This guide will take you through the colorful South of France, highlighting iconic cities, charming towns, and lesser-known gems worth discovering.
The Purple Palette of Southern France
For many travelers, summer in Southern France is synonymous with the dreamy purple hues of lavender fields. The best time to visit is from mid-June to early August, with the peak bloom typically occurring in early to mid-July. Among the top spots to admire lavender are Sault and Valensole.
Sault
• Features: Known for its mountain lavender, Sault boasts undulating fields set against a high-altitude backdrop. The bloom arrives later here, beginning in late June and lasting until August.
• Lavender Festival: Held annually on August 15th, this celebration marks the lavender harvest. It’s a vibrant tradition where farmers rejoice in their bounty before the large-scale lavender cutting begins.
• Lavender Oil: Due to its high elevation, Sault produces some of the world’s most exquisite lavender, valued for its medicinal properties. If you’re looking for premium lavender essential oils, this is the place to shop.
Valensole
• Features: Blooming earlier than Sault, Valensole’s lavender fields peak between mid-June and mid-July. Every year on July 15th, the local Lavender Festival showcases the region’s agricultural heritage.
• Scenic Highlights: Benefiting from the Mediterranean climate, with dry summers and abundant sunshine, Valensole is a paradise for lavender cultivation. It’s also a famous filming location for the Chinese TV dramas Dreams Link and Dream Again. If expansive lavender fields and stunning photo opportunities are your goal, Valensole won’t disappoint.
Tips for Lavender Viewing:
1. Lavender fields are typically located on the outskirts of towns and villages, with limited or no public transportation. Renting a car is the most convenient option. Alternatively, opt for local group tours (half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips).
2. While other parts of Provence also have lavender fields, none are as iconic as Sault or Valensole, even the famed Abbaye de Sénanque.
3. Summer’s intense sun requires sunscreen or other sun protection. Be cautious of bees and insects in the fields and take necessary precautions.
The Blue Palette of Southern France
The “blue” of the South of France comes not only from the Mediterranean Sea but also from the Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix. Renowned cities like Nice, Cannes, and Marseille offer iconic coastal views, while the gorge and lake are havens for outdoor enthusiasts and summer escapists.
Nice
• History: Founded by the Greeks, later a Roman colony, Nice exudes a blend of Italian charm and Provençal elegance. It’s a destination for global travelers and a dream retreat for the affluent.
• Weather: Thanks to the Mediterranean, Nice enjoys sunny, mild weather year-round, making it a popular destination with no true off-season.
• Must-See: Visit the Promenade des Anglais, a famous seaside promenade along the serene Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels). The bay’s calm, clear waters and pebble-covered beaches are perfect for a summer getaway.
Cannes
• Highlights: This small coastal town on the Mediterranean is world-famous for the Cannes Film Festival held every May. The serene beaches, combined with the refreshing sea breeze, create a relaxing atmosphere.
• Attractions: Don’t miss the Palais des Festivals and the Walk of Fame, where celebrities have left their handprints. The La Croisette Boulevard, with its sandy beaches on one side and vibrant hotels on the other, is a postcard-perfect location. The harbor is often filled with luxury yachts, adding to Cannes’ allure.
Marseille
• History: As France’s oldest city, founded in the 6th century BC, Marseille has a rich 2,500-year history. It played a pivotal role in the French Revolution, with its residents marching to Paris singing the “War Song of the Rhine Army,” which later became France’s national anthem, La Marseillaise.
• Attractions:
• Vieux-Port (Old Port): A bustling area filled with restaurants and markets.
• Notre-Dame de la Garde: A stunning basilica offering panoramic views of the city.
• If Island: For fans of The Count of Monte Cristo, this is a must-visit.
• Calanques National Park: Perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking or kayaking.
Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix
• Verdon Gorge: Known as Europe’s Grand Canyon, the Gorges du Verdon stretches 25 km (15.5 miles) long and plunges 700 meters (2,300 feet) deep. Its breathtaking scenery attracts climbers, kayakers, and campers from all over.
• Lake Sainte-Croix: Formed by the Verdon Dam in 1974, this is France’s second-largest reservoir. Its turquoise waters and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal summer retreat.
Tip: Nearby is the charming Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, known as the “ceramic town.” Its quaint streets and artisan workshops make it well worth a visit.
Stay tuned for more about the vibrant towns and hidden gems of Southern France!