The heart of Provence | Tour of France

Route

You start near Orange and continue through Provence towards the Luberon, Les Alpilles and cities like Avignon, Arles and Aix-en-Provence.

Pace

You stay in two locations, with several nights in each. This keeps the trip relaxed and gives you time to explore at your own pace.

Highlights

Lavender routes around Mont Ventoux, Roman sites in Vaison-la-Romaine and Arles, the Palais des Papes in Avignon and villages like Gordes and Roussillon. Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux add variety.

Accommodation

Two carefully selected stays, first near Orange and then in the heart of Provence, both well located for day trips.

Profile

For travellers who want to enjoy southern France at an easy pace. Villages, food and landscapes, without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Departure to Orange

Your trip starts in the direction of Orange. You will stay two nights in a quiet hotel near Orange.

Day 2: The Lavender Routes

You will travel via Grignan and Valréas to Nyons, renowned for its olives and truffles, followed by Vaison-la-Romaine, a charming Provencal town with numerous Roman ruins. You will proceed your trip to Malaucène with its ancient plane trees, ancient houses, fountains and washing areas at the foot of Mont Ventoux. This 'Giant of Provence' is listed as a biosphere reserve by Unesco. From the south side you can enjoy a magnificent panorama over the Rhone valley and the Luberon. The oldest road descends to the village of Bédoin. You will drive along the picturesque route past the Dentelles de Montmirail, foothills of Mont Ventoux, to the wine village of Beaumes-de-Venise and back. Keep in mind that the beautiful lavender fields are only in bloom during the months of June and July.

Day 3: Avignon

Passing along the Rhone Valley, you will travel to this impressive papal and art city with its rich heritage. This atmospheric city is known for its historic centre with the Palais des Papes, the Pont Saint-Bénezet and its annual theatre festival. During this festival, various street artists perform in the city centre; another excellent reason to visit Avignon. You will spend four nights in a Caractère hotel near Les Baux-de-Provence, in a hotel in charming Aix-en-Provence or in a hotel near Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt.

Day 4: The Luberon

Via L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, you will reach Fontaine-de-Vaucluse where the famous source of the Sorgue springs. You will travel further to the higher-lying Gordes, a must-see with its 'Village des Bories'. Nearby is the Abbey of Sénanque, a beautiful Cistercian monastery still inhabited by monks who offer guided tours of their abbey several times a week. You will return via Roussillon through a unique nature reserve, the Montagne du Lubéron.

Day 5: The heart of Provence to Arles, the gateway to the Camargue

Via the typical town of St-Rémy with a visit to Nostradamus' house and the Roman settlement of Glanum you will then continue to the citadel of Les Baux. Along the white rocks and limestone hills of 'Les Alpilles' and Fontvieille to Arles with its ancient theatre and arena. Painters like van Gogh and Gauguin found endless inspiration for their works there. Arles is also the gateway to the Camargue and has always preserved its traditions: the festival of the Gardians, the Feria of Easter and the rice culture, the corridas in the arenas and more. Arles is also the capital of photography and hosts annual international photography meetings with celebrities from all over the world. With the Parc des Ateliers, at the foot of the bold Luma museum - a new contemporary art centre - designed by Frank O. Gehry, this ancient city has gained a modern forum.

Day 6: Aix-en-Provence

The city of Cézanne, with its elegant townhouses, numerous fountains and charming squares including the Cours Mirabeau is definitely worth a visit. The city of the 'calisson' is also a vibrant university town filled with lively brasseries and terraces. Aix-en-Provence, hence, is a modern city that has managed to preserve its cultural past.

Day 7: Travelling back home

Your adventure in the heart of Provence is coming to an end since your return journey is scheduled today. You can of course choose to extend your holiday by a few days by staying at a Caractère hotel of your choice. We will be more than happy to help you with this!

Frequently asked questions about this trip

Do you need a rental car for this trip?

Yes. The villages and natural areas are spread out and hard to reach without a car. With a car, you can easily move around and stop wherever you like.

What is the best time to travel?

May to September works best. June and July are perfect for lavender in bloom, while September is quieter with pleasant temperatures.

Who is this trip best suited for?

For travellers who enjoy atmosphere, beautiful places and good food. You’ll enjoy sitting on a terrace just as much as exploring villages or markets.

What makes this route special?

Everything is close, yet every place feels different. From lavender fields to mountains, villages and cities, each day brings something new without long drives.