There’s something to be said for seeing a place with your own two eyes. Not on a postcard or in a photo but to experience a place with all five senses. Perhaps you long to smell the lavender fields or dip your toes in the salty Mediterranean. From its idyllic villages to its turquoise waves, southern France is sprinkled with some of the most scenic places in the world. And not only do you want to see these places but you also want to experience them to their fullest. We’re excited to share some of our favorite places in southern France as well as how to spend your time in these spots. Here are some of the most scenic places in Provence.
Gordes, for its village views above and below
This hilltop village beckons with its cobblestone paths and sweeping views of the Luberon Valley. You can simply wander these windy paths, step back in time and imagine the history embedded into this village, which dates back to the 1000s. From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, Gordes still stands proud and has stories to tell.
Dine at Clover Gordes, where world-renowned chef Jean-François Piège crafts mouth-watering meals. His menu features regional ingredients such as olives from Maussane-les-Alpilles and lemons from Menton.
Not only does Gordes have ample nooks to explore on its hilltop village but also underground. With a visit to Les Caves du Palais Saint Firmin, you can learn about the robust past of this town hundreds of years ago. Due to the lack of space in the hilltop village, its artisans and industry workers had to get creative. They made a network of 50-something cellars underneath the village their place to build and create. You can experience this rich history of Gordes with its underground oil mills, cisterns, and bread oven.
Valensole, for its lavender fields right off of a postcard
When in Provence, you can’t miss one of this region’s claims to fame: its lavender fields. Our guide will drive you to explore Valensole and its rows of lavender plants. We dare you to roll the windows down and inhale deeply.
France produces more than 130 tons of lavender essential oil each year, according to France’s Ministry of Agriculture. The best time to see the lavender fields in full bloom is in June and July before the August harvest. Wander the idyllic village of Valensole and stroll the outdoor markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Our luxury vehicles come with a pétanque set, a classic southern French game played outdoors. Play several manches under Valensole’s sun.
After wandering through the lavender rows, our guide will take you to Domaine La Blaque, where you can learn about the winemaking process in this vineyard followed by a private wine tasting.
Gorges du Verdon, for its majestic river canyon
For those looking to escape and reconnect with nature, Gorges du Verdon is calling. This river canyon will enchant you with its bright, blue-green water and is believed to date back to the Paleolithic times. (You can even take a look at the ancient archaeological finds at the Museum of Prehistory of the Gorges du Verdon.)
Families can spend an afternoon paddle boating and admiring the limestone formations aged thousands of years. For the adrenaline junkies, opt for one of our rafting excursions. Whether you’re tempted by a dip in the basin or a hike around the canyon, the Gorges du Verdon has an activity for every traveler.
Our guide will drive you to the Pont du Galetas, a bridge where you can get some of the best views of Lac Sainte Croix and perhaps a new profile picture. Just a short drive from the Gorges du Verdon, you can explore Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a village named one of the most beautiful in all of France.
The Calanques, for its deep blue waters
Deciding between mountain and sea can feel like an impossible choice. But with Provence’s calanques, or rocky inlets, you meet the marriage between towering rock formations and the deep blue sea. The Calanques National Park spans multiple towns such as Marseille and Cassis, which means you have a range of options.
Take a hike through this national park with one of our local guides. And for the more adventurous, we offer climbing in the calanques. Or leave from the quaint village of Cassis for a private boat tour of the calanques. After enjoying the Mediterranean sun and sea, conclude your boat tour with a private wine tasting at the Domaine du Paternel, a multi-generational, family-owned vineyard near Cassis.
Although France is often known for its bustling metropolises, its beauty often lies in the calm and quiet. From its fragrant lavender fields to its villages peppered with history, these most scenic places in Provence are waiting not only to be seen but to be experienced to fullest.
Provence Tour offers unique and glamorous experiences as we showcase magnificent and rare highlights of the charming region, Provence.
Our private drivers have expert knowledge of the region and will happily guide you, and answer any questions you may have about the area. Indulge in an authentic and customized guided day tour, with an opportunity to see Provence’s hidden treasures, such as the lavish lavender fields, various picturesque villages, and significant historical sites.
