1. Mont-Saint-Michel
The 8th-century abbey is one of the world’s most visited tourist sites. Biscuits from the renowned Mère Poulard restaurant, cider, calvados and camembert are all regional specialties.
2. Sainte-Marie-du-Mont
This village is located opposite Utah Beach, one of the five sites of the Landings on June 6, 1944. The region is home to museums and military cemeteries commemorating the Battle of Normandy.
3. Saumur
The cavalry soldiers of the French army have been trained here since the 17th century. Saumur is home to the French National Riding School, which now trains the prestigious cavalry regiment: the Cadre Noir.
4. Limoges
Porcelain, enamel and stained glass have made up the rich heritage of this city for more than 1,000 years.
5. Carcassonne
This medieval city lights up every July 14 – Bastille Day – for a spectacular fireworks display. Cassoulet, made using navy beans and meat, is a typical regional dish.
6. Montpellier
This city is renowned for its Grisettes, a confectionary combining the Mediterranean specialties of licorice and honey.
7. Montélimar
Nougat made using egg white, honey and almonds has been the specialty of Montélimar since 1701
8. Moirans-en-Montagne
Wood has made this town in the Jura département the French capital of toys. The Toy Museum pays homage to this playful heritage.
9. Saint-Gervais-les-Bains
Take a train from the local railway station to get to the Bionnassay glacier, the first step towards Mont Blanc.
10. Chantilly
Famous for its Renaissance château, one of the largest collections of period paintings in France, and gardens designed by Le Nôtre.
Article published in the July 2016 issue of France-Amérique. Subscribe to the magazine.
