Luberon – lavender, tranquillity and villages full of character
The Luberon is perhaps the most picturesque part of Provence.
The area is known for its vast lavender fields, sleepy hamlets, and rolling vineyards. In summer, the valleys turn purple and there is a soft scent of thyme and lavender in the air.
Visit Gordes, built on a hillside and one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France". In Roussillon, admire the ochre cliffs that color the landscape orange and red. Villages such as Bonnieux, Ménerbes and Lourmarin are also worth a detour. Here, time seems to stand still: narrow streets, stone houses and squares full of shady plane trees.
If you love nature, follow the lavender route between Valensole and Sault – one of the most beautiful car routes in the south of France. On Routes Lavande you will find more information about the official lavender routes and flowering periods.
Vaucluse – culture, wine and history
The Vaucluse combines rich history with culinary traditions. In the heart of this region lies Avignon, the city of the Popes, with the impressive Papal Palace and the famous Pont d'Avignon bridge. Stroll through the old city walls, visit the market hall "Les Halles" and taste local specialties.
Wine lovers will know the name Châteauneuf-du-Pape – some of the best wines in France are produced here. A visit to a wine estate with tasting is highly recommended.
Mont Ventoux, the legendary mountain from the Tour de France, towers above the vineyards. The summit offers spectacular views of the Rhône Valley and the Alps.
Côte d'Azur – sea, light and elegance
On the southern edge of Provence lies the Côte d'Azur, where the mountainous interior merges with the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea. This region is a symbol of sun, style and zest for life.
In Cassis you will find charming harbours and impressive cliffs, the famous Calanques, where the turquoise water beats against white limestone rocks. A little further away are Bandol and Sanary-sur-Mer, known for their lively boulevards and Provençal markets in the Nans les Pins region.
Those who like glamour can go on a day trip to Saint-Tropez or Nice. Yet the Côte d'Azur remains more than just luxury: small coastal villages and nature reserves such as the Massif des Maures offer peace and authenticity.
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence – mountains, lakes and adventure
For nature lovers and adventurers, the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is a true paradise. Here lies the spectacular nature reserve Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Europe".
The gorge, carved out by the Verdon River, offers countless opportunities for outdoor activities: hiking, canoeing, rock climbing and paragliding.
At the Lac de Sainte-Croix reservoir , you can swim, sail or enjoy a picnic on the shore.
In the higher areas around Castellane, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Digne-les-Bains, you will experience the rougher face of Provence. Here the Mediterranean landscape meets the Alps: pine forests, mountain meadows and fresh mountain air. It is also home to the Domaine de Castellane FranceComfort park, where you can watch the sun disappear behind the mountains from your terrace in the evening.
