The Best Destinations in France for Active Luxury Getaways

Luxury travel is synonymous with the glitz and glamour of France. From the sophistication of the Riviera to the exquisite bright lights of Paris, the country’s landscape is rich with indulgent-feeling properties, amenities, and culture. With the growth of travellers wanting to stay active among luxurious surroundings, France is the perfect epicentre for luxurious holidaying tours while staying active.
Here are five top picks of activities in the country intertwined with luxury.
Yacht Sailing around Nice
The elegance of the French Riviera is best seen from the sea! Onboard a luxury yacht boat, discover just how scenic the colourful façades of Nice are. Charter a boat home to its own professional crew that can cater for all your needs, whether it be an intimate sail for two or a big group trip for a special occasion. Enjoy exquisite gourmet dining onboard, featuring local cuisine prepared fresh by a top-quality chef. Most yachts feature a range of water sports gear and even spa facilities like hot tubs, saunas and massage services. With the option of day trips, multi-day charters or even week-long excursions, sailing is sure to provide the most idyllic transport to see the Riviera favourites and more unknown local regions.
Consider the Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer route, setting sail eastward to the charming town known for deep turquoise waters and a colourful old town. With a bay that’s ideal for swimming and enjoying water sports, this is a prime anchoring spot. Visit the luxurious Paloma Beach, backed by the indulgence of some of the most expensive real estate in the world; it feels like an authentic luxury spot for afternoon sunbathing! Sail back towards Nice as the sun melts into the mirror of the waters below, and awe at the sunset over champagne hours. Return to a Michelin-starred meal in one of the many restaurants in the town, with one that’s even got two stars. Whether you want to end the sailing adventure with traditional French flavours or internationally influenced favourites, the luxurious array on offer guarantees to suit even the fussiest palettes.
Skiing in Meribel
In the heart of the French Alps, Meribel nestles both perfect ski slopes and luxury accommodations amid pristine settings. It’s one of the many resorts in the world-renowned Three Valleys ski area, which is known for some of the best ski conditions and slopes suited to anyone from beginners to experts. Hire a private instructor on arrival, to ensure the most comfortable learning environment to guide you through. the rugged terrain. You might even get to see some unknown off-piste spots with a local expert on hand. Stay in luxury ski chalets in Meribel, with a wealth of amenities, whether fully self-catered to allow you to get creative with cooking, or serviced lodgings with chefs on hand for delicious dining times.
When you want to head out at dusk, the resort is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant located in a hotel. This offers some of the world’s best dining experiences, with innovative cuisine crafted by Chef Laurent Azoulay. Focussing on seasonal ingredients presented with artistic flare is sure to make it a meal worth remembering. Unveil the ultimate thrill with heli-skiing, where you fly to the most remote peaks to be guided down by an instructor to ensure the perfect mix of safety and excitement. Reserve a bottle-service area in the lively aprés ski of Meribel and opt for a VIP package from the most professionally trained staff. Plenty of local wine bars in the region host a wealth of tasting experiences for just you and yours too.
Fitness Retreat in Provence
Part of the broader Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, this southeastern gem of France is perfect for fitness fanatics looking for a retreat escape. For blissful rejuvenation intertwining wellness, natural beauty and distinct charm, a fitness retreat here leaves you feeling ready to re-take on everyday chaos. Stay on the grounds of an eighteenth-century château surrounded by olive and vineyard groves. There are countless spas across the region that are home to an array of spa facilities, so can provide a range of treatments, from massages and facials, to incredible hydrotherapy. Take on daily yoga and pilates classes, as well as locally-led walks around lush grounds. For the utmost luxury, book a retreat including Michelin-starred dining made from locally sourced fresh botanical goods to focus on healthy eating with natural ingredients.
Cycling Tours in the Loire Valley
For an adrenaline-fuelled extravaganza, take on cycling tours in France. Travel on two wheels can find you ambling through the most secluded vineyards and discovering the depths of the Loire Valley through infamous routes like La Loire à Vélo, which runs from the river source to the Atlantic Ocean. For a luxury twist, the region is home to a plethora of vineyards, allowing travellers to taste their way through the rolling greenery. Stay in glorious traditional châteaus within the valleys and rest in grand rooms fit for royalty!
Private Yoga in Paris
If a trip to the capital sounds the most enticing, combine the luxurious Parisian ambience with an active retreat. This personalised experience can be highly exclusive for just your guests to enjoy rejuvenating movement in stunning classes across the city. Whether you want to be outside or inside overlooking the marvels beyond the window, there is a class for everyone to enjoy. Research the wealth of bespoke yoga events and classes in both French and English fit for tourists wanting to develop their French language or stick to their routes with an English-taught lesson.
Wrapping Up
France provides the perfect mix of natural beauty and luxury culture. For the perfect retreat, combine what the country is known best for and take on an active, luxury holiday.
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