La Provence

In this guide, we invite you to explore the treasures of Provence. We’ll provide you with practical tips and suggestions to help you plan your trip. Whether your passion is nature, the heritage cultural, the gastronomy or simply to relax, Provence has something to satisfy all your desires. So, let us be your guide and come discover the wonders of Provence with us!

Discovering the landscapes picturesque spots in Provence

Provence boasts an impressive variety of landscapes, from the Mediterranean seaside to the peaks of the Alps, not forgetting its plains and rolling hills. We invite you to explore three emblematic natural sites that contribute to Provence's reputation: the calanques of Cassis, the Verdon with its spectacular gorges, and Mont Ventoux.

The calanques of Cassis: natural jewels between land and sea

Located between Marseille and Cassis, the Calanques de Cassis offer a breathtaking landscape where the sea has carved gorges in the limestone rock. This natural spectacle, where the blue of the water, the white of the rock and the green of the flora blend harmoniously, is absolutely unique.

These natural wonders are protected within the Calanques National Park, ensuring the preservation of their exceptional flora and fauna. They can be explored by boat, on foot via hiking trails, or by kayak, offering plenty of opportunities to swim in hidden coves or simply relax surrounded by nature.

The Verdon and its gorges: an adventure between turquoise waters and breathtaking cliffs

The Verdon, famous for its stunning emerald-green waters, has carved Europe's largest canyon through the Haut-Var: the Gorges du Verdon. With cliffs sometimes reaching 700 metres in height, the spectacle is nothing short of majestic.

This site is a paradise for thrill-seekers and lovers of water sports such as rafting, canoeing and canyoning. For those who prefer a more leisurely discovery, the panoramic road along the canyon or the many viewpoints allow you to admire the grandeur of the gorge.

Mont Ventoux: a breathtaking panorama

Rising to an altitude of 1910 metres, Mont Ventoux dominates Provence with its imposing mass. Known as the Giant of Provence or Mont Chauve for its bare summit, it offers an exceptional panorama of the region, from the Alps to the Mediterranean.

Renowned for the challenge it represents for cyclists, notably during the Tour de France, Mont Ventoux is also a fabulous observation point. Its summit can be reached by road or by hiking trails through a variety of landscapes, from dense forest to fragrant garrigue to alpine tundra.

The soul of Provence through its villages and towns

Provence, with its well-preserved identity and charm, recounts its history, culture and art of living through its villages and towns. We invite you to immerse yourself in the soul of Provence, exploring the hilltop villages of the Luberon, the city of Aix-en-Provence, rich in water, art and history, and Marseille, the Phocaean city.

The hilltop villages of the Luberon: Gordes, Roussillon and Lacoste

Between Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Vaucluse, the Luberon rises up, sheltering perched villages offering breathtaking panoramas. Three villages stand out: Gordes, Roussillon and Lacoste, each with its own unique character.

Gordes, ranked among the France's most beautiful villages, perched on a rocky outcrop and overlooking the Calavon Valley. Its dry-stone houses, picturesque narrow streets, and square shaded by centuries-old plane trees make it a place of exceptional beauty. The village is also home to a medieval castle—now a museum of contemporary art—and the “village of the bories,” a fascinating testament to a distant past.

Roussillon, famous for its vibrant ochre hues, is also one of the most beautiful villages in France. Perched at an elevation of 630 meters, it offers a splendid view of the Luberon. Its colorful houses, flower-lined alleys, and its church These landscapes come together to form a vivid scene. The Ochre Trail invites you on a magical stroll through enchanting scenery.

Lacoste, nestled between the Monts de Vaucluse and the Ventoux, offers a medieval face with its stone houses, ramparts and 12th-century château, former home of the Marquis de Sade, now an art school and museum. The belvedere offers a magnificent view of the village and its surroundings.

Aix-en-Provence: diving into the city of water, art and history

Aix-en-Provence, or Aix, is an elegant city located 30 km from Marseille, famous for its fountains, its monuments history and cultural heritage. As the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, it charms visitors with its architecture, its atmosphere and cuisine. The Cours Mirabeau, the Mazarin district, the cathedral Saint-Sauveur and the Granet Museum are must-see attractions. Aix is also renowned for its thermal springs, notably the thermal baths Sextius. The Vendôme Pavilion and the Rotonde Fountain are other gems worth discovering.

Marseille: between tradition and modernity, the city reveals itself

Marseille, France’s second-largest city and the largest port on the Mediterranean, blends tradition and modernity. Founded by Greeks from Phocaea, it is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city. The Old Port, the MuCEM, and the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica are its most iconic landmarks. Marseille also charms visitors with its natural beauty and its beaches, rocky coves, islands, and hills. The city is a feast for the senses, offering specialties such as bouillabaisse, pastis, tapenade, and fougasse. Marseille promises surprising discoveries and unforgettable moments.

Provence, land of culture and history

Provence offers a journey through a rich history, marked by Roman, medieval and modern influences. It has also been a source of inspiration for many artists, captivated by its soul and beauty.

This guide invites you to explore three key aspects of Provence's culture and history: its Roman remains, the city of art and history of Arles, and the majestic Palace of the Popes in Avignon.

Roman remains: from Nîmes to Orange, a journey through time

Conquered by Rome in the 1st century B.C., Provence is home to a rich heritage of ancient architecture. Remarkable archaeological sites, often designated as historic landmarks by the’UNESCO, bear witness to that era. Among them, Nîmes, Orange, and the Pont du Gard stand out.

Nîmes, formerly Nemausus, was an important Roman colony, with buildings such as the arena, the largest Roman amphitheater in France, the Maison Carrée, a temple dedicated to the imperial family, and the Tour Magne, part of the Roman city walls.

Orange, or Arausio, stood out as a prosperous city of the Roman Empire, famous for its triumphal arch and its ancient theater, the latter being the best preserved in Europe and hosting the annual Chorégies festival.

The Pont du Gard, an engineering masterpiece, illustrates Roman technical mastery with its 50-kilometre-long aqueduct spanning the Gardon river on three levels of arches.

Arles: a city of art and history, a source of inspiration for Van Gogh

Arles, a city rich in historical and cultural heritage, is home to significant Roman remains and the Musée Départemental de l'Arles Antique. It was also here that Vincent van Gogh produced some 300 works, seduced by the light and colors of the region.

When visiting Arles, you can follow in Van Gogh's footsteps by exploring the places he immortalized, and discover his works at the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, which highlights his influence on contemporary art.

Avignon and its Popes' Palace: an island of history in the city

Avignon, ancient Avenio, was the seat of the papacy in the 14th century. Its landmark, the Palais des Papes, is the largest Gothic palace in the world, built by Popes Benedict XII and Clement VI. It offers tours of historic rooms, temporary exhibitions and the famous Avignon Festival.

The city has preserved its medieval walls and is dominated by the Rocher des Doms, offering panoramic views of the Rhône and Notre-Dame des Doms cathedral. The Pont d'Avignon, world-famous for its popular song, is a must-see.

Conclusion

It's clear that Provence has all the benefits to charm you. Whether you're looking for breathtaking scenery, charming villages and towns, a rich cultural and historical heritage, or gastronomic pleasures and relaxation, Provence is sure to meet your expectations. It opens its arms to you, ready to envelop you in its vibrant colors, bewitching aromas, exquisite flavors and melodious accent.

Book your stay in Provence now, and come and explore its hidden treasures. It's an experience you won't regret!

FAQ

What's the most beautiful place in Provence?

The most beautiful place in Provence varies according to personal preference. Nevertheless, some places stand out for their beauty and uniqueness, including :

• The Gorges du Verdon, an impressive canyon ideal for water sports and hiking.
• L'Isle sur la Sorgue, a picturesque village famous for its canals, antique shops and flea markets.
• Gordes, a perched village with a magnificent view of the Luberon.

Which towns to visit in Provence?

Provence, rich in culture, nature and gastronomy, is home to a number of interesting towns:

• Marseille, for its panoramic views over the Mediterranean, the Old Port, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde basilica and the Mucem.
• Aix-en-Provence, famous for its fountains, markets and Baroque architecture.
• Avignon, the city of the Popes, famous for its Palais des Papes and the Pont d'Avignon bridge.
• Arles, nicknamed "Little Rome", is rich in ancient heritage and was the birthplace of Vincent Van Gogh.
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a source of inspiration for Van Gogh and Nostradamus, ideal for exploring the Alpilles and Baux-de-Provence.
• Gordes, one of France's most beautiful villages, and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, famous for its earthenware.

Where to go for a walk in Provence?

Provence offers many places to walk, depending on your preferences:

• The calanques between Marseille and Cassis, with their rugged landscapes and turquoise waters.
• The lavender route, from Sault to Valensole, for its colorful, fragrant fields.
• Orange's ancient theater, one of Europe's best-preserved historic monuments.
• Luberon castles, for the charm of hilltop villages like Lourmarin or Lacoste.

Where to stop in Provence?

Provence, with its varied landscapes, picturesque villages and natural sites, offers many places to stop:

• The Luberon, the Gorges du Verdon, the Camargue, or the Calanques de Cassis, whatever takes your fancy.
• For specific ideas, the Top 6 of the most beautiful places to visit in Provence website offers a selection of must-see sites such as Banon, Gordes, Roussillon, Valensole, Lac de Sainte-Croix and the island of Porquerolles.