A medieval town with cliff top ruined towers and glorious rolling green hills covered in vineyards in the surrounding area, Cotignac is a delightful place for mooching.
Cotignac
Pretty rural village with fabulous Troglodyte caves
The village is much loved by the British who make up a large proportion of its population. Lcated to the north of the main A8 road that takes you from Nice to Aix, and not far from the wonderful Natural Park of Verdon. And of course, there are the vineyards....
Events in Aix-en-Provence
Cotignac has an excellent market on Tuesday mornings and on certain dates, the flea market turns the whole town into a rather fabulous car boot sale.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Aix-en-Provence
A most impressive cliff sits behind one side of the town - a waterfall used to flow over them on to where the village now lies. The river was diverted around the 10th century which allowed then present village to be created. This waterfall formed all sorts of holes and crevices in the rock face and is filled with troglodyte caves that have been used for shelter for many a century.
Two Saracen towers and a fortress were built around the 12th century to aid the sighting of invading barbarians. The fortress no longer exists but the towers remain, rather ruined but still rather dramatic. It is said that there are escape tunnels from the towers into the rock below. The caves within the rock face were used to hide the population and their animals during a period of invasions in the Middle Ages. More caves have been created over time thanks to the rock being used to expand the village. The lower caves have been used to house the poor and for flour mills. Thanks to its geology, Cotignac was one of the first villages in the area to be powered by electricity thanks to a hydroelectric plant built in 1897.
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
The town hall takes pride of place in the Place de la Mairie, opposite this building is a bell tower with its distinctive wrought iron campanile. On Grand Rue just around the corner there are three cariatides high on one of the town houses. These are statues that were built on to houses to act like supporting columns. They date back to the 17th century when they were perceived as a sign of the home-owners great wealth.
The Romanesque church was built back in the 13th century and modified in the 17th century. Behind the church is an open-air theatre, Le Théâtre du Rocher that is used for concerts in the summer and is home to Les Toiles de Sud cultural festival, also in the summer.
Cours Gambetta is the main area for cafes and restaurants, with its fountains and plane trees offering shade in the summer. This is where you'll find the market held on Tuesday mornings - in summer there is a smaller additional market on Friday mornings. Wash basins can be found at the end of Cours Gambetta and they date back to the 19th century. As in many other Provencal villages, there are fountains aplenty - 17 in total in Cotignac to tick off as you wander the lanes. All the water from the fountains is safe to drink, so no need to buy the bottled stuff here.
The town boasts a wonderful selection of architecture, ranging from the 12th to 18th centuries. On Place Xavier Marin there is an art gallery Maison Méditerranéenne de l’Estampe, dedicated to print-making and etching. It's closed in January and February.
To the west of Cotignac is the Monastère Saint-Joseph, where, legend has it, a shepherd who was dying of thirst saw a man raise an enormous rock to unveil a natural water spring, thereby saving the shepherd's life. A chapel, then a church and convent was built on the site in the 17th century. It was abandoned in 1793 but in 1977, Benedictine monks moved in and restored the building.
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
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Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
Great collection of dinosaurs and plant fossils
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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Calisson Museum
Take a visit to the place where they make Provence's most famous confectionery - Calissons
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
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Musee Granet
Fine art gallery showing European paintings & sculpture
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.
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Fondation Vasarely
Abstract art & architecture from the Hungarian artist
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'.
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Shan-Art Gallery
Gallery of modern & contemporary art in Aix
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
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Wildlife Art Gallery, Aix en Provence
Painter & sculptor Aurélien Raynaud collection of wildlife inspired art
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with 1 Michelin star
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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Le Art Restaurant
Michelin-starred restaurant in a charming chateau
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
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Villa Gallici Restaurant, Aix en Provence
Provencal cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the hotel grounds
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.
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Le Comptoir du Clos
The sophisticated restaurant located at the Renaissance Hotel
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
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Fanny's Bistro
A small fresh menu with modern flairs to classic French dishes
A small but charming coffee shop / bistro located right in the heart of Aix. A great place to grab a coffee, a quick bite to eat and watch the world pass by.
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Pierre Reboul Restaurant
Modern French cuisine in a vibrant modern restaurant
Enjoy imaginative yet authentic French cuisine at Pierre Reboul's funky restaurant in Aix. The menu is redesigned every six weeks together with matching wine.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
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Mistral Nighclub
Trendy club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, international DJ's & acts
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
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
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.
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Le Scat Nightclub
Jazz club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, live music & a great atmosphere
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
There are plenty of hiking trails in the area - the tourist office has maps and information. The walk to the waterfall at Sillans de Cascade is particularly recommended (about eight miles round trip).
There are seven local Domaines where you can visit for wine tasting - try the Vignerons de Cotignac Co-operative for local wine and olive oil, or visit the vineyards of Chateau Carpe Diem or Chateau Nestuby, both of whom welcome visitors.
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
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Gardanne Swimming Pool, nr Aix-en-Provence
Municipal outdoor swimming pool
Just to the south of Aix is the town of Gardanne. They open an outdoor swimming pool in the summer, with a 50m pool, baby pool, slides, playgrounds and a relaxation area.
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Cabre d'Or Golf Course, Cabries
A superb natural site of 180 acres overlooking Provence
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.
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Le Train Touristique d'Aix-en-Provence
A delightful way to explore the charming city of Aix-en-Provence
Just an hour long ride through the city of Aix, learning about its history and a good introduction to this beautiful area.
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Aix Golf Course
6-hole course, driving range & putting green only five minutes from Aix
Open to all, this small golf club offers a clubhouse, restaurant, driving range, putting green and 6 holes. It is home to an academy that offers lessons at all levels.
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Set Golf Course
18-hole golf course close to Aix
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.
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Country Club Aixois Tennis, Aix en Provence
Renowned club with excellent facilities
Plenty of clay tennis courts are available at the Aix Country Club. It provide lessons and coaching, and there is a pro shop too. Other facilities include a pool and a gym.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
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Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon
Beautiful lake in the Gorges du Verdon
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
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Verdon Canoe, Gorges du Verdon
Paddle down the gorge in canoe or a kayak
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.
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Les Guides Action and Aventure, Aiguines
A passion for adventure with many outdoor activities
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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Aventure et Nature Watersport, La Palude sur Verdon
The best way to explore the Verdon Gorge!
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Wakeboarding cable park where you can learn the ropes in Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
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Bureau des Guides de Canyon, Castellane
Canyoning, climbing & via ferrata
Range of water sports and outdoor activities proposed by a professional guiding company.
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Capitaine Villa, Bonnieux
2 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 4
The Capitaine is an apartment located on the 2nd floor, its exposure is ideal for holidays in Provence, beautiful atmosphere.
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Luberon Le Mas Wisteria Villa, Bonnieux
5 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 10
Mas Wisteria is located 2.5km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
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Le Mas Entre Monts Et Merveilles Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in bonnieux. Sleeps 8
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
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La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
3 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 6
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
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L'Inattendue Villa, Cucuron
5 bedroom Villa in Cucuron. Sleeps 11
18th century stone farmhouse on a landscaped park of approximately 1 hectare with panoramic views of the Luberon.
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La Bastide Bitrona Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 8
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in Provence.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
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Renaissance Hotel
Contemporary style 5 star hotel with works of art & stylish furnishings
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
Small hotel built from an old house in Aix en Provence
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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Le Pigonnet Hotel
Grand hotel with magical gardens just outside centre of Aix-en-Provence
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.
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Small luxury hotel in the centre of Aix en Provence but surrounded by gardens
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Former oil mill converted into a charming Provencal style hotel
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.
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Hotel du Globe
A centrally located hotel, with a private roof terrace
The hotel has 46 rooms and is well located to visit all the main attractions of Aix-en-Provence.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Transfers for Provence
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera Scenic Flights
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.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
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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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport 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.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
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Villa for Sale
7 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 233.84m² Villa in Var
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
Villa for Sale
€2,690,000 -
Villa for Sale
5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 314.73m² Villa in Var
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
Villa for Sale
€3,450,000 -
Land (Plot) for Sale
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 250m² plot in Var
Contemporary villa with two building plots
Land (Plot) for Sale
€2,625,000 -
Villa for Sale
4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 237m² Villa in Var
A peaceful villa with unobstructed views of the countryside
Villa for Sale
€1,650,000 -
Hotel for Sale
12 bedroom, 614.69m² hotel in Var
Located just 100 meters from the sea, this unique property, currently operated as a charming 4-star hotel, enjoys a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Tropez.
Hotel for Sale
€6,600,000 -
Villa for Sale
4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 240m² Villa in Var
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
Villa for Sale
€3,200,000



















































































