Provence Travel - A Tale of Lavender Fields and Medieval Charms
Beautiful fields of lavender, well-preserved medieval architecture, breathtaking landscapes, bustling local markets filled with fresh products, quaint yellow houses adorned with lilac-painted windows, narrow winding streets, and skies of unique blue. It comes as no surprise, then, that such a place inspired painters such as Paul Cézanne and Vincent Van Gogh to produce many of their famous works of art. The region of Provence, located in the south of France, has been loved by artists and travelers for ages, and for a good reason. And all the allure of the Mediterranean comes to make this destination a heavenly holiday spot.
source: google images
Marseilles, the capital of the region, is a great starting point for the visitors. The city has an international airport and is one of the biggest in all of France. Known as the country's oldest city and founded around 600 BC, it is where you'll most likely arrive to begin your journey. The best way to explore the region is by car, which will allow you to stop wherever you want and take your time to enjoy the stunning landscapes.
Only 30 minutes by car from the city gets you to the first hotel of your trip, the wonderful Château de la Gaude. Nestled in an 18th-century estate surrounded by astounding green landscapes and adorned with vineyards, this five-star hotel will be your home while visiting this first part of the region. Chef Matthieu Dupuis Baumal runs a Michelin-starred restaurant at the hotel, and a spa with four luxurious treatment rooms make this Château your best choice for an unforgettable trip.
Château de la Gaude - source: google images
Day 1 - Marseilles
After settling in, drive to Marseille's Old Port. For over 2 thousand years the main port of the city, the area is now an extensive marina surrounded by beautiful restaurants, bistros, cafes, and shops. Take your time to enjoy the place and maybe take a boat trip to appreciate the city's view from the ocean. A short walk from the Port takes you to the Abbaye St Victor, a 12th-century monastery with decorations ranging from the 5th to the 12th century. This area is the tourist hub of the city, explore the surroundings and try the traditional bouillabaisse, Marseille's famous seafood stew, at a local bistro. In the evening, return to your Château and relax in the luxurious amenities to prepare for another day.
source: google images
Day 2 - Aix-en-Provence
After a cozy and comfortable night, start with an early morning exploring the surroundings of your stay. Aix-en-Provence is one of the most beautiful cities in the region, enchanting visitors with its 15th-century buildings and tree-lined boulevards. Begin your day at the Cours Mirabeau, the city's main thoroughfare, and then visit the charming café Deux Garçons, famous for hosting meetings of artists like Paul Cézanne, Émile Zola, and Ernest Hemingway. The colors of the city will make you feel you're in one of Cézanne's paintings, so nothing better than visiting one of his favorite places. After lunch, visit one of France's finest museums, The Granet Museum, and then discover the city's nightlife with its Cassino, discotheques, and pubs. If tired, return to Château de la Gaude for dinner at its restaurant and rest for another day.
source: google images
Day 3 - Avignon
Around one-hour drive will get you to Avignon, which holds its Old City as a UNESCO heritage site. Nestled in the heart of Provence, the city has a breathtaking architecture with its charming streets and will make you travel in time. The famous Pont D'avignon is the best starting point for your sightseeing. Immortalized by the song Sur le Pont d'Avignon, the bridge offers great views of the city. After, visit the Palace of the Popes, a fortified medieval palace with its gardens providing the best views of the river Rhone. Do a quick detour to Gordes on your return to Château de la Gaude and experience a true Provencal experience visiting the lavish lavender fields, with lilacs adorning the horizon.
source: google images
Day 4 - Saint-Tropez
Drive to the other side of the region for the final part of the trip. Arriving in Saint-Tropez, you will check in at your new home, Hôtel Lou Pinet. A peaceful five-star retreat with an inventive restaurant, spa, and plenty of experiences to enrich your journey. Relax by the sea and soak in the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. The favorite destination of the high society in the 1960s, the city is still a go-to destination for its vibrant nightlife and beaches. Go to the harbor so you can enjoy the sunset with the view of the boats in the ocean and head back to the hotel to have dinner and rest.
Hôtel Lou Pinet - source: google images
source: google images
Day 5 - Cannes
Famous for the film festival, Cannes is also a destination of glorious beaches and is one of the most visited cities in the French Riviera. To escape from the tourist crowds, visit one of the best secrets of the region, the Verdon Gorge. With breathtaking cliffs and unmatched blue waters, it is the best place to swim, sunbathe, and rock climb. At night visit the Port of Cannes, a gateway perfect to finish your trip in great style. For dinner, maybe visit L'Assiette Provençale, one the best restaurants in the region and where you can have a taste of local cuisine.
source: google images
Traveling through one of the most beautiful regions in France is a delight everyone should enjoy, and we understand if you want to stay longer there. Just adjust this itinerary the way it fits you better, you can add days to the cities to explore its surroundings or the luxurious amenities of Château de la Gaude and Hôtel Lou Pinet. Provence is a year-round must-go destination for visits many times during their lives, and we are sure that your trip will be exquisite.