As a seasoned traveler, I have had the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in the world. However, France holds a special place in my heart, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming towns. Over the years, I have discovered some of the best views in France that simply take my breath away. From the rolling hills of Provence to the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, here are some of the best views in France.
- Eiffel Tower, Paris: No list of the best views in France would be complete without mentioning the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. Standing tall at 324 meters, this steel tower is a symbol of France and offers panoramic views of the city. Whether you choose to climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top, the view from the Eiffel Tower is simply breathtaking. From up there, you can see the River Seine, the Champ de Mars, the Arc de Triomphe, and many other famous landmarks.
- Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most beautiful places in France, with its stunning abbey perched on a rocky island. The view from the top of the abbey is simply stunning, with panoramic views of the surrounding bay and the beautiful coastline. The view is especially magical during the high tide, when the island is surrounded by water, creating a beautiful reflection of the abbey.
- Gorges du Verdon, Provence: Often called the Grand Canyon of Europe, the Gorges du Verdon is a stunning natural wonder located in Provence. The deep turquoise waters of the Verdon River wind through the dramatic limestone cliffs, creating a breathtaking landscape. There are several viewpoints along the route, each offering a unique perspective of the gorge. For the best views, I recommend taking a kayak or a boat trip on the river.
- Palace of Versailles, Versailles: The Palace of Versailles is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture and is home to some of the most stunning gardens in the world. The view from the palace’s terrace is simply breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the Grand Canal, the Orangery, and the beautiful gardens. The view is especially stunning during the summer months when the gardens are in full bloom.
- The French Alps: The French Alps are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world, with stunning peaks, glaciers, and valleys. The view from the top of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, is simply breathtaking, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are several ski resorts in the French Alps, each offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille: Notre-Dame de la Garde is a stunning basilica located in Marseille, perched on a hill overlooking the city and the sea. The view from the top of the hill is simply stunning, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the old port, and the surrounding hills. The basilica is also a great place to watch the sunset, with the orange and pink hues of the sky reflecting on the sea.
- The lavender fields of Provence: The lavender fields of Provence are a feast for the senses, with their stunning purple hues, heady fragrance, and stunning landscapes. The best time to see the lavender fields is during the summer months when the fields are in full bloom. There are several towns in Provence that are known for their lavender fields, including Valensole, Sault, and Gordes.
- The Dune of Pilat, Aquitaine: The Dune of Pilat is the highest sand dune in Europe, located in the Aquitaine region. The view from the
- top of the dune is simply breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding pine forests. The dune is also a popular spot for paragliding and sandboarding, offering an adrenaline-fueled way to take in the stunning views.
- Château de Chambord, Loire Valley: The Château de Chambord is one of the most beautiful châteaux in the Loire Valley, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The view from the rooftop terrace is simply stunning, with a panoramic view of the surrounding forests and the beautiful architecture of the château. The château is also a great place to watch the sunset, with the orange and pink hues of the sky reflecting on the beautiful façade.
- The Calanques, Marseille: The Calanques are a series of stunning rocky inlets located along the Mediterranean coast near Marseille. The view from the cliffs overlooking the Calanques is simply stunning, with crystal clear waters and dramatic limestone cliffs. The Calanques are also a great spot for hiking, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- The Pont du Gard, Nîmes: The Pont du Gard is a stunning ancient Roman aqueduct located near Nîmes. The view from the bridge is simply stunning, with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the beautiful architecture of the aqueduct. The Pont du Gard is also a great place to watch the sunset, with the orange and pink hues of the sky reflecting on the beautiful stonework.
- The Vieux Port, Marseille: The Vieux Port is the historic old port of Marseille, with its beautiful boats and stunning architecture. The view from the port is simply stunning, with a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea and the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings. The Vieux Port is also a great spot to enjoy some of the local cuisine and watch the sunset over the sea.
- The Col de la Bonette, French Alps: The Col de la Bonette is one of the highest mountain passes in the French Alps, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The view from the top of the pass is simply breathtaking, with crystal clear air and dramatic mountain landscapes. The Col de la Bonette is also a great spot for hiking and mountain biking, offering a unique way to take in the stunning views.
In conclusion, France is a country full of stunning views, from the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the lavender fields of Provence and the snow-capped peaks of the French Alps. As a seasoned traveler, I highly recommend taking the time to explore some of these breathtaking vistas and discover the beauty of France. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who appreciates a beautiful view, France has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.
