The
luminous Provence sky enhances
the colors of the entire landscape,
from red tile roofs to cypress
trees. Since medieval times, the
area has strongly influenced writers,
poets, and painters. And although
summer days are warm and sunny,
they can quickly turn cool and
windy with the sudden arrival of
the Mistral wind of the Rhône
Valley. Provence is a region of
southern France that extends from
the foot of the Cevennes Mountains
in Central France east to Toulon,
and from the River Ardèche
south to the Mediterranean. Its
major cities are Marseille, Avignon,
Arles, Nimes, Aix-en-Provence,
and Orange.
The numerous sights to see
won’t disappoint and include
some of the finest Roman ruins
in Europe, from the Pont du Gard
to the arenas at Arles and Orange,
the Papal Palace in old Avignon
and everywhere vineyards and
lovely villages to lazily sip
an afternoon pastis. Look forward
to the autumn which is dominated
by the grape harvest, but also
the season for mushroom and chestnut
collecting. Out of season, towns
are quiet and Provencal living
provides the perfect source of
relaxation. |
