Discover The Charms Of This Lovely French Region With Provence Tours

By Andrea Davidson


Immortalized by the paintings of Van Gough and celebrated by Peter Mayle, this southern French region has delighted visitors for generations. A Provence tours experience offers the diversity of package or custom tours. The coasts, mountains, fields, rivers, towns and cities in between offer a plethora of opportunities to explore its special beauty.

To get there visitors can fly into either of the international airports located in Marseille and Nice. From there rail links connect to the main towns of the region. From London travelers can also travel by the Eurostar train to Paris. From there a TGV high speed train ride takes under five hours to get to Marseille or three hours and 45 minutes to reach Avignon. It is also easy to travel by bus between the villages and towns.

Located at the borders of Spain, Italy and France, the influence of all three national cultures can be seen in this border region. St. Tropez, Monte Carlo, Arles, St. Remy, the Papal city of Avignon and provincial capital city Aix en Provence are all situated here. Glitz and a laid back atmosphere are contrasting temperaments that appeal to different kinds of travelers. Some prefer the high life, others prefer the natural beauty and special ambiance of its beautiful landscape and urban areas rich in history.

The summer season is the busiest. Even the small scenic towns are full of explorers. A quieter time is during the less popular spring or autumn seasons. For a scenic view of Alpine scenery, a train journey between Nice and Digne les Bains should be on the agenda. A relaxing cruise down the Rhone is another way to absorb the scenery. A river cruises will travel on the Rhone and continue on the Saone River, a tributary of the Rhone.

For outdoor enthusiasts there are plenty of activities. Kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting, boating and biking are popular. Such activities are particularly enjoyed in the splendorous Gorges du Verdon and the Camargue. In Camargue you can ride the indigenous small white horses known to be one of the oldest breeds in the world. For stimulating walks, the GR9 trail spans the vertical ranges, including Mont Ventoux, Monts du Vaucluse and the Luberon Range. The northeast ski resort of Pra Loup provides downhills for those who prefer to ski down mountains rather than climb them.

Sunflowers and vines bedeck the southern portion, the lavender laden Luberon hills bedeck the western part and the Alps are in the north. For many, lavender is the defining fragrance of this region. Lavender flowers can be seen between the end of June and early August. Sunflowers can be seen during July and August.

A part of the sensory experience will be the fine Provencal cuisine. This cuisine is known for its fragrant and fresh native ingredients. The herbs make even the rustic potatoes in oil dish memorable for the likes of Cezanne. In Marseille, its bouillabaisse is a signature dish, but most places are identified with an ingredient or a culinary recipe. The Calisson is an almond sweet associated with Aix en Provence. It is a reminder of the almond trade hub the city used to be. For a refreshing drink, the Pastis will go well with local specialties.

As you will discover one visit will not be enough. Provence tours will make each journey a memorable one. Visitors can travel at any time. The optimal time is when there are fewer tourists in the way.




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