“Tour de France”: scenic and outdoor adventure edition

From mountains of mussels in Lille during our Train traveller’s “Tour de France”: gastronomy edition to cultural river cruises along Colmar's Lauch River during the "Tour de France" by rail: history, art and culture edition, we have had an active few weeks. But this week, we’re taking the outdoor adventures to the next level! So strap up your boots – we’re headed on an outdoor adventure that only France could deliver.

👉Save 20% on Global and One Country Eurail/Interrail Passes! Learn more below.

Scenic and outdoor experiences: the 4 day “Tour de France”

Just like France has a variety of impeccable pastries, the République Française also serves up an amazing selection of outdoor experiences thanks to its diverse terrains of mountains, beaches, valleys, rivers, volcanos and so much more. 

Starting point: Lyon, France

From high vantage points, gardens and bridges to a meandering river through the city, Lyon is not short of stunning view points. Some can’t-miss green experiences include:

• Parc de la Tête d'Or: Go with the flow by boating on the lake in one of the best parks in all of Europe.
• Rhône and Saône Rivers: Walk the banks of two of the city’s iconic rivers. 
• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: While the Basilica itself is a stunning man-made wonder, it also delivers next-level views of surrounding nature atop its hilltop location.
• Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône: Venture just outside of Lyon for views (and tastes) of France’s most famous natural wonders: vin!

Next stop: Grenoble, France

Train travel time: 2h19

While labelled as the City of Art and history, Grenoble in the French Alps is also famous for skiing, hiking and its pristine nature. Don’t have a car to access the popular trailheads? No stress! Grenoble’s efficient public transportation makes getting from city to nature easy. Take the gorgeous “Le Moucherotte” hike, for example. You can simply hop on a bus in Grenoble and head in the direction of Saint Nizier. 

Next stop: Aix-en-Provence, France 

Train travel time: 2h30

A verdant city with pretty fountains and historic buildings, Aix is the gateway to beautiful villages such as Jouques, Rians and Les Puy-Sainte-Reparade. From the iconic lavender fields near the city to the lush Jardin de la Torse, Aix-en-Provence, with its natural and man-made wonders, is a case of ‘you’ve-gotta-see-it-to-believe-it.’ The city also serves as a great jumping off point for a number of day trips to stops like Lourmarin, Bonnieux, Gordes, Arles, Avignon and Marseille. For beach-goers, know that you are less than an hour from the Mediterranean!

Final stop: Nice, France 

Train travel time: 3h

A popular destination for sun-seekers, the capital of Côte d’Azur boasts great climate, magnificent views of the French Riviera, art and culture. Take a hike up Tête de Chien or up the castle hill for stunning views of the city and sea below. For flower fans, take a stroll through the Marché Aux Fleurs, or Flower Market, at the local Cours Saleya. Aptly nestled between the local colourful historic buildings, visitors of the market will see (and smell) a rainbow tulips, roses, buttercups, lilies and, of course, lavender. A range of local fruits, vegetables and spices will also on display, waiting to be enjoyed. 

Outdoor and scenic experiences: the 7 day “Tour de France”

If you have the extra time, opt for the 7-day “Tour de France” because there is so much to see and experience on the “Tour de Outdoors.”

Starting point: Strasbourg

Explore ancient cobbled streets lined with colourful and extravagant half-timbered houses that is typical Alsatian architecture. While the scenic river route that winds through the city is the most iconic outdoor experience to be had, Strasbourg also boasts well-kept biking routes that zig-zag around town and surrounding areas. If you don’t mind venturing outside of Stasbourg a bit, the Rhine Forest Natural Reserve is an excellent stop to add to your outdoorsy itinerary. There are numerous hikes, accessible for all levels, and lots of serene views and stunning wildlife to take in, including dozens of plant species, amphibians, over 50 types of nesting birds and diverse flowers, butterflies and more! Pro tip: Be sure to bring your binoculars.

Next stop: Dijon

Train travel time: 2h30

Some of the best views in this foodie region can be enjoyed from Lac Kir, Parc de la Motte-Giron and the vineyards stretching to Macon. After some time taking in the touristy spots (and eating all the dijon mustard you can get your hands on), escape from the crowds and connect with the local outdoors at the nearby Parc de la Motte-Giron. With its 5-km loop around the park, you can enjoy a slice of Dijon tranquility.

Next stop: Vichy

Train travel time: 3h30

One of the largest spa towns in France, Vichy is a small city surrounded by nature, parks and gardens, where winding roads lead to picturesque villages including Charroux and Hérrison. From kayaking down the Allier River to jet skiing on Lac d’Allier, Vichy is made for the amphibious folk that walk among us. If you're a relaxation junkie instead of an adrenaline junkie, head to Les Thermes de Vichy for a soak in the soothing thermal baths or some world-class spa treatments. Does that count as an outdoor activity? Sure!

Next stop: Aurillac

Train travel time: 3h

Dating back to Gallo-Roman times, the town’s rich architectural heritage and lush scenery make for perfect picture book moments. Aurillac is hugged by the Cantal Mountains, offering locals and visitors endless outdoor adventures to be had. Hike the Plomb du Cantal which stands tall at 1,855 meters. Or check out Puy Mary, an extinct volcano, which is one of the lusher places in France thanks to the massive amounts of rain and snowfall during the year. Kayak or fish in the Jordanne River, which runs right through town. Or hop on one of Aurillac’s popular cycling routes that run along the river and through the mountains and local countryside.

Next stop: Toulouse 

Train travel time: 3h40

The city features several canals including the UNESCO listed Canal du Midi, which links Toulouse and the Mediterranean Sea. We highly recommend exploring the stunning Garonne Lateral Canal by boat, bicycle or on foot. You can also hike around Pech David for a nice view of the city. For a look at the local plants and flowers, check out Jardin des Plantes. For a Japanese garden, head to Compans-Caffarelli Park and search for the Jardin Japonais, the perfect spot to disconnect. For a little outdoor adventure outside of the city, catch a bus to the nearby La Forêt de Bouconne for biking and hiking trails galore.

Next stop: Perpignan 

Train travel time: 2h33

Capital of the Pyrenees, this Catalan flavoured city is a great gateway to the region’s vineyards, orchards and mountain ranges. Plus, you are also just an hour from the charming Torreilles Plage (beach) and just over 30 km from Spain. Perpignan is a mix of cultures, languages and terrain, so there is something for everyone. 

Final stop: Marseille 

Train travel time: 3h30

Visits to nearby attractions including the scenic Calanques, the Le Panier neighbourhood and Fort Saint-jean are a must. Calanques are the limestone cliff inlets sprinkled throughout the region. From scuba diving to rock climbing and kayaking to sailing, take in the shimmering blue seaside views with a side of adrenaline. Keep an eye out for the 100+ protected land and marine species in the beautiful Calanques National Park. Be sure to adhere to access rules when visiting the Calanques so as to protect these exceptional natural formations.

Trains: the most essential part of this Tour de France

Our Tour de France was built around train travel because going by rail makes ‘getting there’ part of the experience. And now, you can have the most epic rail adventure for less thanks to Eurail/Interrail.

Get your Eurail/Interrail Pass today and save big!

Take 20% off the regular price of Eurail and Interrail Global Passes and Selected One Country Passes when purchasing by 18 July 2024. And before you ask, yes, the Eurail One Country France Pass is included in this deal (though not all France Interrail validities are included. See below for more details.). Book now and save!

Promo details:

Available for 1st and 2nd class, all validities. Valid for travel starting from September 1, 2024 (first possible activation date), but must be activated within the 11 months from your purchase date. Refund and exchange conditions are the same as regular, non-promotional passes. This discount does not apply to Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Germany (for both Eurail & Interrail). It also does not apply to Interrail Switzerland, Interrail Great Britain, Eurail Scandinavia, Eurail France validities (1, 2, 7 days).

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