Get disconnected with a digital detox

Take a break in France - and a break from your smartphone! To avoid temptation or a relapse, here are five addresses that offer radical or gentle, solutions to disconnect and get away to nature.

Never without your coach: In Auvergne

Here is the master of the genre: we couldn’t review a digital detox plan in France without paying homage to the Vichy Célestins spa hotel. For the past five years they’ve perfected a programme designed to wean you away from your digital tools and help you learn how to turn them off from time to time by the end of your stay. You’ll achieve a state of inner calm with hydromassage baths and plant abstract and mineral mud wraps, as well as support from a psycho-behavioural coach. And of course, smartphones, tablets and computers are to be carefully placed in a safe at the entrance...

Vichy Célestins spa hotel (External link)

Nature's only link, Île Vierge lighthouse, Brittany

Need a digital break? Head to Brittany, off the coast of Plouguerneau, and join your new refuge: the little lighthouse on the island! But don't worry. While the place is a real invitation to disconnect, this eco-lodge is cosy with its raw materials and soft colours. And there's plenty to keep you busy, whether it's enjoying the island as its only resident after the day's visitors have gone, or checking the weather from the lighthouse's glass dome. You'll be able to learn all about this science and make a whole host of observations thanks to a teaching kit, binoculars and other tools provided by the Conservatoire du Littoral. It's a unique opportunity to feel like you're alone in the world!

The lighthouse keeper's house (External link)

Ultra-chic relaxation in a Pyrenean château

Ultra-chic disconnection at the Château in the Pyrénées Orientales.
Luxury, tranquillity and pleasure... that's what you get at the 4-star Château du Riell in the heart of an unspoilt valley in French Catalonia. Here you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Mont Canigou, the swimming pool on the castle walls and the spa and treatments offered by a team of specialists. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the area: hiking, running, cycling, etc. When it comes to accommodation, you'll love the baroque decor of the interior, the Out of Africa bar or the dacha, where you can read and dream. Forget laptops and tablets and rediscover the pleasure of being free.

Château de Riell (External link)

Digital break for trappers in Alsace

Would you like to refocus on yourself and reconnect with your loved ones? Then head for the Bruche valley, where 37 cosy cabins made from sustainable wood have been built to help you let go. While all the comforts are there, the designers of this unique experience have made a number of choices: the cottages are totally integrated into the natural environment, there's a return to basics (no radiators, just wood fires for heating and oil lamps for lighting), and the pace of life is slowed down. But there's still plenty to do in the surrounding countryside, thanks to the activities on offer (climbing wall, via ferrata, bike hire, hiking...). Ideal for feeling like a Robinson!

Bruche Valley (External link)
Nutchel Alsace (External link)

"Digital Detox" break in Provence

In the heart of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, the Clos de la Tuilerie and its charming guest rooms have decided to offer you a complete package to help you fight your addiction... While the surrounding countryside is an invitation to reconnect with nature, a comprehensive five-day programme will undoubtedly make it easier to distance yourself from these devices. It includes a visit from a naturopath, a yoga workshop, a hike, access to the swimming pool and a cookery course. You will also receive a digital detox kit and a personalised Bach flower elixir. The package can be completed with wellness massages (reflexology, essential oil massage, etc.). It's the perfect way to get into the swing of things.

Clos de la Tuilerie (External link)

Recommendations and advice
Is the hyper-connectivity of today's world getting to you? What a great idea to set aside some time to unplug from the digital tools that are so invasive! Bye bye phone, bye bye computer, bye bye emails... You deserve a real break to regain control and reduce your stress. The good news is that a number of tourism professionals have understood the problem and are offering their clients dedicated breaks. Whatever package you choose, make sure you book well in advance as they are becoming increasingly popular. In addition, use environmentally friendly means of transport wherever possible to get to your destination (train, car-sharing, public transport, shuttles, cycling, walking, etc.). After all, what could be better than reconnecting with unspoilt nature? Enjoy your stay and get back in touch with what's important!