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.

Abbaye de St-Michel de Frigolet

The most attractive aspect of this 19th-century abbey is its painted depictions of saints.
Abbaye de St-Roman

This remarkable 5th-century abbey is the only troglodyte monastery in Europe.
Abbaye du Thoronet, Le Thoronet

There is much manmade splendour in Provence, but little to touch the majesty of this 12th-century Cistercian abbey, built in a wooded dip near Lorgues. Probably the finest example of Romanesque architecture in the region, along with its sister houses, Silvacane and Sénanque (see Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque), it rises with sober magnificence. The un-mortared stones of the church, monks’ buildings and cloisters are decorated only by changing sunlight, their interior volumes inspiring awe and serenity. The harmony of structure and setting make contemplation unavoidable.
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

When the summer lavender flowers, this medieval abbey surrounded by purple fields is a spectacular sight (see Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque).
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

The great Cistercian abbey is a wonderful example of Romanesque religious architecture (see Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque).
Advent of Christianity

In AD 40 St Honorat brought Christianity to Provence, founding the first monastery on Ile de Lérins. Camarguais legend, however, claims Christianity was brought here by Mary Magdalene herself (see Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer).
Agay Beach, St-Raphaël

As the red rocks of the Esterel hills tumble into the clear blue sea, they give the coast around St-Raphaël an untamed allure. The small creekr are enticing; equally alluring, but bigger, sandier and more accessible, is the Bay of Agay – perfect for families (see Plage d’Agay).
Aïoli

Garlic mayonnaise made with olive oil. Accompanies raw vegetables, cold cod and hard-boiled eggs.
Aix Festival

This great lyrical art event has opened up in recent years. As well as classical opera in the courtyard of the Archbishop’s Palace, there are more contemporary works, such as Bartók and Britten, recitals and concerts by younger musicians, as well as music masterclasses and street theatre.
Aix-en-Provence

Aix is just a stone’s throw from the sprawl of Marseille, but keeps its own identity, with cosmopolitan cafés, a grand cathedral and beautiful 18th-century fountains (see Aix-en-Provence).