There is a Provence in France that reveals itself slowly, far from the beaten tracks. A land of perched villages where stone walls glow in the afternoon sun, vineyards hidden behind winding paths, and markets alive with the fragrance of thyme, lavender, and ripe figs.
For those seeking what to do in Provence, the answer is not in rushing from one landmark to the next, but in surrendering to a rhythm of gentle discovery. It is a region that invites lingering, where every detail such as the texture of a cobbled street, the light falling on ochre cliffs, or the taste of a local olive oil carries a story.
This guide is conceived as an invitation to explore Provence with refinement and authenticity, through experiences that blend culture, nature, and the timeless art of living.
Villages and heritage
Across the hills of the Vaucluse, villages such as Gordes, Ménerbes, and Roussillon stand as timeless sentinels. Their winding lanes open onto sweeping views of lavender fields and olive groves, while discreet art galleries and workshops reveal the creative spirit of Provence. Walking through these stone hamlets is less about sightseeing than about inhabiting history. For those wondering what to do in Provence, exploring these villages is among the most evocative experiences.
Cultural immersion
Art flourishes under the Provençal sun. In Aix-en-Provence, the Vasarely Foundation offers a journey into optical illusions and geometric beauty, while the Hôtel de Caumont in Aix-en-Provence stages exhibitions within the grandeur of an eighteenth-century mansion. Further west, the Carrières des Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence transforms vast limestone quarries into immersive art experiences where light and sound envelop visitors.
Markets and gastronomy
To wander through a Provençal market is to taste the soul of the region. In Bédoin or L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, stalls overflow with goat’s cheese, sun-ripened fruit, wines from neighbouring vineyards, and bottles of golden olive oil. The pleasure lies not only in the flavours, but in the cadence of voices, colours, and scents that compose an ever-changing tableau. These seasonal ingredients also inspire the menus at La Table du Ventoux, where the essence of the market finds its way onto the plate from aromatic herbs and garden vegetables to wines that mirror the surrounding landscapes.
Nature and outdoor pursuits
The landscapes invite gentle exploration. Hike among the slopes of Mont Ventoux, cycle through the oak forests of the Luberon Regional Park, or pause at a vineyard to taste the fruits of the land. Each path leads to a moment of contemplation, framed by the sound of cicadas and the endless Provençal sky. Seasonal delights such as lavender in bloom from June to August or the golden colours of autumn vineyards present ever-changing scenery, making each visit a unique encounter with Provence’s natural rhythm.
Harmony at Crillon le Brave
At day’s end, Crillon le Brave offers a setting where the spirit of Provence converges. The Spa des Écuries welcomes guests beneath vaulted arches for Tata Harper treatments, the turquoise pool opens to valley views, and dinners at La Table du Ventoux celebrate local produce at sunset. Here, the art of well-being meets the authenticity of place, ensuring that every exploration of what to do in Provence is balanced by moments of rest and quiet elegance.
