Provence is a region bursting with unique possibilities. From the stunning beaches of the French Riviera and the challenging Alps to enchanting hidden wetlands and rolling lavender fields, this area of France has something for everyone.
Whatever kind of trip you’re looking for, our selection of Côte d’Azur villas and luxury chateaux in Provence will ensure you have all the amenities you need to enjoy an unforgettable holiday.
Searching for activities to do during your stay? Here’s our list of the top things to do in Provence and Côte d’Azur…
If you’re worried about your cycling abilities, don’t be – Freewheeling France highlights the benefits of hiring an electric bike, which makes for a less tiring experience. They offer help hiring cycles, including a detailed list of places to rent across the country, and suggested bike routes.
Join other cyclist fanatics and attempt to conquer Mont Ventoux on your two wheels, a rite of passage for many riders, or take it easy and meander around olive gardens, vineyards, and gorgeous sleepy villages. Don’t forget to add the hilltop town of Gordes to your route, home to the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque and those picturesque purple lavender fields.
More of a thrillseeker? Some boats also offer wakeboarding or tubing too, meaning you can explore the colourful coastline in whatever way you fancy.
Price: from 39€ per person on motorboats/139€ per person on catamarans
what3words location: unguided.socket.tutoring
Mobilboard offers Segway rental in Nice, taking you along the Promenade des Anglais, the Old Town, and even up the castle hill, on various different leisure circuits. The group tours range from 30 minutes to two hours, meaning you can easily fit the experience into your holiday.
Alternatively, you can hire the mini-motors for a self-guided tour of the city instead. See landmark sights such as the Opéra de Nice and the Natural History Museum – a fantastic family-friendly activity to do during your trip to Provence.
Price: group tours from 17€/daily rental 65€
what3words: ensemble.delved.rocker
A truly unforgettable experience, and one that any petrol-heads would be crazy to miss.
Price: from 69€
what3words location: prompt.rush.standing
With so many places to choose from, it’s easy to spend a day hopping from chateau to chateau trying delicious wines. Most of the vineyards have been in the local families for generations, and their methods of growing and manufacturing the wines have hardly altered.
One such place is Château la Canorgue, which has been in the family for almost 200 years and regularly bags prizes for its beverages. It’s also located in the heart of The Luberon National Park, a picturesque area. After all, what’s a holiday in Provence without wine?
what3words location: dazzle.preferences.skiffs
Head to the quaint town of Grasse and see the so-called world capital of perfume, with a tour around the Fragonard Perfume Museum.
Gain a unique insight into the centuries of perfume production. Learn about the methods of extracting scents from natural sources and how the various fragrances have been devised over the years. Visit the attached Historical Factory to see how the Fragonard experts have made their name as some of the best perfumers in the world. The daily tour ends with a chance for you to test your nose in a fun olfactory game – have you got what it takes to manufacture beautiful scents?
Price: FREE
what3words location: guarded.umbrella.jacuzzi
Designed to recreate the atmosphere of the abbeys in the region, the building is a haven of peace. Enjoy an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and sensory showers with a view of the Luberon. Treat yourself to a Sisley Phyto-Aromatic Treatment – an experience that combines massage rituals from all over the world with local traditions and aromatherapies.
what3words location: tamed.confines.upturned
Rent kayaks from Location Nautic and explore the scenery in a different way, taking in the sublime setting with your family and friends. The kayaks on offer range from one to four seats, meaning that even the little ones can get involved with this adventure. You can choose to rent the kayaks for as little or as long as you’d like to, as well.
Price: from 13€ for 30 minutes
what3words location: custody.
Fun fact – the famous 19th century novel, the Le Comte de Monte-Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, is set in the Château d’If! The book has inspired 23 films and has been translated worldwide.
Price: from 6€
what3words location: appetites.
Feeling ready to take on Provence and Cote d’Azur and everything it’s got to offer? Talk to the Oliver’s Travels Concierge Team and let them know what you’re looking for in your accommodation, and they’ll help you explore villas in Côte d’Azur or find your perfect Provence chateaux.
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