Welcome to Provence

Arles

Arles is increasingly establishing itself as a cultural haven in Provence, harmoniously blending ancient heritage with modern creativity.

Let yourself be transported by its millennia-old history and explore its magnificent Roman remains: the Amphitheater, a UNESCO World Heritage site; Les Alyscamps, a historic necropolis; the Ancient Theater; and the Thermes of Constantine. Stroll through its lively streets, lined with charming French cafés, and follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, discovering the landscapes and scenes immortalized in some of his most famous paintings.

Don’t miss the Rencontres d’Arles, a world-renowned photography festival that enlivens the city each summer with exhibitions and unique events. Also, visit Luma Arles, an innovative contemporary art space whose bold architecture by Frank Gehry has become a symbol of the city's modernity.

Just a few minutes by car or bike from Vintage Provence, dive into the historic center and let yourself be captivated by the vibrant life of Arles.

Alpilles

The Provence of vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages with blue shutters and flower-lined alleys—in a word, the Alpilles.

The Alpilles Natural Park begins just fifteen minutes from Vintage Provence, stretching northeast through a chain of rocky formations where oak and pine forests intertwine with vineyards and olive groves, known for their exceptional quality.

Nestled within the Alpilles are some of the most beautiful villages in Provence, if not all of France. Among them is Les Baux-de-Provence, a medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop, offering breathtaking panoramic views from the ruins of its castle.

Not far away, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, one of the region’s most iconic villages, awaits with its lively bistros, charming squares, and artisan workshops. Just outside the village, you’ll find Saint-Paul-de-Mausole, the monastery and garden that inspired Van Gogh’s masterpieces, such as The Starry Night and Irises. Next to Saint-Paul, explore the remarkable archaeological site of Glanum.

Continue your journey through the Alpilles, and you’ll encounter surprises at every turn. Take the road to Eygalières, another picturesque village with a country-chic atmosphere. Along the way, admire the enchanting Chapelle Saint-Sixte, a scene straight out of a postcard.

Camargue

Just fifteen minutes from our home, the Camargue Natural Park is a must-visit for nature and animal lovers.

Endless landscapes of lagoons, marshes, rice fields, reeds, and salt flats stretch across the Rhône Delta. Here, you'll encounter black bulls, white horses, and a diverse array of birds, including flamingos, which have formed permanent colonies in the region.

For wildlife enthusiasts, visit the Pont de Gau Ornithological Park or embark on a horseback excursion for a more immersive experience.

As you head toward the sea, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a charming town with a gypsy soul, will captivate you with its whitewashed houses, iconic church, boutiques, restaurants, and golden sandy beach.

A bit further, near Aigues-Mortes, you'll find a stunning medieval city with impeccably preserved walls and towers. In summer, the nearby salt flats turn a brilliant shade of pink, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable sight.

For those craving the Mediterranean Sea, head to the vast dune beaches of Piémanson or Espiguette, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.

One word of warning, though: it’s scientifically proven that once you visit Camargue, you’ll never want to leave!

Provence and you at the heart of the escape

Provence is vast—so vast that exploring all its wonders in a single trip is nearly impossible. However, here are a few suggestions for other must-visit destinations, all within an hour’s drive from Vintage Provence.

The Luberon is an absolute gem, boasting charming villages and breathtaking landscapes that rival the Alpilles for the most iconic image of Provence.

Avignon, home to the Palace of the Popes and its famous bridge, is just half an hour away. Extend your journey northward into the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where you can taste some of France’s finest wines.

For lavender lovers, visit the fields surrounding the magnificent Abbaye de Sénanque, an experience that will stay in your heart forever.

And let’s not forget Marseille and the Calanques, or, in the opposite direction, Nîmes and the Pont du Gard in Occitanie… The possibilities are endless—the only thing left to do is choose!

Suggested destinations

Villages

Les Baux-de-Provence - 20 minutes
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence - 30 minutes
Eygalières - 30 minutes
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer - 30 minutes
Aigues-Mortes - 45 minutes
Uzès - 50 minutes
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse - 1h
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue - 1h

Towns

Arles - 5 minutes
Avignon - 40 minutes
Aix-en-Provence - 45 minutes
Marseille - 1h
Montpellier - 1h

Natural parks

Camargue - 15 minutes
Alpilles - 15 minutes
Luberon - 1h

Attractions

Abbaye de Montmajour - 10 minutes
Site archéologique de Glanum - 25 minutes
Monastère Saint-Paul-de-Mausole - 25 minutes
Parc ornithologique - 30 minutes
Pont du Gard - 40 minutes
Théâtre antique d’Orange - 50 minutes
Montagne Sainte-Victoire - 1h
Les calanques - 1h
Abbaye de Sénanque - 1h 15 minutes

Beaches

Plages des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer - 30 minutes
Plage de Piémanson - 45 minutes
Plage de Beauduc - 1h
Plage de l’Espiguette - 1h

Museums

Le musée départemental Arles antique
Musée Réattu
Espace Van Gogh
Luma Arles
Museon Arlaten
Musée de la Camargue
Mucem, Marseille

Markets & Antique fairs

Arles Market
Saturday morning
Wednesday morning

Eygalières Market
Friday morning

Uzès Market
Saturday morning

Arles Antique Fair
1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month

Eygalières Antique Fair
Last Sunday of the month

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Antique Fair
Every Sunday

Activities

The Camargue Natural Park is an ideal place for the following activities:

Cycling
Horseback riding
Hiking
Boat trips
Birdwatching

Events

Les Rencontres de la photographie d’Arles
International photography festival
(July to September)

Festival d’Avignon
Annual theatre and performing arts festival
(July)

Gypsy pilgrimage, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer (May)

Arles drawing festival
(April, May)

Ferias, bullfights, and Camargue races
Various events throughout the year
(For event schedules, check online or visit the local tourist office.)