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Located in the south of France, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, or PACA region, has a beautiful coastline overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and its regional capital is Marseille. This vast region, with its varied landscapes and countless attractions, is full of surprises and must-see places.
Villanovo can offer you a wide range of houses to choose from in different parts of the South of France, to suit al of your needs and wishes.
The Côte d'Azur, which stretches from Menton to Toulon, is an extremely sunny region where tradition and history are still very much alive. There is incomparable soul and joie de vivre in this region, especially in summer, when the cicadas are singing and the scent of thyme and lavender lingers in the air.
With its legendary beaches, rich heritage and spectacular natural scenery, the Var is an ideal destination.
The Golden Islands, which include Port-Cros, Porquerolles and Le Levant, promise unforgettable views, and are the true natural wonders of the Var. Set off on a bike ride in the inland massifs or take a refreshing dip in the azure waters of the Mediterranean along the lengthy Var coastline. Other must-do activities include the Gorges du Verdon, whether by kayak, paddle or on foot - the scenery is awe-inspiting throughout. But there is also Hyères and its Giens peninsula, the historic villages, their chapels and old castles, as well as the highest point of the Var, the mountain of Lachens, where a height of 1714 metres provides some of the most beautiful panoramas in the region. Stroll through the mythical towns of St Tropez and Sainte Maxime before visiting the regional capital of the Var, the pretty port city of Toulon.
Take a boat trip to discover the Mediterranean coastline and soak up the sun on the most beautiful beaches of the Côte d'Azur. With its white sand and crystal-clear waters, the Var offers the ideal setting for a relaxing holiday. Among the many must-see places: Bormes-Les-Mimosas, Ramatuelles, Pampelonne and the beaches of Porquerolles and Port-Cros.
For those seeking beaches, turquoise waters and quaint villages, the Alpes-Maritimes is the place to go. All along the coast, beaches and charming coves await you. As for the land, you should visit the hilltop villages and discover all about the department's rich heritage.
The emblematic waterfront towns of Nice, Menton and Cannes each have their own identity and purpose, but they all share that same southern soul: brimming with sunshine, life and historic traditions. Roam around the old town of Nice, along the Promenade des Anglais and between the narrow streets that have retained their Italian charm along with their ochre and red colours. Visiting this department also means discovering another world of luxury and jet setters. And what better way to do so than to visit Cannes, famed for its famous festival, the Croisette and its beaches. It is also a city steeped in history, particularly in the field of cinema. Menton, on the border with Italy, is the city of sun, lemons and glorious gardens - a veritable invitation to holiday.
The islands of Lérins, the Cap d'Antibes or Roquebrune-Cap-Martin are sights to be discovered during a stay in the Alpes-Maritimes. The villages in the interior are not to be missed: Grasse, with its flowers and sweet perfume; Saint-Paul-de-Vence, with its artistic past and vestiges of its medieval past; Gourdon, an eagle's nest of architectural treasures; and finally Eze, with its cobbled streets and colourful exotic garden.
Provence, from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence, is a sunny and pleasant region whatever the season. The richness of the colours, the diversity of the landscapes, alongside its traditions and customs give the department a unique appeal that makes any holiday-goer susceptible to its charm.
In the heart of Provence, the Luberon promises a real escape. Situated between the Alps and the Mediterranean, since 1977, its natural wonders have earned it the status of Regional Natural Park. With the purple hue of lavender, the ochre-tinged rocks and the gold of the sunny villages, it's impossible to be left disappointed.
Emblematic villages include Lourmarin, with its Renaissance heritage; Cucuron and its art festivals; Bonnieux and its superb ramparts; Roussillon, one of the most beautiful villages in France; and Gordes, built into the cliffs offering a breathtaking view of the Luberon landscape.
This is a department full of natural and historical attractions that are impossible to ignore. Meander through the lavender fields bursting with purple flowers and pass the Abbaye de Sénanques. Visit the parks of the Luberon and the 7 lakes of Beaumonts and Pertuis. There is no end to the activities available: from swimming and hiking, to cycling and walking. For breathtaking landscapes: the Colorado Provençal and the Mines du Bruoux. A whole palette of ochres and reds is offered to you in an almost Martian setting. Finally, don't forget to visit the many historical castles of the Luberon, such as the castle of Gordes, Lacoste, Ansouis, and Lourmarin.
The Alpilles is a mountainous massif located in the northwest of the Bouches-du-Rhône. It is primarily characterised by its limestone rocks, its natural park and its wild Camargue. Combining pine forests, olive trees and beautiful mountains, the Alpilles offer unique scenery.
Its diverse flora and fauna are typical of Provence, consisting of vines, olive trees, garrigues and other lush vegetation. Fascinating for their history, the Alpilles are home to many historical and archaeological monuments. Among the most famous: Glanum, the oppidum of the Caisses de Jean-Jean, the Roman mill of Barbegal and the Hypogeum of Fontvieille.
Don't forget to visit the most beautiful villages of the Alpilles. Start with Aurelle, an authentic Provencal village, where you cannot fail to admire its ruins and its small 17th century oil mill. Then head to Les Baux-de-Provence, a rocky promontory, known for its cobbled streets and typical Renaissance architecture. Don't miss the Carrière des lumières, where you can see exhibitions and light projections in the heart of a limestone quarry. Eygalières is another must-see village with typical Provençal charm. Then head to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a historic village that inspired Van Gogh.
Pass through Avignon journey back in time to the days of knights and castles. The famous city of the Popes has much to offer. Stroll along the UNESCO World Heritage Bridge of Avignon and then head to the Palace of the Popes. This magnificent gothic palace was once the home of a succession of Popes. In keeping with this theme, visit the beautiful cathedral and the Rocher des Doms. Dating from the 12th century, the cathedral dominates the Rhone valley and offers a magnificent panorama. Avignon is also the capital of theatre and entertainment. Every evening, the Palais des Papes is illuminated and the walls of the Cour d'honneur are transformed into a real live show with the Luminessences d'Avignon. In July, the city becomes a city of theatre where a multitude of artists come to perform and entertain the holidaymakers.
Uzès, located in the Gard region near Nîmes, is an ancient Roman town. Its rich heritage and diverse surroundings make the town an essential destination. It was the city of the first Duchy of France and its historic centre bears witness to this. Its castle, built in 1632, can be visited as well as its beautiful cellars and keep. The narrow streets, the cypress trees and the colours lend Uzès an air of Tuscany. Right in the centre of the town is the Place aux Herbes, home to one of the largest markets in the region. Listed as a town of art and history, visit the Georges Borias and Haras museums, which contain some real cultural treasures. Take a walk on the majestic Pont du Gard, the famous aqueduct of the region.
Aix-en-Provence, a dynamic and sunny city, is a must for any cultural and festive stay. The city of a thousand fountains is renowned for its thermal baths, colourful streets and bourgeois buildings from the 17ᵉ and 18ᵉ century. Take a stroll through the streets of the town and around the Cour Mirabeau, lined with mansions, cafés and restaurants. A little further on, venture into the Mazarin district, built by the archbishop of the same name, home to luxurious buildings and beautiful fountains. Known as the city of Cézanne, it is inconceivable not to visit his studio or climb Mount Sainte-Victoire, the painter's muse. Take a walk in the Parc Jourdan, near the bastide of Jas de Bouffan and the magnificent Hôtel de Caumont. Taste the calissons of Aix, the city's emblematic pastry made from melon and almond paste.
Marseille, the city of southern France, represents everything that it means to be a Mediterranean city. Soaked in history, rich in culture, with beautiful beaches and coves, Marseille cannot fail to seduce you. Faithful to its traditions, its way of life and its terroir, it is a true Provencal city that promises you an exceptional stay. duck in and out of the narrow streets and alleyways, and pass through the historic district, the Panier. A stone's throw from the Vieux Port, the Panier is typified by its narrow streets, picturesque buildings and Marseilles atmosphere. Then enjoy the Vieux Port, famous for its fish market and old buildings, the perfect place to enjoy a pastis on the terrace. Visit the city's monuments, such as the Cathédrale de la Major with its striped facades, the Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la Garde which presides over the city, the Château de la Buzine and the Cité Radieuse by the famous architect Le Corbusier. Don't miss an afternoon at the MuCEM museum, built on the Fort Saint-Jean and identifiable by its atypical architecture. It hosts exhibitions retracing the past of the civilisations that have made up the Mediterranean identity.
