St Paul Trois Chateaux
Lovely medieval town famed for its black truffles
St Paul Trois Chateaux is located to the north of Provence in the Drome region. It's renowned for the production of black truffles whose quality is strictly controlled.
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History & Culture in [locality]
The ancient capital of the region (Tricastin, named after the original Gallic inhabitants), St Paul sadly has no châteaux - the name is more likely to have been derived from the old name for the city, St Paul en Tricastin. In Latin, tricastri translates as three castles and it seems this also lead to the towns coat of arms which features three towers and a crown.
The village is home to one of France's national monuments, the Cathedral Notre Dame et Saint Paul - a Romanesque structure from the 12th century. It's widely considered to be one of the most complete examples of Provençal Romanesque architecture, characterised by its simplicity, large volumes and perfectly paired building stones. The interior is noted for the carvings on the top floor of the nave.
The town lends itself to exploring, and a nice view can be obtained from the top of the hill. The tourist office offers multilingual audio guides of the main historical sites in St Paul, so you can learn about the Gallo-Roman remains, the medieval town with its Jewish quarter, and buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. For more detailed information about St Paul's history, visit the Musée d'Archeologie.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
There is a good selection of shops for general shopping and for souvenirs.
To the west of St Paul Trois Châteaux you may want to visit the Caves of Saint Marcel d'Ardeche with its network of underground rivers and cathedral ceilings.
Sights in Provence
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Les Alyscamps
Graves, mausoleums and sarcophagi at this site date back to the beginning of the Roman empire, but it wasn't until the early Christian period that there was a large flurry of activity here.
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L'Essentiel de Lavande, Grignan
From cultivation right through to the essential oil, come here and discover the journey of a plant whose fragrance and many virtues have been our childhood companions!
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Planetarium, Nimes
See the universe projected onto the roof of a large room filled with 65 comfortable seats, and wonder at the scale of it all.
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Site Memorial des Milles
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
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Musee d'Allauch Symbols and Sacred, Allauch
The Musee d'Allauch welcomes you in the heart of the old village of Allauch. It is housed in the Hotel de Ville, now totally restored.
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Musee Simon Segal Contemporary Art, Aups
The museum groups 3 schools of painting - Toulon, Bourges and Paris - with over 280 works on show.
Dining in [locality]
Restaurants in Provence
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Le Temp de Vivre Restaurant, Uchaux
Le Temps de Vivre is situated in the little hamlet of Les Farjons just down the road from Uchaux.
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La Cour d'Honneur Restaurant
Located right in the centre of Avignon on a well known shopping street is La Cour d'Honneur.
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Les Chenes Verts Restaurant, Tourtour
This Michelin starred restaurant is situated on the outskirts of Tourtour and specialise in truffle dishes.
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L'Epice & Love Restaurant
This is a popular place with both locals and travellers. It has a small cosy interior so if you want to dine there, best to get there earlier rather than later.
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L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel Restaurant
This wonderful contemporary-styled restaurant features dishes that you may never have suspected to have existed.
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
Events in [locality]
The weekly market is held on Tuesday mornings, and a farmers market is held on the first and third Sunday of every month.
Every Sunday from December to March, black truffles are on sale in La Place de l’Esplan.
There is a Maison de la Truffe in the town which is open throughout the year.
Other local produce includes olives and olive oil, wine, a special goats cheese called Picodon, summer fruits such peaches and apricots and lavender (there is a Lavender distillery open to the public in Nyons).
Events in Provence
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Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
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European Heritage Days
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.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Markets in Provence
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.
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Fête de la Chataignes - Chestnut festival, Collobrières
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.
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
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.
Things to do in [locality]
For those looking to be a bit more active, there is a trail called the Chemin des Arts Tricastin which is a footpath that takes you through the towns of La Garde Adhemar, St Paul, St Restitut and Clansayes, that takes you past Romanesque chapels and contemporary art installations. There are many other day and half-day hiking routes in and around St Paul - ask at the tourist office for details.
There are four marked cycling circuits from the town each of around 20km, an ideal way to explore the countryside. St Paul is also a regular host to the Tour de France.
There are a couple of forest adventure parks in the vicinity - La Fôret des Jeux boasts over 40 games for both adults and children, and Acro Pole Aventure to the north-east offers Via Ferrata, nature trails and outdoor adventures.
Things To Do in Provence
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Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer
Aqualand in St Cyr Sur Mer offer you 11 wicked slides in a great park environment with drinks, food, and shops for you to enjoy.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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Domaine Le Sagittaire Waterpark, Nyons
In the depths of the Drôme countryside in the French Provence, this 5 Star Residential Campsite comes complete with an entirely heated Aquatic Complex, which is open to the public.
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Nyonsoleiado Waterpark, Nyons
Waterpark complex that contains a lagoon, 25m pool, whirlpool basin, waterslides for children and adults, cascades of water, rivers, paddling pools and much more.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Provence
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Le Tour du Massif d'Uchaux
This circular route offers a variety of scenery and landscapes, with gently rolling hills to ensure a bit of downhill after any short climbs.
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Cycling in the Cotes du Rhone from Sainte-Cecile-des-Vignes
This short and relatively easy circuit goes through a number of pretty little villages and past a multitude of vineyards, streams and creeks, crossing the Aygues river twice along the way.
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Loop Around the River Ceze
La Roque Sur Ceze is a beautiful hilltop village, northwest of Orange. Its perched vantage point and narrow cobbled streets make it a charming place to start our ride. Classified as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (most beautiful villages of France) it not only has breathtaking views but also ancient chapels, a chateau, and all the quirky little vaulted alleyways that you could wish for in a Provencal village.
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Following the Knights Templar through the Cote du Rhone, Vaison la Romaine
This intermediate level bike ride takes in a few gentle hills as it makes its way through the villages commandeered by the Order of the Knights Templar during the middle ages.
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Via Venaissia from Jonquieres
Once in the town of Jonquieres there are several choices of cycle routes around the area. The country roads are the perfect platform to discover the local villages, view points and historical points of interest.
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Chateauneuf du Pape vineyards and towns
This 28.5km long route is a journey of discovery through the Ile de l'Oiselay and the vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Provence
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Vineyard Walks
The vast numbers of lovely Vineyards in Provence make for great places to go on a walking or hiking tour.
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Les Rochers des Rams
From the look out point at 965m you are rewarded with fantastic views of the Alazards valley and the Rhone valley.
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Gorges du Toulourenc, near Malaucene
This river gorge runs for around 30 kilometres from the small village of Saint Leger, heading west along the borders of the Vaucluse and Drome regions.
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Combe de Malaval Hike
Throughout the duration of this hike you have breathtaking views over the Comtat Venaissin plain and the Dentelles de Montmirail range.
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La Fontaine de Saint-Gens
Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
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St Michel de Frigolet Walk
Starting in Barbentane, a short 15 minute drive from Avignon, this gentle and easy walk is great for all abilities of walker. WIth a shady tracks and only a 2 hour and 45 minute round trip you can amble along this walk and enjoy the surrouding scenery.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Provence
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Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
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Les Guides Action and Aventure, Aiguines
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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La Bonde Lake, Cabrieres d'Aigues
Bonde Lake is situated in the heart of the Luberon and offers activities and relaxation for all the family.
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Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
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Goud' Canoe, La Roque sur Ceze
The Ceze is a calm river and accessible for all. Along the trip you’ll find enough spots and beaches where you’ll be able to get out of your boat to eat, sunbathe or swim.
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Roya Evasion Activity Company, Breil-sur-Roya
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.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Provence
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La Cave des Pas Sages
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
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Ajmi Jazz Club
The Ajmi has played host to numerous talented international Jazz artists, and the Ajmi is classed as one of the top 3 jazz venues in France and is located in the heart of Avignon next to the beautiful Palais des Papes.
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Mistral Nighclub
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
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Le Scat Nightclub
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
Chalets in [locality]
Chalets in Provence
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Les Hautes Prairies Campsite, Lourmarin
Located right in the centre of Provence with the feet of Lubéron. A 9 acre campsite with 165 spacious pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Provence
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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Happy Days / Les Jours Heureux Villa, Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt
Come and enjoy a lovely holiday in the Luberon for 6 people in Saint Saturnin les Apt, a village that kept his authenticity.
Price: €2,339
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,136
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For Me Formidable Villa, Roussillon
Charming house, for rent in Roussillon, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool. It is the perfect place for an unforgettable stay in Provence.
Price: €2,714
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Mas Malhana Villa, Maillane
Le Mas Malhana is a beautiful ancient stonehouse, perfectly renovated, ideal to spend your holidays in the heart of the Alpilles.
Price: €10,227
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Douce France Villa, Oppede
Farmhouse in the heart of the Luberon, near Coustellet, providing peace and quiet and a breathtaking view of the countryside.
Price: €3,138
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Provence
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
Price: €3,998
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Provence Country Club - 2 Bed Apartment, Luberon
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain range, this apartment enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,136
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Le Domaine Du Vallon Des Sources Villa, Saumane-de-Vaucluse
A charming farmhouse available for holiday lets, set in a peaceful area in the Provence and enjoying an exceptional view.
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Provence Country Club - 2 Bed Apartment, Luberon
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain, this apartment enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
Hotels in [locality]
Hotels in Provence
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
Price: €1,156
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Hotel du Parc, Fontaine de Vaucluse
Located in the Luberon region in the heart of Provence this charming hotel sits in grounds of 6000m2.
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Le Mas des Herbes Blanches Hotel, Gordes
This traditional country house hotel is set in a tranquil estate with wonderful views over the Luberon.
Price: €2,277
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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Jardins Secrets Hotel, Nimes
Tucked away in the old district of Nimes lies 18th century former coach house, decorated with style and elegance.
Price: €3,360
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B Design & Spa Hotel, Maussane les Alpilles
A family run spa retreat in the heart of Provence offering visitors the chance to savor the best in French cuisine.
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Provence
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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Chabe Airport Transfers, Marseille
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
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Avignon City Taxis
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Provence
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Villa for Sale
Provencal villa with sea view in Saint-Tropez - close to the center
Price: €6,500,000
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Villa for Sale
Delightful village house ideally located in the heart of Saint Tropez's historic center, close to all shops and restaurants, in a peaceful, intimate lane.
Price: €2,950,000
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
Exquisite and exclusive new development of ski-in, ski out chalet-style apartments
Price: €8,395,000
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New development for Sale, Val d'Isere
A first and second floor apartment in a brand new development in the heart of Le Fornet
Price: €4,150,000
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