If paradise was a region of France there is no doubt that it would be Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur with its year-round sunny climate, breathtaking natural landscapes and unique, gentle pace of life. Tourists don’t doubt the fact and visit the region in all seasons to enjoy memorable holidays there. The region holds so many treasures that it is sometimes difficult to know what to do and what to visit. To help you, we've put together our (subjective) list of things not to miss in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. Let's go!
Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône
With lavender fields and olive groves stretching as far as the eye can see, picturesque villages and a southern way of life, there is no doubt that Provence deserves its reputation as a little piece of paradise. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that you will find yourself succumbing to the charms of its best-known villages, namely Les-Baux-de-Provence, St-Rémy-de-Provence and Aix-en-Provence, with their typical Provencal atmospheres.
Gordes, Vaucluse
Another must is Gordes, the jewel of the Luberon, perched on a rocky outcrop and listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France! Be sure to visit this unique site that will ensure you fall truly and deeply in love with the beautiful Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
The Alpilles Regional Natural Park
Fancy slowing down the pace and making the most of the present in an exceptional natural environment? Your daytime area for playing (or relaxing) is the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, between Avignon, Salon-en-Provence and Arles. 50,000 hectares to explore on foot, by bike or on horseback, or through a variety of outdoor activities such as rock-climbing or hiking. Perfect for all those who love nature and the great outdoors!
Nice, Saint-Tropez and Cannes, Côte d’Azur
Holidays in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur would not be complete without a visit to the three jewels of the Côte d’Azur, namely the colourful city of Nice, the elegant town of Cannes and the capital of the jet-set, Saint-Tropez. These renowned seaside towns have much more to offer than glitz and glamour. Stroll around their narrow streets and fall for their many charms!
The Provencal Colorado, Vaucluse
A site that is as unique as it is magnificent, that brings to mind an American desert... right in the heart of the Luberon. Whether you are travelling with the family or the apple of your eye, a visit to the Ochre Trail, a natural site of vivid colours, is guaranteed to amaze you. Friendly advice: avoid light-coloured clothes and shoes because ochre stains. This visit can be completed by a detour to the charming village of Roussillon, where the houses are painted in... ochre!
Serre-Ponçon Lake, Hautes-Alpes
The largest artificial lake in mainland France covering an area of 28,000 hectares, Serre-Ponçon offers a playground for activities such as hiking, cycling, or relaxing by the lakeside, as well as a playground for water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing, all in a stunning natural setting. Everyone will find something to satisfy them so that they can appreciate its spectacular beauty and maintain the enchanting vision of it forever engraved in their memory and heart.
Palace of the Popes, Avignon
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palace of the Popes in Avignon immerses you in the fascinating history of the Catholic church. Its architecture is equally spectacular since it is the most imposing Gothic place in the Western world! After admiring the frescoes and visiting the Pope’s chamber, round off your visit with the covered walkway that offers a panoramic view over the town... not to mention a quick visit to the uncompleted Pont d’Avignon!
The Island of Porquerolles, Var
Just 10 minutes by boat from the coast of the Var, the Island of Porquerolles, like many islands off the Côte d’Azur, is a beauty spot with the allure of an island paradise. What lies behind its much-deserved reputation? Its white sandy beaches, its translucent waters with subtle shades of blue lined by impressive cliffs and its gentle southern way of life that means you never want to leave!
The exotic garden in Eze, Alpes-Maritimes
Who could imagine finding such a spectacular and unique place in the heart of the Côte d’Azur? The exotic garden in Eze and its incredible collection of exotic plants transport you to all the different continents. Agaves, cacti and aloes, (re)discover the full diversity and beauty of plants at an altitude of 424 metres above sea level! A unique place for families and lovers alike.
The Esterel massif, Var
Located between Cannes and Saint-Raphaël, the Esterel massif with its red earth providing a sharp contrast to the blue of the Mediterranean Sea, is a pleasure for the eyes and will delight all those who enjoy hiking. Indeed, how is it possible to turn down the chance to take a walk between the land and the sea in a little corner of paradise on the Côte d'Azur? There's a route for everyone, so even those who don't enjoy physical exercise can marvel at and fall for the charms of this natural tourist site in the Var.
The Gorges du Verdon, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
This is another UNESCO-listed wonder of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and it is easy to understand why since its vivid blue waters, contrasting with the green and white 300 to 600-metre high cliffs is not a sight you see every day. The Gorges du Verdon can be explored from the land thanks to the many walks available as well as from the water during a canoe outing when the weather is fine. It's a magical place that should be seen at least once in a lifetime, so be sure to make your way to the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and discover this natural treasure for yourself!
Advice for a successful stay in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Plan your stay outside the summer period: spring and autumn are perfect for visiting the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region thanks to its mild climate and the lower number of visitors.
• Leave your car behind whenever possible and explore the area around your holiday destination on foot or by bicycle. An environmentally friendly, sporty and pleasant way to discover the magnificent surroundings of where you are staying.
• Taste the local specialities such as pissaladière, prepared with onions and anchovies, socca, a pancake made with chickpea flour, fougasse, a type of bread, ratatouille, bourride, a fish stew with aioli, tapenade, a delicious olive spread, etc. Your taste buds will be titillated by the thousand and one flavours of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Treats to be savoured without moderation!
Sandaya campsites, the best option for a memorable holiday in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur!
Whether you are travelling with 2, 4, 6 or more people, camping offers the best value for money, and this is all the truer at Sandaya campsites, which provide a great many advantages:
- Accommodation to suit all tastes (mobile homes, camping pitches, quirky accommodation)
- Water parks for having fun in the water and cooling off at any time of day
- Activities for all ages (fitness, aquagym, children's entertainment, etc.)
- Beautiful destinations in the heart of the Côte d'Azur, such as Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus
- Services and facilities designed to deliver a completely successful experience!
For a holiday on the Côte d'Azur without any pressure, you know what you have to do: book your stay at a Sandaya campsite!
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