Provence-Alps-Cote d’Azur
Provence-Alps Cote d’Azur
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A region blessed by the gods
ts natural riches and heritage attractions are countless - you will enjoy discovering them around every corner! Bathed by the Med, Provence-Alps-Cote d’Azur is synonymous with sunshine and ancient culture. Tucked between sea, hills and Alpine summits, this exceptional area is appreciated for the beauty and variety of its landscapes. Its inimitable lifestyle and rich historic and cultural heritage have made it one of France’s top tourist destinations. Here is our “Top Ten” of “must do” sites. Enjoy the visit!
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Aix-en-Provence
In the footsteps of Cézanne
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ix-en-Provence - a human-scale town of fountains and art, whose magnificentlypreserved and romantic heritage lives in perfect harmony with a resolutely forwardlooking spirit. Aix’s many Renaissance mansion houses have lost none of their former pomp and splendour. During your stay, take time out to enjoy a relaxing stroll in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne, who was born and spent part of his life in Aix. His many canvasses portraying Sainte Victoire mountain are celebrated throughout the world… You can now enjoy a special itinerary in Aix dedicated to the artist. Marked out with copper studs stamped with a “C”, this walk is also a really original way of getting to know the town!
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Ensembles are more important than isolated masterpieces, because they play a part in people’s daily lives. Aix is an ensemble.
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Fernand Pouillon, architecte
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The magician ounded by Julius Caesar, this is the most typically Roman city in the ProvenceAlps-Côte d’Azur region. Arles’ Roman and Romanesque monuments are now official UNESCO World Heritage sites. Built in around 90 BC on the same model as the Coliseum in Rome, the Roman Arena remains one of the highlights of the city; the bullfights and traditional Camargue “bull games” staged there bring together thousands of aficionados from around the world. This remarkable city not only seduced Van Gogh: Picasso and Gauguin succumbed to its charms too! The Arles International Photography Festival, held every summer, welcomes the world’s top photographers.
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Van Gogh wrote to his brother Theo telling him he would like to see artists meet up in Arles, and decided to set up a studio there.
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Marseille
The Mediterranean tempo he «old lady» of France, founded 26 centuries ago, the City of Marseille is also the capital of the Provence-Alps-Cote d’Azur region and France’s largest port. Deeply attached to its ancient traditions, the city is particularly famed for its Old Port, or “Vieux Port”, set right in the centre. This cosmopolitan Mediterranean metropolis cultivates contrast: from the hyperactive city centre to the old-fashioned charm of the old quarters, and the cheers rising from the Velodrome stadium to the soft, warm beaches, a new experience awaits around every corner. A genuine jewel at the gateway to Marseille, the “Calanques” coastal fjords are simply breathtaking. Their sparkling coves and high cliff tops offer sumptuous views over the Med.
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The deafening Canebière, the blue harbour, the white boats, the lacy ropes and rigging... Colette, author
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Avignon
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the city of Popes
he historic town of Avignon - a must during your stay in the region - is home to the fabulous Popes’ Palace, now ranked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saint Bénezet bridge, brought to fame throughout the world by the song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon”, medieval ramparts and a plethora of museums. Before leaving the Palace, take time out to visit the “Bouteillerie” (Bottle Room), where you can enjoy tasting some excellent Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône wines. Held every summer for the past 60 years, the Avignon theatre festival is an international hub of contemporary creation.
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Arriving in Avignon in a fine autumn sunset is an admirable thing. Autumn, sunset and Avignon form three harmonies. Victor Hugo, author
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SAINT-TROPEZ A magnificent bay
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ythical Saint-Tropez is the stuff dreams are made of... This authentic and beautifully-preserved destination remains a must for celebrities, nature lovers and fans of history, art and heritage alike. Numerous famous artists, such as Signac, Matisse and Picasso, have all been inspired by the magic of this village, and Françoise Sagan and Brigitte Bardot turned it into the meeting place of the stars! But SaintTropez has so much more to offer than the usual clichÊs: an incredible quality of light, a unique bay and a charming village brimming with treasures just longing to be discovered in all seasons!
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At sunrise, when the waters in the bay are still and quiet, the harbour offers a delightful show of colourful frontages and pretty café terraces.
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LA LAVANDE
Sweet fragrances
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his sweet-smelling flower is the emblem of Provence! From June to September, the inland countryside offers up a patchwork of tender blues and purples… The main lavender-growing area stretches from Sault plateau to Buech in the foothills of the Alps. These many and varied landscapes offer visitors a genuine “Tour de Provence”! Enjoy discovering the magical and heady fragrance of our 100% Made in Provence lavender, and the countless properties of its essential oils.
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Lavender is the soul of Provence. Jean Giono, author
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From Mont-Ventoux to Luberon...
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Pure Provence!
icknamed the “Giant of Provence”, Mont Ventoux rises to a height of 1909 metres and offers exceptional panoramic views over the whole region, from the Rhône Valley to Mont Blanc. Its southern slopes are covered with Mediterranean vegetation, and are home to the Sault plateau lavender fields and magnificent Luberon valley. This beautiful area offers visitors a palette of many colours and emotions and is a genuine concentrate of Provence, featuring a succession of castles, bastides, “bories” (conical dry stone huts), hilltop villages and ancient ochre quarries...
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A magical world of light and colour, the Luberon is also a treasure trove of flavours.
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The Verdon Canyon
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A sight to behold
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he Verdon Canyon is a genuine natural jewel ; an emerald set against the backdrop of the Verdon Regional Nature Reserve. And the landscapes bordering this exceptional site are just as beautiful too! This spectacular fault is considered as one of Europe’s foremost natural attractions. The “Corniche Sublime” road running along the top of the canyon offers impressive views over the translucent Verdon river, which takes its name from the French word “vert” meaning “green”. Located at the exit to the canyon, Sainte-Croix lake is the pearl of the Verdon area and a paradise for bathers and water sports fans.
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Nothing more romantic than the contrast of rock and abyss, of green waters and crimson shade. Jean Giono
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THE WINES OF PROVENCE Renowned wines
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rovence has been a wine-growing area from time immemorial. It was the Greeks that first planted vines in southern Gaul in the 5th century BC. Today, the generous soil of the South produces red, white and rosé wines.You will love exploring the exceptional Côtes de Provence and Côtes du Rhône terroirs. Synonymous with simplicity and sincere, spontaneous pleasure, Provence’s rosé wines offer a new and more casual approach to wine appreciation.
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A day without wine is a day without sunshine! Provencal proverb
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ALPES DU SUD
Tour de France mythical mountains
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he Alpine area of the Provence-AlpsCote d’Azur region is home to no less than 7 mythical “Tour de France” mountain passes you can enjoy conquering during your stay! From the mythical Col du Galibier to Col du Lautaret, Col de Vars, Col d’Izoard, Col de la Bonette and Col de La Cayole, we invite you to set off in the wake of the world’s greatest cyclists (Fausto Coppy, Eddy Merxx and Lance Amstrong, to name but a few) and discover some fabulous mountain scenery along the way! Ready for a roller coaster ride?
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See the film
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PROVENCE-ALPS-COTE D’AZUR
TOP TEN DO NOT MISS
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OUR TOP TEN Provence-Alps-Cote d’Azur is a region blessed by the gods, packed with a wealth of natural riches and heritage attractions that visitors can enjoy discovering around every corner! The Mediterranean Sea, synonymous with sunshine, sweet fragrances and time-old cultureis omnipresent in the region and comes in every shape, form and mood. Wild in Camargue, authentic in the “Calanques” fjords, untouched on the islands of Lérins, PortCros and Porquerolles, trendy in the Côte d’Azur’s coastal resorts, or a hub of port activity in themain towns! Even the inland countryside bathes in this Mediterranean culture that makes ourdestination so special and seduces every visitor.
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This Top Ten is our selection of “must do” sights to help you experience our region to the full!
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We are happy to share them with you, so you can go on to create your own story in Provence-AlpsCote d’Azur. We look forward to meeting you! What better way to start your trip than with a tour of our emblematic towns, each with its own,totally unique personality... Marseille - France’s oldest town - is a lively, cosmopolitan and typically Mediterranean city. From the Old Port to the heart of the city, and the ancient Panier quarter to the magnificentCorniche coast road, Marseille offers all the right ingredients for a colourful travel experience! »
The Roman city of Arles has a fiery spirit all of its own, largely inspired by nearby Camargue!Its Roman heritage is absolutely remarkable. Formerly referred to as “Little Rome”, Arles hasinspired such illustrious artists as Van Gogh, Picasso and Gauguin!
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Formerly referred to as “Little Rome”, Arles hasinspired such illustrious artists as Van Gogh, Picasso and Gauguin!
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Today, its internationalphoto festival welcomes the world’s top photographers. Marseille, Aix and Arles form the Marseille-Provence city network awarded the title of“European Capital of Culture 2013”.
Neighbouring Aix-en-Provence, lined with charming, Renaissance mansion houses, is completely different. This is a great place for casual strolling in the footsteps of Cézanne, whowas born in the town and gleaned his inspiration from it.
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Avignon - the City of the Popes - is instilled with the genteel lifestyle of Provence. Its Popes’ Palace is the venue for the famous Avignon Theatre Festival held every year! A meeting place for the international jet set in summer, Saint-Tropez’s bathes in the quiet atmosphere of a little fishing port outside peak season, offering delightful little shaded squares, typical boules games, lively café terraces and picturesque sandy beaches! Just a few kilometres away from the hustle and bustle of Saint-Tropez lie the luscious vineyardsproducing the wines of Provence and - of course - our famous rosé wines, perfect servedchilled in the shade of a pretty bower! A little further North towards Vaucluse you will cometo the Côtes du Rhône (red and white wines) and Châteauneuf du Pape wine growing areas.
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The ochre quarries of Roussillon, magnificent village of Gordes and Mont Ventoux are just some of the unforgettable sights you will find here.
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You can best discover these wonderful wines and stunning landscapes by touring the local vineyards and cooperative wine cellars. Among other unforgettable sights while you’re visiting Vaucluse area are the vast meadows of blue lavender flowering from June to August in the Southern Alps and Alps! The Vaucluse is renowned for its authenticity, tranquillity, gorgeous scenery and rich heritage. Peter Mayle brought this area of Provence to fame with his best-selling books! The Luberon Regional Nature Reserve is committed to preserving the gifts of nature, so that everyone can continue to enjoy them to the full.
Last but not least, Provence is home to no less than 6 major mountain passes brought to fame by the Tour de France champions! The Galibier, Lautaret, Vars, Allos, Bonnette and Cayolle passes are just a few wheel turns away! So it is our pleasure to invite you to experience the magical encounters, history, culinary pleasures, sporting challenges and many other wonders the Provence-Alps-Cote d’Azur region has to offer!
Find out more at Regional Tourist Board Provence-Alps-Cote d’Azur
The Verdon is a protected area too, home to the world-famed Verdon Grand Canyon. This geological phenomenon, characterized by its turquoise waters and surprisingly deep cliffs is not to be missed. You can best experience the Canyon by exploring it on foot or in a kayak!
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Contents
P.29 Marseille The pulsating heart of the Med
P.30 Aix-en-Provence In the footsteps of Cézanne
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Avignon The city of Popes
Lavender Route Magic Provence
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Saint-Tropez So slizzing
The Verdon Grand Canyon
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Arles Astonish
The Wines Of Provence
Tour de France Mythical moutains
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MARSEILLE
the pulsating heard of the MED This cosmopolitan Mediterranean metropolis cultivates contrast; from the hyperactive city centre to the old-fashioned charm of the old quarters, the cheers rising from the Vélodrome stadium to the soft, warm beaches, from the futuristic Euromed site to the countrified Pastré area, and much, much more, it is a city thatnever ceases to astonish travellers! France’s oldest city is famed for its Old Port (Vieux Port), set right in the heart of Marseille. Fishermen still gather here every morning to peddle their day’s catch to the locals against a backdrop of colourful boats and sunshine!
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The port is also a favourite meeting place for lovers of Pastis - the not-to-be-missed local aniseed drink - and punters jostle for shoulder room at the « Bar de la Marine » where Pagnol’s wonderful trilogy was shot.
This remains a popular place of worship for people from all walks of life and all religions, come to ask for the Saint’s protection - even for the Olympique de Marseille football team!
The little Ferryboat that runs from this part of the port takes you over the way to the Town Hall and Panier quarter. With its narrow lanes, washing strung between buildings and colourful little squares, this ancient quarter is still filled with the popular atmosphere of the 19th century. Stop off at the Vieille Charité museum while you’re here - a masterpiece of Baroque architecture topped with a curious dome...
You will love touring the Corniche coast road, running from the city centre to the Prado beaches, PointeRouge and wild fjords with their turquoise waters, located a few kilometres further on. You can also take a boat to visit the Château d’If: the fortress built under the reign of François I, brought to fame by Alexandre Dumas and his romanticCount of Monte Cristo. Alternatively, you can hop on a motor boat or typical old «Pointu» fishing boat to visit the fjords and islands, or do some snorkelling…
You can relive the city’s history just by looking at its architecture while you stroll: the Greco-Roman port, medieval Saint- Victor’s Abbey, Town Hall built by Pierre Puget, Rue de la République with its typically elegant Hausmannian style, the "Radiant City" created by Le Corbusier (locally nicknamed "the madman’s city"!), or the CMA CGM tower designed by architect Zaha-Hadid.
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And to finish on a gastronomic note, Marseille’s famous “Bouillabaisse” - a local speciality with Mediterranean rock fish cooked in saffron, served with a spicy fish soup - is a definite must!
Find out more at Marseille tourist office Calanques cruises
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AIX-EN-PROVENCE in the footsteps of Cézanne
The historic capital of Provence, Aix-enProvence was nicknamed "Little Versailles" in the 18th century in recognition of its majestic architecture. Today's town has lost none of its former glory and invites modern-day travellers on a genuine voyage back in time. Around every corner and on every square, you will still find traces of the Roman era, Good King René or the Count of Mirabeau! Starting out from Place de la Rotonde and its magnificent fountain, head up the Cours Mirabeau main thoroughfare, lined with beautiful 17th and 18th-century mansion houses. The walk is interspersed with three fountains, including the famous mossy fountain whose water reaches temperatures of up to 34°C!
Here, raise your eyes to admire the balcony of the "Hôtel d’Espagnet", held up by the giant "Atlantes" figures sculpted by Pierre Puget. Take time off to enjoy a drink and watch the world go by on the terrace of "Les Deux Garçons" café, before walking up to the top of the road, where the Good King René proudly awaits visitors perched on his fountain, a bunch of grapes in hand! The little Passage Agard leads to the Palais de Justice (tribunal), bordered by Renaissance houses. You can enjoy a spot of window shopping in the little lanes around the tribunal before coming to the Hôtel de Ville (town hall): a monumental Baroque construction topped with a magnificent clock tower, now one of the town's landmarks. Just a few steps away lies Saint Sauveur cathedral, built from the 5th century onwards. The cathedral stands opposite the former Law School where Paul Cézanne studied!
Before heading up to the heights of Aix to visit the Cézanne studio, don't miss a stop-off in the Mazarin quarter, home to the magnificent "Musée Granet" and its Cézanne room, exhibiting 9 paintings by the artist.
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Musée Granet regularly hosts major exhibitions, with up-and-coming events including an international exhibition in the framework of the "Marseille European Capital of Culture 2013" celebrations.
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Cézanne lovers will be delighted to discover the artist's home and various places of stay by following the copper rivets stamped with a "C" marking out the "In Cézanne's Footsteps" walking itinerary!
Find out more at Aix-en-Provence Tourist office
If you fancy a spot of rest and relaxation, the "Termes Sextius" Roman baths, now converted into a spa complex, are situated just next door.
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ARLES
Astonich That very special quality of light that inspired him is still just as stunning today! It casts a spell on visitors... And on the impressive architectural remains left here by successive generations of Celts, Romans and modern-day men. The city referred to by the Romans as “Little Rome” offers travellers a voyage back in time. More than just a city, its astonishing blend of cultures lend it a spirit all of its own! To get the best out of your visit, take a walk on Boulevard des Lices, lined with veteran plane trees and café terraces. Then head up to the summer garden (jardin d’été) and Porte de Laure gate into the Roman quarter. Here, you will come to the majestic and recently-restored Roman amphitheatre, locally called the Arena, where bullfights are held at Easter and in early September.
Just next door lies the Roman theatre built in 1 BC, where you can still admire the two magnificent columns comprising the remains of the stage wall. This history-packed venue is also the stage for numerous shows in summer! Just a short walk away, down the lanes lined with mansion houses, you will come to the Place du Forum, where labourers gathered to hire out their services every morning in Roman times.
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Van Gogh brought this site to fame in his painting “Café Terrace at Night.
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The legendary “Hôtel Nord Pinus”, with its two Corinthian columns from the temple of Zeus, has welcomed a plethora of celebrities in its time, including Picasso. This is a great place to stop off for a drink and to lap up the atmosphere. Just next door is the city hall. Go through the foyer to admire the virtually-flat vault built by the craftsmen and artisans of the “Compagnons du Tour de France” guild. The carved door of Saint-Trophine church opens to reveal a sober Romanesque nave, offering a striking contrast to the Gothic choir stall mouldings and 4th-century sarcophagi.
This is also the departure point for the Saint James of Compostela pilgrimage route. The next stop-off is the “Alyscamps” or “Champs Elysée”, reputedly one of the western world’s most prestigious mausoleums up to Gallo-Roman times. The long line of sarcophagi, mostly Greek style, leads up to Saint-Honorat church, which stands guard over the mausoleum. Stop off at the “Grande Halle” to admire the modern architecture of these ancient workshops, now a cultural centre and soon to develop into a genuine multimedia hub. To get a better insight into Arles in Roman times, head off to the “Musée Arles Antique”, now exhibiting the famous bust of Caesar unearthed in the Rhône river. The “Réattu” art museum, housed inside the former Commandery of the Order of Malta, features a beautiful art collection,iincluding an entire room dedicated to Picasso, who fell in love with the museum and donated many drawings to it. The colours and dress-style of Arles have also much inspired the famous fashion designer Christian Lacroix, who was born here.
Find out more at Arles Tourist Office
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AVIGNON
the city of popes Avignon is famed throughout the globe for its “Pont Bénezet” bridge, which inspired the nursery rhyme we all sang as children! But also for its impressive Popes’ Palace, spanning no less than 37 acres. Start your tour at the Palace, built in two parts: the “Palais Vieux built by Pope Benedict XII in 1334 and the “Palais Neuf” built by Pope Clement VI in 1342. On entering the building, you will come to the Honour Courtyard - the prestigious stage for the Avignon theatre festival. The tour unveils the Pope’s chamber, Great Audience hall and Great Chapel. Before leaving the Palace, take time out to visit the Bottle Room, where you can enjoy tasting some excellent Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes du Rhône wines.
Next, you can take the Popes’ stone promenade leading to Place de la Mirande; this is a great way to appreciate the Palace’s monumental size. Next stop is the “Rocher de Doms”: a delightful garden planted with various Mediterranean plants offering views over the Rhône river, Bénezet bridge and Villeneuve-lez-Avignon. On your way back down to the Palace Square and Place de l’Horloge square, you will cross the beautiful 17th-century facade of the “Hôtel des Monnaies”.
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Every summer at festival time, Place de l’Horloge is transformed into a genuine street theatre, packed with troupes from the world over!
Then exit from the old quarter and walk along the 14th-century ramparts to the famous “Pont d’Avignon”, or “Pont Bénézet”, built, as legend tells, by a young shepherd of the same name. Don’t forget to sing the nursery rhyme while you’re here! The Avignon Theatre Festival and “Off” festival throughout July. This 3-week mega event features the very best of today’s theatre productions! The “Off” festival showcases over 900 up-andcoming troupes, and always has some great surprises in store!
Find out more at Avignon Tourist Office
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Surprises await you around every corner of the old quarter, such as the “Hôtel de Sade”, “Couvent des Célestins”, “Rue des Teinturiers”, Grey Penitents’ chapel and house of Good King René. Head on to “Les Halles” covered market, where you can pick up some great local produce!
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SAINT-TROPEZ so slizzing
This little fishing village hoisted to fame by Signac, Matisse and Colette. Picasso, inspired by the magic of the site, painted “L’Odalisque” here and Françoise Sagan and Brigitte Bardot turned it into the meeting place of the stars! Not forgetting the actor Louis de Funès and his “Gendarme de Saint-Tropez” - the film that won worldwide acclaim! But Saint-Tropez has so much more to offer than the usual clichés: an incredible quality of light, a unique bay and a charming village brimming with treasures just longing to be Discovered!
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At sunrise, when the waters in the bay are still and quiet, the harbour offers a delightful show of colourful frontages and pretty café terraces.
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This is the perfect time for savouring a coffee at “Sénéquier” in the footsteps of Errol Flynn and Eluard, while admiring the little boats and large yachts moored at the quayside. As you stroll around the old town, guided by the bell tower standing proudly over the rooftops, you will come to Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church. This Italian Baroque style church harbours the bust of Saint-Tropez! These charming, winding lanes will lead you on to Place des Lices, where you can sit down at the “Café des Arts” to enjoy one of the memorable boules games forming part of everyday life in the village. And not only the locals play - celebrities love joining in too! Don’t miss a visit to the “Musée de l’Annonciade” museum to understand how Saint-Tropez rose to fame from the 19th century onwards. It was actually Signac - the leader of the Pointillist movement - who fell in love with the site, attracting the era’s most talented artists in his wake. The museum is also home to works by Matisse, Braque and Maillol.
If you want to enjoy the very best views over the bay, you’ll need to take a little exercise and climb all the way up to the early 17thcentury Citadel overlooking the town and sea! At the foot of the Citadel lies a moving naval cemetery, caressed by the waves... Saint-Tropez’s natural beauties can best be explored by walking down from “Tour du Portalet”, then heading along the sea front to the mythical Pampelonne beach, via Canebiers bay and the famous Madrague, still home to Brigitte Bardot. Saint-Tropez is of course world-renowned for its exceptional night life. Visitors looking to rub shoulders with jet setters and stars should head to the “VIP Room”.
Find out more at Saint-Tropez Tourist Office
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The wines OF PROVENCE
Provence has been a wine-growing land from time immemorial. It was the Greeks that first planted vines in southern Gaul in the 5th century BC. Today, the generous soil of the South produces red, white and rosé wines. The Vaucluse area is the homeland of the Côtes du Rhône wines and their prestigious, vigorous and full-bodied reds such as Gigondas, Vaqueyras and Rasteauvins. This is also the growing ground for the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines, elected best wines of the world, with their powerful and firm reds and supple, ample whites! The sweet Châteauneuf wines, such as Beaume-de-Venise, are the perfect accompaniment to foie gras and biscuits.
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Take time to explore the exceptional Côtes du Rhône wine growing area!.
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From Gigondas, topped with ancient ruins, you can reach the superb “Dentelles de Montmirail” cliffs with their lacy silhouette. Don’t miss a stop-off in Séguret, one of France’s most beautiful villages perched on a hillside, and Vacqueyras standing on a rocky outcrop. Next stop is Orange with its Roman theatre, then Rasteau and Cairanne. Climb up to the top of the village to contemplate the vines stretching as far as the eye can see... Vaison-la-Romaine, with its Roman ruins and numerous talented young producers is another must. On your way, you will come across a host of cooperative wine cellars and chateaux offering a warm welcome and - of course - wine tasting!! But Provence is especially famed for it Côtes de Provence wines and, in particular, its rosé wines, best drunk chilled in summer under a pretty bower... Ideal for sharing with friends, these friendly and fuss-free wines also accompany gastronomic, casual and world cuisine to perfection.
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Provence’s rosé wines are synonymous with simplicity and sincere, spontaneous pleasure..
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They represent a new and more casual approach to appreciating wine. You will get the opportunity to taste a host of different rosés during your travels in the Bouches-du-Rhône and Var areas - this itinerary is simply bursting with great surprises! From the foot of Sainte-Victoire mountain so dear to Cézanne, you can head on to Rousset through the landscapes portrayed by the artist. From the little port of Cassis, surrounded by cliffs, climb up to the vineyards overlooking the coastal fjords known as the “calanques”. Another port awaits you a few kilometres further on: Bandol, with its lively atmosphere and world- acclaimed rosé wines. Set on a rocky spur, the charming village of La Cadière d’Azur just down the road offers stunning panoramic views over the vines. Next, you will carry on to the mythical port of SaintTropez via the vine-filled area we call Provence Verte. If you have time, stop off at the all-organic village of Correns to sample the local organic wines!
Find out more at Provence Wines Rhône Wines
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LAVENDER ROUTE magic Provence
From June to September, the inland countryside of Provence offers up a patchwork of tender blues and purples. The main lavender-growing area stretches from the Sault plateau to Buech, in the foothills of the Alps. The many and varied landscapes on this wonderful lavender route offer a genuine “Tour de Provence”! Lined with medieval houses and Renaissance homes, the little village of Sault in lower Provence is a mecca of lavender growing.
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The surrounding meadows offer up a carpet of blue stretching as far as the eye can see...
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Don’t miss the colourful annual lavender fair held on August! From Sault, you can head down towards Apt at your own pace via Roussillon and its famous ochre quarries.
Lavender is also one of the natural riches of the Apt area, where it thrives on the local chalky soil. Take time to visit Sainte Anne’s cathedral and the Saturday morning food market – one of Provence’s largest and most typical. And of course, no visitor can leave without tasting the town’s mythical candied fruits! As you leave the Vaucluse region on the road to the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, you will enter the homeland of author Jean Giono. The Forcalquier area, capital of the ancient County of Provence, offers a delightful show of dry stone villages and vast expanses of lavender. You can enjoy visiting the Ganagobie priory - a jewel of Romanesque architecture - before touring the fortified town of Forcalquier, now home to the European University of Fragrances and Flavours! Just a few kilometres further on lies Simiane-laRotonde, ranked as a “City of Character”, built around an ancient keep that continues to stand guard over the neighbouring lavender fields. This site was Provence’s lavender capital in the 19th century.
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Reputed for its lavender and almonds, the region also produces an excellent lavender honey!
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A visit to the world-famed ceramics makers in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a definite must before continuing northwards to the Digne area. Digne-les-Bains, the capital of the Alpes de HauteProvence region, pays tribute to lavender every year on the first weekend of August at the “Corso de la Lavande” flower parade. Digne has also been a highly-coveted spa town since Roman times! Last but not least, you can wind up your tour with the Alpine landscapes of the Buech area. Home to bubbling streams, luscious meadows and green mountain tops, this is a lavender paradise!
Find out more at Lavender routes
Next stop is Valensole plateau, generously irrigated by the Durance and Verdon rivers.
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THE VERDON grand canyon
Forming a natural frontier between the Var and Southern Alps, this spectacular fault is considered as one of Europe’s foremost natural attractions, despite being seventeen times smaller than the Grand Canyon in Colorado. This is the stuff myths are made of... The Verdon Canyon is a genuine natural jewel. The Verdon is en emerald set against the backdrop of the Verdon Regional Nature Reserve. And the landscapes bordering this exceptional site are just as beautiful too: the Verdon is home to no less than 1,500 plant species and virtually all of the species of birds of prey found in France!
Edouard Alfred Martel was the first explorer to travel the entire canyon in 1905 and reveal this spectacular site and its extraordinary flora and fauna to the general public for the first time. One of the Verdon’s prettiest hiking trails is now named after him: the “Sentier Martel”, starting out from the little village of La Palud.
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A transition zone between Provence and the first foothills of the Alps, the Verdon is a genuine paradise for walkers and hikers.
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Set clinging to the rock face, the region’s many ancient little villages such as Moustiers Sainte-Marie have a host of stories to tell.
The many natural attractions around the canyon include the Verdon Valley, Galetas cliff and SainteCroix lake situated to its extreme West. A little further on lies Valensole plateau – one of Provence’s most famous lavender-growing sites.
The Verdon’s succession of tranquil, turquoise lakes, stretching out between Valensole plateau and the mountains, offer up a taste of pure happiness.
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Mother Nature has definitely spoilt this region!
A little further South lies Quinson and its prehistory museum, retracing the history of human presence in the region thanks to various digs performed in the last 50 years around the caves situated near Esparron-sur-Verdon lake. To the South of the canyon, you will enter the landscapes of Lower Provence, characterized by a gentle relief and drier Mediterranean vegetation instilled with the scents of wild herbs… The pleasures of Provence simply never end!
Find out more at The Verdon
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TOUR DE FRANCE mythical moutains
With a little training and a lot of courage, you can set off in the wake of the world’s greatest cyclists and discover some fabulous mountain scenery as you go! Start with the most famous of them all… the Col du Galibier, brought to fame by Andy Schleck and Eddy Merckx. This giant rises to a height of 2,645 metres and was first included in the “Tour de France” on July 10th, 1911! It is one of the most feared heats of the contest and often one of the steepest... Col du Galibier has featured in the Tour de France no less than 59 times, making it the race’s mostfrequently visited Alpine pass. It is so tough it has actually been listed as “uncategorized” since 1979!
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After a few hours of well-earned rest, you can head on to Col du Lautaret in the wake of Lance Amstrong!
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This pass has figured 11 times on the Tour de France itinerary (without counting the LautaretGalibier combinations), in both uphill and downhill directions. Stop off at the botanical gardens to admire the 2,000 mountain plant species from around the world! Set facing you is the Massif de la Meije – a dream venue for free riders the world over. If you come back here in winter you can get to the summit in a cable car before whizzing down the amazing 2,160 metre descent on skis! Don’t miss the vast ski resort of Serre-Chevalier one of the 2011 Tour de France heats. The home town of skiing champion Luc Alphand, the Serre Chevalier ski domain spans six towns and features an incredible 250 kilometres of pistes! You will love the atmosphere of the domain’s little villages in winter, and the Monetier-les- Bains spa centre is a treat in all seasons! Now it’s time to tackle the Col de Vars, just like Fausto Coppi who won this heat in 1951. At 2,108 metres, you will pass in front of the Napoleon refuge, where you can enjoy a coffee break! This pass has seen the Tour de France competitors go by 33 times – as has the “uncategorized” Col d’Izoard, marked by the victory of Santiago Botero in 2000!
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The Col d’Allos, linking Ubaye valley and Verdn valley, has also featured 33 times on the Tour de France map.
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The legendary Eddy Merkx won this heat in 1975! As you head southwards, you will climb Col de la Bonnette, bordering neighbouring Italy. This “uncategorized” pass has featured in the Tour de France 4 times. Set in the heart of the Mercantour national park, it boasts beautifully preserved plant and animal life, so you may well come across a marmot here! Leave your bike and head up to the summit on foot to admire the stunning, 360° view. Your tour finishes with the Col de la Cayolle set between the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-HauteProvence area and has figured 3 times on the Tour de France schedule. This pass takes its name from the little high-altitude mountain chalets of olden days!
Find out more at Cycling in the Hautes Alpes
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