The region - La Paradisse

Exploring the region

Provence offers a host of magnificent sites, hidden treasures and activities, many of which are children-friendly.

Out and about in nature

Mont Ventoux, Dentelles de Montmirail and Monts de Vaucluse – a welcoming landscape for nature lovers young and old, whether on foot, on horseback or by bike. [+]

With just a ten-minute drive away, you’ll be enchanted by the grandiose Gorges de la Nesque.

Enjoy walks in the Ochre fields of Roussillon and Rustrel, nicknamed the ‘Colorado of Provence’, or further afield in the Luberon, with its stunning hilltop villages, its Cedar forest and hidden corners of nature.

Farmers' markets

What could be nicer than shopping at the local markets, in almost every village, on different days (and sometimes evenings) throughout the week, while the villages’ cobbled streets invite you to stroll through stone houses, adorned with colourful shutters and cascading flowers. .

Provençal villages with an ambiance of yesteryear

Discover the authentic villages of the Monts de Vaucluse and the Dentelles de Montmirail. Séguret, Gigondas, Venasque, Blauvac, Méthamis, Suzette and Le Barrou are just some of the unspoilt spots where time seems to stand still. Bédoin, the cycling capital with its lively events and market, is sure to attract you, as is Gordes and the Abbaye de Sénanque. [+]

For those who prefer staying close to the water’s edge, Pernes-les-Fontaines with its fountains and washhouses, the contemplative L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse with its mysterious resurgence are just the thing.

For a change of perspective, check out the beautiful medieval hilltop towns of Bonnieux and Lacoste in the Luberon, and the Alpilles, particularly Les Baux-de-Provence and the Carrières de Lumières (with their not-to-be-missed shows!).

The cities of Provence

What a pleasure it is to stroll through the elegant historic towns of Avignon with its bridge, its Palais des Papes, its renowned theatre festival, or Aix-en-Provence and its fountains, terraces, museums and boutiques. They offer an architectural and cultural heritage as refined as it is varied. [+]

Closer to home, visit Orange (its ancient theatre) and Vaison-la-Romaine (its remains). At the markets in Carpentras, you’ll find the famous Carpentras strawberries, Monts de Venasque cherries, Sault lavender, asparagus and Ventoux black truffles…

Don’t miss Marseille, the daring and vibrant city with its resolute focus on the sea.

A myriad of festivals

Come and enjoy the colourful cultural festivals, with their varied styles of music, theatre and street art aimed at audiences of all ages, whether in town or in unusual villages.

These effervescent creative events are enhanced by the architectural heritage that serves as their backdrop.

Fine dining

There's plenty to tantalise one’s taste buds thanks to the high quality of local products, renowned restaurants, farmers' markets and winegrowers. [+]

What an abundance of gastronomic art! Wines, truffles, olives, cheeses, asparagus, charcuterie, honey, juicy fruit, confectionery and regional restaurants are sure to delight. Gourmets will love the authentic Provençal cuisine, featuring delicious local Mediterranean ingredients and flavours.

As for wine lovers, they’ll be delighted by the proximity of the region’s renowned vineyards, discovering an impressive range among the Côtes du Ventoux, and revisiting the classics of nearby Gigondas and Vacqueyras.

There are some stunning craft beers in neighbouring villages too.

Cévennes, Vallée de l'Hérault depuis l'Aigoual

Jardins remarquables, monument et musée de Salagon, près de Forcalquier et de Manosque

Sentier du Garde Canal, Gorges du Verdon, Lac de Sainte-Croix

Fleurs de lavandes sur le plateau de Valensole

Les îles du Frioul et le Château d'If, vus de la Bonne Mère à Marseille

Le Château d'If dans la rade de Marseille

Daily excursions

The crystal-clear waters of the Cassis and Marseille calanques (creeks), the Old Port, the MUCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisation), the panoramic Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Château d'If are a 90-minute drive away. The same applies to Aix-en-Provence. [+]

Within a day’s drive, you can also explore the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon and their emerald-green Lac de Sainte-Croix, the Alpes de Haute-Provence with their lavender fields, the market towns of Manosque and Forcalquier, and the Abbaye de Salagon with its gardens from days gone by – and then, further afield, the Cévennes, the Ardèche or the Camargue.

More information: Ventoux/Provence
Facebook group: Si tu aimes le Vaucluse