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.

Le Safari

Seafood and meat dishes served on one of the liveliest terraces of Vieux Nice.
Le St-Paul, St-Paul-de-Vence

Attached to a gorgeous hideaway hotel, Le St-Paul serves fine seafood and other dishes on a terrace with views from the village battlements, or in a gracious dining room.
Le Verdon, Gréoux-les-Bains

Very good value for money, with dishes such as Alpine lamb with Valensole honey or baked ham with foie gras. There’s also a pleasant terrace.
Le Vistamar, Monaco

Mediterranean decor and a fine menu, dominated by superb seafood.
Le Whisky a Go-Go, Cannes

Blisteringly loud music, a pounding beat and a sweaty atmosphere separate the middle-aged swingers from the real party animals in this popular Cannes disco.
Le Windsor, Nice

Exotic Oriental decoration, rooms with frescoed ceilings, a pool surrounded by palm trees and, of all things, an English-style pub, come at an affordable price in this unassuming looking, medium-sized hotel.
Les Alpilles

The chalky hills of the “Little Alps” rise no higher than 500 m (1,640 ft) but display an arid beauty. This miniature sierra stretches for 24 km (15 miles) between the rivers Rhône and Durance, and the GR6 hiking trail which crosses it is one of the finest walks in Provence (see p73).
Les Antiques de Glanum

Twin temples, a Roman forum, baths and a fortified gate can be seen at Glanum, near St-Rémy, which also reveals traces of a 4th-century Greek settlement. Another triumphal arch (10 BC) marks more Gallic victories (see St Rémy-de-Provence and Glanum).
Les Arcenaulx

Extraordinary vaulted setting in the former 17th-century arsenal. Besides the gastronomic regional restaurant, there is a bookshop, a boutique and an air of mystery.
Les Arcs en Provence

Picturesque mediaeval village nestling in the hills not far from Frejus, walking only up the narrow cobbled streets to the fountain in the village square. Village festival takes place in August each year, but the local hostellery is legend and the prices easily suit the lighter pockets. Absolutely a wonderful experience.

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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