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Category: Off the Beaten Track in France
Looking for a “Memorable France” itinerary that goes beyond the usual tourist stops? In episode 547 of the Join Us in France Travel Podcast, host Annie Sargent talks with guest Ken Ives about his epic 25-day trip through France. Ken is from California and planned a deeply personal journey filled with history, nature, and lesser-known gems.
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If you’re searching for “historic towns in France,” “emotional WW2 sites,” “best scenic drives in France,” or “unique places to visit in southern France,” this episode is for you. Let’s break down what made Ken’s trip so memorable — and why you might want to follow in his footsteps.
Hotels Ken Used on this Trip
Paris, Hôtel Terminus Lyon: across from Gare de Lyon, spacious by Paris standards, lots of nearby restaurants.
Fontainebleau, Ibis Budget: basic and affordable with free parking, automated check-in if front desk is closed.
Poitiers, Garrigae Manoir de Beauvoir: upscale manor house near N147, large room, formal dining, golf resort setting.
Limoges, Ibis Styles Limoges Centre: well-maintained Ibis hotel, clean with free street parking, restaurant closed Sundays.
Rocamadour, Hôtel le Belvédère: great view of Rocamadour, clean and spacious room, restaurant on-site but not tested.
Cabrerets, Hôtel Restaurant des Grottes: riverside setting with large rooms, rustic charm, restaurant and pool on-site.
Carcassonne, Les Chevaliers Hotel, modern hotel with balcony view of the cité, clean and near Place Gambetta.
Béziers, Hôtel Paul Riquet, small and dated rooms, good central location, helpful staff carried bags upstairs.
Le-Grau-du-Roi, Hôtel Splendid Camargue, beachfront hotel with sunset views, upgrade for ocean-view balcony, tricky parking.
Starting in Fontainebleau
Ken began his journey in Fontainebleau, famous for its royal château and surrounding forest. He stayed in the heart of the town and explored the Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This château is often overshadowed by Versailles, but it’s every bit as grand and much less crowded.
Hikers and history lovers take note: Fontainebleau is also known for its rocky forest trails, once used by royalty and now loved by climbers and walkers. It was the perfect quiet start to a packed itinerary.
The Power of Oradour-sur-Glane
One of the most moving stops in Ken’s itinerary was Oradour-sur-Glane, a martyr village in the Haute-Vienne department destroyed by the Nazis in 1944. The ruined town has been preserved exactly as it was, and Ken describes the emotional impact of walking its silent streets.
If you’re interested in WWII history in France or want to understand France’s path to recovery after the war, this is a must-visit. Ken’s description of the burnt-out cars and the intact church walls will stay with you.
Wine and Views in Sancerre
Ken then explored Sancerre, one of France’s most beautiful wine towns. Known for its Sauvignon Blanc, this hilltop village offers spectacular views over the Loire Valley. Ken enjoyed walking through vineyards, sampling local wines, and just soaking in the peaceful rural atmosphere.
If you’re looking for “best wine villages in France” or “Loire Valley without the crowds,” Sancerre is a fantastic choice. It’s also great for travelers who like to take things slow.
Ancient Art at Pech Merle Cave
In the Lot Valley, Ken visited the Pech Merle cave, one of the few prehistoric painted caves still open to the public. The cave paintings here are over 29,000 years old. Seeing handprints, spotted horses, and mammoths in such a dark and intimate space had a huge emotional impact on him.
If you're into prehistoric France or searching for caves in the Dordogne and Lot regions, Pech Merle is unforgettable. This is “Memorable France” at its most ancient and awe-inspiring.
The Wild Side: Camargue
Ken also made it to the Camargue, a wild marshy area near the Mediterranean where you’ll see white horses, pink flamingos, and black bulls. He based himself in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and explored this unique ecosystem by car and on foot.
If you're planning a road trip in the Provence or Occitanie regions, the Camargue is a great detour. It offers a totally different experience of France — untamed, windswept, and deeply connected to nature.
Why This Is a “Memorable France” Journey
Ken’s 25-day trip covered much more than just tourist hotspots. He sought out meaningful places, both scenic and historic. From Poitiers to the Lot Valley, from medieval villages to haunting WWII sites, Ken explored France with purpose and curiosity.
This episode is filled with practical travel advice too. Ken shares tips on navigating French highways, finding good accommodations in rural France, and balancing history with nature.
Listen to the Episode
If you’re building your own “Memorable France” itinerary, this episode is a great place to start. Hear directly from Ken about what moved him, surprised him, and made him fall in love with France.
Listen here: Episode 547 – Memorable France: Exploring Historic and Scenic Locations
Final Thoughts
France is more than just Paris and Provence. Ken Ives’ journey shows how deep and rich the experience can be when you go off the beaten path. Whether you're into French castles, historic war memorials, prehistoric caves, or just want a peaceful walk through a vineyard, France delivers.
Table of Contents for this Episode
More Episodes about Going Off the Beaten Track in France
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Transcript Guest NotesCategory: Off the Beaten Track in France