A pretty village in the heart of the Luberon natural park
Saignon is a small village sitting on a cliff band not far from Apt, at the very heart of the Luberon.
Perched on the edges of a rocky promontory, this small village used to be a lookout point for Apt.
A few of the buildings in the village are actually built into the rocks and you can see these as you wander around its little streets.
Try the local goat's cheese and honey whilst you're here.
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.
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
Saignon is believed to have been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period, between 200,000 to 35,000 years ago, again probably because of its great vantage point over the surrounding countryside.
Saint Mary of Saignon church draws many visitors to the village, and has been a place of pilgrimage since as early as the middle ages.
Although the church isn't always open to visitors you can peep in through the grill on the doorway to admire the interior.
The castle chapel, which is built into the rock is worth taking a wander around too, as is the fountain at the end of the main street and the clock tower, which was built in 1584.
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
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.
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
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.
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
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.
This infamous restaurant has been serving diners since 1792 and is probably the most famous restaurant in Aix en Provence.
Fresh hearty meals prepared with love. Vegetarians catered for at this restaurant come deli come bio food shop.
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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.
Take a walk up to the viewpoint at the top of the village (477m) and admire the impressive views of the Luberon and Mont Ventoux.
The Golf de la Cabre d'Or is only 20 minutes away from Aix-en-Provence et Marseille. This is a fairly new golf course which opened only in 2008.
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 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.
Set in the beautiful wooded countryside, this 18-hole golf course was designed by American architect Ronald Fream. The club incorporates the David Leadbetter Academy that offers lessons to suit players of all levels.
Set CLub is a sports complex which has 13 tennis courts, eight of which are clay courts and five are the faster green set. Lessons and competitions are all part of the club. Non-members are welcome.
Just to the north of Apt lies the Plan d'Eau de la Raille. You can practice all sorts of watersports here, with a sailing & windsurfing school. All equipment is available to rent - dinghies, windsurfs, pedal boats and kayaks.
Bonde Lake is situated in the heart of the Luberon and offers activities and relaxation for all the family.
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
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.
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.
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in Provence.
Superb 5 star rated property located in Bonnieux with swimming pool
Villa rental in the Luberon - La Badassière
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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.
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.
A pretty, turreted, fairytale castle that has been turned from an old family home into a small hotel with 10 bedrooms. Located in peaceful surroundings, it provides an ideal escape from the hustle of the Riviera (not far away).
Saignon lies north of Pertuis around 50 minutes by car. To the west you can reach Cavaillon in around 45 minutes along the D900. From Apt it's only 10 minutes drive along the D48.
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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.
Near Cotignac, in Fox-Amphoux, this elegant and spacious stone bastide is set within one hectare of beautifully landscaped gardens featuring 45 olive trees, lavender, a magnificent ancient chestnut tree, and recently planted maples among others.
A beautifully renovated 16th century bastide with panoramic views.
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
Elegant villa in the sought-after Terre Blanche estate
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Terre Blanche estate, this superb property of approximately 428 m² of living space is set on one hectare of landscaped grounds, one of the largest on the estate, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hilltop villages and a rare living environment that is both luxurious and peaceful.
This contemporary property, inspired by neo-Provençal architecture, offers approximately 300 sqm of living space and is set within a beautifully landscaped 3,300 sqm garden, providing a private living environment.
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.
See allUpcoming Events
