Richerenches Truffle Market
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.

© Seeprovence.com

© Seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com
Traditional authentic Provençal market town
Brignoles lies at the heart of the Côtes de Provence wine region.
It's a busy town in a very central location and close to the motorway, so it's a good base if you're looking to explore a wide area of Provence (Aix in 30 minutes, the beach in 30 minutes, Nice in one hour).
Market day is on Wednesday and there is a fragrant flower market on Saturdays.
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
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.
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
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.
It has some Roman history thanks to the nearby Roman road, the Via Aurelia (a Roman tomb can be seen in the town's museum), but Brignoles came into its own during medieval times when the Counts of Provence used to stay here for the summer. Noble families settled here and the 10th century castle was converted into a palace (Palais des Comtes de Provences).
Brignoles made money initially from agriculture and then in the 19th century from its tanneries.
Afterwards, bauxite mining proved to be a valuable source of income and today, it's the wine industry which sustains the area.
A marble quarry to the south west of Brignoles, which has been mined since Roman times, is still in use.
The medieval centre is guarded by towers and gates. The church, Saint Sauveur, was built upon an existing 11th century church (which subsequently became the chapel) and is built in a Romanesque style. Many of the 16th and 17th century buildings have been renovated - look out for Roman façades and decorative alcoves. You'll also find a Knights Templar house dating back to the 12th century, a 'Jewish quarter' and plenty of mansion houses with fascinating histories.
The highlight of the town is the Palais des Comtes de Provences. The building dates back to the 12th century and now houses the Musée du Pays Brignolais. The exhibits include all sorts of items from Brignoles history and an ancient Christian sarcophagus, as well as paintings, etchings and drawings.
The Abbaye de la Celle is a 13th century Benedictine convent and lies 2km south west of Brignoles. The attached priory is now a hotel, but you can still visit the cloisters, chapter house and the refectory.
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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.
Building of this old mansion began back in 1715 when the first stone was laid. It was not fully complete until 1748, after all three stages of the building were finished.
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
Hungarian artist Victor Vasarely established this foundation in 1966 with the aim of promoting 'art for all' where art blends beautifully with architecture in the 'city of tomorrow'.
This is Aix's fine art gallery, housed in the 17th century Palais de Malte. The collections includes works by a variety of European painters, including two by Rubens and a small selection of Paul Cezanne.
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.
A quiet atmosphere, beautiful grounds and wonderful flavours can be found at Villa Gallici Restaurant. Part of the 5 star Villa Gallici hotel you can indulge in lunch or dinner at this top quality restaurant.
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
Traditionally styled restaurant run by a husband & wife team. Classic French family favorites feature on the menu.
Located just south of Aix this newly refurbished restaurant serves great quality food at an affordable price.
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.
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
The river Le Caramy flows through Brignoles and offers a welcome piece of green in the town centre. During the summer, the area is popular with swimmers and there are picnic tables by the Notre Dame bridge.
It acts as the market centre for the area and so it can get pretty busy, although most of the traffic is kept away from the old town with a new ring road. The town centre has it's share of medieval architecture and grand mansions, and the main square (Place Caramy) hosts the town hall and a number of cafés that are perfect for watching the world go by. There are many fountains dotted throughout the centre, but many do not run due to the need to conserve water.
An old train line runs a 1950's railcar through Brignoles - it starts in Carnoules to the south west and goes in a circular route via Platanes and Sainte Anastasie. It runs in the summer months only and you can find out more at the tourist office.
Brignoles is surrounded by walking trails through forests - one that is well signposted is from Brignoles to Camps la Source vis the Chapel of St Sebastian - a loop of 11.5km.
Horse riding is popular in this area, and there is a karting track to the west of Brignoles.
This pyramidal peak features in over 60 of Paul Cezannes paintings. The light and the colours are a dream for artists, and non-artists can also enjoy the scenery via the lattice of walking trails that cross the mountain slopes.
This leisure centre has two indoor pools, a 50 metre outdoor heated swimming pool, with terraces and beaches, and water sports.There is also a weights room and dance studio.
The Club, established in 1932 has a long and interesting history. Situated on the banks of the river l'Arc over 30 acres, 5 minutes away from the city centre the Club Hippique Aix Marseille offers a full range of facilities.
The Golf Club Aix-Marseille is only 5 minutes away from Aix-en-Provence TGV railway station. As the course is faily level it is possible to play without the use of a buggy.
Just an hour long ride through the city of Aix, learning about its history and a good introduction to this beautiful area.
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.
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 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.
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.
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.
This ride takes us along the banks of the river Sorgue, crossing picturesque bridges and cycling past tranquil orchards. You’ll visit a number of fascinating little villages and take in some wonderful scenery along the way.
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.
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.
Regarded as a 'classic' walk and from the summit cross you are rewarded with 360 degree views of the Luberon, Mount Ventoux, the Alps and Cap Canaille.
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.
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.
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
Explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon by paddling down the river in canoes or kayaks. A fun activity for everyone to explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon and paddle on the beautiful blue water.
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
Sun Force is located on the famous Pampelonne beach. Its owner, Pierre Tourneq, has been running this business for over 30 years, surrounded by a fully qualified team.
The Capitaine is an apartment located on the 2nd floor, its exposure is ideal for holidays in Provence, beautiful atmosphere.
Architect-designed villa for holiday rental, with swimming pool, in the heart of the Luberon with an elevated position in the village of Cadenet.
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
A few kilometers from the charming village of Bonnieux, enjoying a superb view of the Luberon, this tastefully restored old farmhouse will amaze you as soon as you arrive.
House for rent in Provence with swimming pool, terrace and garden.
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
Holiday house with pool located in the heart of the Luberon.
The Lieutenant is an apartment for rent for holidays in Provence, located on the 1st floor of a pretty country house in Bonnieux.
The Chef d’Escadron is located on the 1st floor. The apartment for rent for holidays is bright and includes a private terrace enjoying a beautiful view of Provence.
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
There are several nice B&Bs in the area.
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
The five star Pigonnet hotel in Aix is an 18th-century mansion surrounded with stunning floral gardens, situated just outside the centre of Aix-en-Provence.
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
Ideally situated between Aix en Provence and Avignon,this traditional mas has been renovated and the owners now invite you to enjoy the pleasures of Provence in a convivial and relaxed atmosphere. The Domaine de Mejeans has five independent bedrooms situated on the first floor; they are theme furnished and decorated individually. Each room has an en suite bathroom, air conditioning, TV and hair dryer. Towels and bath robes are provided. Room service is available on request: snacks,drinks etc. and outside, there is a lovely pool for relaxing or taking a cooling drink.
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
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.
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
Find out all about what is happening in Provence and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this picturesque French region.
See allLatest News & ReviewsProvence has a busy calendar of events all year round featuring art exhibitions, charming markets, cultural festivals and concerts. Spring and autumn are the time to celebrate local produce while during the peak holiday times, in the summer months, you will find world-renowned music and cultural events like the Choregies d'Orange or the Avignon Festival.
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