Nice, Côte d'Azur

Merveilles means “marvels” and it’s hard to know whether they named the area for the stunning scenery, the beautiful old medieval villages or the archaeological findings going back 5000 years. The railway carriages are painted with designs inspired by the prehistoric rock carvings that have been discovered in the region.

Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.

This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.

Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.

Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.

In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.

Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.

Merveilles means “marvels” and it’s hard to know whether they named the area for the stunning scenery, the beautiful old medieval villages or the archaeological findings going back 5000 years. The railway carriages are painted with designs inspired by the prehistoric rock carvings that have been discovered in the region.

Following the Calavon river, this 28km long path was previously a railway track and is a great way to explore the hilltop villages around the area.

This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.

This delightful ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area; vast Sault highlands, fields of lavender and golden crops. Along the way you can admire the magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and Montagne de Lure Mountain. You’ll pass through four charming old villages; each one crammed with ancient churches, crooked alleyways, splashing fountains and quaint little squares.

This ride is bursting with colour and vibrant views; starting off in the pretty little village of Roussillon it passes through the vivid landscape of the Ochre region, an area characterised by its deep red soil and golden wheat fields.

Second only to the Gorges du Verdon, the Gorge de la Nesque is one of the most visited and cycled parts of Provence. A stunning hydro geological site with fantastic cliffs, overhanging rock and a long winding river deep in the valley.

The climb of Mont Ventoux is perhaps most well known to those outside of the cycling community as a name associated with the Tour de France.

Regarded as one of the more difficult trails of the Verdon region, the l'Imbut trail is perfectly manageable for the competent hiker with the use of the fixed cables and ladders.

An interesting site not to be missed whilst in Provence. The wonderful views of the Villecroze caves and impressive scenery will take your breath away.

A 5-7 day walk leaving near the coast and making its way up the Verdon Gorge through the heart of the Verdon natural park.

This walking route is for strong walkers or hikers, and can be completed in anywhere from 8-10 days.

An great easy walk for the days after rain fall to avoid the mud. Passing by the Chapel Toutes Aures, nestled in an olive grove. 

Jet-ski, waterskiing, wakeboard, wakesurf, parachute, canoe and paddleboard, Glisse Paradise have it all!

This company are based in Breil sur Roya and offer a huge range of outdoor sports and activities for groups and individuals.

This company offers a range of outdoor activities mostly based around canyoning and rafting white water, as well as via ferrata and mountain biking experiences and snowshoe walks in the winter.

For those looking for an adrenalin rush, Nice Rafting is the place to go to!

A lovely natural lake surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Var. The lake is perfect for a pedaloe trip rather than an adrenaline filled water sport, but it means it is perfect for families!

Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.

Papillon is a pretty stone villa with contemporary interiors suitable for families and close to pretty villages with restaurants that are typical of this bustling part of the Cote D'Azur.

Villa Porthos is located in the small village of Le Muy, just 15 km from the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of St. Tropez. 

In the small village of Le Muy, just 15 km from the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of St. Tropez and close to the cities of Sainte-Maxime, St. Tropez and Fréjus, you will find this beautiful villa at the end of a beautiful driveway lined with oleander and cypress trees. 

Villa Athos is a newly built villa situated on a secure estate on a very generous plot in the hills between Sainte Maxime and Le Muy. Exclusively surrounded by large plots and villas in a very quiet location, your privacy is guaranteed.

Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne. 

Located in the prestigious private Golf & Country Club estate in Gassin, come and discover this beautiful bastide in a privileged location, at the end of a cul-de-sac in a quiet environment without vis-à-vis.

In their charming hotel in Biot, you'll find all the peace and comfort you need for a relaxing stay. Les Arcades offers 12 uniquely decorated rooms, each with its own character, right in the heart of the medieval village.