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It’s no wonder that luxury travel in Provence has inspired as many books, films, and photographs has it has. As far as beauty, gastronomy, and lifestyle go, it’s hard to improve on what you can find in the South of France.
The region, stretching from the Rhône River to the Italian border, and from the Mediterranean Sea to the Southern Alps and Camargue plains, has a great diversity of landscapes, culture, and ways to enjoy the good life.
There is no shortage of ways to enjoy luxury Provence holidays, so be sure to see our guide to this endlessly beautiful region for a picture of things to do, when to go, and our insider tips!
THE COUNTRYSIDE LIFESTYLE IN PROVENCE
As in most rural regions, life moves slowly in Provence. Quality of life is paramount, and simple pleasures are nurtured and savored.
Many villages have farmers markets, fromageries selling local cheeses, and other places for small-scale, local food shopping that also serve as social hubs. Then of course there are the hours spent cooking and then lingering over simple but impeccably prepared meals. However, if restaurants are more your speed, consult our list of the best restaurants in Provence.
But for all its slowness, Provence is also home to a vibrant cultural life. Throughout the year, there are festivals and cultural events such as the art-focused Festival d’Avignon, flower parades, lavender festivals, Les Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles, and holiday markets in many villages in the winter.
LUXURY TRAVEL IN THE GLAMOROUS FRENCH RIVIERA
The flipside of the simple country pleasures that can be found in the interior of Provence. The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is one of the most storied and attractive resort areas in the world. The coastal region is defined by opulent cities like Cannes and Saint-Tropez.
Part of what makes it so glamorous is its rich history. Although it started out as a health retreat in the 18th century, it soon attracted aristocrats, artists, and 1960s jet-setters. Coco Chanel got her famous suntan here, and now many celebrities, such as Elton John and Brigitte Bardot have homes in the region.
As for fashion, the resort towns of the Côte d’Azur have all the international designer labels you could wish for, especially quintessentially French brands like Chanel and Dior. You can even savour a delicious and chic meal at the Dior restaurant in Saint-Tropez!
WINES IN PROVENCE
Luxury travel in Provence is practically synonymous with rosé wines. The region has been producing outstanding blush-hued blends for centuries. The primary grapes used in the production of rosé wines are Mourvèdre, Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Dozens if not hundreds of outstanding wineries across the region produce delectable blends.
Wondering where to sip the best wines from vineyards in Provence? Although rosé accounts for nearly 75% of the wine production in the region, the Cassis area produces some very fine white while Bandol produces the region’s most highly regarded reds.
Some of the best wineries to visit include the historic Château Fontvert. Another would be the contemporary Château la Verrière in the Luberon, and the architecture-forward Château la Coste, just outside Aix-en-Provence. Visiting wineries is one of the best things to do on your holidays in the French countryside.
GASTRONOMY IN PROVENCE
It is obvious that luxury travel in Provence would involve some excellent food, whether you’re in the hilly north or the coastal south. One of the region’s most popular dishes is bouillabaisse. It's an aromatic stew of fish, seafood, and vegetables that is prepared with olives, anchovies, capers, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Beyond bouillabaisse, Provence has brought the world so many of its beloved foods: the Niçoise salad, with tomatoes, eggs, olives, and anchovies, was born in Nice. Ratatouille, the zesty stew of aubergines, courgettes, peppers, garlic, and herbs, is also said to have originated in Nice. The garlicky mayonnaise called aioli and the olive spread known as tapenade both sprang forth from the region.
As for drinks, the licorice-flavoured liqueuer Pastis was born in Marseille, where you'll find many of the best Michelin-starred restaurants. Some of our favorite places to savour it are Chez Fonfon in Marseille, Chez Camille in Ramatuelle, and La Mère Germaine in Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Looking for other places to eat in Provence? See our favourite Michelin star restaurants in Cassis or our guide to Michelin star restaurants in Aix-en-Provence.
LIVING HISTORY IN PROVENCE
Provence has been occupied since Neolithic times, and the Celts, Greeks, and Romans were all here. Between the 9th and 15th centuries, it was a semi-independent state ruled by the Counts of Provence. Although it has been part of France for more than 500 years, it still has a historical and cultural identity all its own.
Part of the luxury of traveling in Provence is immersing yourself in that history. These visits constitute some of the most unique things to do in Provence. Beautiful castles are dotted around the region. Meticulously preserved medieval villages are now home to modern life.
Some of the prettiest include Gordes, perched atop a hill within the natural park of Luberon; Roussillon, with its lovely ochre-colored buildings; and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, tucked beneath an imposing mountain near the Gorges du Verdon. And then, of course, there is the Luberon, a world unto itself.
See our recommendations of the best villages to visit in Provence.
NATURE AND LANDSCAPES IN PROVENCE
Enjoying the beautiful landscapes is one of the best things to do in Provence. The region takes in a beautiful coastline, rolling vineyards, vibrant lavender fields, olive groves, and mountainous terrain.
There is also no shortage of glorious viewpoints. Some of the highlights include the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s highest canyon; the wetlands and salt marshes of the Camargue (a bird watcher’s paradise); and the Massif du Garlaban, an easily climbable peak with stunning views over Marseille and the Mediterranean.
To best enjoy the landscapes, we recommend you take a road trip through the fields of Provence. If you're wondering what flowers are in bloom when, see our guide to a colourful stroll through Provence.
LUXURY DESIGN: Where to stay in Provence
There’s a reason that Provençal design has become a sort of shorthand for a certain style of dreamy, rustic decoration that’s heavy on pastel and natural colours reminiscent of the landscapes outside. It includes features like large farmhouse tables, stone floors, rough plaster walls, and flowers everywhere.
With Le Collectionist, renting luxury Provence villas has never been easier. Whether you prefer homes by the sea side, traditional Provençal homes, or homes for families, the choices are endless.
See a selection of our best villas in Provence and our most beautiful homes with gardens in Alpilles, Provence.
