Luxury French Riviera and Provence Holidays
On a luxury holiday to the French Riviera & Provence, you can expect a countryside of vineyards, lavender fields and olive groves, alongside medieval hilltop villages and charming market towns. On top of that, there are glamorous beach resorts and chilled coastal villages, fine wines and some of the world's greatest cuisines. What more could you want?
Overview
The luxury holiday experience will take you on a fascinating journey. On the coast, there's the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera – the Côte d'Azur. It attracts the rich and the famous to the principal beach resorts of Nice, Saint-Tropez and Monte Carlo, while you can discover a different kind of seaside vibe in Cassis, Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer, where life is altogether slower. Head inland and the character of the region changes. The medieval hilltop village of Èze, which overlooks Monaco and Nice from a mighty 1,400 feet, is a taste of what's to come. Be sure to include cultural highlights like Arles, Avignon and Aix-en-Provence in your itinerary. Throughout Province, the rich legacy of the Roman Empire can be seen, notably in Arles which is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And Aix's claim to fame? An elegant blend of tree-lined boulevards, ornate fountains and grand mansions, the city is the birthplace of the great Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne.
When To Visit
Located between the southern Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, the region is popular year-round. In summer the average temperature is around 30° Celsius, dropping to 15°C in winter. Of course, this varies depending on your location. On the coast, a cooling breeze is welcome in July and August when temperatures can creep into the low 30s.
Food & Drink
At the luxury end of the spectrum, many people plan their itinerary around the region's cuisine. There's no shortage of expert chefs in the region’s hotels and resorts, offering fine dining at its very best. Regional specialities such as Bouillabaisse, a delicious Provençal fish stew, are best enjoyed al fresco while watching the sun set. Some of the world's most famous vineyards and wineries can be found in Provence, including the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Private tours and wine tastings can be arranged, so be sure to try the spectacular rosés.
Passport & Visas
A valid British passport is needed to travel, however a visa is not required. It's a good idea to carry ID with you at all times when you're away. Visit GOV.UK for advice and more information.
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