The Best Road Trip Guide: Annecy to Montargis

Do you want to experience the beauty of France while taking an exciting road trip? Struggling to decide which route to take or where to stop? We've got you covered! In this blog post, we're going to take you on a journey from Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, to Montargis, Centre-Val de Loire, and list the top places to visit along the way.

Before we begin, let's set the tone. All you'll need is a working vehicle, a map, and a good playlist. This road trip will be approximately a six-hour drive, covering a distance of 570 km. This route is an excellent choice for a weekend road trip with friends or family. You'll witness some stunning countryside landscapes, and we're confident you'll be planning your next road trip before this one is over.

The Best Places to See

Lyon - Hospitality at its Best

Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is known for its gastronomy, architecture, and culture. If you have time, we suggest staying for a day or two to enjoy everything the city has to offer. Lyon, often referred to as the gastronomic capital of France, offers everything from Michelin-starred cuisine to bouchons, traditional Lyon restaurants that serve authentic dishes like duck pâté and sausages.

Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning 19th-century basilica situated on a hill that overlooks the entire city. Its Byzantine-style mosaics, stained-glass windows, and gold leaf decorations are awe-inspiring.

For lovers of art, The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon is a must-see. It houses impressive collections of Italian masterpieces, French sculptures, and impressionist paintings. In the evening, after a long day of sightseeing, take a stroll along the banks of River Rhône, relax, and witness the stunning sunset.

Burgundy - The heart of French Wine Country

Burgundy, known for its grape production, is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The region produces some of the most expensive Burgundy wines in the world. We recommend stopping by the Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital in the center of Beaune, which now houses a museum and wine cellar. Learn about the history of winemaking in the region and indulge in some wine tasting.

Visit the chateau of Clos de Vougeot in Vosne-Romanée, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 12th-century castle is now a winery and is considered one of the most important wine estates in the region. Its vineyards are home to some of the oldest vines in the world.

We suggest staying at least one night in Burgundy and discovering some local delicacies. The region is known for its escargot (snails), coq au vin (chicken braised in wine), and boeuf bourguignon (beef stew).

Loire Valley - Land of Castles

The Loire Valley, often referred to as the Garden of France, boasts stunning landscapes and is home to over 300 castles. We recommend visiting the Chateau de Chenonceau, one of the most widely recognized castles in France. Built over the Cher river, its stunning architecture and gardens are mesmerizing.

For history buffs, the Domaine National de Chambord is a must-visit. Surrounded by a vast forest, it has a massive estate with a castle, a chapel, and stables. This estate has a fascinating history dating back to the French Revolution.

Plan a stop at the Parc des Mini-Châteaux in Amboise, where you can find scaled-down versions of France's most famous castles. The park also offers a fascinating historical overview of the construction and restoration of France's castles.

Orleans - Joan of Arc's City

While driving from Annecy to Montargis, you won't be able to miss Orleans, a city that played an essential role in French history. Orleans is famous for Joan of Arc, France's national heroine, who led the resistance against the British during the Hundred Years War, which began in 1337 and lasted until 1453.

The Cathedral of Orleans is a must-visit when in the city. It boasts stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. While in Orleans, indulge in some local dish, pork rillons, or try the traditional Mardi Gras cake (galette des rois).

Fontainebleau - History and Scenic Beauty

Fontainebleau, a beautiful town nestled in the forest south of Paris, is home to the stunning Château de Fontainebleau. This castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has housed French kings since the 12th century. The castle's architecture and interior design reflect the styles of different eras, making it a unique landmark.

The town is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities. Fontainebleau forest offers perfect hiking trails, rock climbing, and horse riding.

Conclusion

There you have it, folks! Our list of the top places to visit on a road trip from Annecy to Montargis. We hope this guide aids you in planning your next adventure through France's stunning countryside and highlights some great spots to see along the way.

Remember, this is not a comprehensive list, and each destination has much more to offer than what we can mention. So, pack your bags, fuel up and let's hit the road.

Bon Voyage!