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.

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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!
Lake Annecey Alps France

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.
Le Brin d'Olivier

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.
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.
Les Roulottes

In La Serve in southwest France, deep in the Arcadian beauty of the Beaujolais with its softly rolling hills, three historic roulottes, or gypsy wagons, stand in a luscious meadow among trees brimming with apples.

These wagons have retired from their life on the road and, with their wheels standing still, offer accommodation for guests at Les Roulottes. Great attention to detail has been paid to the restoration of the wagons – there are beautiful built-in Art Nouveau cupboards with fine curved doors, an original (though no longer functioning) wood-burning stove shining proudly in a corner,. Rich claret-coloured brocade, velour and velvet furnishings that shimmer alongside lacy curtains and yellowing photographs of the original inhabitants adorning the walls.

Staying here is a bit like camping. You meet other guests on the way to use the facilities in the main building and in the morning you shuffle through dew-drenched grass to breakfast, which is, by the way, delicious.

It is a happy, peaceful little place: horses graze in the meadow, sheep laze in the field next door, and even the numerous cats and dogs play together amicably.
Maeva Les Mazets de Camargue Residence

Ideal for a family, this "vacation village" allows you to feel like you are on vacation without breaking the bank. Afternoon activity programs for the children.
Perfumerie Fragonard

One of the handful of places where you can go on a short tour of the perfume process, very important in France and only a few professional "noses" exist in the world. Then, you can shopping in the small boutique for some lovely presents (and items for yourself).
Promenade Anglais

This is a flat promenade about 7Km long and great for walking and people watching. One side features a great beach and beautiful sea, the other cafes, restaurants and some fantastic hotels, old and new. The evenings have atmosphere and perfect for terrific sunsets.
Rossetti - Serie

Tiny, attractive restaurant just off Place Rossetti in the Old Town, serving 5 types of roasted meat with mash, roast potatoes or ratatouille on the side. Good quality & value; take out available
Seafood on Place Garibaldi

Le Grand Cafe de Turin and Chez Pistol on Place Garibaldi are two seafood restaurants under the arches - perfect for Sunday lunch with people watching and sunshine laid on in spades. Terrific platters (panaches) of Fruits de Mer, sea urchins, lobster, you name it. Turin is grander, Pistol is cheaper and does fabulous fries.