Greece, Portugal and Spain may be more popular island getaways, but why not France?
Many vacationers opt for the famous French Riviera and it’s not only Hollywood’s elite attending the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival.
Between Marseille, Nice, Cannes, and among many others forming a treasure trove of paradisal beaches dotting the scenic coastline.
Located just off the Vendée coast of western France lies France’s lesser-known paradise, a gorgeous island free from the hustle and bustle of Paris and the hordes of tourists visiting other European islands.
Being dubbed the ‘Majorca of France‘, this blissful blip on the map is the ultimate escape from summer crowds.
Discover France’s ‘Mini’ Majorca
Mixed takes are pouring in regarding the Olympic games as Paris hosts the world this summer.
In turn, many travelers (Parisians themselves) are getting the heck out of dodge to avoid the takeover.
Paris is undoubtedly the most visited destination in France, but it will undoubtedly lose some of its allure during this time.
This makes France’s hidden gems even more appealing with Ile d’Yeu being among them. As July has zoomed by, there’s limited time to prep an epic trip, but this relatively unknown island is the perfect place.
Mixing in the Zen-like nature of Spain’s Majorca with 30 incredible beaches and overall chill vibes, the only thing missing, really, is the iconic La Seu.
Home to around 5,000 residents, at any given time, there’s a high probability of even less tourists.
Never a reality in Mykonos or other notable islands, now is your chance to dip your toes in crystalline waters, lounge in the sun on spacious beaches, and wander charming villages without bumping into fellow tourists.
Beaches here are highly underrated, especially without an endless sea of beachgoers in many common beach vacation destinations.
Here is the place to relax while also fighting the urge to explore without fear of losing your desired spot.
Venturing down the coastline, you’ll find a selection of beautiful small coves and wide-open beaches.
Ile d’Yeu’s Unexpected Delights
As tourists melt into their shoes in Greece, Italy, and other countries, Ile d’Yeu consistently stays in the 70s through summer.
Enjoy the ocean breeze and much more tolerable weather without the need to find cool off indoors.
The great weather should activate your sense of wanderlust to absorb all Ile d’Yeu has to offer, and there are definitely some unexpected delights.
For history buffs and Instagrammers, a visit to the 14th-century Le Vieux Château is a must!
Perched seaside atop elevated bluffs, this well-preserved historic site instantly takes you back in time.
Open to the public with guided tours for a small entry fee of $5.50, the price of admission is beyond worth it. Who needs Scotland anyway?
As a whole, France is world-renowned for phenomenal cuisine, and your expectations shouldn’t differ here.
Among the most noteworthy delicacies of Ile d’Yeu is a savory shellfish dish, Patagos, served with a flavorful creamy parsley and garlic sauce.
And as if you needed a push to get dessert in France (never a bad idea), the island’s tarte aux pruneaux, also referred to as “wedding tarts”, are the perfect cap to a great meal.
How To Visit Ile d’Yeu
If you happen to be road-tripping through France, there’s good news for you. Yes, you can hop aboard a ferry with your vehicle.
The bad news is there are few roads on the island, so many agree it’s not worth the hassle.
Passenger ferries disembark from Fromentine—Port-Joinville, which operates year-round, but travelers also have season options from Saint Gilles Croix de Vie (April to September) and Barbatre (July and August).
For up-to-date ferry ticket prices, click here.
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