Provence, France Guide

Whether you’re gazing over rolling rural scenery or strolling fields striped with sunflowers and vines, this diverse landscape provides an irresistible taste of rural France at its finest. Well-heeled Parisians and artists alike have long flocked to this idyllic region, drawn by sun-drenched scenery and picture-perfect villages so beautiful they inspired Van Gogh. Explore the countryside, taking in the colours that captivated the expressionist painter - azure skies, sunflower meadows splashed with lilac and streaked with cypress trees.

Take your classic car out for a spin, from the flamingo-filled delta of the Camargue in the west, through the Roman cities of Arles and Avignon to the leafy avenues of Aix-en-Provence. Inland, you’ll find the rugged hills and olive groves of the Luberon, dotted with fortified towns and ancient villages, perched above the surrounding fields.

Create your own signature scent at a local perfumery, before returning to your elegant villa, nestled among the vineyards. Have your chef prepare a tasting menu of regional wines and delicate black Périgord truffles, the heady aroma filling the air as the sun sinks below the fragrant fields of lavender.

Located in southeastern France, Provence is a region known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Its name is derived from the Latin word “provincia,” meaning “province,” and the region has been inhabited by various civilizations for thousands of years.

The region of Provence was first inhabited by the Ligures, an ancient pre-Celtic people, around 2,500 BC. They were later conquered by the Greeks, who established the city of Marseille as an important trading port and cultural center in the 6th century BC. The Romans also had a significant presence in Provence, building roads, aqueducts, and cities such as Arles and Orange. This influence can still be seen today in the well-preserved Roman ruins scattered throughout the region.

During the Middle Ages, Provence was ruled by various feudal lords until it became part of the Kingdom of France in the 15th century. The region experienced a period of prosperity during the Renaissance, with the city of Aix-en-Provence becoming a center for art and learning.

In the 19th century, Provence became a popular destination for artists, writers, and intellectuals, drawn to its picturesque landscapes and charming villages.

Today, Provence is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning coastline, lavender fields, and charming hilltop villages. Its cuisine, which includes dishes like ratatouille and bouillabaisse, is also highly regarded. The region’s cities, such as Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, are bustling hubs of art, fashion, and gastronomy.