The south of France and Provence still have many beautiful and authentic villages, where time seems to have stood still. These villages, situated in the green interior or on the sandy beaches of the Côte d'Azur coast, are often and good base from which to explore the south of France and Provence.
The colourful and fragrant sight of Provence with its numerous lavender and sunflower fields and characteristic villages inspired many renowned artists. Even outside the summer months, Provence is a wonderful holiday region thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate and high number of sun hours.
Provence is characterised by centuries-old picturesque villages such as Lorgues, Flayosc, Vidauban, Cotignac, Salernes, Tourtour and Aups with lots of history, beautiful architecture, narrow streets, old churches and picturesque squares with plane trees. Provence is also rich in vineyards, olive groves, endless fields of lavender and golden sunflowers, and fragrant cypress trees.
In the hinterland, the Gorges du Verdon (Europe's Grand Canyon) is one of the main attractions. Whimsical rock formations, through which in the depths meanders the river.
The Côte d'Azur, a popular region in southern France, includes the coastal area and hinterland between Bandol and Menton on the Italian border.
This region of southern France is known as one of the most luxurious regions in the world, and many celebrities have a second residence there.
Along the sandy beaches of southern France's Côte d'Azur are well-known (seaside) resorts such as Saint Tropez, Sainte Maxime, Plan de la Tour, Fréjus, Saint Raphael, Grimaud and Cannes. Beautiful destinations with lovely sandy beaches, nice shops, cosy restaurants, rugged coves and many water sports possibilities.
Located in the valley of the river Argens, Carcès is a typical mediaeval, pittoresque wine village with around 2000 inhabitants. Carcès is located in the green heart of Provence, the Provence Verte, amidst vineyards and olive groves.
The village of Saint Antonin du Var is located in the Provence Verte between Carces, Le Thoronet and Lorgues. The village has a small supermarket and a boulangerie.
Cotignac is a cosy and typical Provençal village in the Provence Verte. In Cotignac you will find, among others, a supermarket, several bakeries, a butcher's shop, a bank, a post office and a pharmacy.
Located in Provence, the quiet village of Le Thoronet is surrounded by green hills and vineyards. The village offers a small supermarket, a few bars/restaurants, a wine cooperative and a bakery.
The picturesque village of Plan de la Tour is quietly located in green surroundings and among famous vineyards. Its elevated position gives you lovely views of the coast and the Mediterranean Sea.
Vidauban is a lively town set among vineyards at the foot of the Massif des Maures. In or just outside the centre of Vidauban, you will find several bakeries, butchers, restaurants and terraces as well as larger supermarkets.
The medieval village of Villecroze is located in Provence Verte, the green heart of Provence, between the villages of Salernes, Tourtour, Lorgues and Flayosc.
Located in the valley of the Bresque river, Salernes is best known for its fine ceramic wall and floor tiles (the ‘tomettes’), Salernes pottery and beautiful lava rock.
Charming, originally medieval village in the Haut-Var, known for its black truffles, olive oil, honey and delicious wines.
The pittoresque village Flayosc is located in sunny Provence amid vineyards and renowned wine chateaus.
The village of Lorgues, very popular amongst the Dutch and Belgians, is lively all year round. You will find all the necessary amenities here including several bakeries, butchers, supermarkets, the ‘Tabac’, banks with ATMs, a post office, doctors and pharmacies.