France is always a good idea but in autumn perhaps just that little bit more special. Hot chocolate, golden leaves falling from trees, acorns crunching under foot and steaming stews are just a few reasons to visit France in the fall. Here are three regions that are particularly perfect for autumn trips.
The Loire Valley in Autumn
The Loire Valley is an exceptional place to visit in the Autumn; chateaux looming out of the early morning mist surrounded by miles of countryside and vineyards. And, as the Loire is home to some of the best wines in France such as Sancerre, Pouilly Fume and Saumur, a visit to the vineyards and wine cellars will make your trip extra special. The grapes are normally picked between September and October and many chateaux including Chinon, Chambord, Chenonceau, Villandry and Chateau de Langeais are all located close to wine domains. Combining a wine and chateaux tour is a great way to give you a real taste of this beautiful region.
Champagne in Autumn
Champagne is a wonderful place to spend long, relaxing autumnal days. A visit to the ever impressive city of Reims with its magnificent Cathedral is perfect combined with a champagne tasting. Some of the best bubbles can be found at Maison Mumm, the Grande Maison de Champagne Taittinger or Veuve Clicquot. A drive or stroll along the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, just 15 miles from Reims, is a must. It is here that you’ll find the famous Maison de Champagne Moët & Chandon.
Or how about gorgeous Troyes?The cork-shaped old city is fabulous with its restaurants, museums and excellent shops.
Plus, the colours of the rolling hillsides of Champagne, filled with colourful vineyards are breath-taking in the autumn.
Burgundy in Autumn
Beaune is the capital of this fabulous wine region and this pretty, medieval town is surrounded by the Cote d’Or vineyards. It is renowned for its annual wine auction which takes place on the 3rd Sunday in November at the 15th century Hotel-Dieu museum. The Route des Grands Crus, known as the ‘Champs-Elysées’ of Burgundy is well worth a visit. Chateau du Clos de Vougeot is an architectural and cultural splendour, an absolute must for true wine fans, and a wonderful place to visit in the autumnal sunshine.
More Autumn spendours in France
3 cities to visit in Autumn – Paris, Lyon and Bordeaux
Three more fabulous places to visit in Autumn
Top 5 free things to do in Autumn in Paris
The Loire Valley in winter
