Summer is coming up, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to start planning your summer getaway to France! When you travel with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle you can bring the whole family along, including your four-legged best friend. Once you arrive you’ll be spoilt with great things to see and do. Looking for some inspiration? Read on for our guide to the best attractions to enjoy with your dog this summer.
Carnac
Where: Brittany
What: Found on the south coast of Brittany, Carnac is a small town that is most famous for its prehistoric rock arrangements. Around 3,000 megaliths, dating from 4,000 BC, are aligned across a few fields, forming unusual patterns and clusters. Nobody knows exactly why or how they got there, but many think that they have some kind of religious or spiritual significance. Made up of all kinds of rocks, both big and small, the Ménec and Kermario alignments are the most popular groups to visit. Being outdoors, this a great place to visit with your dog, especially during the warm summer months.
Flea markets
Where: All over France
What: No matter where you go in France, whether you’re visiting a big city or a small town, you’re sure to find at least one market. Markets are a big part of French culture; they’re where you can pick up fresh produce, local artisan products, antique furniture, bric-a-brac and more. While the food markets are off-limits for you and your furry friend, you can certainly bring your dog to any of France’s many flea markets. Porte de Vanves in Paris is often cited as the biggest and best in France, with over 300 vendors selling all kinds of wares. Further south, Nice’s Cours Saleya has everything from vintage clothing to furniture.
Browse the stalls at a French flea market. © Flickr user Ralf Smallkaa
Bastille Day
Where: Nice
What: Every July, France celebrates the most important event in the French calendar: Bastille Day. On the 14th of the month, towns, cities and villages come alive with parades, parties and fireworks to commemorate Napoléon Bonaparte’s Storming of the Bastille, an important event in the French Revolution. One of the best celebrations happens in Nice. From morning ‘til night, the city is host to magnificent events, including a military parade, dance parties and an incredible fireworks display. Your pooch may not be too keen on the fireworks or dance parties, but you can bring them along to the Promenade des Anglais for the parade – it’s a must-see for anyone in Nice on the 14th of July!
Nîmes
Where: Languedoc-Roussillon
What: Situated between the Cévennes mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, Nîmes is one of the loveliest cities in the South of France, and it’s a great place to visit with your four-legged friend. The city has a long and interesting history dating back to the Roman Empire, which is why you’ll find an abundance of beautiful architecture. You and your dog can wander the streets, past the awe-inspiring Roman Arena (the best-preserved of its kind), The Maison Carrée building and many other spectacular monuments. The Jardins de la Fontaine, an amazing 18th Century garden, is another lovely place to visit with your dog.
Explore Nîmes and its beautiful buildings. © Flickr user Poom!
Pack your bags
With Eurotunnel Le Shuttle you can travel from Folkestone to Calais in just 35 minutes, and from there, you can explore all that France has to offer you and your pooch.