Lorgues
Traditional market town in the south of the Provence region
Lorgues is a typical Provençal market town with a medieval centre which is surrounded by beautiful countryside of pine and oak forests, olive groves and vineyards.
Well located in the heart of the Var region and about an hour drive from the coast and St Tropez.
History & Culture in [locality]
Ligurian tribes settled here before the Romans colonised the area, only traces remain of their occupation.
During the Middle Ages, Lorgues was important enough to have solid defence walls built that repelled invasions by the Saracens and other barbarian tribes.
The Knights Templar had a Commanderie du Riou here and whilst here, they strengthened the walls and gates, some of which are still visible today. Lorgues continued to prosper in the 18th and 19th centuries and many mansions were constructed at this time. The town hall was completed in 1833 and is a statement of the importance Lorgues had after the Revolution.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
The main street is lined with cafés and plane trees, and the town comes into its own on Tuesday mornings when the very good market comes to town. There are plenty of other shops to browse through too, from gift shops and art galleries aswell as the more practical supermarkets and clothes shops.
The vibrant centre lends itself well to walking tours - there are plenty of sights to see, from ancient 12th century buildings, to the dominant 18th century church, La Collégiale Saint Martin.
Amongst the little lanes, you may come across fountains and wash houses, and remains of old mills and chapels. The striking clock tower dates back to 1623. You can pick up a map with some of the historical sites marked on it at the tourist office. They also offer guided tours.
For the less active, there are plenty of vineyards to visit and some excellent restaurants in the town.
Other cultural highlights nearby include the wonderful Thoronet Abbey.
Sights in Provence
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Les Arenes, Nimes
The Nimes Roman Arena is an amphitheatre that dates back to the end of the first century AD. It is an impressive sight, with two levels of 60 superposed arches.
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Chartreuse du Val de Benediction, Villeneuve les Avignon
This Carthusian monastery heralds back to the 14th century when it was built for Pope Innocent VI. The monastery consisted of a church and three cloisters which made it the largest monastery in France.
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Carriere de Bibemus
An old quarry, the Carrieres de Bibemus lies on the western slopes of Montagne St Victoire and is a place that inspired Paul Cezanne through out his life.
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Le Musee du Savon de Marseille
The tour will tell you the fascinating story of soap in Provence, which starts in the Middle Ages.
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Occitane Museum, Manosque
Guided tours of the facilities via the stages of fabrication and an walk through the history of the brand.
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Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
Events in [locality]
During July the Abbey hosts a series of concerts celebrating medieval music - a fantastic venue to experience this atmospheric music.
Events in Provence
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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.
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Arelate Festival
Relive the Roman days in Arles during the Arelate Festival, with daily shows that will transport you back into the days of gladiator battles and horse races.
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a-part Festival, Les Alpilles region
'a-part' re-invents nature and surrounding landscapes with contemporary art that invigorates your senses, promoting new artists alongside established names.
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Anniversary of the liberation of Avignon
As part of the Commemoration of the liberation of Avignon, a day of festivities honouring this historical event takes place.
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Reves de Camargue Horse Show
Come and watch this memorable horse show with dancing horses and cowboys at the Mas des Jasses de la Ville/Manade Fernay.
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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.
Things to do in [locality]
There is plenty to do in the area, from horse riding to bungee jumping and canoeing in the nearby Gorges du Verdon.
Loads of hiking trails exist in the area and you can pick up maps from the tourist office.
There is an open air swimming pool in the summer months and waterparks can be found down by the coast.
Things To Do in Provence
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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.
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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, 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, 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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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.
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: €982
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Le Mas des Herbes Blanches Hotel, Gordes
This traditional country house hotel is set in a tranquil estate with wonderful views over the Luberon.
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
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.
Price: €5,264
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Le Couvent des Minimes Hotel & Spa, Mane
A partnership between those in charge at l’Occitane (natural beauty products) and professionals working in the hotel and spa sectors.
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La Mirande Hotel
La Mirande is a 5 star 'grand dame' luxury hotel that has been decorated with 18th century interiors, period tapestries and chandeliers.
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Le Vallon de Valrugues Hotel & Spa, St Remy
The Vallon de Valrugues is located in the centre of St Remy, a stylish Provencial town filled with chic boutiques and galleries.
Price: €2,475
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Provence
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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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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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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
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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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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.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Provence
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Villa for Sale
Stunning property ideally set in a private domain with views over the sea and the vineyards.
Price: €23,000,000
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Villa for Sale
Magnificent renovated farm house just a few minutes from Pampelonne beach and Saint-Tropez
Price: €5,985,000
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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: €16,900,000
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