How to Plan the Perfect Provence Trip

Where to stay

Provence is a massive region, so there are many ways to do it! After spending a summer there with my family and recently getting back from my honeymoon there, I have some personal takes on how I would go about planning a trip to the area. In my opinion, one of the most “happening” towns and perfect places to stay for first-timers is Gordes, home to the famous ultra luxe hotel, Airelles Gordes. They have a picturesque pool overlooking the town, multiple restaurants, a spa … the total works. Airelles hotels are true design masterpieces that reflect the traditional French style and personality of the region. If you can’t justify the expense, I recommend visiting so you can at least experience the magic of the town and property, whether for a day trip and lunch or cocktails and dinner. Most towns in Provence are quite small, but Gordes feels a bit livelier with great restaurants and shopping, so there is plenty to do!

Gordes; Pool at Airelles Gordes

Hotel Crillon Le Brave is another great option about 30 minutes away that is much more secluded and more affordable. Unlike Airelles, where you can pop out and grab a gelato in town or enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, Crillon Le Brave pretty much is the only thing in town besides one other restaurant and a boulangerie. However, the stillness of this place is what makes it so magical. There are no tourists, just the hotel guests. And the views of Mt. Ventoux are some of the best I’ve seen in the region. Every meal is held in their restaurant, Table Du Ventoux, with the most fabulous menu that changes weekly. You can also enjoy their vibey cocktail bar and lounge next door to switch up the scenery. They also have other amenities like a spa (although small!), a gym and a nice outdoor pool.

Crillon Le Brave Village; Crillon Le Brave Pool

Some other hotels in the region that I recommend: Domaine de Fontenille (recently acquired by LVMH) and Capelongue, which is perched just above the charming town of Bonnieux.

I usually always recommend hotels for the service and amenities, but Provence has some amazing villas and home rentals as well. This route might make sense if you're going with a larger group or with family, or even if you plan to go for an extended stay. I always recommend Le Collectionist (a French company) as they have a wide range of options.

What to do

I definitely recommend a bike tour to start your Provence trip so you can get a lay of the land. Most companies now offer electric or traditional bike options. With the steep hills of the region, may I suggest the e-bike route? This is hands down the best way to experience as much of the region in as little time as possible. I recommend the bike tour company Ride & More, who will create a custom itinerary for you based off of your preferences — are you more into seeing towns? Castles? Wineries? Farms? Lavender fields? You name it, and they will make it happen.

Table de Ventoux at Crillon Le Brave; Crillon Le Brave ft. Champagne

If you're a big wine fan and love viticulture, I also recommend setting up some vineyard tours. Provence is known for its rosé wine production and the vineyards in the region produce more rosé than any other region in the world, so it's definitely a unique activity to the area. I would work with your hotel concierge to set up a driver and some vineyard tastings.

I also recommend working with the hotel concierge on finding the best Provencal markets in the area and which days to go. Markets are huge in Europe but especially famous in France — from local produce unique to the region to handmade goods to antiques, you will definitely want to pack an extra bag for your purchases. Recommended markets: Eygalières, Saint Remy, Gordes and Isle sur la Sorgue.

Lavender fields are in bloom from late June to mid-August, so if you want to see them, plan your trip accordingly! (FYI, hotel prices are higher during this period.)

If you go during the summer, beware of the bees! A ton of bees are actually imported every year to the South of France as they are essential pollinators for the lavender, so just make sure to bring bug spray!

You must rent a car if you want to explore other towns — it will be hard to do Provence properly without a car!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our South of France page.