Provence holiday cottages
Marvel at picture-perfect scenery
A stunning natural canvas that leaves an indelible impression makes Provence a unique corner of France to rent a holiday cottage in.
Wander outside your luxury holiday gite and your senses will be treated to an array of natural wonders...
The fields of purple lavender, bright red poppies and vivid yellow sunflowers create a riot of colour, while honey-stone villages glow in the sun against piercing blue skies. In the wooded gorges, the scent of wild herbs is in the air, and pétanque (boules) played in shady town squares sums up the timeless quality of life.
Things to see and do in Provence
Step out of your French holiday cottage to explore Provence's postcard scenery...
- Gorges du Verdon: Go hiking in the spectacular scenery of Europe's Grand Canyon, or twist along breathtaking roads to cliff-top villages.
- Roman Provence: Admire the Roman Theatre and Triumphal Arch in Orange and the 20,000-capacity amphitheatre in Arles.
- La Route de la Lavande: Plunge into heady summer lavender fields with perfumeries and visit festivals along the way.
- Artists' canvas: Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh and Cézanne around Saint Rémy, Aix-en-Provence and Arles.
Tastes of Provence
- Bouillabaisse: A famous French classic, this traditional Marseille fish and shellfish stew is simply delicious with fresh, crusty bread.
- Ratatouille: Using the freshest, most flavoursome vegetables and herbs, this dish is Provence on a plate!
- Pastis: There's nothing more refreshing in a sun-kissed pavement café than this aniseed liqueur on ice, with a splash of water.
Don't miss...
- The Ardèche gorges: From the natural Pont d'Arc, follow walking trails or paddle a canoe through the rugged, wooded river valley, diving in for a swim to cool down!
- The essence of Provence: Quite literally, the essence of Provence is captured in the variety of lavender products, including soaps, lotions, aromatherapy oils, eau de toilette and honey. You can also bring home that Provence style with brightly coloured table linen, often featuring sunflowers.
Our regional team recommends
- Experience a vibrant melting pot of French and African cultures in Marseille's Vieux Port, with bustling market stalls and intriguing shops in winding streets.
- The magnificent Papal Palace and Pont Saint-Bénezet are two of the highlights in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Avignon.
- Explore the narrow streets and admire the views from the ancient sun-baked village of Les Baux, precariously perched on a craggy plateau.
Did you know...?
The joie de vivre of Provençal life is summed up in the hustle and bustle of the markets, where stalls are piled high with mouthwatering local produce.
Cottages to rent in France
Nearest Airports
Avignon.
Nearest Ferryports
St Malo and Roscoff.
Travel Tip
To soak up the mountainous Provence scenery, take the narrow gauge Pine Cone Train from Dignes at the heart of the summer lavender fields.
