You don’t go to the French countryside for excitement. You go to escape it. The only thing moving fast is the bakery queue at 8am—and even then, nobody's in a hurry. It’s all slow mornings, long lunches, and the comforting aroma of fresh coffee in the air. Perfect if your idea of a good time involves losing track of the day and considering getting a second croissant a perfectly valid activity.
Maybe it’s an old stone cottage wrapped in wisteria that’s caught your eye. Or a ski chalet in the Alps with more log fires than people. Whatever your countryside fantasy, rural France delivers. It’s slow travel at its best—low effort, high reward.
So if you’re looking for a peaceful escape and want something a little more memorable than another rushed city break, here’s how to do spring in the French countryside properly.
Where To Stay
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to countryside stays in France. There are rustic stone farmhouses with creaky floorboards and chickens for neighbours, gîtes that look like they belong on a postcard, and holiday homes with shuttered windows, lavender bushes, and a chair positioned perfectly for lounging.
For a stay with more personality than your average hotel room, I always recommend looking at villa rentals in France. From cosy cottages to modern eco-lodges and even vacation rentals, they’ve got accommodation that’ll make you feel like you live there—if only for a week.
If you're looking to mix a bit of action with all the relaxation, spring is the perfect time for a few mornings on the slopes. A catered ski chalet in Méribel offers a more active countryside escape. But no one's judging you if you end up in the hot tub more than on the slopes. It’s all part of the experience.
What To Do
The beauty of the French countryside is that you can do as much—or as little—as you like. It's built for lazy mornings, long walks, and drawn-out lunches. If you’re here to unwind, the best thing you can do is slow down. Read a book, watch the sun set, and eat something wonderful.
The key to slow travel is embracing the idea that doing nothing is really the whole point of the trip. But if you’re the kind of person who likes a loose itinerary, here are a few ideas to make your trip a little more interesting without having to get out of bed too early.
Explore the Local Markets
French markets are the best, and there’s no better way to experience the local produce of the region. Many towns have them on specific days of the week, so check the schedule before you go. Fill a basket (or several bags!) full of fresh fruit, seasonal vegetables, crusty bread, olives, and pastries that you might not need but you'll definitely eat before lunchtime. If you’re planning a picnic, pick up a bottle of the local wine. Now you’ve got everything you need for an unforgettable outdoor feast.
Take a Scenic Bike Ride
Cycling through the French countryside is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the region. If you haven’t brought your own bike, no worries—most villages offer bike rentals, including electric bikes for those who prefer a more leisurely ride. France is full of scenic routes through vineyards, sunflower fields, and charming villages. The trails are often well-marked, so you can enjoy the ride without worrying about getting lost (unless that’s your thing, in which case, enjoy the adventure).
Book a Wine Tasting
If you're in one of France's famous wine regions—think Bordeaux, Burgundy, or the Loire Valley—booking a wine tasting is practically a requirement. Some wineries ask for reservations, especially for guided tours, so make sure to book ahead. Most tours include a stroll through the vineyards, where you'll learn about the history of the winery and the winemaking process. Then, comes the fun part: the tasting. You’ll sample a selection of the winery’s best wines, usually paired with a charcuterie board—cheers to that!
A Capsule Wardrobe for the French Countryside
- Blazer
- Shawl
- Cardigan
- Shirred Blouse
- Wrap Top
- Classic Shirt
- Linen Trousers
- Maxi Dress
- Maxi Skirt
- Monk Shoes
- Wedge Sandals
- Handbag
- Sunhat & Sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Sunburst Necklace & Leaf Studs
What To Pack
Packing for a spring getaway to the French countryside is all about picking simple, stylish pieces that can handle everything from leisurely strolls to bike rides to spontaneous picnics under the stars—without ever looking like you've put too much thought into it. The secret to this travel capsule is striking the perfect balance between timeless style and functionality.
Think about the types of activities you’ll likely be doing: slow mornings with a coffee in hand, long, lazy lunches, wandering through local markets, or maybe a tour of a nearby vineyard. Your wardrobe needs to be as flexible as your itinerary. Opt for pieces that are breathable, comfortable, and practical yet still make you feel put-together when you're off exploring—or pretending to be a local.