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.

Hôtel Thalassothérapie

This 105-room hotel stands next to a fine sandy beach, with views of a yacht marina and the pretty port of Fréjus. It specializes in using the beneficial effects of the marine environment, including sea water, seaweed, sand and other substances, together with the Mediterranean climate.
Hôtel Villa la Roseraie,Vence

This friendly small hotel has a small pool and courtyard. Rooms are prettily furnished. Ideal for a romantic weekend getaway at an affordable price.
Hulled Lavender Flowers

For perfuming your wardrobe, and keeping moths out.
Il Vinaino

The fact that this is the local Italians’ favourite restaurant says it all. The food is exquisite, the decor distinctive and the ambience homely.
Ile d’If

This prison island is most famous as the place from which the fictional Count of Monte Cristo escaped (see Alexandre Dumas). You may even visit the “Count’s dungeon”.
Ile Verte

“Verte” refers to the island’s greenery, notably the trees topping the steep cliffs. Billed as “one of the last virgin islands of the Mediterranean coast”, the islet has tiny creeks and beaches.
Iles de Frioul

The islands of Ratonneau and Pomègues guard Marseille harbour (see Marseille). Beyond Port Frioul, white rocks ruggedly conceal little beaches. The diving here is renowned.
Iles des Embiez

The larger of two islands developed for tourism by drinks magnate Paul Ricard, Embiez is a delight. Development has been merged into the landscape, leaving most of the island untouched, with its creeks, woods and salt marshes.
International Piano Festival, Roque d’Anthéron

Since 1980, the festival has drawn the cream of the world’s classical and jazz pianists to play beneath the plane trees and night sky at the Château de Florans.
Jacques Cousteau

Toulon-based naval officer Cousteau perfected the aqua-lung in the 1940s, pioneering the sport of scuba diving.

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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
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- €50–€60
- over €60