Villecroze, Provence

Close to the town is the 12th century Commanderie des Templiers (house of the Templar Knights) which also has wonderful gardens. A 12th century chapel, St Victor, on the outskirts of the town hosts music concerts every other Friday during the summer.

Villecroze is surrounded by limestone cliffs. Many caves exists in these cliffs and in the 16th century, a local lord created a place of refuge within them during the Wars of Religion. Known as Grottes Troglodytes, you can vist the caves during the summer months (April to September) for a very small fee.

The town's weekly market is held in the square on Thursday mornings. You'll be able to buy locally made produce such as honey, wines and goats cheese. There are a couple of artisan shops and galleries in the village.

The cliff features a lovely waterfall, and the whole area is set off with botanical gardens - a great spot for a picnic.

There is a cycle route (57km) that runs through Villecroze, and takes you to several of the prettiest villages in the area - Tourtour, Ampus, Flayosc and Taradeau. Hiking trails run through the surrounding hills - ask at the tourist office for details (open mid April to end September).

There are two simple hotels in Villecroze, otherwise you will need to look at the surrounding villages for alternative accommodation.