After 17 years living in France and writing guidebooks, I've discovered that the country's islands offer some of the best summer escapes, far from tourist hotspots. From Corsica's dramatic peaks to Oléron's sandy shores, each has unique charm for beach lovers, foodies, and adventurers.
Corsica, France's largest island, boasts over 200 beaches, with Saleccia, Palombaggia, and Rondinara ranking among the world's top 10. Its cuisine blends Mediterranean flavours with local specialties like figatellu sausage and brocciu cheese, while the GR20 hiking trail offers a 113-mile sea-to-sea adventure. Despite a lack of innovative hotels, Airbnb rentals provide friendly alternatives.
Oléron, the second-largest island, features wild Atlantic beaches on one side and sheltered coves on the other. Cyclists can explore 75 miles of bike paths through timeless villages, while foodies savour Marennes oysters and local wines. Campsites and family-friendly holiday villages bask in over 2,000 hours of annual sunshine.
Île d'Yeu, a small Atlantic isle off Vendée, offers Caribbean-quality beaches and a wild feel. New hotels like La Mission combine ancient architecture with e-biking and spa escapes, while converted fishermen's cottages capture the island's seafaring soul. Activities include exploring tidal rock pools on the west coast or family-friendly coves to the east.
