Things To Do In Provence

Brilliant skies, breathtaking mountain views, and fields upon fields of colorful landscapes. These scenes in Provence have been known to enthuse and excite both artists and travelers alike. While the scenery certainly never grows old, there are many activities one should be sure to do before leaving Provence.

Renowned for cuisine, France also boasts of some of the world’s most delectable truffles. Both champagne enthusiasts and foodies alike will be sure to enjoy a truffle tour, one of the best countryside pastimes. Les Pastras offers daily tours for 2-12 people, at around 60€ per person. The cost includes the truffle hunting tour through the sprawling acreage, a sampling of Champagne and tasting of truffle hors d’oeuvres.

The lavender fields are perhaps the most iconic part of Provence. Best during summer months, these expansive fields are found all over Provence, and are enjoyable by car, on foot, or by bike. Self-guided walking tours are certainly common, but if you’re looking for more knowledge on the history of lavender and its natural healing properties, many farms offer guided tours. La Ferme de Gerbaud offers 90 minute tours in both English and French.

Any trip to France is incomplete without lots of wine. While formerly known for sweet, light rosé, Provence now spans several winemaking regions, offering a large variety of reds and whites as well. Taking a wine tasting tour, while of course delicious, is also a step back in time, as many farmers use horses for ploughing and sheep in place of chemical weed killers. Provence Wine Tours offers several touring options based on season, price and wine preference.

Brocante (pronounced broh-cahnt) translates to “second hand goods.” Practically a national sport, flea marketing in Provence is particularly fun. Both secondhand shops and Sunday morning open-air markets offer exquisite antiques. Flea markets in Provence are infamous for being pricier than elsewhere in France, and for that reason bargaining is almost expected. Finding markets and shops a little further off the beaten path proves to be much more wallet friendly.