The beautiful PACA region

We’re back for the 6th leg of our Régiontrip! We’re heading for the south-east of France, to the Paca region! A very popular destination during the summer months, this region is rich in scenery and activities.

Well-known to all, the French Riviera is the stuff of dreams, and for good reason: it’s home to such legendary towns as Saint-Tropez, Nice and the Promenade des Anglais, and Marseille. Between fine sandy beaches and activities, these towns all have their own charms.

We recommend a visit to the Museum de Marseille, the first museum dedicated to Mediterranean cultures. For those in search of a walk through history, the Fort de Saint-Jean and the Fort de Saint-Nicolas will meet your expectations.

In my opinion, Avignon is a must-see when visiting the region! Its nationally famous bridge and the Palais des papes are a must.
There are also many tours available to visit the town of Grasse and its perfume factories.

The PACA region is rich in natural wonders. Numerous spiritual itineraries in green Provence. Sanctuaire de la Sainte Baume or Grotte de Sainte Marie Madeleine. Also the Basilica of Sainte Marie Madeleine in Saint Maximin. Finally, the Sanctuaire de Notre Dame de Grâce in Cotignac. The region has also set up a ” Provence by bike” system, enabling you to discover the region and its treasures on cycle paths. These include the Cavalon green route through the Luberon natural park, and the Venaissia route through the Dentelles de Montmirail.

The Saint-Roch peninsula and its Fort Carré offer a magnificent viewpoint.
Canoeing in the Verdon gorges is a must if you want to discover these natural wonders. And after that, we recommend getting lost in the Camargue, this mythical natural park.
The hinterland of Nice is no slouch when it comes to scenery, and has nothing to envy the coast! And for a taste of the great American West, the region also has something for you: take the time to discover the Colorado Provençal and its sensational colors.

Finally, we couldn’t talk about the region’s natural resources without mentioning its sublime calanques. They can be found all along the coast, and are particularly famous around Marseille and Cassis. I assure you, the climb is not always easy, but trust me, when you get there you’ll forget all about it!

With its rich history and heritage, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region is home to numerous relics, including the famous ancient theater of Orange, and the ancient site of Puymin in Vaison-la-Romaine. The Cimiez site in Nice is also a notorious spot for fans of historical relics.
But that’s not all: the region’s history can be found through visits to its many villages, still intact and perfectly preserved. Les Baux de Provence, located in the heart of the Alpilles nature park, is exceptional. In the same spirit, the village of Gordes perched in the mountains of Provence is particularly pleasant.

In another spirit, but no less deserving, is Martigues, a former fishing village nicknamed the Venice of Provence.
For art and painting enthusiasts, there’s a tour organized just for you! The region is brimming with works of art and museums. Like the Musée Picasso in Antibes or the Mamac in Nice. Take the time to visit the island of Porquerolles and the Fondation Carmignac.
Abbeys in the south, such as the Abbaye de Boscodon near Lac de Serre-Ponçon, the Abbaye de Sénanque and the Abbaye du Thoronet, can be visited and their stories told.
Finally, many islands can be visited and accessed from the coast. These include the Golden Isles of Porquerolles and Port-Cros, and the Lérins Islands.

Of course, as I like to point out, the places and activities mentioned in this article are only part of what the region has to offer. A personal choice of my small preferences. I hope this has been of interest to you, and that you’ll consider visiting this region and making your own list of preferences! Your booklet is a valuable guide, keep it up to date! See you soon?