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Provence and Côte d'Azur : Overview & Top 10

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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.

  • Rather than the better-known and more touristy cities like Nice and Marseille, try staying in a smaller city like Avignon. It is truly beautiful with gorgeous architecture and parks, has its own museum, still has the big shops - and the hotels are roughly half the price of those in Nice! We found loads of gorgeous little outdoor restaurants where they do 2 courses for 8 euros in the Place de la Horloge, near the Palais de Papes. Try it - it's really worth it!

  • The city of Cannes is perhaps most famous for its annual film festival; however, has a long and interesting history dating back thousands of years. Today, its atmosphere of vibrancy and cultural richness is fortified by it proud heritage.

  • Cap D'Ail

    A really beautiful, tiny and secluded beach with sparkling waters, only a short drive or hop on the train away from Nice.

  • Castellane

    The remote village of Castellane is tucked away among the rugged hills of Provence, surrounded by the wildest and emptiest scenery in France. Castellane is the gateway to the breathtaking Gorge du Verdons, France's answer to the Grand Canyon. Drive around the top of the canyon for a succession of jaw-dropping views or take a whitewater rafting trip along the river, organized by the small and friendly rafting company in the main square (the water is at its wildest in spring). The picturesque village is overlooked by a colossal, craggy outcrop of rock with a chapel on top; there are steps up to the top from the village square. Two very good traditional French hotels in the main square double as the best restaurants in town. To get to Castellane from the coast, take the main road north from Nice. The drive is straight out of a James Bond film: a seemingly endless succession of winding rock tunnels, cliff-hugging roads and beautiful valleys - amazing to find such an empty and unspoilt wilderness so close to the Cote d'Azur.

  • Great "residence" hotel, clean and spacious. Good value for a family of five, and right next door to a great little bakery (and Fragonard Perfumery, if you are intereted). We have three children, so the kitchenette and the hotel's proximity to Nice, Monaco, etc. made our trip that much more enjoyable.

  • Restaurant 2 Rosette Michelin-rated. Purpose-built in neo-medaeval style with attractive shady central terrace. Serves Mediterranean food with occasionally an Oriental slant. Excellent service includes car jockey.

  • la maison sur la sorgue

    We have just returned from a delightful stay at La Maison sur la Sorgue. The house itself has been beautifully and luxury restored, without losing any of its original Provencal charm. with charming hosts, who guided us on things to do and see and even offered us an aperitif! The breakfasts are delicious and very elegantly presented. A great stay in a wonderful town.

  • La Voglia

    This Italian Ristorante has the best food. I ordered a wonderful baked rigatoni and my husband had an enourmous sea food pasta, full of fresh clams, mussels, and lobster. This place can be quite busy, so be sure to have a reservation or arrive early in the evening. We both remember the food as some of the best we've eaten anywhere in the world. The staff was also very pleasant and helpful, even with our poor attempts at French!

  • Where do I begin.. Have you ever been spoilt for choice. Whether to just sit,stand or sunbathe on the shores of the most beautiful lake in the world. Its colours define definition. Blue in the morning, azure throughout the day and 40 shades pf green at night. WHy not watch the fishermen , the water skiers , the sail boats, the swimmers. Behind you enjoy the Alps as never seen before on all four lines of vision. And just when you think it can get any better , enjoy the beautiful sun with the most wonderful breeze. The whole area is a must for anyone who has a will to live.

  • This is a great place to buy "provencal."
    Tablecloths, bread trays, bread "sacks," aprons, oven mitts, potholders, bags, etc.
    The colours are bright and rich: red, burgundy, blue, yellow, etc.
    It is all very portable and can make great gifts: for yourself or others.

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