Winter in Provence offers a unique charm, far from the summer crowds. From snow-covered landscapes to seasonal activities, the region has a lot to offer. In this article, we'll explore various ways to spend an unforgettable winter in Provence, focusing on the keyword 'Winter Provence'.
Discover the Christmas Markets this winter in Provence
Provence, renowned for its summer landscapes and lavender fields, takes on a very special aura during the winter season. Christmas markets light up the towns and villages, offering a glimpse of Provençal traditions and authenticity.
The must-haves
Every town in Provence has its own version of a Christmas market. Some of the most famous stand out and are a must-see.
Aix-en-Provence
The Aix-en-Provence Christmas market is a magical experience that showcases Provençal culture. Wooden chalets line the Cours Mirabeau, offering local produce, festive decorations and gastronomic specialities. Be sure to try the traditional nougat or calissons, symbols of the region.
Marseille
Marseille's Christmas market in the Old Port offers a unique maritime experience. Santons, small clay figurines, are particularly popular here, representing the Nativity in Provençal style.
Avignon
The city of the Popes is transformed into a veritable fairytale. The Place de l'Horloge welcomes local artisans and the Palais des Papes lights up, creating an unreal, fairytale atmosphere.
Little treasures
Some smaller towns offer more intimate but equally charming markets, allowing you to discover Provence in its most authentic essence.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
For a more intimate experience, head to the Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Christmas market. The streets come alive with colourful stalls, traditional carols and a warm atmosphere that envelops you like a soft winter blanket.
Les Baux-de-Provence
Listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, Les Baux-de-Provence offers a market at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, with a breathtaking view of the winter landscape. Local crafts take pride of place here, including olive oils and truffle products.
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Known for its antique markets, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue offers a Christmas market along its famous canals during the winter months. It's a unique opportunity to combine a festive atmosphere with the discovery of rare antiques and objets d'art.
Provence and Winter, a natural choice for sporting activities
Provence may conjure up images of a sunny summer, but its mountains and national parks also offer a winter paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you're a fan of skiing, snowboarding or snowshoe trekking, Provence has everything to tempt you during the cold season.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Provence may not be the Alps, but it still offers quality options for ski and snowboard enthusiasts.
Les Orres
Les Orres offers excellent pistes for skiing and snowboarding. Located in the Hautes-Alpes, this resort offers a range of slopes suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts. What's more, the views over the Durance valley are breathtaking.
Pra-Loup
Pra-Loup is another popular ski resort in Provence. With over 100 kilometres of pistes, it offers enough variety to keep even the most experienced skiers engaged.
Mont Ventoux
Best known for cycling, Mont Ventoux also offers a range of winter sports, including cross-country skiing. It's an ideal spot if you're looking for something a little different.
Snowshoe hikes
If skiing or snowboarding aren't your cup of tea, why not try snowshoe trekking?
Ecrins National Park
The Ecrins National Park is ideal for snowshoe trekking. This park is a real natural gem, with its steep mountains, deep valleys and abundant wildlife. There are many routes to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more technical excursions for the more adventurous.
Queyras
The Queyras Regional Nature Park also offers great opportunities for snowshoe trekking. Its trails wind through dense forests, snow-covered mountain pastures and even frozen lakes, offering a unique winter experience.
La Sainte-Baume
If you're looking for a more spiritual experience, the Sainte-Baume mountain is a place of pilgrimage and offers snowshoe trails past religious sites and panoramic views of the region.
Gastronomy: Something to discover in Provence in winter
Provence is a region blessed by the gods when it comes to gastronomy. Winter is no exception. The cold season brings a whole new palette of flavours, from comforting dishes to drinks that warm you from the inside out.
Seasonal dishes
Winter is the ideal time to savour the richness of Provençal dishes, which turn local produce into comforting meals.
Provençal stew
A winter classic in Provence, daube provençale is a slow-cooked beef stew with vegetables, red wine and a variety of aromatic herbs. This slow-cooked dish is the perfect accompaniment to mashed potatoes or fresh pasta.
Pistou soup
This vegetarian soup is a blend of seasonal vegetables and pasta, topped with pistou (a mixture of garlic, basil and olive oil) for added aromatic depth.
The black truffle
Considered the "black diamond" of Provence, the black truffle is at its best during the winter months. You'll find them in many dishes, from simple omelettes to the most sophisticated recipes.
Comforting drinks
La Provence also offers a range of drinks to keep you warm on cold nights. Please note, however, that drinks containing alcohol should be consumed in moderation.
Mulled wine
There's nothing like a good mulled wine to warm you up. This drink is usually made with red wine, sugar and a variety of spices such as cinnamon and cloves. It's the ideal drink to enjoy by the fireplace.
Winter pastis
A variation on the famous pastis, winter pastis blends this aniseed-flavoured drink with hot water and spices to create a smooth, comforting drink.
Herbal tea from Provence
For a non-alcoholic option, a herbal tea with Provençal herbs such as thyme, rosemary or lime blossom is a pleasant way to round off a wintry day.
Festivals and Events
Winter in Provence doesn't mean the region goes to sleep. On the contrary, Provence transforms itself into a place of festivities, offering a range of events and festivals to entertain and amaze its inhabitants and visitors alike.
Avignon Festival
Although the Festival d'Avignon is best known for its summer festival, Avignon's cultural scene doesn't shut down during the winter.
Off-season
Shows are also put on in winter. These are an excellent opportunity to discover new talent or revisit classics in a more intimate and welcoming setting.
Art workshops
The Festival d'Avignon also offers workshops and discussions on drama and contemporary theatre, a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of artistic creation.
The nativity scenes of Provence
Another fascinating tradition in the region is the display of Provençal nativity scenes, especially at Christmas time.
Not to be missed
These nativity scenes are an essential part of the region's tradition. Often placed in churches or museums, they tell the story of the birth of Jesus in a typically Provencal setting, with its santons, houses and landscape.
The cot route
The cot route is an organised way of discovering several cots in the region. There is often a suggested itinerary for visiting these artistic installations, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.
Santon fairs
For those who want to create their own Provençal nativity scene, don't miss the santon fairs held in various towns in the region. You'll find all sorts of figurines, from shepherds and the Three Wise Men to farm animals.
Well-being and relaxation: the invigorating winter air of Provence
Winter in Provence is also a time to recharge your batteries and relax, with some invigorating moments to share.
We've selected a few inspiring ideas to help you get the most out of your winter visit to Provence.
Spas and massages
The cold of winter is often the best excuse to be pampered and relaxed in a luxury spa.
The thermal baths of Montbrun-les-Bains
An ideal place to relax in winter in Provence . Located in a magnificent setting in the Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature ParkThese thermal baths offer a range of treatments based on thermal waters known for their beneficial properties.
The Spa at Château Berne
For a truly exceptional experience, the Château Berne spa in Flayosc in the Var (83) offers top-level treatments in luxurious surroundings. From massages to facials, everything is designed to maximise your well-being.
Yoga and meditation
Winter is also the perfect time to refocus, and what better way to do so than with yoga and meditation. Imagine yourself this winter in one of Provence's many tourist destinations, taking advantage of the climate and soothing landscape, enjoying a yoga session to relax or meditate and get away from it all.
Retreats in Provence
An alternative way to make the most of winter is to take part in a yoga or meditation retreat. Many places in Provence offer this kind of experience, combining the charm of the region with deep inner relaxation. We can only recommend, for example, the sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Grâces.
Yoga at Château Berne
If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, Château Berne also offers yoga sessions in its sumptuous surroundings. Classes are suitable for all levels and offer a great way to start or end your day.
Family Activities: A great choice of winter activities in Provence
If you think Provence is just for grown-ups, think again. Winter in Provence offers a multitude of activities for all the family. We couldn't possibly list all the suggestions for activities you might love, but we've selected a few inspiring examples if you're passing through Provence in winter.
Ice skating
Ice skating is a winter activity that the whole family can enjoy. Provence offers several options for this pastime.
Outdoor ice rinks
An ideal activity for families, outdoor ice rinks like the one in Marseille let you enjoy the fresh air while having fun. Note, however, that some open-air ice rinks are short-lived. Find out beforehand to avoid unpleasant surprises and inconvenience.
Indoor ice rinks
For a more controlled experience, indoor ice rinks like the one in Nice are an excellent option for avoiding the outside elements.
Amusement parks
Who says amusement parks are closed in winter? In Provence, several remain open, offering a wide variety of attractions for young and old alike.
Parc Spirou
Open even in winter for the enjoyment of young and old alike, this park offers roller coasters, rides and many other attractions.
Parc de la Barben
Offering a more educational experience, Parc de la Barben features a variety of wildlife and numerous children's play areas.
Adventure park
For families looking for a thrill, the adventure parks in Provence offer activities such as climbing, archery and tree courses.
Cultural Workshops
Provence is a cultural treasure trove that invites you to explore and learn. With its rich history, gastronomy and traditions, this region offers an exceptional setting in which to immerse yourself in cultural activities. Cultural workshops in Provence offer a privileged window onto this wealth, allowing families to discover and actively participate in local life and the arts. Whether you're interested in painting, cooking or history, there's a workshop for every passion.
Painting workshops
Initiate yourself to art at any age through the painting workshops offered in winter in Provence. Not only educational, these workshops are also fun and stimulate creativity. If your holiday is a family affair and you have children, the painting workshops will be sure to combine art and fun. Did you know that Provence is the birthplace of many artists?
Cooking workshops
Winter in Provence is the perfect time to discover the richness of its cuisine. Take part in a cookery workshop and immerse yourself in the authentic flavours of Provence. Here are a few winter dishes you could learn to prepare:
- Daube Provençale: A beef stew simmered with vegetables, red wine and aromatic herbs, ideal for warming up cold evenings.
- Soupe au Pistou: This seasonal vegetable soup is enriched with a blend of basil, garlic and olive oil, bringing a Mediterranean touch to your winter meals.
- Gratin dauphinois: This creamy gratin of potatoes, cream and garlic is the perfect complement to any main course.
- Winter Ratatouille: A winter variation of the famous dish, incorporating seasonal vegetables such as pumpkin and turnips.
Charming accommodation or a change of scenery this winter in Provence
Spending the winter in Provence is an enchanting experience that deserves accommodation worthy of the region. From luxury hotels to private villas, you're sure to find the perfect place to recharge your batteries and relax.
Hotels in the heart of Provence
If you're looking for luxury and convenience, hotels are an excellent choice. They often offer spa services, fine dining and other activities to make your stay unforgettable.
For a luxury experience, look no further than Château Berne in the heart of Provence at Flayosc in the Var. This establishment offers not only sumptuous rooms, but also a high-end spa, a vineyard, and exceptional gastronomic options. Everything is designed to offer you a relaxing and rewarding experience.
Other options
Provence is also home to many other charming hotels, each with its own character and assets, from authentic Provencal architecture to panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea or mountains.
Villas for your stay in Provence this winter
If you're looking for more privacy or are travelling in a group, renting a villa may be the best option.
Seasonal rentals
For those who prefer privacy and independence, holiday rentals often offer fully equipped homes with swimming pools, gardens and other luxury amenities.
Villas at Château Berne
For those looking to combine privacy and luxury, Château Berne also offers private villas. Equipped with the latest technology and decorated in elegant style, these villas allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Receptions and Seminars
Winter in Provence is not only ideal for relaxing holidays, but also for organising special events such as weddings and corporate seminars. With its picturesque landscape and many charming locations, Provence is the ideal setting for any type of event.
Winter weddings in Provence
The tradition of weddings brings us back to summer, but who says you can't get married in another season? Imagine saying "I do" in winter, in a setting as enchanting as snow-covered Provence. The region offers a host of ideal venues for celebrating your union, yes yes, even in winter.
Organise your wedding in Provence
An idyllic setting for your special day. Wine estates, historic châteaux and stone manor houses add a romantic touch that will make your wedding unforgettable.
Company seminars
If you're looking to get off the beaten track for your next company seminar, Provence has some unique locations that encourage both creativity and team-building.
Suitable locations for seminars in winter
Choose an inspiring setting for your business seminars. From modern meeting rooms to open-air workshops, Provence offers a variety of spaces to suit your needs.
Immersive group travel and team-building
Provence is also ideal for immersive group trips and team-building activities. Whether it's a hike in the calanques, a Provençal cookery workshop or a tasting of local wines, the possibilities are endless for motivating and uniting your team.
Provence in winter is not just a dream destination; it's a paradise of opportunity, offering everything from enchanting Christmas markets to exhilarating winter sports, from cultural festivals to gastronomic delights. From exceptional wellness experiences to romantic breaks and even inspiring corporate seminars, Provence has something to offer every traveller in search of authenticity and charm. And when it comes to finding the perfect place to experience all that winter in Provence has to offer, look no further than Château Berne. Nestled in the heart of Provence, this luxurious establishment not only serves as the ideal base for all your adventures, but also ensures that your experiences will leave a lasting impression. Alone, with your family or in a group, make your 'Provence Winter' an unforgettable one by choosing Château Berne for your next getaway.
