Experience the Sights and Delights of Magical Provence
Originally posted on & updated on 29th October, 2024The French speak of Provence as if it were Paradise. They are justified in their thinking. As large as France is, history has been generous to all corners of this spectacular country. And the province of Provence seems to have a bit of everything that is good about every other area of France.
Why Visit Provence?
Provence’s Mediterranean climate makes it an easy choice for sun-worshippers and, while the timeless coastal cities of Marseille, Nice, Antibes and Cannes are glamorous destinations, there’s plenty to get excited about a little further inland. The beautiful Provence countryside, sprawling vineyards and picturesque lavender fields have grown into iconic symbols of the region, while the world-class Roman and medieval architecture is a real treat for culture-vultures. Add charming villages, bustling festivals and plenty of gorgeous places to stay, and it’s easy to understand why it’s an absolute must-see.
Lavender: the Scent and Colour of Provence
Have you ever considered adding a few flowers in your cooking to make it tastier? If you were in Provence it would be the absolute norm to spoon a few dried lavender flowers in your Coq au Vin along with the other Herbs de Provence.
Imagine fields of bright purple and delicate mauve under a deep blue sky; take a deep breath and experience the true scent and colour of Provence. The stunning sight of the Plateau de Sault or the Plateau de Valensole in mid-July, are reason enough alone to visit this beautiful part of France.
Delights to Satisfy all Appetites
From a simple picnic of goat cheese and fresh apricots to a New Year’s Eve dinner with truffles, Provence is unsurpassed for the freshness of its produce and variety of its dishes. Olive oil, olives and tapenades, fresh Cavaillon melons, strawberries and apricots, goats cheeses of infinite variety, tasty saucisson, and the black diamond, truffles. And to accompany them of course an excellent choice of wines!.
Experience Magical Avignon
Bordered to the north and west by the river Rhone, the medieval city of Avignon is the capital of the Vaucluse. Massive ramparts punctuated by seven gates surround the immaculately preserved medieval centre with the magnificent buildings of the Papal Palace at its heart. Stroll the bustling Place de l’Horloge, enjoy the many art galleries and museums, take a boat trip on the River Rhone or simply wander the atmospheric medieval streets.
Aix en Provence
The old streets of Aix with their honey-coloured stone buildings warmed by the sun are full of life. There are cafes and restaurants on every corner, designer label shops, art galleries and quiet restful squares to relax over a glass of wine. The wide boulevard of the Cours Mirabeau lined by brasseries under massive plane trees epitomises the atmosphere of southern France.
Happily Lost in Lubéron
There are nearly 50 unusual, mountain-top villages in the Luberon Valley, each only 5-10 kilometers from another. Because of their close proximity, visitors can thoroughly tour three or four quaint and interesting, historically varied and even geographically stunning sites per day, and still have time to relax and soak up the French spirit of joie de vivre.
Experience the Provence Countryside
The French countryside in Provence is one of the prettiest in the world. The climate is ideal for nurturing the growth of beautiful flowers, wild herbs and luscious trees. It’s a lovely place to experience nature at its best, from the colourful butterflies and wildlife to the unmistakable scent of Provençal herbs that fills the air. So why not kick off your shoes and walk through the dew filled grass or lie on a blanket staring at the beautiful blue sky and feel the warmth of the sun on your face?
There is so much to choose from and so many places to explore in Provence. To help you find your dream Provencal home why not get in touch?