I wind my way along a French country road toward Grignan. Wildflowers along the roadside. Tractors working the fields. Rolling hills. Big bales of hay scattered across the land. I haven’t even arrived yet, and that lazy vacation feeling already kicks in. Then Grignan appears, perched on a hill surrounded by lavender fields. On top, the castle rises up triumphantly. I spend a day here, and honestly, I could’ve easily stayed longer.
For 33 years, a mailman with zero training in art or architecture builds his palace, undisturbed, in his own backyard. At night, by the light of an oil lamp. A madman? Or a genius? More than a hundred years later, you can still admire his life’s work in Hauterives.
France’s third-biggest city (after Paris and Marseille) is surprisingly laid-back and green. The center is mostly car-free, and it’s a joy to stroll along the Saône and Rhône rivers. Lyon is the perfect city trip in France: you get all the perks of a big city, minus the crazy crowds.
Is Brides-les-Bains only fun in winter? No way! The French Alps are perfect for spring and summer. Brides-les-Bains is a spa village where you can take it easy, even if you don’t come to get a spa treatment. Go on a walk, have a drink at a cafe, join a yoga class, or perhaps a woodworking workshop.
I always love taking the time to eat out on holiday. In Brides-les-Bains, my stomach can’t keep up with my eyes. I want to taste everything! That would be fine regarding calories because they are closely monitored in Brides-les-Bains. But obviously, you don’t have to. I want to recommend a few good restaurants and outdoor cafes where you can definitely eat and drink well.
You don’t have to look far because Brides-les-Bains is beautifully situated in the French Alps mountains. Nature is everywhere. The Parc Thermal is the green meeting place of the village, and you can go on several pretty hikes, either directly from the town or a short drive away. So, how do you feel about spotting marmots or a sunset hike?
What is Nancy known for? Two main things: the beautiful squares that have made it onto the World Heritage List and the Art Nouveau. But luckily, it doesn’t stop with these two things. There is much more to do in Nancy, France. Enough to keep you entertained for at least a weekend. I’m happy to share my tips and experiences with you.
Art lover or not: you will be impressed by Nancy. You’ll find Art Nouveau everywhere in this city. From museums to beautiful facades, you really can’t miss it. So put Nancy on your places-I-want-to-go list, and I will give you a little preview of all the Art Nouveau you can enjoy.
