The beautiful PACA region
The PACA region is often shorthand for sunshine and holidays. Let us show you what you'll be doing this summer ;)…
We're back for the 6th stop on our Régiontrip! Next up: south-east France with the PACA region!
A hugely popular destination during the summer months, this region is rich in landscapes and activities.
Its iconic cities:
Known the world over, the French Riviera is the stuff of dreams, and with good reason: it is home to legendary cities such as Saint-Tropez, Nice with its Promenade des Anglais, and Marseille. Between fine sandy beaches and things to do, each of these cities has its own charm. We particularly recommend a visit to the Museum of Marseille; it is the first museum devoted to Mediterranean cultures. For those looking for a walk and a dose of history, Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas will more than meet your expectations. In my view, Avignon is an essential stop when visiting the region! Its nationally famous bridge and the Palais des Papes are absolute must-sees.
Numerous tours are also available to visit the town of Grasse and its perfume factories.
Its exceptional natural assets:
Blessed with a remarkable territory, the PACA region hides genuine natural wonders. There are plenty of options along the spiritual trail of the Provence Verte. The Sainte-Baume Sanctuary, also known as the Grotto of Mary Magdalene. Along with the Basilica of Mary Magdalene in Saint-Maximin. And finally the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Grâces in Cotignac. The region has also set up a Provence by bike scheme, letting you discover the area and its treasures along cycle paths. It runs notably through the Luberon Regional Nature Park via the Calavon greenway, or you can explore the Dentelles de Montmirail via the Venaissia route. The Saint-Roch peninsula and its Fort Carré will reward you with a magnificent viewpoint.
Canoeing in the Verdon Gorge is a must for discovering these natural wonders. And afterwards, we suggest losing yourself in the Camargue, that legendary nature park.
The hinterland behind Nice is no less impressive when it comes to landscapes and has nothing to envy of the coast! And for a hint of the American West, the region has something for you too: take the time to discover the Provençal Colorado and its sensational colours. Finally, we couldn't talk about this region's natural assets without mentioning those sublime calanques. They can be reached all along the coast and are especially renowned around Marseille and Cassis. I promise you, the climb isn't always easy, but trust me: arriving there will make you forget everything!
Its historic heritage:
Rich in history and heritage, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region is home to many ancient remains, such as the very well-known Roman theatre of Orange and the ancient site of Puymin in Vaison-la-Romaine. The Cimiez site in Nice is also a notable spot for anyone keen on historic ruins.
But that's not all: you can also experience the region's history by visiting its many villages, still intact and perfectly preserved. Les Baux-de-Provence, set within the Alpilles Regional Nature Park, is exceptional. In the same vein, the village of Gordes, perched in the Provençal hills, is particularly delightful. In a different style but no less deserving, Martigues, a former fishing village, is nicknamed the Provençal Venice.
For art and painting enthusiasts, there's an organised trail just for you! The region is brimming with artworks and museums, such as the Picasso Museum in Antibes and the Mamac in Nice. Also take the time to visit the island of Porquerolles and the Fondation Carmignac.
The abbeys of the south, such as Boscodon Abbey near Lake Serre-Ponçon, Sénanque Abbey and Le Thoronet Abbey, are open to visitors and will share their stories with you.
Lastly, a number of islands can be visited and reached from the coast. We're thinking in particular of the Golden Isles: Porquerolles and Port-Cros, and the Lérins Islands. Of course, and as I always like to point out, the places and activities mentioned in this article are only a fraction of what the region has to offer. A personal selection of my own little favourites. I hope you enjoyed it and that you're thinking of visiting this region and drawing up your own list of favourites!
Your welcome book is a valuable guide: keep it up to date! See you soon ?
