Provence is bursting with activities to enjoy on your own, as a couple or as a family. From visiting the wolves in the Vésubie valley to cycling the Mont Ventoux and cultural visits, don't miss out on the endless riches of the Provence region.
Choosing activities in Provence
The charm of Provence
As well as 300 days of sunshine, Provence has plenty of good reasons to come and spend some quality time here.
Between the natural landscapes and the charm of the typical villages, your heart will be won over! The song of the cicadas is so reminiscent of Provence at siesta time, and the scents of thyme and lavender will enchant your senses on long walks through unspoilt countryside.
Provence means conviviality in the heart of its markets and on the terraces of its bistros, where you can relax in the shade of the plane trees. And there's no shortage of Provençal gastronomy, including fresh fish, olive oil, truffles and calissons.
The charm of Provence also lies in the variety of its landscapes, from the beach to the Calanques and from the mountains to the gorges.
It's hard not to fall under the spell of this region with its Greek and Roman influences, immortalised by famous artists such as Paul Cézanne and Vincent Van Gogh.
What activities are available in Provence?
Finding activities in Provence is easy. There's something to suit all tastes and ages.
Family activities
There are plenty of things to do with the whole family in the heart of Provence. Here are just a few of them:
- Just an hour from Nice, treat your children to an exceptional wildlife experience. Visit the wolves in the Vésubie valley.
- The Riviera Dei Fiori Coastal Park cycle path is a sporty, family-friendly route along an old railway line. Cycle hire is available at the start of this 24 km green route.
- Rent a tree house for an unforgettable night-time experience near the village of Tende.
- For sea lovers, there's the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco,
- And if you need to cool off a bit, you can choose freshwater swimming at the St Etienne de Tinée water sports centre.
- Don't miss a visit to Château d'Estoublon. This majestic château was built in the 18th century and bought back in 1999. Tastings and the purchase of local produce are on offer.
- Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or not, don't leave Mont Ventoux out of your way. Starting from the village of Bédouin, there is a 23km route suitable for cyclists. It's easy and accessible to everyone.
And if you're passing through Aix-en-Provence, treat yourself to its famous Calissons.
Sport activities
The region is full of wide-open spaces, from mountain ranges to the Natural national parks You'll be able to give yourself a real treat. Sports activities to suit all tastes and abilities.
From mountain biking and skiing to nature walks and golf. You'll be spoilt for choice.
Cultural activities
It's not easy to choose which cultural venues to visit in Provence. Here are a few of the most popular:
- The Théâtre Antique d'Orange, a legacy of Imperial Rome. It bears witness to Antiquity.
- The Palais des Papes in Avignon, both fortress and residence, will impress you with its Gothic majesty.
- The Pont d'Avignon made famous by a famous song! (among others)
- the Arles Amphitheatre, also known as the Arenas.
- Marseille's Notre Dame de la Garde is known to the locals as "the Good Mother". It towers over the city, offering a breathtaking panorama.
- The Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Château des Baux de Provence, perched high on a rocky outcrop with an exceptional panoramic view over the Baux valley.
- The Château d'If is a fortress on the Isles of Frioul, near Marseille, which was once used to imprison opponents of the government. It is the place where the hero of Alexandre Dumas' Count of Monte Cristo, Edmond Dantès, is imprisoned.
A 5-star Relais et Châteaux hotel to make the most of activities in Provence
The wine estate
The Château de Berne vineyard produces red, rosé and white Côtes-de-Provence. 1000 hectares of nature comprising 175 hectares of organic vines. The position of this estate, consisting of an authentic 18ᵉ century château, in the heart of the forest and olive groves, makes it a great place to recharge your batteries.
The Relais et Châteaux hotel
The Relais et Châteaux hotel invites you to enjoy a unique experience in the heart of the Var region.
The rooms and suites are warm and comfortable, while retaining a 'chic country' feel. All rooms include access to the Spa.
Facilities at Château de Berne en Provence
The Château de Berne, a 5-star hotel set in a wine-growing estate, has 34 rooms and suites, all of which are fully equipped. 3 restaurants including Le Jardin, a one-star restaurant and a Bib gourmand, and a 800 m² Spa in the middle of the vineyards.
