Off the Beaten Path - Ancient France

Tourists visiting France will always be drawn to the star attractions like Mont St-Michel in Normandy and Palais des Papes in Avignon, not to mention the numerous must-see places in the capital Paris. But there is so much more to see in the world's most visited country than those sites often included in the tourist guides. The simple fact is that many attractions in France are hidden away or simply not well known enough to pull in the crowds, but that does not mean they are not worth a visit. 

The Citadel

Neuf-Brisach, Alsace: No foray into France is complete without a stroll around a citadel. There are quite a few of them in France, but Neuf-Brisach on the French-German border is the one to target, it’s the country’s least-known World Heritage Site. Louis XIV commissioned the fortified town to be built in 1697 to bolster French defenses. Its red sandstone walls were constructed in the shape of an eight-pointed star and the sleepy Alsatian town sits inside.

The Roman Site

Alésia MuséoParc, Alise-Sainte-Reine: This remarkable historical site in Burgundy only opened last year and remains undiscovered by the non-French tourist set. While walking around the rebuilt fortifications in the reconstructed Roman camp of Alésia, you will be amazed as you recall that this was the very spot where Julius Caesar ended the conflict with chief of the Gauls, Vercingétorix, once and for all in 52 BC. You will also be entertained by the actors dressed up as Roman legions and battle demonstrations.

The Chateau

Le Brame du Cerf, Domaine de Chambord: The rutting season at Château de Chambord in the fall is a fabulous way of rediscovering the most famous Renaissance chateau in the Loire Valley. There is nothing more magical than creeping into the dewy forest at dawn or dusk to watch serenading stags, boars and red deer from hidden watch towers. The domain (estate) is Europe’s largest hunting reserve.

The Abbey

Abbaye de Valmagne, Languedoc: This awe-inspiring abbey in southern France fuels two great French passions: wine and architecture. Built in the 12th century, it was inhabited first by Benedictine monks who cultivated vines on the estate. 

With the French Revolution, the abbey church was deconsecrated and sold to Monsieur Granier-Joyeuse, a wine grower who turned the soaring Gothic stone church into a magnificent wine cellar. 

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get the very best in business or leisure travel and at the very best value. Let us help you enjoy learning about history around the world. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com

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