Travel to Provence
About our group trips to Provence
Provence is located in southeastern France, between the Rhône River, the foothills of the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. The region is famous for its lavender fields, vineyards, olive groves, cypress trees and bright stone villages that climb the hills. It combines Roman history, medieval town centres, colourful markets and a cuisine where herbs, olive oil, vegetables and local wines play a leading role.
With our group trips to Provence, you get to experience the region in a comfortable and meaningful way. We offer classic round trips, cycling trips and hiking trips where we get close to both the landscape and the culture. The programs can include places like Avignon, charming mountain villages, natural parks, vineyards, rivers, coastal environments and historical sights – always with a thoughtful balance between shared experiences and time for your own discoveries.
Country
★ France
Location
★ Southeastern France
Famous Cities
★ Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Arles and Marseille
Known for
★ Lavender fields, wine, mountain villages and Roman history
Lavender fields, vineyards and landscapes that smell of Provence
Provence is one of the landscapes that many people associate most strongly with France. Here, lavender fields spread out in violet rows, olive trees stand silver green in the sun and grapevines follow the contours of the hills. The nature changes from limestone mountains and ravines to river valleys, cypress avenues and open plains where the light has attracted artists for generations. For many, the lavender fields in Provence are one of the great highlights of a trip. The flowering normally occurs from mid-June to the end of July, but varies between different areas. During this period, the landscape is at its most colorful and the scents are at their most distinct. Even outside the lavender season, Provence is an experience, with spring flowering, autumn wine harvest and mild days that make the region perfect for excursions.
Provence towns and villages – from Avignon to mountain villages
Anyone looking for Provence cities will encounter a region with great variety. Avignon is one of the best known, with the papal palace, the city walls and the famous bridge that remind us of the city's importance during the Middle Ages. Arles bears clear traces of Roman times and is also associated with Vincent van Gogh, while Aix-en-Provence attracts with elegant boulevards, fountains and a lively city life. At least as important to the experience are the smaller villages. In Provence, many communities are located high on hills, with narrow alleys, stone squares, churches and views over valleys and crops. Here there are markets with cheeses, fruit, herbs, honey, ceramics and local specialties. It is often in these environments that you best experience everyday life in Provence – slow, flavorful and close to nature.
Things to do in Provence – culture, flavors and excursions
There is plenty to do in Provence for those who want to combine experiences with relaxation. The region is rich in Roman remains, monasteries, medieval city centers, art history and scenic roads. One day can be spent in the historic center of Avignon, another in a vineyard, a market or a viewpoint among limestone cliffs and rivers. Food is an important part of the trip. Provençal cuisine is often based on simple but flavorful ingredients: tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, garlic, olive oil, fish, lamb, goat cheese and herbs such as thyme, rosemary and basil. Together with the region's wines, local olive oils and the aroma of freshly baked bread, meals become a natural part of the experience. On our group trips you get a thoughtful mix of sights, landscapes and local flavors.
Cycling and hiking in Provence
Cycling in Provence is one of the best ways to get close to the landscape. The roads wind between villages, vineyards, lavender fields and nature parks, and the pace allows scents, views and small details to take their place. Our cycling tours are designed to provide both activity and experiences along the way, with stops in charming environments and the opportunity to really feel the character of the region. Provence is also very popular for hiking. There are trails through river valleys, over hills, past medieval villages and through areas with a rich history. During the hikes, you often encounter traces from Roman times, beautiful views and a landscape that is constantly changing in color and shape. For those who want to travel actively but safely, a group tour with hiking or cycling is an excellent way to experience Provence in depth.