Annot
Charming village in the hills above Nice
Annot combines medieval charm with modern Provençal style in a wonderfully relaxed fashion. It's also a great centre for mountain sports.
On the scenic train line from Nice to Dignes, on arrival at Annot train station the main village is a 10-minute walk away through a pleasant residential area; it’s easy to find, just look out for the red roof tiles and head in that direction.
First of all you’ll pass by the tourist office on the main square, a wide shady area lined with tall Plane trees. Beyond is a quiet intersection where the terraces of a few different cafés and bars face a large petanque pitch beside the river Vaïre. The bridge that crosses the river is the Pont de la Donne, built in 1709 and registered as an historical monument.
On turning right at the intersection you’ll enter the old village; a fascinating tangle of medieval alleyways and beautiful stone buildings. The tiny streets all loop round to meet each other, so it's easy to double back and find yourself back where you started without realising.
Annot is not just a monument to the past, there is also lots to do and it is a popular site for rock climbers thanks to the sandstone of the Grès d'Annot.
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- Hiking in [locality]
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History & Culture in [locality]
The legend of the Chambres du Roi dates back to the 10th century when Saracen marauders were sweeping France.
Apparently a Christian prince of Lower Provence was on the run from the Saracens and was granted refuge in a rocky cavern, where he and his princess lived in safety until their hiding place was revealed by a traitor and they were slaughtered by the Saracens, along with the people of Annot who had helped hide them. The entire village would have been wiped out if it were not for a plague that swept through the Saracen ranks, mysteriously stopping once all the infidels were dead.
All good stories obviously end with a ghostly presence and this one is the restless soul of the traitor, who apparently appears as a strange glowing vision as dawn breaks over the rocks.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
In the heart of the old village is the solid stone church of Notre-Dame, call into the smaller Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs next door to see the beautiful 17th century altar painting by François Mimault.
The stone vaulted archway that leads to the old village marks the start of the Grand Rue - the main road of Annot since the 14th century.
Sights in Provence
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Musee Estrine, Saint Remy de Provence
Since 1989 the association ‘Présence Van Gogh’ has developped an important artistic programme, loyal to the desires of the great Dutch artist who lived in St.Remy de Provence between 1888-1889 who wished that ‘living artists are not unjustly unknown’.
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Eglise St Trophime
Built sometime in the twelfth century this beautifully carved and carefully constructed church is a stunning sight in Arles. Named after an early bishop of Arles the stone carvings, statues and intricate details represent the Roman Provencal style of architecture.
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Musee de la Camargue
Located in the former farmhouse at Rousty Bridge the Camargue Museum reopened in November 2013 after a year of renovation.
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Musee des Aromes et du parfum, Graveson-en-provence
Between Alpilles and Montagnette, near Les Baux-de-Provence and St. Remy, the Museum of Aroma and Perfume Graveson-en-Provence welcomes you to the land of fragrances. For nearly twenty years in the former cellars of the Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigolet.
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La Synagogue, Carpentras
The synagogue of Carpentras is the oldest synagogue still in activity in France.
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Wildlife Art Gallery, Aix en Provence
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
Dining in [locality]
The centre of Annot has a small collection of cafés, bars, bakeries and crêperies. If you want to feel like a true local then head to the Café du Commerce beside the river and sip on a pastis whilst watching the locals play petanque.
Restaurants in Provence
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L'Epice & Love Restaurant
This is a popular place with both locals and travellers. It has a small cosy interior so if you want to dine there, best to get there earlier rather than later.
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L'Autruche Restaurant
Small restaurant where you will never eat the same thing twice. Their menu is solely based on what good fresh ingredients the local market has to offer in the mornings.
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Les Chenes Verts Restaurant, Tourtour
This Michelin starred restaurant is situated on the outskirts of Tourtour and specialise in truffle dishes.
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
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.
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La Vache a Carreaux Restaurant
This small restaurant is on the Rue Peyrollerie, a winding alley just off the Place St Pierre. It is a great option for vegetarians, offering a wide variety of cheese dishes and salads but there are also fish dishes available.
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L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel Restaurant
This wonderful contemporary-styled restaurant features dishes that you may never have suspected to have existed.
Events in [locality]
Annot has a regular market every Tuesday morning and a foire on Saturdays.
Events in Provence
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Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
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European Heritage Days
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.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Markets in Provence
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.
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Fête de la Chataignes - Chestnut festival, Collobrières
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
Things to do in [locality]
Call into the tourist office and pick up a town map, it has all the historical monuments listed on it so that you can go on a self-guided walking tour.
The Grès d'Annot is a site popular with rock climbers for its massive sandstone boulders, some more than 100m high. You can also see the impressive rock formations by following the Chambre du Roi; a hiking trail that starts behind the train station and loops round through forests back to the village. It takes around three hours and is reasonably flat.
There are also many other hikes signposted from the village that lead into the mountains and gorges of the Vallée du Var.
Things To Do in Provence
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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.
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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.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Provence
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La Veloroute du Calavon
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.
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Le Plateau de Sault, Mont Ventoux
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.
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Aix-en-Provence to Aqueduc de Roquefavour
This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.
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Cycling the Ochre Region from Roussillon
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.
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Les Gorges de la Nesque
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.
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Climbing Mont Ventoux
The climb of Mont Ventoux is perhaps most well known to those outside of the cycling community as a name associated with the Tour de France.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Provence
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The l'Imbut Trail, Gorges du Verdon
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.
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Refuge d'Art multi-day walking tour
This walking route is for strong walkers or hikers, and can be completed in anywhere from 8-10 days.
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GR4
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.
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Troglodyte Hikes & Walks
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.
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Toutes Aures Walk
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.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Provence
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Mistral Kite Passion Watersports, nr Salon de Provence
If you're looking to try out kitesurfing for the first time, this company can help you get to grips with the basics from professional instruction.
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Exo 84 Watersports, Lamotte-du-Rhône
This watersports centre is based on a 10 hectare lake with boxes and features in the water that you can practise your wakeboarding moves on.
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
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.
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Nice Rafting, Breil-sur-Roya
For those looking for an adrenalin rush, Nice Rafting is the place to go to!
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Lac de Saint Cassien Watersports, Fayence
A lovely natural lake surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Var. The lake is perfect for a pedaloe trip rather than an adrenaline filled water sport, but it means it is perfect for families!
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Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
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.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Provence
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Bokao's Nighclub
With a varied musical line-up, Bokao's combines good fun and great music.
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La Cave des Pas Sages
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
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Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
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Ajmi Jazz Club
The Ajmi has played host to numerous talented international Jazz artists, and the Ajmi is classed as one of the top 3 jazz venues in France and is located in the heart of Avignon next to the beautiful Palais des Papes.
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Mistral Nighclub
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
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.
Chalets in [locality]
Chalets in Provence
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Les Hautes Prairies Campsite, Lourmarin
Located right in the centre of Provence with the feet of Lubéron. A 9 acre campsite with 165 spacious pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Provence
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La Colline Villa, Gordes
Charming house exposed on a beautifully wooded ground with stunning views, for rent for 10 people in the heart of the Luberon.
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La Divine Villa, Menerbes
Superb holiday property for rent with swimming pool in Ménerbes, Provence.
Price: €7,683
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,129
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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Mas Des Hirondelles Villa, Eygalieres
New to the rental market: this magnificent stone mas, which has been freshly renovated in the center of Eygalières.
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La Borie Villa, Ménerbes
Beautiful single-storey villa to rent for vacations in the Luberon, nicely decorated, of about 185m² on a beautiful land of 6,035 m² closed and raised, with automatic gate and spacious parking.
Price: €4,870
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Provence
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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Provence Country Club Studio Apartment, Luberon
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain, this studio enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
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La Maison De Charline Villa, Gordes
Provençal farmhouse with swimming pool for rent for a dream holiday in Gordes, in the heart of the Luberon in the Vaucluse.
Price: €6,744
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,129
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Provence Country Club - 2 Bed Apartment, Luberon
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain range, this apartment enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
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Mas Des Etoiles Villa, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Mas with heated pool and tennis court for your holidays in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence - Mas des Etoiles
Price: €15,291
Hotels in [locality]
Hotels in Provence
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
Price: €1,156
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Jardins Secrets Hotel, Nimes
Tucked away in the old district of Nimes lies 18th century former coach house, decorated with style and elegance.
Price: €3,360
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Le Saint Laurent Hotel, Saint Laurent des Arbres
A warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and personal service make the Saint Laurent a charming place to stay and relax.
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B Design & Spa Hotel, Maussane les Alpilles
A family run spa retreat in the heart of Provence offering visitors the chance to savor the best in French cuisine.
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Les Bories Spa Hotel, Gordes
A five star hotel with 33 bedrooms and seven suites in the heart of beautiful Luberon. Les Bories sits in eight hectares of gardens and grounds and is close to the famous village of Gordes.
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L'Horloge Hotel
This lovely hotel is full of character and is ideally situated in historic 19th century building in the heart of Avignon's historic centre, just a short walk from all local attractions.
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
Annot is situated between Nice and Dignes-les-Bains and can most easily be reached on the Train des Pignes, a slow-moving but very scenic train ride through the Var valley.
If you're driving, Annot is on route D908 just off the RN202.
Transfers for Provence
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Helicopter Leisure Flights & Transfers, Marseille
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.
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Events-Cars Taxi, Grigan
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
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Chabe Airport Transfers, Marseille
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Provence
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Villa for Sale
Contemporary villa with sea view in a secure estate in Sainte-Maxime
Price: €5,490,000
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
A 5 bedroom chalet set in a small development located in the quiet enclave of Le Châtelard
Price: €2,600,000
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Apartment for Sale
Panoramic sea view for this 3 bedroom apartment with orivate garden and 3 parkings
Price: €1,300,000
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
Exquisite and exclusive new development of ski-in, ski out chalet-style apartments
Price: €8,395,000
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Villa for Sale
SOLE AGENT - Stylish Villa in Saint-Tropez – Peaceful, Stylish & Exceptionally Well-Located
Price: €7,590,000