A Variety Of Provence Tours Offer Different Types Of Experiences

By Andrea Davidson


Celebrated by the works of Van Gough and by the author Peter Mayle, this sunny area of France has pleased generations of visitors. You will discover its distinctive sites through a Provence tours journey. The coastal areas, beautiful fields, mountains, rivers and historic towns offer numerous ways to explore its distinctive locales.

To get there visitors can fly into either of the international airports located in Marseille and Nice. From there rail links connect to the main towns of the region. From London travelers can also travel by the Eurostar train to Paris. From there a TGV high speed train ride takes under five hours to get to Marseille or three hours and 45 minutes to reach Avignon. It is also easy to travel by bus between the villages and towns.

This area is clearly influenced by its situation on the border with Italy and Spain. St. Remy, Monte Carlo, the Papal city of Avignon, Aix en Provence, Arles and St. Tropez offer diverse diversions. The contrast of high society and relaxed rustic beauty attract different types of vacationers. Some favor the sophisticated pleasures of Monte Carlo, while others prefer the beautiful landscape of the interior.

During the tourist season sightseers clog even the small picturesque towns. It is wiser to go there in the less visited spring or autumn periods. If you would enjoy a scenic journey viewing Alpine scenery, the Train des Pignes between Digne les Bains and Nice should be on the itinerary. A serene way to enjoy the scenic countryside is to go on a river cruise on the Rhone. River cruises will take travelers along the western border down the Rhone River and continue along the Saone River, a tributary of the larger river.

For outdoor enthusiasts there are plenty of activities. Kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting, boating and biking are popular. Such activities are particularly enjoyed in the splendorous Gorges du Verdon and the Camargue. In Camargue you can ride the indigenous small white horses known to be one of the oldest breeds in the world. For stimulating walks, the GR9 trail spans the vertical ranges, including Mont Ventoux, Monts du Vaucluse and the Luberon Range. The northeast ski resort of Pra Loup provides downhills for those who prefer to ski down mountains rather than climb them.

The sunflower fields and vines lie south, the lavender Luberon hills lie west and the Southern Alps lie northeast. To many the lavender fields are the essence of this area. Lavender flowers bloom from the fourth week of June to early August. The sunflowers bloom from July to August.

Of course, tasting Provencal specialties will be a part of the experience. This cuisine is renowned for its ingredients which are an intriguing mix of natively grown produce. For the rustic tastes of Cezanne, the simple potatoes in oil dish was the most delicious. Marseille and its bouillabaisse are most known, but most major towns are associated with a particular ingredient or dish. The capital city of Aix en Provence is identified for its petal shaped Calisson sweet consisting of an almond and candied fruit paste topped with icing. Pastis is a refreshing local drink visitors should try with their meals.

As you will discover one visit will not be enough. Provence tours will make each journey a memorable one. Visitors can travel at any time. The optimal time is when there are fewer tourists in the way.




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