This Underrated French Village Is A Great Addition To Your European Bucket List

France is full of splendid sights, historic locations, and delicious cuisine, and its cities and countryside take prominent spots on people's bucket lists of travel destinations. One common downside of vacations to France is the crowds, as cities like Paris and Nice swell with visitors, and iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower are no strangers to long lines. If you want to skip the lines and find refuge somewhere niche, plan a trip to the village of Talloires in southeastern France. Whether you make it a day trip or stay a few nights, you'll find that this beautiful French destination is a sweet delight.

The village has been inhabited since Neolithic times, meaning this hidden gem has long served as a home and passing point for people for centuries. You can follow in the footsteps of the many who have been lucky enough to witness its beauty and explore its quaint streets, and you'll find magnificent views of Lake Annecy, Dents de Lanfon, and the Tournette mountains. If you're looking for a quiet slice of French magnificence, look no further than Talloires.

Talloires is small, with a population of just under 2,000, meaning you'll mostly find locals meandering the streets rather than tourists making long lines. It's not a place to go if you're looking to check out museums and galleries, but rather an ideal spot for embracing a slower pace of life. You can spend your days relaxing along the shore at Lake Annecy or, if you're feeling adventurous, participate in one of the many water sports available.

Nautic Fontaine offers a variety of opportunities for fun in the water. Take a water skiing or wakeboarding lesson, rent a kayak or paddle boat, or even take a guided boat tour. The company consistently receives high ratings and good reviews, so you can expect quality services. If you'd rather stay on land, check out the Talloires Abbey, which was founded way back in the 11th century. You can also visit the gorgeous L'Eglise Saint-Germain l'Ermitage, which has been around since 1780.

Talloires is a wonderful village for foodies. In typical French style, you'll find many restaurants offering exquisite food. For example, The Auberge du Père Bise is run by Michelin-starred chef Jean Sulpice, the youngest French chef ever to receive that prestigious honor. Other restaurants worth visiting include Talloires Abbey, which is known for its sweeping views and fabulous wine, and Le Chalet du Lac, which garners rave reviews.

If you can't get enough of the town's calmness, there's no harm in booking a stay at one of the hotels. Beau Site Talloires offers gorgeous views of the lake and delightful relaxing spaces, such as the sauna and hammam. The previously mentioned Auberge du Père Bise is also a five-star hotel with a luxurious spa and unique rooms.

If you're looking for a quiet escape with stunning views, the magic of Talloires is just the spot for you. Note that low temperatures are expected in the winter, so keep that in mind when deciding when you'll take your trip. Wrap up warm, and let the romance run wild.