Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charleval to Vert-le-Grand
Are you looking for an adventure on the road? A drive from Charleval, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur to Vert-le-Grand, Île-de-France offers a scenic route through the French countryside. The journey takes approximately 8 hours, covering over 700 kilometers. Along the way, there are numerous towns, attractions, and hidden gems worth exploring. Here are five unexpected places to stop and visit on your road trip adventure.
Halfway Point: Montbellet, 71
After about 4 hours of driving, you will find yourself at the halfway point of the journey. Montbellet is a small commune in the Saône-et-Loire department of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. This charming town has a population of less than 500 and is known for its rich history and stunning vineyards. Take a stroll through the town center and visit the Romanesque church of Saint-Pierre. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Domaine Besson, a family-run winery that produces some of the best Burgundy wines in the region.
Favorite Food: Beef Bourguignon. Montbellet is located in the heart of the Burgundy region, known for its delicious cuisine. The beef bourguignon, a classic French dish, is a must-try when visiting this town.
1. Collonges-la-Rouge
Located in the Corrèze department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Collonges-la-Rouge is a picturesque village known for its unique red sandstone architecture. The town dates back to the 8th century and is home to historic buildings, narrow alleys, and charming squares. The red sandstone, used to build the houses, gives the town its distinctive color. Visit the Église Saint-Pierre, a Romanesque church that was built in the 12th century, or take a stroll through the Jardins de la Prade, a beautiful garden that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Favorite Food: Truffles. Collonges-la-Rouge is located in the Limousin region, known for its black truffles. Don't miss the opportunity to try them in a dish – they add a unique flavor that's hard to resist.
2. Rocamadour
Located in the Lot department in the Occitanie region, Rocamadour is a beautiful village perched on a cliff overlooking the Alzou canyon. The village is a popular pilgrimage site and is home to several religious monuments, including the Chapelle Notre-Dame and the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour. Take a walk through the village and admire the stunning architecture, or take a trip down to the Gouffre de Padirac, a famous cave system that's over 103 meters deep.
Favorite Food: Walnut Cake. Rocamadour is located in the Quercy region, known for its delicious walnuts. The walnut cake is a must-try when visiting this town.
3. Oradour-sur-Glane
Located in the Haute-Vienne department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Oradour-sur-Glane is a ghost village that serves as a memorial for the atrocities committed during World War II. The village was destroyed by the Nazis in 1944, and its inhabitants were massacred. Today, the village remains untouched, serving as a powerful reminder of the atrocities of war. Visitors can take a guided tour of the village and visit the Centre de la Mémoire, a museum that tells the story of the massacre.
Favorite Food: Cassoulet. Oradour-sur-Glane is located in the Limousin region, known for its hearty cuisine. The cassoulet, a slow-cooked bean and meat stew, is a must-try when visiting this town.
4. Château de Fontainebleau
Located in the Seine-et-Marne department in the Île-de-France region, the Château de Fontainebleau is a stunning palace that was once home to French royalty. The palace dates back to the 12th century and was expanded over time by various kings and queens. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public. Take a walk through the palace and admire the stunning architecture, or visit the gardens, which cover over 130 hectares.
Favorite Food: Macarons. Fontainebleau is located near Paris, which is known for its delicious macarons. Don't miss the opportunity to try them in a bakery – they're a true French delicacy.
5. Château de Chantilly
Located in the Oise department in the Hauts-de-France region, the Château de Chantilly is a magnificent palace that's surrounded by lush gardens. The palace dates back to the 16th century and was restored in the 19th century by Henri d'Orléans, the Duke of Aumale. Today, the palace is home to several museums, including the Musée Condé, which houses an impressive collection of art and books. Visit the palace and the gardens, or take a horse ride through the nearby forest.
Favorite Food: Crème Chantilly. Chantilly is known for its whipped cream, which is often used as a topping for desserts. Don't miss the opportunity to try a dessert with crème Chantilly – it's a delicious treat.
Taking a road trip from Charleval to Vert-le-Grand is a wonderful way to explore the scenic beauty of France. Each destination along the route offers something unique and unexpected. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or cuisine, there's something for everyone. So go ahead and embark on this unforgettable journey – you won't regret it!