The 12 most beautiful nature reserves in Provence – Côte d'Azur in the South of France

Provence – Côte d’Azur is not only a region of sun, lavender and charming villages. It is also a region where nature  is beautiful and varied. From deep gorges and coastal cliffs to mountain massifs and Mediterranean forests, the landscape is constantly changing, from impressive and rugged to lovely and serene. For those who go on holiday in the South of France, a visit to one of these nature reserves is a must. These nature reserves let you experience the real South of France: pure, authentic and unforgettable.
Below, we take you on a tour of the 12 most beautiful and well-known nature reserves in Provence and the Côte d'Azur, all easily accessible from FranceComfort holiday parks.

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1. Parc National du Mercantour

In the north of the Côte d'Azur, near Nice, lies the Mercantour National Park. This area between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea is one of the most unspoilt areas in France, with peaks above 3,000 meters, crystal-clear lakes, flower-rich valleys, and wildlife such as chamois and marmots. The Vallée des Merveilles is home to thousands of prehistoric rock paintings that can be admired by visitors. From your luxury holiday home in Provence you can drive to the villages of Saint-Martin-Vésubie and Tende where beautiful hiking trails start. During the winter you can ski, In the summer it is a great area for hikers.

📍 Location: north of Nice.

2. Gorges du Verdon

The Gorges du Verdon, also known as the Grand Canyon of France, is one of the most impressive natural wonders of southern France and even the whole of Europe. The gorge has a depth of up to 700 meters and winds between limestone cliffs through which the Verdon River flows in clear turquoise water. Along the road that leads from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie up to Castellane you can enjoy beautiful viewpoints such as the Point Sublime, de Balcons de la Mescla or the Belvédère de Trescaire. Stroll along the Sentier Blanc-Martel, a 15-kilometer path along the gorge. Rent a kayak or pedal boat on Lac de Sainte-Croix or admire the gorge from the Route des Crêtes. Griffon vultures circle above the river, and on hot days the walls glisten in the sunlight.

📍 Location: between Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Castellane.

3. Luberon

Luberon is the heart of Provence with its rolling hills, lavender fields and vineyards. Scattered across the landscape you will find some of the most beautiful villages of Provence which you should definitely visit during your holiday in the South of France. Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon is located between Avignon and Aix-en-Provence and consists of three mountain ranges. The famous N85, the Route Napoléon also runs through this region. During the summer, the fields turn purple and the air fills with the smell of thyme and lavender. Villages like Gordes, Roussillon and Bonnieux are among the most beautiful in France. In addition to stunning nature, you will also find markets, castles and wine routes here; It is an area where peace and beauty come together.

📍 Location: between Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.

4. Alpilles

South of Avignon, around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence, lies the Massif des Alpilles. The limestone hills, olive groves and cypresses form the typical Provençal landscape that Vincent van Gogh captured in his paintings. From Les Baux, you have a view over a sea of olive trees. The famous GR6 hiking trail runs through this massif. Do not only enjoy the beautiful nature but also take the time to explore touristic villages, art galleries and cozy markets.

📍 Location: between Avignon and Arles.

5. Massif de la Sainte-Baume

Massif de la Sainte-Baume, which lies to the east of Aix-en-Provence, is a rugged mountain range with dense forests and spiritual history. Legend has it that Maria Magdalena lived here in a cave, this cave can still be visited. The beech forests on the northern slope are among the oldest in southern France. The climb to the Cave of Sainte-Baume or the Pic de Bertagne offers impressive views. This is a great day out from your holiday home at FranceComfort Holiday Park Vallée de la Ste. Baume.

📍 Location: by Plan-d'Aups-la-Sainte-Baume.

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6. Massif de l’Esterel

Between Cannes and Fréjus lies the Massif de l'Esterel, a jagged mountain range of red volcanic rock. The contrasts are spectacular: red, green and blue alternate. In the early morning, the rocks turn a warm orange and reflect in the Mediterranean Sea. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy trails with sea views, such as the trail that goes to the Pic de l'Ours. The Corniche d'Or, a coastal road between Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer, is perfect for a panoramic drive along the Mediterranean coast.

📍 Location: between Cannes and Fréjus.

7. Massif des Maures

Massif des Maures is located between Saint-Tropez and Hyères and consists of vast forests of chestnut trees, cork oaks and pines. The landscape is lush and green, offering cool relief during hot summer days. Walking routes start from villages like Collobrières and you can also go swimming or sunbathing. The area is less crowded than the Côte d'Azur, but just as beautiful: ideal for those looking for peace and quiet.

📍 Location: between Saint-Tropez and Hyères.

8. Dentelles de Montmirail

At the foot of Mont Ventoux lies the Dentelles de Montmirail, a small but beautiful mountain range of sharp limestone peaks. The rock formations resemble teeth, hence the name 'Dentelles'. The area is popular among hikers and climbers. Gigondas and Vacqueyras are famous villages in this region, known for their wine and hospitality. Combine a hike with a wine tasting at a local vineyard.

📍 Location: near Vaison-la-Romaine, north of Carpentras.

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9. Calanques de Cassis

Between Marseille and Cassis lies the Calanques National Park. White limestone cliffs plunge steeply into the sea, where narrow coves are hidden with crystal clear waters. These bays – the Calanques – are only accessible on foot or by boat. The Calanque d'En-Vau is especially spectacular thanks to the high rocks, azure, blue water and silence. Boats depart daily from Cassis and take you past several Calanques – a relaxing way to experience this natural wonder. Visit the Calanques during your holidays in FranceComfort - Jardin du Golf.

📍 Location: between Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat.

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10. Camargue

At the mouth of the Rhône lies the Camargue, a unique nature reserve full of salt lakes, reed beds and lagoons. Flamingos, white horses and black bulls live here in the wild. The area can be explored on horseback, by bike or by boat. The Parc Ornithologique de Pont de Gau is ideal for bird lovers. On the edge of the Camargue lies the Arles, a city with plenty of culture and Roman history.

📍 Location: between Arles and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

11. Mont Ventoux

At 1,912 metres Mont Ventoux dominates the landscape. The bare, white top is reminiscent of a lunar landscape, while the slopes are covered with vineyards, olive groves and lavender. Higher up the mountain you will see coniferous forests of pines, oaks, lawns and mountain meadows. The mountain is famous from the Tour de France, but also popular with hikers. There are dozens of marked trails, ranging from light walks through forests to steep climbs to the top. Popular are the route from Bédoin to the summit (GR4), the forest of Mont Serein, the route from Chalet Reynard and the circular walk at the Col des Tempêtes. From the top, the view is magnificent: on a clear day, you can see the Alps, the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhône Valley.

📍 Location: north of Carpentras.

12. Parc Naturel du Verdon

The Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon stretches out on both sides of the famous gorge. In this beautiful landscape you will find quiet forests, rugged plateaus and the beautiful Lac de Sainte-Croix. On this lake, you can practice a wide range of water sports or just cool off in the water after a long walk. There are dozens of hiking and cycling routes in this natural park, making the area ideal for walking and cycling. The villages of Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie are among the most beautiful in Provence. During every season, the Verdon is a landscape of peace and space. FranceComfort Holiday Park Domaine de Castellane and FranceComfort Holiday Park Résidence de Salernes are located in this region.

📍 Location: between Castellane, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Aiguines.

   

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about nature reserves in Provence – Côte d'Azur

1. Which nature reserves are the most impressive?
The Gorges du Verdon and the Massif de l'Esterel are among the most spectacular. The Mercantour National Park is also impressive with its mountain scenery and silence.

2. Which nature reserves are fun with children?
The Camargue with its horses and flamingos is a favourite with families, as is the Lac de Sainte-Croix where you can swim and canoe.

3. Which nature reserves require a good level of fitness?
The Gorges du Verdon, Mont Ventoux and the hikes in the Mercantour require a little more effort. Good walking shoes and plenty of water is important.

4. In which nature reserves can you find the most beautiful plants and trees?
The Massif des Maures is full of chestnut trees, cork oaks and many other species of trees and shrubs. Lavender and thyme grow in the Luberon and in the Sainte-Baume you can see old beech forests. In the Camargue, extensive reed beds flourish and trees and plants that can withstand the salty soil grow.

5. What is the best time to visit a nature reserve?
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and colourful nature. In spring, the flowers and plants are in full bloom. In July and August, the parks are livelier, with lavender blooming and summer crowds.

Visit these nature reserves and discover the real Provence - Côte d'Azur

What makes Provence – Côte d'Azur so special is its diversity, you will experience this for yourself during your holiday in the South of France. In a single day, you can walk among lavender fields, swim in an azure, blue bay and watch the sun set over a mountain range in the evening. Most nature reserves in Provence - Côte d'Azur are easily accessible by car – ideal for combining several places during your holiday. For those who like to be active, there are numerous hiking trails and cycle paths. Along the coast, you can take boat trips, especially from the Calanques and the Esterel. From FranceComfort's holiday parks, many of these areas can be reached in less than an hour – ideal for day trips from your luxury villa in Provence - Côte d'Azur.

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