Saturday, August 24, 2013

A Variety Of Provence Tours Offer Different Types Of Experiences

By Andrea Davidson


Van Gough and Peter Mayle have both been among the legions charmed by this Mediterranean region of France in their time. A successful Provence tours experience will leave visitors yearning to return. From the coast to the mountains, across the fields, rivers and historic sites further exploration will delight travelers of all ages.

For getting there the two main international airports are in Nice and Marseille. Both cities have rail links to the main towns in the region. British travelers can take a Eurostar to Paris and pick up a TGV train. The trip from Paris to Marseille takes less than five hours and from Paris to Avignon the ride is three hours 45 minutes long. Bus routes connect towns and villages.

Located at the borders of Spain, Italy and France, the influence of all three national cultures can be seen in this border region. St. Tropez, Monte Carlo, Arles, St. Remy, the Papal city of Avignon and provincial capital city Aix en Provence are all situated here. Glitz and a laid back atmosphere are contrasting temperaments that appeal to different kinds of travelers. Some prefer the high life, others prefer the natural beauty and special ambiance of its beautiful landscape and urban areas rich in history.

During the tourist season sightseers clog even the small picturesque towns. It is wiser to go there in the less visited spring or autumn periods. If you would enjoy a scenic journey viewing Alpine scenery, the Train des Pignes between Digne les Bains and Nice should be on the itinerary. A serene way to enjoy the scenic countryside is to go on a river cruise on the Rhone. River cruises will take travelers along the western border down the Rhone River and continue along the Saone River, a tributary of the larger river.

For some rigorous activity white water rafting, canoeing, boating, and bike riding are on offer. They especially enjoyed in the romantic Camargue and dramatic Gorges du Verdon. The renowned white Camargue horses should be tried on a ride for an unforgettable memory. Invigorating hiking is offered by the GR9 trail that crosses the Monts du Vaucluse, Luberon and Mont Ventoux ranges. Skiers may want to stop by the Pra Loup ski resort in the northeast.

Sunflowers and vines bedeck the southern portion, the lavender laden Luberon hills bedeck the western part and the Alps are in the north. For many, lavender is the defining fragrance of this region. Lavender flowers can be seen between the end of June and early August. Sunflowers can be seen during July and August.

A part of the sensory experience will be the fine Provencal cuisine. This cuisine is known for its fragrant and fresh native ingredients. The herbs make even the rustic potatoes in oil dish memorable for the likes of Cezanne. In Marseille, its bouillabaisse is a signature dish, but most places are identified with an ingredient or a culinary recipe. The Calisson is an almond sweet associated with Aix en Provence. It is a reminder of the almond trade hub the city used to be. For a refreshing drink, the Pastis will go well with local specialties.

You will surely find one trip is not enough. But with a Provence tours journey each trip will leave you with memorable moments to remember. Visits can be arranged at any time during the year. But you may prefer to travel when there will be fewer tourists sharing the space with you.




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