Provence has to be one of the most varied regions of France - from the delta plains of the Camargue through lavender fields and vineyards to the rugged mountains of the Haute Alpes and the glamorous beaches of the Riviera coast, its attractions are too numerous to mention.


Similarly you will find a great range of cities, towns and villages to visit in inland Provence - whether you go for the imposing historical grandeur of a city like Avignon or seek out tiny sleepy villages perched on hilltops with breathtaking views over the Provençal landscape, there are plenty of choices. Here are some of our favourites, with suggestions of superb holiday properties to rent nearby.

P339A, St Remy de Provence, Provence

Sleeps: 2

EUR 450- 800 per week

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a delightful town to explore on foot, there are guided tours available - check at the tourist information office.

· Vincent Van Gogh painted in and around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence - follow the walking trail around the town and stand in the footsteps of the great artist.
· Don't miss the Roman remains at Glanum, just south of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence - one of the major clssical archaeological sites in the south of France.
· Nature lovers should take the opportunity for a guided walk in the Alpilles mountains near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
· There is a lively regional produce market held weekly in the streets of Saint-Rémy-de Provence.

P339A - C Holiday apartments with shared pool, 500m walk to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, town centre.

P330A, Saint Canadet, Provence

Sleeps: 6

EUR 1700 - 2300 per week

You can't fail to fall in love with Aix-en-Provence; a beautiful and fascinating town with wide boulevards lined with plane trees, graceful squares with pavement cafés and various lively markets throughout the week.

· Aix-en-Provence is well known for its festivals of art, music and theatre - there is always something going on!
· There are about forty fountains in Aix-en-Provence - see how many you can find! They each have their own history.
· The town is served by an excellent public transport system - ask at Aix-en-Provence tourist office for information on buses and trains in the area.

P330A Villa with private pool, sleeps 6, large grounds, rural location 12km Aix-en-Provence.

P108AB, St Michel L'Observatoire, Provence

Sleeps: 9

EUR 1500-3000 per week

The lively village of Forcalquier is built on the slopes of a conical hill; at the top you will find a 19th century octagonal chapel and an orientation table - at an altitude of 500m the views from here across the 'Pays de Forcalquier' are outstanding.

· Monday is market day in Forcalquier, and it is one of the best markets in the region, especially for organic produce. On the first Monday of the month, the market is even bigger than usual - don't miss it!
· The countryside around Forcalquier is excellent for cycling - there are lots of waymarked routes - the tourist information office is happy to provide details.
· Aromatic herbs are harvested from the nearby Lure mountain (1826m) and are used in the local production of liqueurs and aperitifs in Forcalquier.

P108A (sleeps 4) and P108B (sleeps 5) are beautifully restored rural gites each with a private pool, 8km Forcalquier. They mat be rented together or separately.