Set deep in the waves of the Pacific, the Indian, and the Atlantic Ocean, are the French Overseas Territories. No different than the mainland in terms of charm, they are even more beautiful as they offer something that the mainland never can, the gorgeous ocean waters. Meant for every nature lover, and a perfect destination for an adventure seeker, these territories are famous for its thick forests, the spectacular scenes of mountains and waterfalls, and a number of nature parks and reserves too. If you are looking for a unique and thrilling experience, you will also find some volcanic sites to explore along with water sports like scuba diving. Young travelers often engage in activities amongst the lush vegetation, like trekking, nature photography, camping, and more.
Some of the French Overseas Territories destinations are popular among honeymooners too. These islands offer a piece of paradise, with the turquoise waters, lush woods, elite resorts and more that make any romantic holiday even more special. Another aspect of the territories that allures couples into its isles are the food and the culture. Packed with the best flavors of France are the modest, chic restaurants, while the cultural scenes of the islands are intriguing, to say the least! Let’s take a look at some of the best overseas territories of France, and all that they offer!
Tropical French Overseas Territories
Here are some beautiful island destinations located in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Ocean. Read further to know about these amazing French overseas departments and territories:
Atlantic Ocean
Listed below are the French Overseas Territories lying in the Atlantic Ocean:
1. Guadeloupe
One of the most popular French Overseas Territory is the archipelago of Guadeloupe. With an active volcano that last erupted in 1976, it offers panoramic views of the ocean and the mountains. A must visit here is the Parc National de la Guadeloupe, which is home to the very gorgeous La Soufrière volcano. The islands also have beautiful urban areas, and hence the facilities available here are exquisite! Many cruises stop by here, so if you want to enjoy all of the French territories, you can opt for a cruise!
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2. Martinique
A perfect painting of all that is mountainous, Martinique is an elite island. For those looking for a luxurious vacation, this is the place to go to! Boasting of a spectacular city area, a stretch of white sandy beach, and restaurants serving the most flavorsome food, it is a perfect destination for couples. The city is known for its buzzing energy, whether it be the crowd of the locals or even the tourists. It is the second most popular territory after Guadeloupe. The island offers a range of activities from golf to tennis in the best of facilities.
3. Saint-Barthélemy
Soft sandy beaches, a bright and vibrant jungle, and exquisite French decor, Saint-Barthélemy is like a small tropical France. Sailboats gliding into the deep waters, the woods fragrant with Frangipanis, and the streets lined with the prettiest cafes is a picture right out of a dream! Saint-Barthélemy is a destination for people who like luxury, and are looking for a change of pace in life. The laid-back attitude of this destination is what allures people onto the isle. It is also popular for its water sports, and activities like kitesurfing, diving, paragliding, snorkeling, and scuba diving can be enjoyed best from this destination.
Some other Overseas Territories of France in the Atlantic Ocean are Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
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Indian Ocean
Listed below are the beautiful territories that are located in the Indian Ocean:
4. Reunion island
One of the most charming isles of the overseas territories of France, Reunion Island is famous for its lush green, cool forests, cliffs overlooking the turquoise waves, and activities for the adventurous, as well as the romantic soul. Hiking is very popular here as the isle is a combination of the most exciting mountains and forests. As such, mountain biking, horse riding, and paragliding can also be enjoyed. Summits are one of the most loved views and there are a number of points all over the isle from where these views can be enjoyed. Reunion Island is also a diver’s paradise, and scuba diving and other water sports are the main attraction here!
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5. Mayotte
Located in the lapping waves of the Indian Ocean, ornate with archaic volcanic mountains, a cluster of trees, and wonderfully deep ravines is Mayotte. Most of the isle is a forest and hiking is the main attraction here. The forests are rich in a number species of plants, some of which are very rare. Orchids can be found in abundance here, and vanilla is another plant that is grown here. With a huge forest comes a population of animals too. Some of the species that are found here include the roussette and lemur. The best time to visit it is the dry season. It is from May to November. It is the cooler season, and thus perfect for all kinds of activities. The coral reefs around the island are a delight to explore too.
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6. French Southern and Antarctic Lands
The French Southern and Antarctic Lands are a group of islands that offer exciting opportunities for exploration. From volcanoes to woods, corals to marine life, these isles are the best place to explore the best of nature. When it comes to accommodation on these islands, it is very difficult to find accommodation, and tourists usually consider staying on the mainland. They are perfect for a day’s trip, so do plan a vacation here!
Pacific Ocean
Listed below are the gorgeous green territories lying in the Pacific Ocean:
7. French Polynesia
Women dressed beautifully in green, with large hibiscus flowers braided into their locks, the stretch of a blonde beautiful sandy beach, and the spectacular turquoise waves lapping gently, French Polynesia is a land that is dreamt by all. Pure, lively, and exciting, this is a group of 118 islands that offer plenty of opportunities for every kind of traveler. Houses erected in the waters over stilts, streets lined with cafes and boutiques, islands surrounded by beautiful coral reef, there is nothing that French Polynesia doesn’t offer. Another attraction of this destination is the volcanic peaks, and the spectacular cliffs overlooking the ocean waters.
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8. New Caledonia
A blend of the best of sophisticated France, and the energy of the tropics, New Caledonia is a wonderful Overseas Territory of France. It has become a World Heritage Site, and it stays true to the title! Cuisines that breathe of style and class, resorts that boast of the best facilities, and the beaches lined with shacks serving exciting food and drinks… what more does one need! This destination is popular amongst honeymooners, for the quiet patches of the island that are perfect to enjoy some solitary romantic moments.
9. Wallis and Futuna
Located near Fiji and Samoa are a group of virgin islands. Known for their natural beauty that remains untouched, tourism here is slowly on the rise. The origin of most of the islands is volcanic, and hence the fertile land has abundant vegetation of all kinds. A unique aspect of these islands is that they lack all kinds of public transport while renting a car is possible. For the smaller islands, they can best be explored on foot!
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Just like France, the Overseas Territories of France too have a certain charm. Packed with nature’s best blue and green hues, as well as the tropical colors, these beauties are for all kinds of travelers. Come here to explore everything from the coral reefs, to the fish, the mountains and the volcanic peaks, and the forests and cities. Shop, eat, and explore to your heart’s content! Book now with TravelTriangle!
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