Sanary-sur-Mer, France

With a fleet of colorful fishing boats bobbing along the quay, pastel-hued buildings and palm-fringed promenade, Sanary-sur-Mer is one of France’s most picturesque ports. The compact town, including its beaches, is easily navigated on foot but its unstudied charm is best captured over a glass of rose at a waterfront cafe. Sanary is also an ideal base for exploring Provence’s Var coast. Next door is Bandol, the coastal town at the heart of a tiny, highly-acclaimed wine appellation. On the nearby Iles des Embiez, pastis magnate and environmentalist Paul Ricard established an oceanographic institute, wildlife preserve and coastal trails. The bustling port city of Toulon, Mediterranean base for the French Navy, is a mere 8 miles east. Untamed nature can be found on the rugged, forested headlands of the Cap-Sicié and among the unique formations of the Parc National des Calanques.