Adventures in France: A Road Trip with Older Teens, Episode 523

Category: Family Travel

Thinking of taking your teens on an unforgettable trip to France? In Episode 523 of the Join Us in France podcast, Annie Sargent chats with Emily Whimster, a New Zealander living in Australia, about her incredible road trip through France with her partner and their older teens. They packed their three-week journey with unique activities, historical sites, and breathtaking scenery. Ready to be inspired? Let’s dive into the highlights, and don’t forget to listen to the full episode!

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A Road Trip Across France

Emily and her family started their adventure in Paris, then hit the road to explore Normandy, the Loire Valley, Bordeaux, the French Alps, and the French Riviera. They rented a car to venture off the beaten path, avoiding train schedules and giving themselves the freedom to stop at scenic spots and local cafes along the way. Driving allowed them to visit lesser-known areas like Larivau near Bordeaux and Rustignano in Italy while still hitting major highlights like Lyon and Chamonix.

Normandy and the Loire Valley

Their first big stop was Normandy, where they explored the American Cemetery and the D-Day beaches, including Utah Beach. A visit to the Mémorial de Caen provided a sobering and detailed look at World War II history. Emily shared how driving through Normandy made her think about the profound sacrifices made in this now peaceful countryside.

Next up was the Loire Valley, where the family enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride over Château de Chenonceau. Floating above this stunning castle and its lush surroundings gave them a unique perspective on France’s rich history and beauty. If you’re planning a similar experience, Emily suggests allowing extra time to account for possible weather cancellations.

Bordeaux and Dune du Pilat

In Bordeaux, the family stayed at an Airbnb on a vineyard near Saint-Émilion, immersing themselves in the region’s world-famous wine culture. They also explored the bustling Halles de Bacalan market for gourmet food and local flavors.

A highlight of this leg was their visit to Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune. Hiking to the top rewarded them with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding pine forests. Emily described the dune as a must-see, perfect for adventure lovers and photographers alike.

French Alps and Chamonix Adventures

The family’s time in Chamonix was packed with thrilling activities. Emily’s partner, an experienced paraglider, soared over the stunning landscapes, while Emily opted for a tandem flight. They also rode the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi, enjoying incredible views of Mont Blanc despite some cloud cover. Emily recommended being flexible with timing to ensure clear skies for this bucket-list experience.

For those who prefer activities closer to the ground, Emily’s stepson loved exploring the mountain biking trails in Chamonix, which are ideal for adrenaline-seekers.

Relaxation on the Riviera

The French Riviera offered a change of pace. Based in Menton, the family visited Eden Plage and Plage Mala, enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Emily emphasized the value of reserving chairs or tables at private beaches to make the most of the experience. Her run from Monaco to Menton added an adventurous twist, as she crossed borders on foot while taking in the stunning coastal views.

Lyon’s Fête de la Musique

Lyon was a highlight for its vibrant Fête de la Musique. Emily was amazed by the lively atmosphere, with musicians on every corner and families enjoying the festivities late into the night. She appreciated the city’s safety and organization, noting how welcoming the event felt for all ages.

Tips for a Successful French Road Trip

Throughout the episode, Emily shared practical advice for travelers. Renting a car gave her family flexibility, but she highlighted the need to budget for tolls, which can add up quickly. She also recommended packing essentials like hand sanitizer and tissues for public restrooms, which aren’t always up to everyone’s standards.

For families, Emily suggested balancing active days with time to relax, like the slower-paced days they enjoyed in Arcachon. She also emphasized the importance of planning key activities in advance, especially during summer when popular spots fill up fast.

Ready to Plan Your Own Adventure?

Emily and Annie’s conversation is packed with inspiration and tips for exploring France with older teens. From paragliding in the Alps to lounging on Mediterranean beaches, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Listen to Episode 523 of the Join Us in France podcast to hear more about Emily’s adventures and plan your own unforgettable road trip through France!

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Discussed in this Episode

• Normandy
• American Cemetery
• Utah Beach
• Caen Memorial Museum
• Loire Valley
• Loches
• Château de Chenonceau
• Larivau
• Arcachon
• Dune du Pilat
• Lyon
• Chamonix
• Aiguille du Midi
• Annecy
• Rustignano (Italy)
• Menton
• Monaco
• Èze
• Cap d'Ail
• Eden Plage Mala
• Mont Blanc
• French Alps
• Halles de Bacalan (Bordeaux)
• private beaches in Cap d'Ail (Eden Plage Mala)
• Hot air ballooning at Château de Chenonceau
• hiking in Chamonix
• paragliding (parapente) in Chamonix and Dune du Pilat
• watching the Tour de France
• Fête de la Musique in Lyon
• running from Monaco to Menton
• Mont Blanc cable car ride
• Olympic torch relay in Chamonix

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Category: Family Travel