Sisteron
Traditional rural town in the foothills of the Alps
One of the most scenic routes through Provence is the tail end of autoroute 81 and its continuation to national route 75, which finally ends in Grenoble. Just at the junction where the four-lane highway becomes a two-lane local road, the medieval citadel of Sisteron towers over the town beneath on the slopes towards the Durance river.
In summer, Sisteron is quite busy with tourists, searching out the water sports on the Durance and beyond. The bridges that cross the Durance river offer spectacular views of both the town, the medieval walls and buildings and the rocky cliffs that seem to explode out of the ground around the town.
Leaving Sisteron, we recommend the route nationale 75 heading north to Grenoble. The road is spectacular with vistas towards the snow-capped peaks of the lower Alps.
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History & Culture in [locality]
As so often with a location that seems too good to be true, Sisteron has lived through ages of being a fortress of ultimate defense to a target of ferocious attacks. Since its existence in Roman times, the town has been regularly sacked, burned, and bombed, most recently by the allied forces in World War II, and stubbornly rebuilt.
Despite all the damaging attacks, there is still some of the old to be admired in Sisteron. You can wander through the narrow winding streets and alleys of Old Sisteron, a small part in the centre of the town, or admire the medieval towers still standing, although the old walls in between are long gone.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Close by these towers and the old part of the town is the 12th century Cathedral of Notre Dame des Pommiers, an attractive medieval Provençal church, whose name is deceiving. "Pommiers" here does not mean apple trees, as it does in everyday French, but comes from the Latin 'pomoerii', meaning between the walls of the town - a wisdom we found in the Guide Michelin.
Still, Pommiers (as in apple trees) would be an apt designation for a major church in Sisteron. In the valleys beyond the town you can see vast stretches of fruit orchards, no doubt some of them with sparkling apples. Fruits aside, Sisteron is famous for its local lamb. Everywhere in France, a gigot (leg of lamb) from Sisteron is an indication of sumptuous quality.
Sights in Provence
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Pont Julien, between Bonnieux & Roussillon
A lovely Roman bridge not far from Bonniuex, on the road towards Roussillon. It dates back to the 3rd century BC when the Romans built a road to link Italy to Hispania.
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Musee Archeologique, Nimes
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).
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Fondation Vasarely
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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Monastere de St-Paul-de-Mausole, St Remy de Provence
After your explorations in Glanum, it's worth visiting the asylum where Vincent van Gogh spent one year after the dramatic incident in Arles. The Monastère de St-Paul-de-Mausole is just a short ride from Glanum. Since 1605 it has functioned as a psychiatric hospital, remaining so today.
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La Citadelle, Sisteron
Sisteron's citadel wouldn't look out of place in an episode of Game of Thrones, with its imposing high walls, fortifications and impressive location looking down over the town below.
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Chateau d'Ansouis, Ansouis
The Chateau d'Ansouis was originally a fortress back in the 12th century and become one of the grandest mansions in Provence during the Renaissance.
Dining in [locality]
Restaurants in Provence
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La Chassagnette Restaurant
This organic Michelin starred restaurant is situated just 12km outside Arles on the road to Sambuc and is run by the chef Armand Arnal.
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La Cour d'Honneur Restaurant
Located right in the centre of Avignon on a well known shopping street is La Cour d'Honneur.
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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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Le Temp de Vivre Restaurant, Uchaux
Le Temps de Vivre is situated in the little hamlet of Les Farjons just down the road from Uchaux.
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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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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.
Events in [locality]
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]
The local market (Wednesday and Saturday) is bustling and fun, as so many are in Provence. Why spend your euros in a restaurant when you can assemble a treasure from what's available at the market, some cheese, a sausage, roasted chicken, a loaf of bread and a basket of fruit? Then head down to the banks of the Durance for a sun-filled picnic.
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, 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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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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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.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Provence
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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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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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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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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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The Foothills of Mont Ventoux, Bedoin
Mont Ventoux is famous for being one of the toughest climbs on the Tour de France, keen cyclists come from all over the world to pit themselves against the long steep ascent to the summit. This route gives you a gentle tour of the area surrounding the “windy mountain” without actually battling your way to the top.
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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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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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Montagne de Lure
This is a short and easy high altitude walk great for all seasons.
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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.
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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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Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Provence
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Aventure et Nature Watersport, La Palude sur Verdon
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
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Roya Evasion Activity Company, Breil-sur-Roya
This company offers a range of outdoor activities mostly based around canyoning and rafting white water, as well as via ferrata and mountain biking experiences and snowshoe walks in the winter.
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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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Plan d’eau des Ferreols, Digne-les-Bains
Located on the Route de Nice, close to the city centre, the waters of Ferréols has free parking and is accessible by public transport or by bicycle through a cycle track.
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Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
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Kayak Vert, Fontaine de Vaucluse
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Provence
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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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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 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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Le Scat Nightclub
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
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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Dolce Vita Villa, Ménerbes
A few minutes from the charming village of Ménerbes, in the heart of the Luberon in the countryside between vineyards, lavender and the forest, discover this former 19th century sheepfold with natural and harmonious decoration.
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Luberon Valse En Eté Villa, Ménerbes
Prestigious rental located in an absolutely enchanting setting, in the heart of a lavender field, between the beautiful hilltop villages of Ménerbes and Lacoste.
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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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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: €3,136
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Kalista Villa, Grimaud
Holiday rental with swimming pool in Grimaud - Villa Kalista
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Luberon Le Mas Wisteria Villa, Bonnieux
Mas Wisteria is located 2.5km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
Price: €4,910
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Provence
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Armavi Villa, Vaison-La-Romaine
Discover this superb property in Provence, completely renovated, with swimming pool for a dream holiday.
Price: €3,138
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Devino Villa, Oppede
Discover this lovely family holiday house with swimming pool located in the heart of Luberon
Price: €2,315
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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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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: €3,136
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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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La Cavalière Villa, Bonnieux
Former 17th century farmhouse in Bonnieux, fully restored by a renowned architect.
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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Chateau de Berne Hotel
Set deep in the lush Var region of Provence, this country house hotel is set within a 550 hectare vineyard. So if food and wine are high on your agenda, then you may well want to consider a stay in the this charming Provencal hotel.
Price: €15,956
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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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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: €6,897
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L'Hotel Particulier
Gorgeous hotel in the centre of the Roman town of Arles. Designed to within an inch of it's life, this 18th century country house has 13 rooms decked out in white billowing fabrics and French country furniture. Think Ibiza-esque.
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Le Clos de la Glycine Hotel, Roussillon
Set in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this hotel is a little Provencal paradise.
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Provence
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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 Airport Transfers & 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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Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
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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 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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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
Villa in the heart of the countryside - uninterrupted view of the village
Price: €995,000
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New development for Sale, Val d'Isere
A first and second floor apartment in a brand new development in the heart of Le Fornet
Price: €4,150,000
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
Rarely available Savoyard chalet in an elevated position with far reaching viewings over Val d'Isère
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Villa for Sale
A newly built villa ideally located within walking distance from the town and beaches.
Price: €3,045,000