Discover France like a local (me!)
Welcome to my intimate journey through the diverse regions of France, a country I’ve explored extensively both as a resident and passionate traveler. This isn’t your typical tourist guide—it’s a collection of firsthand experiences, hidden gems, and authentic encounters gathered from years of personal exploration across the French Riviera, Provence, Loire Valley, Dordogne Valley, and beyond.
As someone who works as an architect in Toulouse, married in the Loire Valley, and repeatedly returns to beloved spots like the Dordogne’s castle-crowned landscapes, I offer insights that go far beyond surface-level tourism. Whether you’re planning your first French adventure or seeking to venture beyond the well-trodden Parisian pathways, my regional guides reveal the France that captured my heart—from Mediterranean coastal villages to Atlantic seascapes, from prehistoric cave art to Renaissance châteaux.
Discover where to find the most breathtaking lavender fields in Provence, which lesser-known Loire castles rival their famous counterparts, how to experience the authentic village life of rural France, and where locals go for the most memorable culinary experiences. My comprehensive regional guides will help you craft the perfect French itinerary based on seasonal considerations, regional specialties, cultural events, and immersive experiences that connect you with the true essence of each distinct French region.
Join me as I share the places, experiences, and moments that reveal France’s remarkable diversity—architectural wonders, gastronomic delights, natural landscapes, and cultural treasures that have made this country not just a destination, but a constant source of discovery throughout my life. Whether you’re drawn to art and history, outdoor adventure, culinary exploration, or simply soaking in the distinctive atmosphere of different French regions, this guide provides the authentic, insider perspective you need to experience France beyond the guidebooks.
French Riviera and Provence
Sure, everyone knows about the glamorous promenades of Nice and the film festival in Cannes, but what about those hidden villages perched on hillsides above the Mediterranean? I’ve wandered through the narrow streets of Èze, discovering artisan workshops and breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the azure coastline.
In Provence, I’ve meandered through endless lavender fields that paint the landscape purple in summer, explored ochre quarries in Roussillon that glow like fire in the afternoon sun, and lost myself in the bustling markets of Aix-en-Provence where the scents of herbs, olives, and fresh produce create an intoxicating sensory experience. The light here transforms everything it touches, just as Cézanne and Van Gogh discovered.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is like a second home to me – my in-laws live there, and it’s actually where I got married! This personal connection has allowed me to explore beyond the tourist trails and discover the region’s true essence. I’ve spent countless family gatherings exploring magnificent châteaux like Chenonceau spanning gracefully across the Cher River, wandered through the spectacular gardens of Villandry with their geometric precision, and cycled along peaceful riverbanks connecting these Renaissance masterpieces.
Having celebrated my wedding here, the Loire Valley holds a special place in my heart. There’s something magical about toasting to new beginnings against the backdrop of centuries-old castles and rolling vineyards. Each visit feels like returning to the scene of one of life’s most precious moments, while still discovering new treasures with every trip.
Dorgone Valley
The Dordogne Valley has captured my heart over many visits – I simply can’t stay away! I fell completely in love with the majestic castles that crown nearly every dramatic limestone cliff. Each time I return, I discover another medieval fortress with its own fascinating history, from the imposing Château de Beynac proudly perched above the river to the fairytale turrets of Château de Montfort reflecting in the water below.
Kayaking along the emerald waters of the Dordogne River has become one of my favorite activities. I’ve spent countless summer afternoons paddling beneath towering cliffs, drifting past golden stone villages, and stopping at river beaches for impromptu picnics of local cheese and wine. There’s something magical about approaching these historic sites from the water, the same way travelers might have centuries ago.
Beyond the castles and the river, I’ve explored the region’s prehistoric wonders at Lascaux and Font-de-Gaume, wandered through picturesque villages like La Roque-Gageac and Domme, and indulged in the exceptional gastronomy that makes this region a paradise for food lovers. Each visit to the Dordogne reveals new layers of its rich tapestry of history, natural beauty, and French country living at its finest.
All that’s Central-South of France
Southern and Central France is my everyday playground, as I’m based in Toulouse where I work as an architect. Living here has given me the privilege of extensive exploration throughout this diverse region. My professional projects take me regularly through the pink city’s surroundings and beyond – from the fortified citadel of Carcassonne to the dramatic landscapes of the Pyrénées.
My architectural work has given me a unique perspective on the region’s building traditions. I’ve studied the distinctive brick structures of Albi, marveled at the engineering of the Millau Viaduct, and found inspiration in the vernacular farmhouses of rural Languedoc. Weekends often find me in the coastal villages of the Mediterranean, exploring the distinctive urban planning of seaside towns like Collioure or hiking the mountain trails where France meets Spain. Living and working here has allowed me to witness how the geography shapes not just the landscapes but the cultural identity of each unique area.
Ocean Coast
The Atlantic coastline reveals France’s wilder side. From Brittany’s rugged shores with their megalithic monuments to the towering Dune du Pilat near Bordeaux (the tallest sand dune in Europe!), I’ve walked countless beaches where the powerful ocean has shaped both the landscape and local culture. The oyster farms of Arcachon Bay and the historic port of La Rochelle have offered glimpses into France’s maritime heritage that few visitors take time to discover.
Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through fragrant markets in Provence, cycling between fairy-tale castles in the Loire, exploring prehistoric caves in the Dordogne, experiencing the architectural wonders of the Southwest, or witnessing the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast, I’ll share all my favorite discoveries with you. These are the experiences that make you feel like you’ve uncovered your own special connection with France!