Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

The South of France has always been a great favourite with British tourists. And no wonder. In addition to its exceptional climate, it boasts an astounding range of landscapes and natural sites: windswept heights at Mont Ventoux, rice fields in Camargue, walled villages perched on the slopes of the Lubéron, skiing facilities at Isola 2000, the celebrated star-studded Croisette in Cannes, beaches along the Estérel range and vertiginous Verdon Gorges.
Art lovers will gladly embark on the Route des Peintres, following in the footsteps of some of France's finest painters. Learn all about Van Gogh in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Dufy and his avant-garde group in Martigues, Cézanne in Marseille, Saint-Tropez and Toulon, Vasarely at Gordes Castle. Set out for the hinterland beyond Nice in search of charming country chapels adorned with frescoes.
Whether you decide to stay on the Riviera, in the country or in the mountains, you will be enthralled by the area's traditions and its capacity for enjoying life. Mediterranean cuisine has earned worldwide renown thanks to its tasty dishes prepared with olive oil, garlic and aromatic herbs, namely aïoli, bouillabaisse and soupe au pistou. Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the many types of honey produced locally, in particular with lavender blossom. Furthermore, the lively country wines will provide a fitting accompaniment to all meals. Open-air markets are a must: their colourful stalls displaying not only fresh fruit and vegetables but also earthenware, pottery, glassware, Provençal fabric and scented soaps, are a wonder to behold!
The arts are dutifully honoured at festivals held in many towns and villages: music and opera in Orange and Aix-en-Provence, dance in Chateauvallon, theatre in Avignon, photography in Arles... The full list of events would be far too long to include here, but you're bound to find something to your liking! If you prefer sightseeing, you will be overwhelmed by the number of prestigious buildings open to the public, such as Thoronet Abbey or Saorge Monastery.
Last but not least, the South of France is the ideal destination for aspiring athletes, who may take up golf, swimming, sailing, hang-gliding, water-skiing, horse-riding, mountain biking or Alpine and cross-country skiing.