Romantic Weekend: 10 Unusual Getaway Ideas In France

Want to surprise your loved one without necessarily traveling halfway across the globe? Good news, France is full of gems for a weekend for two that is far from ordinary. Treehouse cabins, transparent bubbles under the stars, vintage caravans, or a night in a lighthouse... the choices are vast (and sometimes bewildering). Here are 10 ideas for unusual getaways to rekindle the flame and create memories like no other. A little note before we begin: the unusual is on the rise. According to the Observatory of Unusual Accommodations, this market generated 430 million euros in 2023, an increase of 65% compared to 2021. And above all, these atypical stays have become the domain of couples: by 2025, 68% of bookings were for two travelers. So, you’re not alone in searching for a cozy nest to reconnect.

Choose the natural cocoon of a cottage in the forest.

Let's start with a safe bet for couples who want to unwind without giving up comfort. A stay in a cottage in the heart of a forested area perfectly meets this desire for a romantic getaway that combines nature and well-being. You'll often find an indoor water park, a spa with sauna and hammam, and plenty to do even when it rains.

These resorts have the advantage of being easily accessible and suitable for all budgets, from simple cottages to premium versions with private hot tubs. For couples who want to book without hassle, it's an ideal option. And if you prefer the salty sea air to the forest, take a look at our selection of the 5 dream beaches for a romantic getaway in France.

Sleeping in a treehouse to relive childhood.

It is the undisputed star of unusual tourism. Treehouses top the list of the most booked accommodations in France, and it's easy to see why. Waking up in the treetops, opening the shutters to a sea of foliage, listening to the silence (a true silence, not the one from the city)... there is something irresistibly romantic about it.

Some treehouses offer great comfort with a private spa on the terrace, while others focus on a return to the purest roots. It's up to you to decide. Just know that an accommodation equipped with a hot tub typically rents for much more than a version without a spa, but the experience of a warm bath facing the forest is often worth it.

Spend a night under the stars in a transparent bubble.

Just behind the cabin, the transparent bubble is increasingly enchanting lovers. The concept is simple: a 360-degree room, inflated like a cocoon, allowing you to fall asleep while counting the stars. On clear nights, it's simply magical.

These translucent domes are usually nestled in remote corners, away from light pollution. Some locations even offer telescopes to observe the sky up close. It's a perfect idea for slightly dreamy couples or to celebrate a special occasion (like an anniversary).

Treat yourself to an unusual getaway in a caravan or a yurt.

Do you love the bohemian spirit? The gypsy caravan and the Mongolian yurt are waiting for you. These charming nomadic accommodations have that little extra soul that transforms a simple overnight stay into a stationary journey. Weathered wood, colorful fabrics, crackling wood stove... the atmosphere is as cozy as can be.

They can be found everywhere, from the meadows of the Massif Central to the Breton clearings. The caravan is particularly appealing to couples in search of authenticity, who want to slow down and savor the present moment without fuss. And let's admit it, the decor is wonderfully suited for souvenir photos.

Experience a timeless night in a castle.

For lovers who dream of princes and princesses, why not book a room in a real castle? France has thousands of them, and many have been transformed into charming hotels or refined guesthouses. Turrets, stone staircases, English gardens... the setting makes all the difference.

Some establishments take luxury to the next level by offering candlelit dinners in a vaulted room or carriage rides around the estate. It's an opportunity to play the lord or lady of the manor for a weekend and feel a bit like you're in a fairy tale (without the dragon, hopefully).

Sleeping with your feet in the water: floating cabin and stilt house.

What if you spent the night rocked by the sound of water? Floating cabins and stilt houses are among the most sought-after accommodations for couples. Set on a pond, lake, or peaceful river, they offer complete privacy, far from everything.

Many are accessible only by boat, which adds a delightful sense of exclusivity. In the morning, you enjoy your coffee on the dock, feet above the water, watching the dragonflies dance. It's hard to find a more exotic experience just a few hours from home.

Try the troglodyte experience or the converted cave.

Here’s an idea that is truly out of the ordinary. Sleeping in a troglodyte dwelling, carved into the rock, offers you a night in coolness and absolute tranquility, in a fascinating mineral setting. The Loire Valley and Périgord are particularly rich in this regard.

These ancient accommodations have been cleverly designed to combine the raw charm of stone with modern comfort. The atmosphere is subdued, almost timeless. An experience to be had at least once, especially if you love places steeped in history.

Breathe in fresh air in a treehouse with a spa.

We mentioned the private spa a little earlier, and it's no coincidence. The hot tub is the most sought-after feature by travelers looking for something unusual, ahead of all other criteria. The reason is simple: nothing beats a moment of relaxation for two in warm water, especially after a day of exploring.

Whether it's in a cabin, a bubble, or a dome, the presence of a private jacuzzi radically transforms the stay. It's the little luxury that makes all the difference, the one we treat ourselves to for a special occasion or simply to indulge. Expect to budget a bit more, but it's worth it.

Sleep in a truly original place: lighthouse, train, or barrel.

For couples looking for a story to tell, France offers plenty of truly original accommodations. A night in an old lighthouse facing the ocean, in a converted train carriage, in a giant barrel, or even in a cabin suspended on the side of a cliff... thrill-seekers will be delighted.

These unusual places sometimes require booking well in advance (demand is high and spots are limited). But what a pleasure it is to say, "that night, we slept in a lighthouse"! These shared memories are often the ones that bring a couple closer together.

Combine the unusual and local flavors with a gourmet getaway.

Finally, why not combine unusual accommodation with culinary delights? Many estates offer packages that include tastings of local products, baskets of regional goods delivered to the cabin, or romantic dinners prepared by a chef. Wine regions, in particular, are full of gems like this.

Imagine a weekend in a cabin perched among the vines, with tastings of the estate's wines and platters of local charcuterie at sunset... This is sure to reconcile epicureans and romantics. The French terroir certainly has plenty to entice lovers seeking flavorful experiences.

How to choose the perfect unusual getaway?

Before booking, take the time to identify your desires. Are you primarily looking for peace and nature, or rather comfort and services? Budget obviously plays a role, knowing that accommodations with private spas are significantly more expensive. Also consider the season: May ranks second among the most booked periods, just behind summer, so plan ahead if you're aiming for spring.

One last piece of advice, be sure to check the access conditions and included amenities (heating, indoor bathroom, toilets...). Some very "Robinson Crusoe" places may not be suitable for everyone. But whatever your choice, the main thing is to share a moment just for the two of you, away from the routine.

Note: remember to book on average 1.5 months before your desired date, as observed on major booking platforms. For highly sought-after romantic weekends (Valentine's Day, long weekends in May), don't hesitate to plan even earlier...

Note Well

• Unusual accommodation: atypical lodging that deviates from traditional hotel standards (cabin, bubble, yurt, caravan, lighthouse...), designed to offer an original experience in nature or in a unique setting.
• Private spa: wellness area (hot tub, sauna...) reserved for the exclusive use of the occupants of the accommodation, as opposed to shared spaces.
• Cave dwelling: habitat carved directly into the rock, common in certain limestone regions such as the Loire Valley or Périgord.
• Light pollution: excess artificial light that obscures the stars, which is why transparent bubbles are installed far from cities.