Moving to France is about embracing French life, getting involved and adding new dimensions to your lifestyle. Whether you’re retiring, relocating with your family or buying a holiday home, leisure in France offers something for everyone. With its cultural richness, vast landscapes and love of sports and the arts, this is a country where you’ll never find yourself short of something to do. If you want to see what a French life can be, you should investigate sports and leisure in France.
Getting involved in your local community is not only a great way to avoid isolation, it’s also one of the best ways to integrate and feel connected in your new home. From sports clubs to creative societies, France’s social landscape is welcoming and vibrant.
Contents
- Sports in France
- Surfing in France
- Skiing and mountain activities
- Freshwater and seaside leisure
- Football culture in France
- Tennis and court sports
- Cycling trails and touring
- Creative and social clubs
- Frequently asked questions
Football is one of the best ways to enjoy sports and leisure in France
Sports in France
France makes it incredibly easy to live an active lifestyle. Thanks to its temperate climate, generous public funding and community investment, there are sports clubs and activities available in every corner of the country – from the tiniest village to the largest suburb.
If you already love a particular sport, you’re likely to find a local group. If not, now’s the perfect opportunity to try something new. From pétanque in the village square to sailing weekends on the Atlantic, there’s truly something for everyone. Sporting culture in France spans ages and backgrounds. It’s just part of life here.
Municipal facilities – such as swimming pools, athletics tracks and gymnasiums – are generally well-kept and inexpensive to use. You’ll also find that many communes encourage participation with subsidised memberships known as tarifs reduits, particularly for seniors and families.
Whether you’re aiming to stay fit, socialise or just escape daily routine, joining a local sports club can be both fun and a doorway into French community life. And, even if you aren’t looking to get involved, you can still spectate.
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Surfing in France
Think surfing is just for bronzed teenagers? Think again. On France’s Atlantic coast – especially in regions like the Landes, Vendée and Basque Country – surfing is embraced by all ages and demographics. Sports and leisure in France can mean many different things to different people, but surfing is widely popular.
More people over 50 are taking up the sport, thanks in part to better wetsuit design and over-40s lessons tailored to beginners. Several surf schools now offer women-only weeks or courses for mature beginners, often with an emphasis on fun, confidence and community, not competition.
France’s surf coast, stretching from La Rochelle to Biarritz, offers some of the best beach breaks in Europe. Hossegor in particular is known for its excellent waves – it plays host to annual surfing championships yet remains beginner-friendly outside peak events.
Even if you’re not looking to ride the waves daily, living near surf culture brings a laid-back lifestyle, year-round outdoor cafes and an infectious energy to coastal life.
Skiing and mountain activities
The French Alps are world-famous – and deservedly so. With towering peaks, reliable snowfall and modern ski resorts, it’s little surprise that France is one of the world’s top skiing destinations.
However, living near the mountains isn’t just about winter thrills. Throughout the year the slopes transform, sports and leisure in France changes from season to season. Many resorts are now developing year-round offers, making them attractive for those seeking four seasons of adventure. From hiking and mountain-biking to zip-lining and paragliding, summer in the Alps can be just as invigorating as winter.
Prices vary depending on location. If you’re looking for snow-sure altitude and a ski-in, ski-out property, you’ll likely need a budget of €400,000 or more. But go just a few valleys over and you’ll find charming villages with access to the same ski areas at a fraction of the cost.
There’s also more budget-friendly skiing in regions like the Pyrenees, the Massif Central or even Jura. In short – you don’t need to be a millionaire to enjoy ski life.
When it comes to sports and leisure in France, why not relax by the beach
Freshwater and seaside leisure
One of the real treats of living in France is access to freshwater and coastal fun. With thousands of kilometres of rivers, lakes and sea coast, there’s water recreation for every taste.
River swimming is surprisingly popular, especially in regions like the Dordogne or Ardèche. France’s stricter controls on agricultural runoff mean rivers are cleaner than many visitors expect. You’ll often see wild swimmers, kayakers or paddle boarders sharing the same stretch of water on a summer afternoon.
Canyoning – a blend of hiking, swimming and rock-sliding – is another thrilling way to explore river valleys. Many outdoor centres run safe, family-friendly versions that offer a real adrenaline kick.
Carp fishing lovers in particular are drawn to France’s vast network of lakes, where you’ll find stunning scenery and peaceful retreats. Properties near sought-after fishing lakes can be in high demand.
France’s seaside also has much to offer, from sailing in Brittany to kitesurfing in Occitanie. You can even sail from the Atlantic to the Med via the scenic Canal du Midi.
Football culture in France
In France, football isn’t just a sport, it’s part of the national identity. From Ligue 1 teams like Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille, to small-town clubs with loyal followings, the French take great pride in their football at every level. When it comes to sports and leisure in France, there’s football and there’s everything else.
Since their 2018 World Cup victory and second place finish in 2022, the national team has become a symbol of excellence and multicultural pride. But even away from the spotlight, football thrives in every commune.
Thanks to substantial investment, most towns now boast quality all-weather pitches. Many local clubs are keen to welcome newcomers – regardless of language ability or experience. Whether you join a Sunday league team or cheer from the stands, football can be a great way to connect with your community.
Youth training is also well-developed. If you’re moving to France with children or grandchildren, footie can be an ideal starting point for making friends and learning French through fun.
Tennis and court sports
Tennis enjoys a strong foothold in French daily life. With over 9,000 clubs across the country, access to courts is easy, particularly in the spring and summer months. Many towns and villages have at least one public court, often free or low-cost to use with a local club membership.
Events like the Roland-Garros tournament in Paris bring the sport into the national spotlight each year – but it’s not just about top-tier athletes. Social tennis groups are common, and newcomers are usually welcomed warmly, whether you’re looking to play competitively or casually.
Paddle tennis – a mix between squash and tennis – is also booming in France, with new clubs opening in both cities and rural areas alike.
Court sports like badminton and basketball are equally popular indoors, especially during cooler months. Try your mairie or community centre for small clubs and open sessions where you can give a new game a go.
Cycling trails and touring
Cycling in France goes far beyond the Tour de France. Though the annual race remains a cultural icon, it’s the cross-country trails, scenic routes and dedicated cycling paths that draw casual riders.
France boasts more than 21,000 kilometres of marked cycling routes – from peaceful canal towpaths to thrilling hill climbs. That’s a significant upgrade over the UK’s network. Notable long-distance trails like EuroVelo 1 run along the west coast, while the Loire Valley route offers gentle rides past vineyards, châteaux and riverside towns. Every year, mountain roads are closed to allow cyclists to explore the grand vistas and getting out on two wheels is one of the best ways to get to know your new neighbourhood.
Many expats find joining a local vélo club is a great way to meet people and keep fit. From weekly outings to “cyclo-tourismes” with food stops and family-friendly detours, the options are varied and fun.
E-bikes are increasingly common too, enabling more people – of all fitness levels – to explore the countryside without strain. With France’s commitment to greener travel, bike culture is only growing.
Creative and social clubs
Not all leisure pursuits require breaking a sweat. Across France, you’ll find hundreds of clubs for art, writing, music, crafts and more. If creativity is your passion, you’ll be well served.
Head to your local mairie or town hall for updated listings. From choir practice to painting classes, local groups eagerly welcome new members – especially those willing to contribute and share new ideas.
British-run or English-friendly clubs are common in areas with high expat populations, such as Provence, Dordogne and Normandy. These might include book clubs, drama societies, or even local history groups. Some have been running for decades and are excellent places to meet like-minded people.
Joining both French and international clubs offers the best of both worlds – language immersion, friendship and a deeper understanding of your community. It’s through shared interests that many newcomers find their social circle and a genuine sense of belonging.
Ready to start your new life in France?
Leisure and lifestyle matter just as much as your property choice. When you buy with Your Overseas Home, our mission is to help you live the life you imagined – not just find the house you saw online.
With expert advice, a network of trusted partners and passion for French living, we support your move every step of the way. Whether you’re a keen cyclist, a budding painter or love a game of tennis, France has a place for you.
Speak to a property consultant about turning your dream lifestyle into your real one.
Frequently asked questions about leisure and lifestyle in France
Is it easy to stay active in France as an expat?
Yes. France offers a wide range of accessible sports and outdoor activities. From tennis and cycling to pétanque and hiking, most towns have clubs and well-maintained public facilities to help you stay active year-round.
Can I join local sports or social clubs in France?
Absolutely. Many communes have affordable clubs and associations for sports, arts and hobbies. You can join as a beginner, and locals are usually welcoming – it’s a great way to integrate and meet people.
What outdoor activities are popular in France?
Outdoor activities vary by region but include skiing in the Alps, surfing on the Atlantic coast, river swimming, canyoning, and cycling. France has thousands of kilometres of trails and waterways perfect for year-round exploration.
Are there expat-friendly leisure groups in France?
Yes. Regions like Dordogne, Provence and Normandy have many English-speaking clubs and groups for arts, books, fitness and socialising. These offer a supportive space while you build confidence and connections locally.
Can older adults take up new sports like surfing or skiing?
Definitely. Many surf schools and ski resorts now offer lessons and packages for over-50s. Whether you’re a beginner or returning to a sport after years away, there are inclusive options across France tailored to older adults.
