Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles, near Arles

The white limestone rocks in the park stand out against the brilliant blue of the sky and vineyards and olive groves take advantage of the best-oriented hillsides. It is a living area of exceptional beauty. Home to author Alphonse Daudet, distances are short here and there is always a delightful destination for a walk, a cycle ride or even a trek on horseback.

The Park has been successful in focusing on the relations between Man and his environment, whether the term is taken in the sense of nature or heritage, or refers to economic and social environment.

Despite the current popularity of the Alpilles and the influx of tourists, history buffs and nature lovers, this part of Provence has not changed its everyday way of life and it has retained the strong values that give it its identity. Traditional festivals take place in the villages of Alpilles all through the year, often still linked to the agricultural calendar - celebrating the seasons and crops.

With its varied environments, flora and fauna and rare species, the Park is certainly of scientific interest. However, nature in the Alpilles is much more than that. Fashioned by its people over hundreds of years, it boasts an inherited culture that gives the mountain range much of its uniqueness.

The park has been designated a protected area since 2007 when it became the 5th regional parc in the PACA zone.