The Grand Tour through France: From Alsace to the Côte d'Azur and back through the heart of France.
Description
Experience an amazing 21-day road trip through France; from charming Alsace via the impressive Alps to the sunny Côte d'Azur, then travel back via the volcanic heart of France and romantic Paris. Enjoy at your own pace and discover the most beautiful routes of the country with a comfortable rental motorhome. Bring your own bikes on the bike rack or rent extra bikes, giving you even more freedom to explore everything.
Our adventures always start and end centrally at Beijs Roadtrips in Rijen (perfectly situated between Tilburg and Breda). Thanks to this ideal home base in North Brabant, we gladly welcome holidaymakers from all over the Netherlands every week. Haven't rented a motorhome with us (yet)? Then let this dream route inspire you anyway and start your journey wherever you like!
The complete Grand Tour itinerary
Day 1: Maastricht and surroundings
You depart late in the afternoon from our pick-up location in Rijen and drive relaxed towards the first stop for an overnight stay near Maastricht. Visit the atmospheric Vrijthof or one of the beautiful basilicas. You can also find a motorhome pitch near Vaals and visit the Drielandenpunt (where Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany meet).
Day 2-3: Nancy
After the first overnight stay, we cross the border towards Nancy. This city is a perfect stop during this motorhome road trip because of the mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Admire the beautiful Place Stanislas (World Heritage), the fountains, and the Arc Héré Triumphal Arch. Just outside the city, you can enjoy walking or cycling in the Lorraine Regional Nature Park.
Day 3-5: Colmar and Alsace
On the third day, you travel further south towards Colmar. This authentic French town in Alsace is known for its picturesque half-timbered houses, winding canals, and flower-filled streets. Take a boat trip through the “Petite Venise” district and enjoy the medieval buildings. Alsace is famous for its wines; so be sure to visit a winery! Also drive past the villages of Turckheim, Eguisheim, or Neuf-Brisach along the famous wine route.
Day 5-7: Annecy and the French Alps
We drive on towards the ‘Pearl of the French Alps’: Annecy. This city lies on the crystal-clear Lake Annecy and seems to come straight from a postcard. Visit Le Palais de l’Île or the castle. Around the lake, you can walk or cycle (e.g., 'Le Semnoz' or 'Col de La Forclaz') with amazing views of Mont Blanc. Swimming, canoeing, or paragliding? You can do it all here.
Day 7-9: Grenoble and Route de Napoleon
The ancient capital of Dauphiné is nestled between mountains up to 3000m high. The main attraction is the old Bastille Grenoble fortress, accessible on foot or by cable car (“les Bulles”), for a panoramic view. Further south, you will find Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet with spectacular, swaying suspension bridges. From Grenoble, you then follow a large part of the famous Route de Napoleon (in the opposite direction).
Day 9-11: Gorges du Verdon & Castellane
An absolute must in Provence! The Gorges du Verdon (the "Grand Canyon of Europe") is a breathtaking gorge 25 km long and sometimes 700 meters deep. Perfect for hiking, kayaking, or climbing. The charming medieval town of Castellane forms the "gateway" to this gorge. Climb the limestone rock (the "Roc") here to the chapel for a magical view.
Day 11-14: Cannes on the Côte d’Azur
We drive on to the sunny Côte d’Azur and visit Cannes. Discover the roots of this former fishing village in the old Le Suquet district and the medieval castle. Then stroll along the 2 km long Boulevard de la Croisette, past luxury boutiques and marinas full of superyachts. Naturally, this is also the perfect place for relaxing beach days!
Day 14-16: Volcans d’Auvergne & Clermont-Ferrand
We are in the deep south, so we slowly start the journey back. We make a few more driving hours per day. Stop at Clermont-Ferrand and discover the dormant volcanoes in Parc Naturel Regional des Volcans d’Auvergne. Climb the highest peak (Puy de Sancy, 1887m) or visit the crater lake Lac Chambon. In the city itself, you can admire the dark lava stone incorporated into the houses, fountains, and the impressive jet-black cathedral.
Day 16-19: Paris
Of course, we visit the capital: Paris, the city of love! Climb the Eiffel Tower, walk past Notre Dame, Sacré-Coeur, or the Arc de Triomphe. Visit the Louvre or relax in Les Jardins du Luxembourg. The possibilities for culture and romance are endless.
Day 19-21: Reims (Champagne region)
Reims is the champagne capital of France. The city is rich in beautiful buildings such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Basilique Saint Remi. An ideal last destination to soak up culture and, of course, taste a delicious glass of locally produced champagne.
Day 21-22: Return to the Netherlands (Rijen)
From Reims, you drive back to the Netherlands at your leisure. Tip: Book a relaxing last overnight stay at Luxury Minicamping Petit013 in Tilburg, before returning the motorhome to Beijs Roadtrips in Rijen.
Book your customized Grand Tour?
You may use the information above completely free of charge as inspiration for your tour. Would you like to hand over the planning? Then request a quote for a fully catered road trip! You decide the route, sights, and the number of kilometers per day, and we will reserve the most beautiful motorhome pitches and campsites for you in advance. Feel free to contact us without obligation and ask about the possibilities. Together we create your dream holiday!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does this motorhome route through France begin and end?
The route starts and ends at Beijs Roadtrips in Rijen (North Brabant). Thanks to our central location between Breda and Tilburg, this is an ideal starting point for holidaymakers from all over the Netherlands.
