I feel
really lucky to have been able to spend some time exploring Provence. I think
it to be one of the most beautiful areas of France, if not the world. From tiny
villages filled with mystery, to sophisticated settlements offering incredible
backdrops while you sample the local produce, there is definitely a village for
every taste. Here are my five favourite villages in Provence.
St Remy
de Provence
One time
home to Vincent Van Goph and Nostradamus, Sainte Remy de Provence is a
beautiful example of a perfect Provencal village. Across pretty village squares
and beneath arching trees colourful shops entice you in to discover locally
made melt in the mouth products and beautiful scenes reveal themselves. The
oldest part of the village lies within the circular main road that runs around
and through the village.
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| Market day in Bonnieux, Provence, France |
Bonnieux
Clinging
to a Luberon hillside, above fields of vines, tiny Bonnieux is best visited on market
day when the compact village comes alive with market stalls winding up the hill
from the main roundabout. From the top of the hill photographers are rewarded
with beautiful views over the village centre and rooftops. A bread museum
exposes the significance to the French of their bread.
 |
| Bonnieux, Provence, France |
Gordes
Much-photographed
Gordes is a larger village that stands prominently on a tall hilltop. The
sand-coloured houses and other buildings drip down the hillside randomly,
creating a beautiful scene. The village centre boasts some lovely restaurants
and interesting shops. Bars offer verandahs with incredible views across the
local area. Popular Abbey Senanque, and its lavender field, is also nearby.
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| Cassis, Provence, France |
Cassis
Nestled
amongst the Cote d’Azur calanques, and just outside Marseille, Cassis is a very
pretty little harbour overlooked by a castle and surrounded by cafes,
restaurants and shops. The hillsides around Cassis are lined with olive trees
and vineyards. There is plenty of beautiful Provencal produce available here.
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| Moustieres Sainte Marie, Verdon, Provence, France |
Moustieres
Sainte Marie
Of all
the villages high up in the Alpes de Haute Provence region, Moustieres Sainte
Marie is probably the most special on account of the tiny chapel perched high
above the village, set into the limestone cliffs. A star hangs on a chain
between the church and the nearby cliff-face which, according to legend,
indicates that a knight held during the crusades, managed to return to the
village. How the original star was hung remains a mystery.
In July
and August the village is surrounded by lavender fields and the village is a
favourite accommodation spot for those wanting to enjoy the nearby Gorges du
Verdon.
Do you
have a favourite village in Provence? If you’re not hell-bent on keeping it a
secret, share your tips in the comments below!
