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Things you might not know about Provence

Nestled between the foothills of the Alps, fragrant garrigue and the shores of the Mediterranean, Provence and the French Riviera offer far more than postcard-perfect landscapes. These are lands steeped in history, traditions, and local customs that shape a distinctive art of living, revealed in every village square, bustling market and scenic footpath. Before setting off to explore, a few insider tips and charming anecdotes will help you fully appreciate the unique character of these exceptional destinations.


While the region is a delight year-round thanks to its mild climate, the most pleasant seasons to visit stretch from spring to autumn. In May and June, poppies paint the hillsides red, and the first lavender fields come to life. Summer brings a flurry of festivals, open-air markets and long, warm evenings under a flawless sky. The golden light of late season in September and October transforms the landscape during grape harvests and olive picking. For those seeking peace and quiet, winter remains gentle and serene, offering deserted calanques and tranquil hilltop villages.


The road network across Provence and the Riviera is a pleasure to drive, winding past breathtaking vistas, farmers’ markets and charming roadside cafés. For a truly immersive experience, venture onto the small country roads that snake between olive groves, vineyards and medieval hamlets. Along the coast, dramatic clifftop roads overlook the shimmering Mediterranean, while sturdy walking shoes are essential for exploring rocky calanques or the cobbled lanes of perched villages such as Èze or Gordes.

Local legend has it that sun-warmed pebbles from lavender fields continue to release their soothing fragrance after sunset. Provençal households often slip a few small stones under their pillows on summer nights to encourage restful, gently scented sleep — a discreet tradition still cherished in some homes.

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The region boasts a vibrant artisan tradition: perfumed soaps, terracotta santons, hand-painted ceramics, and Provençal textiles fill markets and workshops alike. Marseille soap, crafted with olive oil and plant-based soda since the 15th century, remains a symbol of authenticity. Today, it comes in a variety of fragrances while preserving its natural, hypoallergenic, and moisturizing virtues. In villages like Biot and Tourtour, ancient skills endure, notably the production of bubbled blown glass.


With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the Mediterranean climate ensures blue skies and golden light. In summer, temperatures easily soar above 35°C, especially along narrow village streets and coastal paths. Sun protection and hydration are essential. The mistral, a dry, powerful wind, can sweep through unexpectedly, clearing the skies and refreshing the air — leaving breathtaking, far-reaching views in its wake.

pont-du-gard


The very name Provence dates back to Roman times when the territory was named Provincia Romana. Roman arenas in Arles, the Pont du Gard aqueduct, ancient roads, and villa ruins remain scattered across the countryside. Another historic route, the Route Napoléon, traces the Emperor’s 1815 journey from exile, winding through the Provençal countryside past monuments and commemorative plaques. Beyond its heritage appeal, it’s one of France’s most scenic drives.

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Local Traditions and Anecdotes : 
- The cicadas, inseparable from Provençal summers, sing from June to August once temperatures rise above 25°C. Tradition holds that their song heralds beautiful sunny days.
- In Èze, it’s said that philosopher Nietzsche composed part of Thus Spoke Zarathustra while climbing the steep path from the sea to the village, now known as the Chemin de Nietzsche.
- Late afternoons are for pétanque and apéritif: shaded village squares come alive with the clink of metal boules and glasses of chilled pastis or rosé.
- Provençal markets, dating back to the Middle Ages, have preserved their traditional layout: food stalls at the center, surrounded by olive oil producers, honey vendors, confectioners, and antique dealers on the edges.
- In coastal towns like Cagnes-sur-Mer and Antibes, markets start at dawn, perfect for sampling crisp panisses (chickpea fritters) or a warm slice of pissaladière alongside heaps of fresh produce, cheeses, and flowers.

Sélection

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    Villa Sublimes Alpilles is a luxury rental villa in Provence that sleeps 12. This luxury air-conditioned villa is one of a kind, with breathtaking mountain views, a fabulous pool and six en-suite bedrooms. Soak up the sunshine and scenery by the pool or venture out to explore the Alpilles and Luberon countryside; this is slow living at its finest!

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  • Le Chateau Millenaire

    Le Chateau Millenaire

    Chateau with pool, luxury rental. At the heart of a small village in the Minervois, totally integrated into the "Causses" landscape, "Le Château Millénaire" has stood through ten centuries of history. It has survived assaults and fires, particularly in the 13th century during

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  • Les Hauts de Provence

    Les Hauts de Provence

    A former sheepfold restored by enthusiasts, the property "Les Hauts de Provence" offers a beautiful panoramic view over the hilltops of Haute Provence.

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  • Spirit of Provence

    Spirit of Provence

    The idyllic Spirit of Provence is a luxury rental villa in Provence. This beautiful old farmhouse exudes French country chic inside and out, with its honey-coloured walls, wooden shutters and an elegant pool. A boules pitch and shady spots under the leafy trees complete the picture-perfect setting. Welcome to life in the Luberon!

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  • Villa Provence Alpilles

    Villa Provence Alpilles

    Pack your bags and escape to Provence to stay at this beautiful holiday villa with a pool that sleeps 10. Chic Villas brings you Villa Provence Alpilles, an idyllic country home between the Alpilles mountains and the Luberon in the South of France. A wisteria-covered terrace and luxuriant garden complement its pale stone walls and arched windows. Situated between Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, it’s ideal for exploring Provence and the Mediterranean coast.

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  • Provence  ou Luberon

    Provence ou Luberon

    This fine property for rent in provnce combines everything you need for a successful stay.

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    Provence ou Alpilles

    Provence ou Alpilles is a prestigious property standing in extensive wooded grounds between yew trees and olive groves. This superb rental property is situated near a charming village renowned for its authenticity, which is lively all year round... It enjoys an outstanding natural setting, with the Alpilles forming a fitting backdrop reaching out to the horizon

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  • Divine Provence

    Divine Provence

    Divine Provence is a luxury villa to rent in South of France at the doorstep of Provence. Is is the work of a passionate enthusiast whose outstanding renovation project has made this a property unique of its kind. Unstructured, extremely original and elegant, it offers seven luxurious and spacious suites, an underfloor cooling system and an outdoor private pool.

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  • Lavandes du Luberon

    Lavandes du Luberon

    Discover the beauty of the Luberon region in this lovely Provençal rental villa, Lavandes du Luberon. This holiday home with swimming pool has an authentic and stylishly decorated interior in a calm and well-preserved setting.

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  • Esprit Luberon

    Esprit Luberon

    Esprit Luberon is a lovely holiday villa for rent in Provence, situated opposite Mont Ventoux. Set amid beautiful countryside three kilometres outside the village, this villa offers excellent amenities.

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