Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France and Sarlat-la-Canéda, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
A road trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France to Sarlat-la-Canéda, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, is a fantastic way to explore France's culture, history, and natural beauty. The trip takes approximately 10 hours to complete by car, and the halfway point is Orléans, located 45 minutes southwest of Paris. From Calais, the route passes through some of France's best-known cities, including Paris, before reaching the scenic Dordogne Valley and ending at Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Top 5 Things to Do:
Visit the Louvre Museum in Paris
The Louvre Museum in Paris is one of the most popular museums in the world, and it's no surprise why. With tens of thousands of artworks, the Louvre is a treasure trove of priceless sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from ancient times to the 19th century. Visitors should plan to spend at least half a day exploring the Louvre's endless galleries, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. It's a must-see for anyone interested in history or art.
Explore the Château de Chambord
The Château de Chambord is an impressive Renaissance-era castle near Blois, France. The castle's iconic double-helix staircase, rumored to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself, is one of the most stunning features of the entire castle. Visitors can explore the castle's grand salons, spacious gardens, and even climb to the roof for sweeping views of the surrounding forests. It's a perfect spot for history enthusiasts or anyone looking for a picturesque escape.
Wine Tasting in Bordeaux
With over 6,000 vineyards and 60 appellations, Bordeaux is a wine-lover's dream destination. The Bordeaux wine region, located in southwestern France, produces some of the world's most prestigious red wines, such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Visitors can take a guided tour and tasting of local wineries, learn about the wine-making process, and sample some of the best vintages in the world. It's a must-visit location for wine lovers.
Grotte de Lascaux in Montignac
Grotte de Lascaux is a series of caves located in southwestern France, featuring some of the world's most impressive prehistoric cave paintings. The paintings date back over 17,000 years and depict various animals, including horses, buffalo, and deer. Visitors can explore the caves, see the paintings up close, and learn about the prehistoric lifestyle of the people who created them. It's an excellent destination for history and art enthusiasts alike.
Sarlat-la-Canéda Farmer's Market
Sarlat-la-Canéda's farmer's market is one of the most picturesque and lively in all of France. The market, held every Saturday, features some of the freshest and most delicious local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Visitors can wander the stalls, sample the local specialties, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the market. It's a must-visit location for foodies and anyone looking for an authentic French experience.
Interesting Facts About Each Location:
- The Louvre was once a fortress before it was converted into a museum in the 18th century.
- The Château de Chambord was built in the 16th century and is the largest castle in the Loire Valley.
- Bordeaux produces over 700 million bottles of wine each year.
- The Grotte de Lascaux was discovered by a group of teenagers in 1940.
- Sarlat-la-Canéda was once a wealthy trading center during the Middle Ages.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a road trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France, to Sarlat-la-Canéda, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, is a fantastic way to explore some of France's best-known cities and hidden gems. From the Louvre in Paris to the Château de Chambord, and the stunning Bordeaux wine region to the prehistoric cave paintings in Montignac, there's no shortage of things to see and do along the way. With a bit of planning and a sense of adventure, this road trip will create lasting memories and give a unique perspective on France's rich culture and history.