy cultural walks, museums, galleries, wine tasting and sightseeing - November is an incredible month to enjoy the South of France in this way. November can be colder but since this is an off-peak month, traveling to the South of France is much cheaper now.
December
Rainfall is sparse during the month of December and although colder and dryer, you will only need a light jacket and jumper to keep warm. December is also an off peak month enabling you to book a more affordable vacation which could be ideal for a christmas break.
South Of France Adventure Guide / Image: @rhiannonelliott
CURRENCY
The currency used in France is Euros. If you are unable to exchange Euros before you go, you can always use a verified bank ATM or cash point. You may be charged a small fee but it saves a lot of time and hassle. You will struggle to find places that accept American Express around the country though. ATMs and cash points are easy to find and are pretty accessible in any French town.
South of France Adventure / Verdon Gorge
TOP ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT
There are so many amazing attractions to visit on a South of France adventure that you will be spoilt for choice. The South of France has it all and we’ve selected our top picks below as well as the most magnificent and luxurious hotels to stay at whilst you explore:
Verdon Gorge, one of the largest canyons in Europe and amazing for hiking, boating and nature watching.
Monte Carlo, famous for its extravagant casino’s, nightlife and playground of the rich and famous.
Provences’ fragrant Lavender fields are rich in vibrance and colour from mid-june to mid-august.
St Jean Cap Ferrat, visit the legendary Villa de Rothschild in the heart of town.
St Tropez, great for exclusive beach clubs, exquisite restaurants, olive groves and rugged coastal hikes.
We visit most of these stunning locations of our French Escape Adventure - contact one of our travel advisors HERE to learn more.
TRAVEL GUIDE:
7 Incredible Places To Visit In The South Of France
UNDER-THE-RADAR ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT
France’s bigger attractions tend to overshadow its smaller treasures, which we think are just as worthy of your time. On any South of France adventure, it’s ideal to mix the two to get a taste of the real South of France. Here are our Top 5 picks of under-the-radar attractions to visit on your next trip:
L’isle Sur la Sorgue - The Little Venice of France
Colorado Provencal in Rustrel - otherwise known as France’s answer to the ‘Grand Canyon’.
Moustiers Sainte Marie, voted France’s most beautiful village
The Cave Chapel in Ermitage Saint Antoine de Galamus
The Fountain de Vaucluse - a dazzling fountain spring and translated as ‘The Closed Valley’
South of France Adventure / Colorado Provencal
BEST ACTIVITIES TO DO
With so many activities scattered throughout the endless French land, it can be overwhelming to pick the best. To satisfy your urge for adventure or just to have fun, we are here to help! We narrowed down the ‘France bucket list’ and chose the 5 best activities to do on your next South of France adventure.
Travel by Tuk Tuk in Avignon
Hot Air Balloon over beautiful Provence
Visit the Observatory de Haute Provence and learn about the stars, skies and planets
Yacht the incredible French Riviera coastline
Walk the trails of Gorges de Veronese
South of France Adventure / Moustiers Sainte Marie
LANGUAGE
If you want to speak the local language on your South of France adventure - French is the language you’ll want to opt for, however like most places - English is widely spoken there too.
SAFETY GUIDE / SOLO TRAVEL
In general, France is pretty safe. When travelling on your South of France adventure, the region is said to be a little more safe than other bigger cities in France. If you’re travelling solo or with a co-traveller, it’s essential to understand that crime can happen anywhere so always be aware and streetwise. Stick to public areas after dark, make sure you always have your belongings with you in a safe compartment, your cell is usable in case of an emergency and not to travel in unlicensed taxis. French cities are like any other European city, keep alert, keep safe, plan your transportation to and from your desired locations so that you are never left stranded and don’t wander through remote areas after dark. Always research the area before you arrive to make sure you have a good grasp on what to expect.
If you need more help on safety guidelines - talk to one of our travel advisors HERE
THE FRENCH ESCAPE ADVENTURE
On this breathtaking journey, we will be traveling our bespoke route from classic Provence to the stunning French Riviera. Join us on on our magnificent road-trip through Southern France. Click HERE
CLIMATE / COLD AND HOT SEASONS
Whenever you plan your South of France adventure, you will be sure to never feel seriously cold. The beauty of the South of France is that it never gets that cold. In fact, the region has pretty perfect weather and is said to also be the healthiest place in France. The winters are cool from 32° F to 46° F and the summers are mild from 61° F to 75° F.
South of France Adventure / Marseille / Image: Matthieu da Cruz
AIRPORTS
Depending on where you are deciding to travel to on your South of France adventure - the region is easily accessible and has a variety of major airports to fly to. Here is a list of airports within the south of France:
Aix en Provence. Great to start your adventure in the heart of the mainland of Provence.
St Tropez. Ideal to get to St Tropez directly.
Cannes. Ideal for the start of your coastline travels along the French Riviera.
Nice. Perfect for the French Riviera where its easily accessible to Menton, Monaco, Cap Ferrat and Antibes.
Marseille. Great to explore the city of Marseille and drive to Provence too.
Love the sound of the locations above?
Join Us On The French Escape Adventure. Uncover Beautiful Provence To The Stunning French Riviera On Our Magnificent Road-Trip Through Southern France