Provence is a region in the southeast of France that is known for its beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and delicious food and wine. During the summer months, the region comes alive with vibrant colors and rich aromas. From the fields of lavender in full bloom to the charming medieval villages, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Provence. The region’s world-renowned vineyards, local markets and the Calanques make Provence a perfect destination for a summer vacation. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the best of Provence and guide you through the region’s most memorable experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of Provence, sampling the local food and wine, or discovering the region’s cultural heritage, this guide has something for everyone.
Here are our 7 ideas to do in Provence this summer:
- Visit the Lavender Fields: Provence is known for its lavender fields, and the best time to see them is during the summer months when they are in full bloom. Take a tour of the fields and enjoy the beautiful purple landscapes.
- Explore the medieval villages: Provence is home to many charming medieval villages such as Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin, take a stroll through the narrow streets, admire the colorful houses, and discover hidden gems such as the Saint-Martin Church.
- Take a boat trip on the Calanques: The Calanques are a series of rocky inlets that can be found along the coast of Provence, take a boat trip to explore the natural beauty of the Calanques and enjoy swimming and snorkeling.
- Visit the Palace of the Popes in Avignon: This palace was built in the 14th century and was once the residence of the Popes. It offers a glimpse into the life of the Popes during this time period and the architecture is quite impressive.
- Visit the markets: Provence is known for its delicious food and wine, and the markets are a great place to sample some of the local specialties. You can find markets in almost every village and town in Provence, selling everything from fresh produce to local cheeses, olives, and herbs.
- Visit the vineyards: Provence is known for its wines, and the summer months are a great time to visit the vineyards. Take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the local wines.
- Enjoy the beaches: Provence has some of the most beautiful beaches in France, the beaches of Saint-Tropez, Cassis, and La Ciotat are some of the best in the region, enjoy sunbathing, swimming and other water activities.
1. The lavender fields of Provence
The lavender fields of Provence are one of the most iconic and famous sights of the region. The fields of lavender are typically in full bloom during the summer months, usually around June and July. The bright purple flowers stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a breathtaking landscape that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The lavender fields are located in the Plateau de Valensole and the Plateau de Sault which are situated in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Vaucluse departments respectively. The fields are home to a variety of lavender cultivars, such as fine lavender, which is known for its delicate aroma, and spike lavender, which is used for its essential oil.
Visitors to the lavender fields can take guided tours, which include stops at the fields, as well as visits to local distilleries to learn about the process of making lavender essential oil. Many tours also include stops at nearby villages, such as Sault and Roussillon, where visitors can explore the charming streets, sample the local food and wine, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The lavender fields in Provence not only offer a visual spectacle but also a unique olfactory experience, the smell of lavender is a memorable one, and it’s hard to leave the region without some lavender-based souvenirs like soaps, perfumes, or culinary products.
Visiting the lavender fields during the summer is definitely a must-do experience in Provence.
2. The medieval villages in Provence
Provence is home to many charming medieval villages that are steeped in history and culture. These villages are characterized by their narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and picturesque architecture. Many of these villages have managed to preserve their medieval heritage and are a great way to step back in time and discover Provence’s rich history.
Some of the most popular medieval villages in Provence include Gordes, Roussillon and Lourmarin. Gordes is a hilltop village that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, the village is known for its well-preserved architecture, including the 12th-century castle and the ancient fortifications that surround it. Roussillon is a village situated on a hillside, it’s known for its beautiful ochre-colored houses, and the unique landscape of the surrounding area. Lourmarin is a charming village located in the heart of the Luberon, it’s known for its well-preserved architecture and its beautiful castle, it’s also a great spot for shopping and dining.
These villages are also great for foodies, as they offer a wide variety of local specialties such as the famous Provencal cuisine. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and pissaladière, as well as local cheeses, olives, and herbs.
3. The Calanques
The Calanques are a series of rocky inlets that can be found along the coast of Provence, stretching from the city of Marseille to the town of Cassis. The Calanques are known for their crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and spectacular cliffs and rock formations. They are also home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including Mediterranean pine forests, cedar groves, and a variety of bird species.
The Calanques are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as they offer a wide variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and caving. There are many hiking trails that lead through the Calanques, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the coastline. The Calanques also offer a unique opportunity to explore the Mediterranean Sea by kayak or boat.
One of the best ways to experience the Calanques is to take a boat trip. These trips typically depart from the port of Marseille or Cassis, and take visitors to the most beautiful and secluded inlets. Along the way, visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the beaches.
Visitors can also take guided tours of the Calanques that include stops at the different inlets, and visits to nearby villages, such as Cassis and La Ciotat. These villages offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, where visitors can sample the local food and wine, and purchase souvenirs.
4. The Palace of the Popes in Avignon
The Palace of the Popes is a 14th-century palace located in the city of Avignon, in the Provence region of France. The palace was built during the 14th century, when the city of Avignon was the residence of the Popes. It is one of the largest Gothic palaces in the world and is considered to be one of the most important architectural and historical monuments in France.
The palace was built by Pope Clement V and his successors, and it served as the seat of the Catholic Church during the 14th century. It was designed to be a grand palace that would reflect the wealth and power of the Church during that time. The palace was built in a grand gothic style and it is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of gothic architecture in Europe.
The palace is composed of several buildings, including the Papal Palace, the episcopal palace, and the Palais des Papes. The palace also has several chapels, including the Chapel of the Virgin, the Chapel of the Palace, and the Chapel of the Holy Spirit.
The palace is open to visitors and it offers a glimpse into the life of the Popes during the 14th century. Visitors can admire the palace’s grand architecture, including its impressive towers, grand halls, and ornate chapels. The palace also features several exhibits and displays, which provide information about the history of the palace and the Popes who lived there.
The palace is located in the heart of Avignon, and it is surrounded by the city’s charming streets and picturesque buildings. Visitors can also enjoy the many other sights and attractions of the city, such as the famous Avignon Bridge and the Saint-Bénézet.
5. The summer markets in Provence
Provence is known for its delicious food and wine, and the markets are a great place to sample some of the local specialties. During the summer months, there are many markets that take place in the towns and villages throughout the region. These markets offer a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, herbs, and other food items. They also feature arts and crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Some of the most famous markets in Provence include the market of Aix-en-Provence, which takes place on Wednesday and Saturday in the city center, this market is one of the most famous in the region and offers a wide variety of goods and produces. Another popular market is the market of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence which takes place on Wednesday and Saturday, it’s considered to be one of the most picturesque markets in the region, and it offers a wide variety of goods and produces.
The markets in Provence are not only a great place to buy local products and souvenirs but also a great way to experience the local culture and atmosphere. You can find locals and tourists alike bargaining, chatting and enjoying the hustle and bustle of the markets. Visitors can also enjoy sampling local food and drinks while exploring the markets, such as traditional Provencal dishes, local cheeses and wines.
The markets in Provence are also a great place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family back home, you can find many local artisans selling their handmade products, such as pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more.
6. The vineyards in Provence
Provence is known for its wines, and the summer months are a great time to visit the vineyards. The region is home to many vineyards that produce a variety of wines, including rosé, red, and white wines. The wines of Provence are known for their light, crisp, and refreshing flavors, and they are a perfect complement to the region’s delicious food.
The vineyards in Provence are located in several different areas, including the Côtes de Provence, the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, and the Coteaux Varois. These areas are known for their unique terroir, which is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, and it’s perfect for growing grapes.
Visitors to the vineyards can take guided tours, which typically include a visit to the vineyards, where you will learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the local wines. Many vineyards also offer tours of their cellars, where you can learn about the history of the vineyard and the different wines that are produced there.
Most vineyards in Provence offer tastings, where visitors can sample different wines, learn about the different grape varieties and the specific characteristics of each wine. Visitors can also purchase wines directly from the vineyards, and take bottles home as souvenirs.
Provence is not only known for its wines but also for the beautiful landscapes that surround the vineyards, many vineyards offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and are perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
7. The beaches in Provence
Provence is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in France, offering a wide variety of options for visitors to enjoy. From the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast to the rocky coves of the Calanques, Provence has something for everyone.
One of the most popular beaches in Provence is the Plage de Pampelonne, which is located near Saint-Tropez. This beach is known for its clear blue waters and fine sandy beaches, as well as its lively atmosphere and nightlife. The beach is also a popular spot for water sports such as sailing and windsurfing.
Another popular beach in Provence is the Plage des Graniers, which is located in the town of Cassis. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful rocky cliffs, and it’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
The Plage de la Ciotat, located in the town of La Ciotat, is another popular beach in Provence. This beach offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as jet-skiing and parasailing.
Provence’s beaches offer a variety of activities and experiences, some of them are perfect for families, with calm waters and shallow areas, while others are ideal for water sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Many beaches also offer amenities such as showers, changing rooms, and beachside restaurants and cafes, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the beautiful views.
In conclusion, Provence is a region that offers a wide variety of experiences for visitors. From the beautiful lavender fields in full bloom to the charming medieval villages, the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage are sure to leave a lasting impression. The region’s vineyards and delicious wines, markets, and beaches are also a must-see and experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of Provence, sampling the local food and wine, or discovering the region’s cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in Provence. So pack your bags, put on your sunscreen and get ready to explore this magical region of France!
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