Provence

Provence is a region that captures the essence of southern France, where Roman ruins, medieval hilltop villages and fields of lavender form a distinctive landscape. The city of Arles is known for its remarkably preserved amphitheatre and links to Van Gogh, while nearby Avignon draws visitors with its Papal Palace and dramatic bridge across the Rhône. Smaller towns such as Gordes and Roussillon offer picturesque views and cobbled streets lined with stone houses, perfect for exploring on foot. Whether you’re walking through a perched village or paddling down the Sorgue River, Provence is rich in natural beauty and architectural charm.

The region’s cultural heritage is equally compelling. Provençal traditions are celebrated in everything from music festivals to street theatre and bull games, especially during the summer months. Aix-en-Provence regularly hosts classical concerts and opera, while smaller towns put on local fêtes filled with dancing and parades. Many of these events take place in village squares or ancient courtyards, giving them a sense of intimacy and atmosphere. Artists have long been drawn to Provence for its light and colours, and you can visit several studios and galleries that keep this creative tradition alive.

Food and wine play a central role in Provençal life. Markets overflow with sun-ripened produce, olives, herbs, and cheeses, all forming the backbone of the region’s Mediterranean-style cuisine. Local specialities like bouillabaisse, ratatouille and tapenade can be enjoyed in bistros and cafés from Marseille to Saint-Rémy. The wine regions of Côtes de Provence and Châteauneuf-du-Pape are known for their robust reds and crisp rosés, many of which are available for tasting at vineyards open to the public. Cooking classes, wine trails and even truffle-hunting experiences offer an immersive way to explore Provençal gastronomy.