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The prettiest and best known of the region’s villages perchés (see The Var and Provençal Coast), St-Paul was first built as a refuge from Saracen raiders. From its ramparts there are terrific views down to the sea (see St-Paul-de-Vence).

Ste-Marguérite offers woods of pine and eucalyptus and little stony beaches. In 1687 the Man In The Iron Mask was imprisoned in the island’s fort (see Man in the Iron Mask).

Expelled from France in the 14th century, the Jews sought refuge in those parts of Provence then belonging to the pope. This included Carpentras, whose synagogue, founded in 1367, is the oldest still functioning on French soil. Rebuilt in the 18th century, the synagogue looks like neighbouring buildings from the outside: laws forbade decoration. Within, the ground floor and cellar boasts the old bakery (for unleavened bread) and pools essential for Jewish rituals. These are presently being restored. A monumental staircase leads to the sumptuous two-storey area of worship (men upstairs, women below), setting for the tabernacle, teba, candelabra and magnificent chandeliers.

This vast expanse of salt marshes, lagoons and grazing land, home to rare bird and animals species, is protected within the Parc National de Camargue and other conservation areas (see The Camargue).

Riddling the wall of rock which dominates the medieval village, these caves were first home to prehistoric folk and, later, provided refuge against marauding Saracens. Most startling, however, is a cave on the north side of the village, transformed by a 16th-century nobleman into a four-storey, fortified house. The Renaissance frontage, staircases and windows cut out of the stone can still be seen. A spring within the caves creates a cascade which waters gardens below.

Digne is called “les Bains” (baths) because you can take the waters there. Alongside its medical treatments, the modernized thermal establishment provides a superbly relaxing aromatic plant treatment – Jacuzzi with essential oils followed by a massage.

Lavender has always been associated with hygiene, and is used for soaps, perfume and shampoo.

Remote, perched 600 m (2,000 ft) up and surrounded by pine forest, this is a picturesque tangle of streams, medieval buildings and old stone streets leading to a main square lined with restaurants.

One of Provence’s most prestigious wine villages. Note the 11th-century church with its elegant belltower, then go to taste the wine.

One of the best preserved Roman towns in Provence (see Vaison-la-Romaine).