Pictured: The incredible array of archipelagos and islands that lie off the coast of mainland France
Fairytale ruins, heavenly beaches and poignant reminders of World War II: the spectacular range of secret archipelagos and islands that lie off the coast of mainland France have been revealed. The French islands are rich in history, with pirates and English invaders among those who arrived on their shores. Wild and verdant Port-Cros in the Mediterranean - its national park has three scenic trails On the beaches of Ile de Ré, you'll see bunkers from when German forces fortified the island during World War II< p class="author-section byline-plain">By and
But as we reveal here, there are many others. France is surrounded by a spectacular array of archipelagos and islets, some dotted with charming villages and others home to nothing but wildly beautiful flora and fauna.
Many of France's islands are steeped in history, with centuries past having seen the arrival of raiding pirates, English invaders and fierce fighting in World War II.
Furthermore, time has seen some French islands transform from barren outcrops into glamorous paradises for the rich and famous, with five-star hotels, busy marinas of yachts and tennis courts taking root.
Here, MailOnline Travel brings together some of the most fascinating - and idyllic - islands in mainland France. They are guaranteed to inspire wanderlust.
Picture-perfect islands that include the magical Mont Saint-Michel, which is crowned by a historic abbey, Ile d'If and its fascinating prison, and the island retreat where Napoleon spent his last days before his exile to Saint Helena.
Fort du Guesclin, Brittany< /p>
But as we reveal here, there are many others. France is surrounded by a spectacular array of archipelagos and islets, some dotted with charming villages and others home to nothing but wildly beautiful flora and fauna.
Many of France's islands are steeped in history, with centuries past having seen the arrival of raiding pirates, English invaders and fierce fighting in World War II.
Furthermore, time has seen some French islands transform from barren outcrops into glamorous paradises for the rich and famous, with five-star hotels, busy marinas of yachts and tennis courts taking root.
Here, MailOnline Travel brings together some of the most fascinating - and idyllic - islands in mainland France. They are guaranteed to inspire wanderlust.
Picture-perfect islands that include the magical Mont Saint-Michel, which is crowned by a historic abbey, Ile d'If and its fascinating prison, and the island retreat where Napoleon spent his last days before his exile to Saint Helena.
Fort du Guesclin, Brittany< /p>
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