I am going to France in the early Fall for a 3 week sabbatical by myself. Aside from a few days in Paris on either end of the trip, I want to spend the majority of the time in one place. Ideally I want to find somewhere that is not too big or “touristy” where I can just live like a local - go to small cafes, restaurants, markets, shops, etc. It doesn’t need to have a ton of tourist sites or activities, as I’m going to be spending my time mostly writing and just going at a slow pace. I still would want there to be some of the classic French “charm” too. I may plan to have a car for some or all of that time. I was thinking about somewhere in the upper half France (for example the Loire Valley) since I’ll be flying in/out of Paris, but totally open to other places further south too.
Does anyone have any recommendations? Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Denver, CO
819 posts
I really liked my stay in Amboise! It's close to other Loire Valley sites and the town itself is very charming.
Posted by
Florida (previously California)
4172 posts
Since you mention the Loire Valley, I suggest Loches. It’s quite a lovely town with a weekly outdoor market and a decent number of restaurants. Given that you are open to the upper half of France, I think someplace in Normandy would be lovely.
Posted by
Long Beach, Ca, usa
1836 posts
Arco,
I don't know how early in the fall you mean, but Brittany is unique, with its own language and culture. I would spend a week there. The weather may not be the best, but Brittany has what I think of as "stature" and "attitude", facing the mighty Atlantic. You could stay in Quimper or Dinan, among other places.
Lucky you!
Posted by
Long Beach, Ca, usa
1836 posts
Arco,
Brittany seems perfect to hole up and write! Brooding, moody, gutsy and self-reflective.
Posted by
Chicago
1407 posts
Not to be snide, but my understanding of a “sabbatical” is that one is granted for study and growth to enrich professional pursuits. What are your interests?
Perhaps I am being too literal in my reading of your question. If so, I apologize.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10971 posts
Dijon, capital of the former Duchy of Burgundy, plenty of daily life and things to do but not on the Rick Steves tourist trail. If you do rent a car, you have a lot to see within a reasonable drive. Otherwise, Loches is a good suggestion for the Loire Valley.
Posted by
263 posts
You might think about spending your time in Bayeux in Normandy. It is a charming town, with some sights to see, good restaurants, and a weekly outdoor market. and if you wish you can see the D-Day landing beaches and American cemetery on the coast. Might be rainy, but that may not be a major consideration if you are holed up writing. Peter