subject: French Riviera Country Drives Worth Taking [print this page] The one thing you hear mentioned frequently when you talk about the French Riviera is the breathtaking scenery and truly awe-inspiring views observed with just about every city, town, and village in the South of France. One way to experience this abundance of natural beauty is to take a leisurely drive throughout the local countryside. Here are some French Riviera country drives worth taking:
Carcassonne to Albi
This driving tour starts by taking the D118 from the small village of Carcassonne. As you progress along your journey, you are taken through the Montagne Noire in the north to lush parts of the southeastern part of the Massif Central. Take a day to explore the Parc Regional du Haut-Languedoc. Hidden treasures you'll find in the area include the old wool town of Mazamet. The great thing about a driving tour is that you can take your time to savor the local flavors along the way. Continue northwest on the N112 to Castres. You'll come across the Goya Museum before heading to Albi and Toulouse-Lautrec.
Pont du Loup to Chateau
This French Riviera country drive starts in the small town of Pont du Loup. You take the D2210 and head west towards Le Bar sur Loup, a small working class hamlet nestled on the side of hill offering a stunning view of the Loup Valley. Consider taking a lunch break at LHostellerie du Chateau, a recently renovated restaurant in the main part of town. Next, head to nearby Chateau. If you contact the local tourist office, you can arrange for a guided walking tour.
St-Remy-de-Provence to Eygalieres
About 40 miles northwest of Arles, you'll find the small town of St-Remy-de-Provence. Take a look around and enjoy some of the most beautiful countryside in the French Riviera. Even to the so-called "Valley of Hell" is a slice of heaven when it comes to the view. To start your journey, take the D99A and head south to connect to the D99. You'll notice some Roman monuments along the way, a nod to the region's early history. As you continue on the drive, you'll notice Mont Ventoux and the Parc Naturel Regional de la Camargue before arriving in the town of Les Baux. After following the D99 to D74 south, you'll find yourself in the medieval town of Eygalieres, which is home to an ancient church and medieval castle.
Marseille to Cannes
Designated European Capital of Culture for 2013, Marseille is a great place to start a French Riviera drive. Before heading west on Rue Orgues towards Rue du Bosquet, visit the historic Vieux Port and stop at the bustling fish market. On your way to Cannes, stop in Le Panier to enjoy the view of some of the most beautiful rustic homes in the region. Before making your way to Cannes, consider a stop in Cours Julien. The former fruit market is now an artistic paradise with ethnic restaurants and art galleries.
Note: The best times to take this particular driving tour are from April to June and September to October to avoid traffic congestion.
