Adventures, Must do’s in France History, and New Friends
Our First Two Weeks on the Road: Top Must-Do Experiences in France
As we mark our first couple of weeks on the road with @WeDriveTheWorld, our journey has already been filled with unforgettable moments, from exploring charming French villages to making new friends along the way. Our Toyota Hilux and Tischer truck camper have proven to be the perfect companions as we discover the beauty and history of France. From the beaches of Normandy to the medieval streets of Carcassonne, we’ve experienced a whirlwind of adventure, laughter, and a few bumps in the road. Here’s a look back at the highlights of our time in France so far.
Saint-Valery-en-Caux and Normandy: The Calm Before the Storm
Our journey began in the tranquil village of Saint-Valery-en-Caux, nestled in the heart of Normandy, where we spent our first night. The peaceful surroundings provided a welcome respite after weeks of preparation for our trip. It was here, amid the rural charm of the French countryside, that we truly began to embrace the freedom of life on the road.
Bayou cathedral
Must-Do:
Visit the picturesque harbor and its colorful fishing boats.
Walk along the dramatic cliffs for stunning views of the Channel.
Try a classic Norman dish like Moules Marinières (mussels in white wine).
Le Mont Saint-Michel: A Thousand Years of History
From our park-up in Normandy, we ventured to one of the most iconic landmarks in France: Le Mont Saint-Michel. This breathtaking medieval abbey, perched on a rocky island off the coast of Normandy, has been a symbol of French heritage for over a thousand years. As we crossed the causeway to the island, we were struck by the stunning views of the surrounding bay, which is known for its dramatic tides.
We wandered through its narrow streets, soaking in the atmosphere of this ancient place, imagining the monks who once walked these paths in their quiet devotion. It was hard not to feel the weight of history in every step, and the sense of awe was palpable.
Must-Do:
Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
Walk the ramparts for breathtaking panoramic views.
Try the famous omelet at La Mère Poulard (a bit pricey, but a historic experience).
Le Mont St Michel
La Rochelle: Coastal Charm and New Connections
La Rochelle
Next, we headed to La Rochelle, a beautiful coastal city on the Atlantic coast. Known for its well-preserved medieval port and vibrant maritime culture, La Rochelle immediately won us over with its charm. We spent the afternoon strolling through the historic Old Port, surrounded by the city’s iconic 14th-century towers, which once protected the city from pirate attacks.
It was here that we met Jules and Josh, a young couple from Nottingham, who were also on their own adventure across Europe. Over a bottle of wine, we swapped stories of our journeys so far, laughing and sharing tips. These connections, however brief, are one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
Must-Do:
Walk along the Old Port and admire the historic towers.
Visit the lively local market for fresh seafood and regional specialties.
Take a boat trip to Fort Boyard, an imposing sea fortress.
Arcachon and the Beaches of Southwest France
After saying goodbye to Jules and Josh, we continued our travels along the stunning French coastline, making our way to Arcachon. This picturesque seaside town offered the perfect opportunity for a long beach walk, where we marveled at the expansive sand dunes and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic. The town is famous for its oyster farming, and we indulged in some of the freshest oysters we’ve ever tasted.
Must-Do:
Climb the Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, for stunning views.
Sample fresh Arcachon Bay oysters at a seaside restaurant.
Take a boat trip around the bay to explore hidden coves and fishing villages.
Villers-Bocage: The Best Advice We Ever Received
During our journey, we also crossed paths with Michael and Marlene in the charming town of Villars-de-Bocage. They shared a piece of advice that truly resonated with us: “Don’t put your journey on a map; it only shows where you haven’t been.” Their words reminded us that the true value of our journey lies in the experiences, people, and memories we create, not the destinations.there was a historic battle in this town during the war
Must-Do:
Visit the historic town square and soak in the local atmosphere.
Enjoy a leisurely meal at a traditional French bistro.
Take a scenic drive through the rolling countryside.
Carcassonne: A Medieval Fairytale
Carcassonne
From the coastal charm of Arcachon, we journeyed inland to Carcassonne, a medieval fortress city in the south of France. Carcassonne’s fortified walls, towers, and drawbridges are straight out of a fairytale, and walking through the cobbled streets felt like stepping back in time.
We parked up at Val-de-Dagne and spent the evening enjoying the local food and wines, surrounded by the city’s historic walls. There’s something magical about dining in a place so rich in history, where the past and present come together seamlessly.
Must-Do:
Walk the ramparts at sunset for the most magical views.
Visit Château Comtal to learn about the fortress’s history.
Try cassoulet, a rich, slow-cooked stew famous in the region.
Reflecting on Our First Weeks: The Freedom of the Open Road
As we continue our journey through France, we’re constantly reminded of the beauty of slow travel. There’s no rush to cover every landmark or city; instead, we’re focusing on savoring the moments, immersing ourselves in the local culture, and meeting people who make the road less traveled so rewarding.
Whether it’s sharing stories with Jules and Josh over wine, receiving life-changing advice from Michael and Marlene, or exploring the ancient streets of Le Mont Saint-Michel, these early weeks have been filled with moments that we’ll treasure forever.
The road ahead is long, and we can’t wait to see where it leads us next. But for now, we’re content to take our time, enjoy the journey, and continue exploring the wonders of Europe. Stay tuned as we continue to share our adventures, encounters, and the stories that make this trip unforgettable.
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