Le Collectionist's Guide of Things to do in Provence in June

In June, Provence is filled with a special atmosphere, you can taste the summer approaching as sweet floral scents emanate from the lavender fields. Perched in the Alpilles and Luberon, the mountain streams come alive as you take your first dive into their turquoise waters. 

As you can tell, the month of June is the ideal time to visit sunny Provence, before the summer crowds arrive. To make the most of it, Le Collectionist has made a guide of the best things to do in Provence in June.

What to do in Provence in june: The festivities

At the end of spring, Provence is the location of many tradition festivals and events. So, before choosing your destination, take a look at the dates of regional festivals. Here are some ideas:

• La Fête de la Transhumance: This traditional festival takes place between the end of May and the beginning of June in the villages of Provence. One of our favourite locations is that of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where local shepherds bring their sheep to the heart of the Alpilles to continue their journey towards the mountains. You can watch the herds parade down the cobblestone streets, and discover the well-kept secrets of making sheep’s cheese. Passing through Provence with children, you can also enjoy a donkey ride.

• Les Feux de la Saint-Jean : If you visit Provence at the end of June, you will be sure to witness huge bonfires, which celebrate the arrival of the beautiful season throughout the region. From Aix-en-Provence to Cassis, via Les Baux-de-Provence, people meet there to dance and play music. For the adventurous type, tradition dictates that you end the evening by jumping on the embers, to protect the harvest from summer storms.

• La Fête de la Saint-Pierre: This event, which takes place at the end of June, is well known to fishermen and sailors. In seaside villages such as Nice, Sète, or Menton, people gather for several days of festivities, parades, and meals set to the rhythm of music. The event usually ends with the burning of a colourful boat and a ball, where people sing, dance, and tasted seafood specialties such as the traditional fish soup.

• Flea Market Season: June is a bargain hunter’s paradise. Many Provençal cities host open-air flea markets, and antique fairs. It's impossible not to mention the village of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, in Luberon, which has no fewer than 300 antique dealers! Stroll along these shops at the water’s edge, and let yourself be transported by the unique atmosphere of this place.

Where to go in Provence in June: our favourites

The program of June festivities may have helped you choose your destination, but if you still need a boost, trust Le Collectionist. Our experts have scoured the most beautiful villages of Provence, from the hills of the Alpilles to the Mediterranean coast to find you the most beautiful destinations. Here are our top five cities to visit in Provence in June.

Aix-en-Provence, the City of Cézanne

Aix-en-Provence is both an obligatory destination and a great introduction to discovering Provence. Located just a few hours from the capital by train, its rich cultural and architectural heritage makes it an excellent destination for a weekend in Provence during June. Discover all of our villa rentals in Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding area. 

You can stroll through the Mazarin district, going from sumptuous mansions to quaint, shaded squares. Then, when the heat is too stifling in the city centre, go to the heights of Aix to discover the home-studio of the famous painter, Paul Cézanne. Or, if you prefer, climb to the top of Mount Saint-Victoire, which peaks at more than 1000 metres above the Alpilles National Park.

(Re)discover Nice and its Old Town

Famous for its exceptional sunshine, the city of Nice is one of the must-see places in Provence. As summer approaches, stroll along the mythical Promenade des Anglais, then set off to admire the Baroque buildings with red and yellow façades in the historic centre. Stop off to enjoy an appetising pissaladière in one of the port’s bistros before heading to the famous Place Masséna.

In June, reading is honoured in the heart of the old town for a weekend. Each year, conferences, dedications, and readings are organised, as well as the awarding of the “Nice Bay of Angels” literary prize.

Avignon, the City of Popes

The reputation of Avignon is well established. Its mythical bridge, its Palace of the Popes, and its ancient ruins are just a small sample of the dozens of monuments to visit in this city, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kick off your shoes in one of our sublime, Provençal country houses for rent in Avignon, and wander the streets of the city. Your path will surely lead you to the very lively Rue des Teinturies, where people flock to the café terraces as soon as the fine weather arrives.

While in Avignon, do not miss its festival. In June, the atmosphere is more peaceful than ever. We advise you to follow the flow of the Rhône, and go down to the Camargue. There, you will discover unique and wild landscapes, from the sea, to the plains, to fields of rice. Spring is the ideal season to admire the sunsets which illuminate the lagoons with magnificent pink and orange reflections.

Gordes, a Balcony Over Luberon

Travel the roads of Luberon to discover some of the most beautiful villages in France. A return to simpler times, and an enchanting insight into the heart of Provençal heritage.

Perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of Luberon park, the village of Gordes offers some of the most beautiful panoramas of the landscapes of Provence. From the top of its stone walls, there is an unobstructed view of the hills of Vaucluse: the lavender fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, its winding roads slope between ancient olive trees, and sprawling vineyards.

Beyond its breathtaking views, Gordes has also managed to capture the essence of the hilltop villages of Provence. You will not be surprised, walking through its cobbled streets, that the city has inspired so many artists. They left an indelible mark there, and when the days get longer, the squares of Gordes are filled with exhibitions and concerts. Find all our Provencal farmhouses for rent near Gordes.

Les Baux de Provence

Built on a mountain, it is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Enjoy a breathtaking view from its castle and admire its Renaissance-style houses.

Lacoste

Perched on a hill, it is a home for the arts. Its numerous galleries give it the atmosphere of a museum. You can also admire the castle that belonged to the Marquis de Sade, recently renovated by the famous designer, Pierre Cardin.

Roussillon-en-Provence, the Glowing Village

Reminiscent of a master painting, fine weather brings rays of sun which only enhance the beauty of Roussillon. Located in the heart of Vaucluse, the village is built on the largest ochre deposit in Europe. Its deep orange colour gives the town its iconic style.

In summer, visiting Roussillon can quickly become an impossible mission. The sun and tourists make it difficult to climb the many stairs, but in June, you can see a more peaceful side of the village. Take the time to stroll through its narrow streets, taste the seasonal fruits at the market, or venture on the Sentier des Acres, which runs along the old quarries before returning to the privacy of your luxury villa in Luberon.

Cassis, the Heart of the Calanques

It’s time for a change of scenery for the last city on our list. About thirty kilometres from Marseille, along the coast, Cassis embodies all the charm of Provençal fishing villages. Its multicoloured houses form an amphitheatre facing the Mediterranean Sea, which reflects a dazzling, azure blue. Choose your villa rental in Cassis, a stone’s throw from the port or in the heights of the city, and enjoy the show.

June is the ideal time to discover the Calanques National Park, far from the crowds. At this time of year, there are still few tourist boats on the water, so you will mostly come across locals accustomed to these enchanting places. Embark with one of our experienced skippers and let yourself be guided between the cliffs over the crystal clear water.

Hike in Mercantour National Park

Like Mount Ventoux in Vaucluse, Mercantour National Park is a real paradise for hiking as summer approaches. Also known as the “Valley of Wonders,” it is dominated by Mount Bégo, around which stretch lakes and rocky bluffs where you can see countless prehistoric engravings.

Admire the Ochres of Colorado Provençal

In the heart of the Vaucluse forest, it is the perfect place to discover the ochres of Provence, contrasting nicely with the surrounding greenery. Classified for the richness of its biodiversity, the site allows hikers to enjoy sumptuous panoramas. Lovers of the American West will find recognisable landscapes of ochre and red cliffs.

Marvel at the Crystal Panorama of the Gorges du Verdon

The month of June is undoubtedly the ideal time to visit Verdon Regional Natural Park, located in the heart of the Var. Like the famous rocky landscapes of the American West, its gorges are the most impressive in Europe. The crystal waters in azure and turquoise tones offer an exceptional landscape.

You can go hiking around the gorges to admire the stunning panorama that awaits you. A winding road allows you to access both ends of the Canyon hole observing the abundant flora and fauna in this place.

Are you more fond of nautical activities? You can rent a kayak, a paddle board, or a pedal boat at your leisure. This will allow you to explore the water while enjoying a few refreshing dives.

From the Alpilles to the creeks of the Mediterranean, explore our luxury rentals in Provence. Exceptional houses are ready to be discovered in June, or anytime of year.