Hidden Gems of Provence in 4 Days

Once you’ve arrived and picked up your rental car, start your road trip with a quick drive to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a medieval hilltop village full of picturesque cobblestone streets, art galleries and terraces with panoramic views of the Côte d’Azur. After a walk around, grab a table outside for lunch and a coffee before continuing into the mountains. The next driving stretch is about three hours, and you’ll want to stop for photos along the way, so you’ll want to have plenty of daylight left. Depending on your travel schedule, I recommend spending the night at a bastide (traditional stone country house) between Saint-Paul and Grasse, and continuing your drive in the morning.

Soak in the morning sun from the terrace of your bastide before packing up for the drive to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Perfume aficionados will want to make a stop in Grasse, home to the Fragonard Parfumerie. Pack for a picnic lunch before you head out or plan to stop in Castellane for lunch as you’ll be driving through rural areas without many places to stop. Take your time on the drive - the roads can be narrow and windy and it’s easy to be distracted by the ever-changing landscape. There are plenty of shoulders and observation points to pull over to stop for as many photos as you want.

Sometime in the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Check into your accommodations, relax, and make your way to the center of the village, home to just 700 permanent residents. Shop for artisanal, locally made ceramics and explore the village before a traditional provençal dinner at La Gringotière.

Take a break from driving today with some hiking, water sports, or even a swim. There are many hiking trails of all lengths and difficulties that start in Moustiers. Regardless of which you choose, make sure to wear sturdy shoes for walking over rocky and uneven surfaces. Prefer to spend the day on the water? Just under four miles away, Lac Sainte-Croix offers boat rentals from electric to kayaks, sailing and swimming. Want even more adventure? The Verdon area has some of the best rafting, canyoning, and rock climbing in France.

Bid Moustiers-Sainte-Marie à bientôt (see you soon!), and make your way to Aix-en-Provence for your last night. If you are traveling between early June and early September, stop in Valensole to admire the lavender fields which typically hit peak bloom in July.

Aix-en-Provence isn’t exactly a secret, but it is a beautiful town and quintessential Provence. This sunsoaked university town has a laid-back vibe, tons of history, and plenty of delicious food. Spend the afternoon taking a tour or shopping and find a welcoming terrace in the historic town center for a relaxing evening meal.

Tomorrow you’ll head back to the airport or on to your next destination!