 
    Richerenches Truffle Market
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com

© seeprovence.com
Fabulous collection of Roman remains and a delightful city too
Even though Nîmes lies just outside the PACA-region, the town is so linked to Provence, in style, in history and in atmosphere, that we think it deserves a place on this website.
Nîmes has a very long and rich history, dating back to the Roman Empire when the city was home to between 50-60,000 people. There are several famous Roman monuments, such as the Nîmes Arena and the Maison Carrée and it's because of this, that Nîmes is often referred to as the French Rome.
Being an historical town there are plenty of events and Roman themed evenings to enjoy. The Roman Games, the Illuminations at Pont du Gard and of course the annual festival de Nîmes.
 
    Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
 
    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.
 
    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.
 
    An annual agricultural fair, the Foire de la Saint Siffrein is named after the saint who resided in Carpentras during the 7th century. Plenty of local produce is available in the market and the wine fair is one of the largest in the area (and not restricted to wines from Provence).
First inhabited in the Bronze Age there are monolithic reminders dotted across the region. It's however better known from its place in Roman history when it became a Roman colony in 50BC.
Veterans of the Roman legions who had served Julius Caesar in his Nile campaigns, at the end of fifteen years of soldiering, were given plots of land to cultivate on the plain of Nîmes. However it was under the rule of the Emperor Augustus that it really flourished, and it became the capital of the Narbonne Province.
The town fell into decline in the 4th century with the barbarian invasions, and after the fall of the Roman Empire in the West the town was controlled by the Franks but also faced invasions from the Moors in Spain.
A visit to the Roman amphitheatre is a must in Nîmes, apart from the fact that you can see if from various points throughout the city, it's a truly wonderful piece of Roman heritage that is still in use today. The Musée Archéologique houses pre-Roman, Roman and Gallic artefacts and displays.
If you have transport (or have hired a bike) then a trip to the iconic Pont du Gard will be worth the effort, situated 20km N/E of the town, and this aqueduct dates from c.19 BC. Again a magnificent example of Roman architecture and an imposing structure on this beautiful stretch of river.
Also outside of the city is the wonderful Gorges du Gardon. A beautiful place for hiking, cycling and relaxing with a picnic. To get a better idea of what to do there have a read of our sight review, 'A day out in Nîmes'.
 
    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.
 
    Not only is this modern building home to the museum of contemporary art, but it also houses Nimes central library.
 
    See the universe projected onto the roof of a large room filled with 65 comfortable seats, and wonder at the scale of it all.
 
    Objects from local and regional sources, with the exception of a fund of Greek ceramics, Etruscan, Italiot, derived from bequests from private collections and a deposit of the State (Campana).
 
    A very well preserved Roman temple in the heart of Nimes.
 
    This large cathedral was originally built in 1096 and has undergone many additions and modifications over the centuries.
Thanks to its huge popularity, Nîmes has all manner of different styles of restaurants cafés offering everything from gourmet dining to snack stops and places for a quick bite to eat.
 
    A relaxing and welcoming atmosphere, and a popular spot with the locals. There is a terrace for al fresco dining in the summer, and a fire for cosying up to in the winter.
 
    Offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a menu inspired by the region, Restaurant Vatel is an ideal choice for couples, families and friends.
 
    With a variety of courses adapted to every age (from a minimum of 2 years) to enjoy a moment of adventure with family and friends.
 
    The Gardon Gorge is a nature reserve that runs between Nimes and Uzes for 20km. The Gardon river has been forging its way through the limestone rocks to create a deep canyon that is home to a wide array of wildlife and vegetation.
 
    La Roque Sur Ceze is a beautiful hilltop village, northwest of Orange. Its perched vantage point and narrow cobbled streets make it a charming place to start our ride. Classified as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (most beautiful villages of France) it not only has breathtaking views but also ancient chapels, a chateau, and all the quirky little vaulted alleyways that you could wish for in a Provencal village.
 
    This 28.5km long route is a journey of discovery through the Ile de l'Oiselay and the vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape.
 
    From the perched village of Châteauneuf de Gadagne, this gentle family-friendly cycle route goes from the foot of the Colline de Thouzon, round in a loop to the town of Le Thor, via the cool waters of the River Sorgue.
 
    Once in the town of Jonquieres there are several choices of cycle routes around the area. The country roads are the perfect platform to discover the local villages, view points and historical points of interest.
 
    This scenic cycle ride goes in a figure of eight, starting and finishing in Velleron, but also visiting Pernes-les-Fontaines to the north and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to the south.
 
    This 35km loop takes you through the famous vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône, as well as past strawberry fields, olive groves and fruit orchards. It is a wonderfully scenic ride with the opportunity to do some tasting along the way!
 
    Starting in Barbentane, a short 15 minute drive from Avignon, this gentle and easy walk is great for all abilities of walker. WIth a shady tracks and only a 2 hour and 45 minute round trip you can amble along this walk and enjoy the surrouding scenery.
 
    
 
    The vast numbers of lovely Vineyards in Provence make for great places to go on a walking or hiking tour.
 
    A great walk in any season as it gets the sun throughout the day and is sheltered from the sometimes strong, Mistral wind.
 
    Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
 
    Take your time, explore and discover the rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, fashioned by centuries of work which continues to the present day.
 
    The Ceze is a calm river and accessible for all. Along the trip you’ll find enough spots and beaches where you’ll be able to get out of your boat to eat, sunbathe or swim.
 
    This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
 
    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.
 
    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.
 
    This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
 
    This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
 
    Beautiful holiday property close to Uzès, first Dukedom of France and town of art and history, as well as the Pont du Gard, the most visited ancient monument of France.
 
    Beautiful village Mas less than quarter of an hour away from Avignon.
 
    A superb opportunity for a holiday in Camargue - Souvenirs Intemporels
 
    Superb bastide in the heart of its private valley for your holidays in the Alpilles. Let yourself be seduced by the charm of this 19th century property!
 
    Authentic Mas with tennis court, pool and an incredible view of the Alpilles for your holidays - Mas des Platanes
 
    Located a few minutes from the village centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, you will be able to take full advantage of the restaurants and shops of the village whilst having a haven of peace to relax in.
 
    Not far from an authentic village and 7 km from Uzès, first Dukedom of France and town of art and history, you can discover this unique holiday house, with a big overflow swimming pool with massage wall, jacuzzi and pool house with summer kitchen.
 
    In the heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park in the south of France, the Mas de la Cigale in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is an exceptional place for a dream holiday in Provence.
 
    This very welcoming farmhouse is located in the heart of the Alpilles, close to unmissable places such as the Baux de Provence, Eygalières, and Maussane.
 
    Luxury holiday rental in Saint Rémy de Provence - La Carte Postale
 
    Located a few minutes from the village centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, you will be able to take full advantage of the restaurants and shops of the village whilst having a haven of peace to relax in.
 
    Le Mas Malhana is a beautiful ancient stonehouse, perfectly renovated, ideal to spend your holidays in the heart of the Alpilles.
 
    This charming chateau provides a wide range of accommodation from rooms and suites to mini apartments. Renowned for its beauty and excellent service, this is a very popular destination in Provence.
 
    This charming 5 star hotel offers guests the best in luxury accommodation and services whilst still retaining an air of simple, classic style.
 
    A warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and personal service make the Saint Laurent a charming place to stay and relax.
 
    Tucked away in the old district of Nimes lies 18th century former coach house, decorated with style and elegance.
 
    Housed inside a beautiful old stone building, this hotel is comfortably furnished and decorated in warm inviting colours.
 
    The Vallon de Valrugues is located in the centre of St Remy, a stylish Provencial town filled with chic boutiques and galleries.
 
    300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
 
    All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
 
    With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
 
    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.
 
    Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
 
    49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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.
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