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France's Secret Villages: Top Hidden Gems for Summer 2020 Holidays

For summer 2020 vacations, travelers crave seaside escapes, mountain retreats, and expansive green spaces. After a confined spring, families and friends yearn for restorative getaways. Staying domestic in France delivers authentic relaxation without international borders.

The pandemic has reshaped travel preferences, with 8 out of 10 French travelers opting for destinations beyond major cities—think mountains, coastlines, and countryside. Dordogne and Ardèche rank among the top five trendy spots for July-August 2020. Airbnb is championing this shift through a campaign boosting local French travel.

Summer 2020: Must-Visit Secret Villages in France

Airbnb partnered with the Association of Rural Mayors of France (AMRF) to launch "Secret Villages", a campaign "to support this positive trend for rural destinations, encourage French travelers to rediscover their country beyond main tourist hubs, and create economic opportunities for diverse local communities across France."

From June 13 to July 21, Airbnb spotlights off-the-beaten-track villages selected for their stunning beauty and authenticity. Nestled by waterways, in hinterlands, mountains, and regional parks, these are exceptional spots to explore this summer.

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