Provence, Mediterranean Coast and Riviera

From its herb-scented hills to its yacht-filled harbors, no other region of France fires the imagination as strongly as Provence. The vivid landscape and luminous light have inspired artists from Van Gogh to Cezanne, among others. Region of lavender, almonds, olives and fishing, it is also an historical region as it was the main center of roman influence in France. It is also marked by typical romanesque style abbeys and churches.  

Avignon

City of art and culture, the metropolis of the Vaucluse region spreads along the banks of the Rhone River. Peppered with bell towers emerging from a carpet of pink roofs, it is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by "Doms" rock, on which lies majestically the cathedral and palace of the popes.

Detached from the Alpilles, this bare rock spur (3000 ft long and 700ft wide) with vertical ravines on either side, a fortified castle partly in ruins, old houses, compose the spectacular site of the village of Les Baux. Magnificent view on the whole region with a 360 degree angle. (1/2 hour south of Avignon)

Gateway to the Alpilles mountain chain, St. Remy symbolizes beautifully what Provence is, whether it be through its decor of plane tree-shaded boulevards, fountains, charming old town alleys or the atmosphere on market days. Some rich Roman monuments can be seen on the outskirt of the town. It is also the place where Van Gogh stayed in a psychiatric hospital, painting some of its most beautiful pieces. (next to les Baux)

Roman capital and a major religious center in the Middle Ages, Arles preserve from its glorious past, a Gallo-Roman Amphitheater and theater, and 2 gems of romanesque art, the cloister and doorway of Ste. Trophime. The Van Gogh cultural center is the former hospital where Van Gogh was treated. (30 minutes from St. Remy) 

Between Mediterranean Sea and lagoons, in the heart of Camargue wild natural park, it is distinguished by its fortified church. In May, Gipsies from all over the world meet here for Virgin Mary celebrations. (1/2 hour from Arles)

With its large towers and fortified curtain wall, the town from which King St Louis left to the crusade, stands erect in a melancholy landscape of ponds, sea marshes and salt pans. One never tires from admiring this solitary fortified city during the long sunsets of a summer evening. (1/2 hour south of Arles)

Elegant, sunny, hospitable and bustling, Nimes lies at the foot of limestone hills. Many roman monuments (amphitheater, temple of Diana) enlighten this city which hosts many antique dealers. It is also a center of Tauromachy ( corridas). (1/2 hour west of Arles)

This old capital of Provence has kept a great deal of character imparted to it in the 17th and 18th Centuries. The sober elegance of its mansions, the graceful charm of its squares, the majesty of its avenues and the loveliness of its fountains are impressive. North of Cours Mirabeau (main avenue built in the 17th Century on the site of medieval ramparts) lies Old Aix nestled between the cathedral and square Albertas. Aix's life revolves around it. Street cafes and boutiques on the north side, 17th century mansions on the south side. (1h 1/2 east of Arles)

The houses of this hill-top village rise in picturesque tiers above the Imerge valley. Small paved alleys, vaulted passages, arcades are part of the charm of this Provence village. Its chateau hosts a Vasarely museum. ( 1/2 hour southeast of Avignon)

Famous for its Sunday market (antiques). The arms of the Sorgue river and avenues lined up with plane trees add to this charming fresh site. You may see a water wheel similar to those which worked the silk factories and oil mills. (1/2 hour southeast of Avignon)

This large attractively terraced village is located on the Luberon promontory. It has kept its antique walls and from its terrace you will have a lovely view of the Calavon valley. (Luberon area)

The second largest city in France is exotic,cosmopolitan and lively. Narrow stepped streets, quiet squares and fine 18th century facades contrast with the bustle of the "Canebiere". You may stroll by the old harbor holding daily fish markets or try a Bouillabaisse ( fish stew) in many of its restaurants. Notre Dame de la Garde, Neo-Byzantine basilica, dominates the city.
The coastline from Marseilles to Cassis curves into narrow inlets called "calanques'. Their jagged white cliffs are reflected in the Turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea.

Even if it has been adopted by the international jet set, this typical fishermen harbor has been untouched by the developments of the French Riviera. Its unspoiled charm is still alive. Painters like Matisse and Bonnard loved the place. In the 60s it was the domain of Brigitte Bardot. Its cafes make ideal places for people and yacht watching. Pampelonne beach is the beach on which to see and be seen. (1/2 way between Marseilles and Nice)

Cannes stands on the shores of La Napoule bay, a superb anchorage dominated by the Esterel heights. The town owes its popularity to the beauty of its setting and the quality of its beaches. Its film festival is in France the equivalent of the American Oscars. You may stroll along "la Croisette" Boulevard. This elegant promenade, bordered by palm trees and gardens, overlooks the fine sandy beaches. ( 1/2 hour west of Nice)

Capital and queen of the Riviera, the city stands at the head of Bay of the Angels and is sheltered by an amphitheater of hills. The wonderful climate, the charm of its setting , its numerous attractions have made it the favorite spot of winter and summer vacationers. Its carnival , in February, bring crowds from all over the globe. The wide and magnificent "Promenade des Anglais", bordering the sea for its entire length, extends from Cape Nice to Antibes. You may sample some Mediterranean fares in the restaurants of the Old Nice, a network of twisting narrow lanes and steps.

The principality of Monaco consists of Monaco, old town and Monte Carlo, new town, with La Condamine which links them. Monaco is picturesquely built on a rock which juts 2550 feet out to sea and drops straight into the waves below. You may tour the Palace of the Grimaldi's family.
Monte Carlo is famous throughout the world for its palaces, casinos, rich villas and luxurious shops. ( 1 hour east of Nice)

It is a prime example of a hill village as it clings, like an eagle nest, to a rock spike towering 1400 feet over the sea. ( between Nice and Monte Carlo)

The tapering outline stands out from far above the rolling hills and rich valleys of the Vence countryside. It is a typical fortified town set on a spur and it has kept most of its medieval appearance. It was rediscovered in the 1920s by Signac, Modigliani, Bonnard and Soutine who used to meet at the Colombe d'Or, now a sumptuous inn. (back country of Nice)

Amidst a countryside of olive trees, mimosas, roses, carnation fields, it is a picturesque old market town, standing on a rock bordered by two ravines. Matisse chapel is as quoted by the artist, his masterpiece as a result of a lifetime devoted to the search of truth. The nearby Loup Valley ridge road is one of the most scenic in the area. ( next to St. Paul)

 This town, famous for its perfume factories, stretches out over the foothills of the high limestone plateau and looks over the perfumed plains which have brought it fame and riches. The old Provencal town narrow alleys are linked by steep ramps or steps which wind between houses four or even five stories high. Fragonard, Gallimard and Molinard admit visitors to their perfumeries and give a general idea of the manufacturing process.

European Group Tours