DK Travel : Provence and Côte d'Azur

Provence’s top sights span the region’s rich and varied history, from Roman arenas, isolated abbeys, and the palace of the medieval popes, to the more recent opulence of the belle époque era and the glamorous resorts beloved of the 20th-century jet set. Sunsoaked beaches, pretty villages nestled among lavender fields and a mountainous hinterland have inspired generations of artists, and continue to enchant every visitor to the area.

Climbing

For some of France’s finest, toughest rock climbing, head for the Buoux cliffs in the Luberon (see Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon), the Verdon Gorges, with 933 routes (see Grand Canyon du Verdon) or the creeks between Marseille and Cassis (see p66). Easier conditions can be found in the Dentelles de Montmirail (see Les Dentelles de Montmirail).
Clos de la Violette, Aix

Noted for its skilful use of flavours. Red mullet roasted with smoked bacon is one of the simpler dishes eaten in the dining room or, in summer, in the shaded garden (see Le Clos de la Violette, Aix-en-Provence).
Club Nautique d’Antibes, Antibes

The club offers windsurfing, dinghy and catamaran sailing and yacht charters for all levels, with crewed yachts available by arrangement.
Coastal Path, Six-Fours-les-Plages

The seaside walk to La Seyne starts off flat, then climbs to the Cap Sicié. Great views. Allow 7 hours.
Coastal Walk, St-Tropez

Far from the summer crowds, the path winds around creeks and beaches, vines and pines, offering exceptional views. From Graniers beach to Cap Camarat takes six hours.
Colette

Colette (1873–1954) wrote charmingly of St-Tropez in La Naissance du Jour (1928).
Collection Lambert

Avignon’s premier showcase for contemporary art.
Collobrières

It’s difficult to resist a village claiming to be “world capital of candied chestnuts”. In the heart of the Maures mountains (see p79), Collobrières is surrounded by forested slopes.
Columbus Monaco, Monaco

This new hotel aims to mix business with pleasure – its rooms have CD players, internet access and other high-tech delights. It also has its own private beach and a fine restaurant.
Comps-sur-Artuby

This is high, wild country, where the Knights Templar made a base. The 12th-century StAndré chapel testifies to their presence, and affords unbeatable views over the nearby Artuby Gorges.

Jump to top

Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €100
- €100–150
- €150–250
- €250–350
- over €350