Salernes has a wonderful position in a fertile valley, where the hills are covered with pine trees, leafy oaks and olive groves.
At firsty glance, Salernes doesn't seem to have much to offer the casual visitor, but it's actually rather famous for its pottery and ceramics.
History & Culture in [locality]
Local clays have been utilised in pottery since 5BC, where pots were made for cooking and food storage. The tradition continued through the Middle Ages and only stepped up a gear in the 18th century when production became more commercial.
Thanks to its wealth of natural resources (iron-rich clay, water and wood for fuel), Salernes was able to manufacture big volumes of the renowned red hexagonal 'Tomette' floor tiles and the industry continued to grow until the mid 20th century, when competition from abroad really kicked in.
Today, there are around a dozen manufacturers, with many more ceramic workshops throughout the village and surrounding area. For more on the history and production of pottery in Salernes, visit the ceramic museum - Museum Terra Rossa which is located just on the outskirts of Salernes.
Salernes has some charming streets and fountains, and there are ruins of a 13th century castle overlooking the town (go to the top of the hill and then double-back on yourself, duck under a barrier onto a farm track that will take you to the ruins).
The castle burned down in the 17th century and was never restored. The remaining ruins are now rather neglected and are surrounded by wild grasses, but you do get great views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Formerly a Roman Catholic cathedral it is now a protestant church in the centre of the town of Uzes.
Monastere de Saorge Monastery
Beautiful baroque architecture, examples of 17th- and 18th-century frescoes and furniture and a large terraced garden.
Petit Palais museum
Located in Avignon
The Petit Palais museum owes its name to the familiar name of the Archbishops Palace in which it is installed, name that it was given by reference to the great neighbouring palace: the Palais des Papes.
Les Agnels Lavender Distillery
This family run lavender distillery situated on the scenic drive between Buoux and Apt, offers guided visits of the lavender distillation and manufacture of essential oils, floral waters.
Reserve des Mont d'Azur
Come and see bison, deer, horses, boars and hawks roaming on 700 hectares of land, just one hour from the French Riviera
Maison de la Truffe, Aups
The truffle has a long history here in Aups; for many years now they have been grown, harvested, retailed, shared and eaten.
Events in [locality]
The market is held on Wednesdays and Sundays in the long and shady main square and is a bustling affair where you can buy local produce and the town's famous ceramics. The square is also a good place to grab a drink and enjoy the sights of local life in this traditional Provençal town.
Things to do in [locality]
You can follow a marked tourist walking tour that takes you around the main points of interest. The Romanesque church, Saint Pierre, dates back to the 13th century and features a 17th century campanile.
There are many artisan ('atelier' is artist's studio in French) shops specialising in ceramics where you can browse for unique pieces. The Museum Terra Rossa which is just on the outskirts of town will teach you about the history of pottery in the local area, and there is a large showroom/shop here too.
To the north of Salernes off the road to Villecroze is a park and picnic area along the banks of the river Vallon de la Brague. The area is known as Saint Barthelemy, and is a popular place for locals and visitors alike. As well as some gentle splashing in the river, there are caves that run alongside the river which are fun to explore. You can also walk here from Salernes - the trail starts by the football field in the north east of Salernes and is around 3km. The trail continues on to Aups if you're looking for a longer hike.
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
Nyonsoleiado Waterpark, Nyons
Waterpark complex that contains a lagoon, 25m pool, whirlpool basin, waterslides for children and adults, cascades of water, rivers, paddling pools and much more.
Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer
Aqualand in St Cyr Sur Mer offer you 11 wicked slides in a great park environment with drinks, food, and shops for you to enjoy.
Domaine Le Sagittaire Waterpark, Nyons
In the depths of the Drôme countryside in the French Provence, this 5 Star Residential Campsite comes complete with an entirely heated Aquatic Complex, which is open to the public.
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
19 July 20257 Nights
Price: €1,195
Le Phebus Hotel & Spa, Joucas (nr Gordes)
A beautiful hotel situated between the lovely villages of Roussillon and Gordes. The charming old stone farmhouse hides 24 elegant bedrooms and suites, some of which have private pools.
Domaine des Andeols Hotel, Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt
A design hotel filled with the owners striking art collection. The rooms are referred to as 'Maisons' and each is uniquely designed with modern bathrooms.
La Coquillade Hotel, Gargas nr Roussillon
This is a small luxury hotel offering 28 rooms in the wonderful countryside of the Luberon, with its own vineyard.
Auberge de Cassagne Spa Hotel
Located in Avignon
The Auberge de Cassagne consists of a converted family home, the Château de Cassagne (1850), plus it's outbuildings which have been transformed to provide luxurious accommodation close to the historic city of Avignon.
Terre Blanche Spa & Golf Resort Hotel, Tourrettes
This hotel is set in 300 hectares and has 115 rooms plus independent suites and villas. On site you'll find a golf academy with two 18 hole courses, and a luxury spa.
