Provence & Verdon: lavender, cliffs and canyons

In the heart of the Vaucluse, these two cities form an impressive window into the Roman past of Provence. The Ancient Theatre of Orange is known for its exceptionally well-preserved stage wall, which towers high above the city. A little further on, the richly decorated Arc de Triomphe marks the historic northern access road. In Vaison-la-Romaine, you can walk among extensive archaeological excavations of ancient city districts and luxury villas. Vaison's medieval upper town offers a sharp contrast to the Roman remains down in the valley. A walk across the robust Pont Romain naturally connects the different eras of this settlement. The surroundings are dotted with Côtes du Rhône vineyards, creating a rolling, green landscape. Visitors here experience a unique combination of classical architecture and relaxed Provençal life.

Avignon is situated on the banks of the Rhône and is entirely surrounded by impressive medieval city walls. The imposing Palais des Papes dominates the cityscape with its massive walls and Gothic towers. From the nearby Rocher des Doms, you have a panoramic view over the river and the surrounding vineyards. In the maze of streets, you'll find shady squares and numerous historic monuments. The famous Pont d'Avignon extends halfway across the river, forming an iconic silhouette against the horizon. Travelers can explore the rich history of the papal residence by wandering through its vast halls. The city offers an authentic atmosphere where culture and the French rhythm of life come together under the southern sun. A stay here grants access to both the monumental splendor and the lively markets of Provence.

Arles is steeped in history with its impressive Roman monuments dominating the cityscape. The Arles Amphitheatre forms the monumental heart where gladiatorial contests once took place. Nearby, the Ancient Theatre serves as a reminder of the cultural richness of antiquity. Walking through the narrow streets, you experience the atmosphere that inspired Vincent van Gogh's most famous works. On the edge of the city centre lie the Alyscamps, a tranquil Roman necropolis lined with tall trees. The city is situated on the banks of the Rhône and forms a natural crossroads between the wild Camargue and the rolling Provence. Here, ancient architecture and Provençal traditions blend seamlessly.

In this vast delta region, the Rhône and the Mediterranean Sea meet in a unique landscape of salt flats and marshes. White horses and black bulls graze here in the open air, while pink flamingos alight in the shallow waters of Étang de Vaccarès. The whitewashed coastal village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer forms the beating heart of this region with its fortified church and narrow streets. From the roof of the Église des Saintes-Maries, you have a panoramic view of the coastline and the surrounding nature. The expansive Parc Naturel Régional offers countless paths for explorations on foot or by bike along its many waterways. Here you experience an unprecedented tranquility and a strong connection to age-old traditions. The salty sea air and the wide horizon make a stay along this coastal strip a special experience in the south.

Aix-en-Provence exudes the refined atmosphere of Provence with its stately avenues and numerous fountains. The central Cours Mirabeau forms the heart of the city, where plane trees offer shade to elegant terraces and historic mansions. In the narrow streets, visitors discover the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, a structure spanning various architectural eras. Art lovers can visit the preserved Atelier de Cézanne, where the famous painter created his masterpieces. The city is beautifully situated at the foot of Montagne Sainte-Victoire, a limestone massif that often served as a backdrop for local artworks. Local markets daily fill the squares with the scents of lavender, fresh herbs, and artisanal soaps. It is a place where the Mediterranean sun and the rich history of the region converge at a relaxed pace.

Gordes towers high above the Luberon Valley, offering a classic image of a Provençal hilltop village with its stacked stone houses. Its narrow alleys lead to a central castle that dominates the surrounding landscape. Nearby, the Romanesque Abbaye de Sénanque is nestled amidst lavender fields, creating a serene sight in the summer months. To the south of the village, the ochre quarries of Roussillon display vibrant hues of red and orange against a backdrop of green pine forests. The region invites leisurely explorations along vineyards and olive groves characteristic of the Mediterranean countryside. A walk through the nearby Village de Bories reveals ancient dry-stone huts marking the agricultural history of the area. The panoramic views from the village terraces stretch far across the regional natural park.

Europe's deepest gorge offers an impressive spectacle of limestone cliffs plunging vertically into the turquoise water. From the panoramic Point Sublime, you overlook the confluence of the Verdon and Jabron rivers. The winding roads along the northern and southern rims offer countless viewpoints over the steep drops. Active travelers explore the gorge on foot via the challenging Sentier Martel or explore the waterway by kayak. The azure Lac de Sainte-Croix marks the natural end of the gorge and invites relaxation by the water's edge. In the vicinity are picturesque villages that appear to cling to the cliff walls. The combination of rugged nature and expansive bodies of water makes this an essential part of a trip through Southern France.

The Estérel Massif is characterized by its red volcanic rocks, which contrast sharply with the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes, the Corniche d'Or winds along the rugged coastline with numerous coves and small beaches. Inland, the wooded slopes and steep paths invite to hikes with expansive panoramic views. From the summit of the Pic de l'Ours, you can look out over the Bay of Cannes and the surrounding islands. At Cap du Dramont, the characteristic watchtower marks the transition from the red cliffs to the sea. The many parking areas along the coastal road provide access to sheltered coves such as the Calanque de Maubois. Peace and nature dominate the surroundings here, far from the hustle and bustle of the nearby large resorts. The contrast between the red porphyry rocks and the green cork oaks creates a characteristic landscape in this region.

Antibes, nestled between the renowned resorts of the French Riviera, offers an atmospheric blend of maritime history and art. The ancient city walls enclose a labyrinth of narrow streets where flowers adorn the facades. Along the quay of Port Vauban, impressive yachts lie side by side in one of the region's largest marinas. From the ramparts, you have a panoramic view over the Mediterranean Sea and the snow-capped peaks of the Alps in the distance. The Picasso Museum is housed in the imposing Château Grimaldi and displays works the artist created on site. Hikers can explore the coastal path around Cap d'Antibes, where coves and rugged rocks alternate. The star-shaped Fort Carré has guarded access to the city and port for centuries. This location offers a quieter alternative to its busier neighbours, while the Mediterranean atmosphere remains palpable everywhere.