Stay at Hotel Rotonde

Cosmopolitan Marseille

Mediterranean to the core, Marseilles is one of the sunniest cities in France. Its melodious accent pervades the busy streets and its strong identity charms holidaymakers. Why not visit to experience it for yourself and discover its secrets!

Marseilles’ treasures

It all starts at Vieux-Port, the old port, where it is lovely to sip a coffee and admire the town hall. Continue your visit by heading to Le Panier, north of Vieux-Port. Here you will discover the old Hôtel-Dieu and the village feel that lingers in its meandering lanes and narrow steps.

Want culture? Head to the Mucem (Museum of Mediterranean and European Civilisations) with its stunning view of the concrete lace structure by Rudy Ricciotti. Then stop by Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, with its 19th century basilica. The Nouailles district tempts gourmet palates to hone their taste buds. Finish with one of the most beautiful sites in Provence: Marseilles’ rocky inlets!

In the land of Cézanne

Aix-en-Provence is a true jewel in Provence’s crown. Numerous artists have come and gone, falling for the charm of its beauty and authenticity. Paul Cézanne’s home town definitely has what it takes to make your heart skip a beat!

One of the nicest towns in France

With its 300 days of sunshine each year, Aix-en-Provence is an extremely enjoyable town to explore. It entices you to stroll at a leisurely pace with its sunny terraces, Provence-style architecture, and art and artisan stores. Start your visit at Place de la Rotonde then wander along to the Cours Mirabeau promenade with its fountains. The Mazarin district will wow you with its bourgeois homes and private mansions.

Culture lovers can enjoy wandering through the galleries at Atelier Cézanne. You can even follow in the artist’s footsteps along the special trail. In July, the gentle melodies of the Aix-en-Provence Festival will captivate your ears.

Arles, on the doorstep ofthe Camargue region

Arles, a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates tourists with its Roman heritage. Your journey will take you to the Place de la République, Saint-Trophine cloister and church, Constantin thermal baths and Arles amphitheatre. A trip back in time!

Camargue : untouched lands in Provence

The name ‘Camargue’ evokes untouched lands, free-roaming horses and pink flamingos paddling joyfully in the water. Here, nature reigns supreme. It’s hard to resist! This vast wetland of 100,000 hectares is a sanctuary for many animal species living between salt marshes and lagoons.

Despite Camargue being a region created by humans, it is now a listed World Heritage Site and supports rice and salt harvesting. Take time to explore this lush green treasure on foot, by bike or by horse, while savouring the wind of freedom.

Cassis and turquoise waters

Tucked away in a natural setting between Cap Canaille and its Calanques, Cassis is a genuine Provence village. You will feel the magic from the first moment in the village’s winding streets and at its little fishing port mirrored in the Mediterranean with its colourful houses.

Calanques de Cassis : a full-scale spectacle

The main attraction in Cassis remains its rocky limestone inlets. There is no better way to explore this mineral treasure than a hike to get to grips with its majestic cliffs and swim in its untouched coves. You can follow the GR 98-51 that meets up with Calanques de Marseille. The more adventurous can also head off the beaten track and admire breathtaking vistas.

Get away from the tourists and explore secret sites by booking a boat or kayak trip. Navigate the Mediterranean’s calm waters and swim at deserted coves which can only be accessed by sea.

A medieval town full of character

The City of Popes has preserved its history and exceptional heritage. In fact it is home to several listed UNESCO World Heritage Monuments. The streets of this infinitely charming town exude a relaxed lifestyle.

The art of educating yourself in Avignon

Avignon has everything a major town could need: art, history, museums, theatres and festivals. When you wander along Avignon’s streets, you will certainly be charmed by the Palais des Papes, the Avignon bridge and the Baroque façade of the Hôtel des Monnaies. Take the opportunity to stop by the Petit Palais museum, the Doms cathedral and the ramparts which can be reached through the Doms garden.

During your stroll, you will see houses with mediaeval architecture and old squares lined with cafés and stores. Many cultural events are held throughout the year, including the Avignon Festival in July.

Provence: the realm of hedonists

In Provence, a love of good food is not a sin and gastronomy takes pride of place. Simply count the incredible number of markets to understand that here, you cannot trifle with local specialty dishes. At the markets you will find quality products to tuck away in your suitcase.

Outstanding markets, producers and farmers

Your stay in Provence is an opportunity to meet passionate producers. Of one hundred markets across France, the CNAC (French Council of Culinary Arts) selected six markets located in Provence. Those include the Exception market and the floating market in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, along with markets in Carpentras, Apt, Coustellet and Velleron.

For farmers’ markets, head to Avignon, Montfave, and Cavaillon or even Pernes-les-Fontaines and Thor. And as Provence is the land of truffles, fans of this delicacy can find producers at markets from November to March!

Recharge your batteries surrounded by nature

Whether you travel by car, by bike or on foot, Lubéron and Alpilles will win your heart with their exceptional natural sites and genuine, charming villages. Keep your eyes open. Alpilles and Lubéron offer you the most beautiful vistas in Provence!

A kaleidoscope of landscapes

Simply follow the roads winding around hills and through lavender fields to immerse yourself in the heart of Provence. Here, the olive trees and vineyards spread across stunning landscapes. Soak it all up and make the most of this region’s authenticity by exploring the Lubéron region’s hilltop villages such as Gordes, Bonnieux and Lourmarin. You’ll be enchanted!

And you’ll definitely hear nature’s call next. To answer it, pull on your seven-league boots and head off to stride along the tracks in the Alpilles regional nature park. Breathtaking views await you!

Baux-de-Provence and carrières de Lumière