My dog Jack and I have been wandering Provence beautiful paths many times. No wonder why this region has been an endless source of inspiration for many famous artists such as Cézanne, Van Gogh or Pagnol. Provence offers a wide range of colors, especially during spring with its lavender, poppy, olive trees and wheat fields.
Life there is relaxing and there is plenty to see.
From West to East there are first Les Alpilles. The name of the area comes from the chain of low mountains, the extension of the Luberon mountains. It offers a natural environment with lovely high perched villages. Saint-Remy-de-Provence is famous because it is the setting for many of Van Gogh pieces of art. Les-Baux-de-Provence is perched on a rocky outcrop. Its famous castle's ruins majestically overlook the plains.
A bit easter, within the Luberon, are located Gordes, its renown Sénanque Abbey and Roussillon, famous for its Ochres Path and houses.
Gordes is a charming town with cobbled streets and it also offers an impressive view of the region. To take the nicest pictures, stop a few meters before entering the village while you are on the other side. This way, you will get a stunning view of the village. If you are looking for elegance and luxury, you might want to stay at the Bastide de Gordes*****
The Sénanque Abbey is really worth a visit. The best moment to visit it is June, when the atmosphere is getting warmer it is always nice to find a fresh spot in the middle of the lands. Plus, if you go at the beginning of June you might get a chance to take nice pictures of the Sénanque Abbey with its lavender fields.
The Ochres Path is perfect for family trips. The walk lasts approximately one hour with nice spot to take pictures. After the walk, have lunch in the lovely town of Roussillon and admire the houses made out of ochre. Taste delicious artisanal ice cream near the Ochres Path.
At the bottom of the Luberon, a nice village to discover is Lourmarin. Visit the town a Friday morning and you will get the chance to wander in the alleys of its colorful and fragrant market. Taste regional goat cheese with olive oil.
Aix-en-Provence is a beautiful city with its ornate buildings and prestigious fountains. Stroll along the town's charming pedestrian streets, sit at a table along the Cours Mirabeau and feel the peaceful and familial atmosphere.
Aix-en-Provence's countryside is also beautiful. The emblematic mountain, the Sainte-Victoire, is the perfect spot for hiking. It has been our favorite playground with Jack when we were living nearby.
Finally, if you head up South, you will get the chance to visit Marseille. Once an ignored place because of its insecurity, it is now a glorious city thanks to the government endeavors to make it an attractive point of interest. Visit the MUCEM, the Méditerranée museum and admire its impressive modern architecture and discover the Fort-Saint Jean, once a military fortress built by Louis XIV. If you go in the morning, you will see the fish market settled in the Vieux Port. There is nothing better to meet locals and discover Marseille authentic vibe. Do not forget to buy Savon de Marseille, the emblematic regional soap.
Of course, Marseille would not be such an attractive place without its Calanques, the impressive cliffs overlooking the sea, whose hidden creeks are the perfect spot to rest or enjoy the turquoise sea.
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