DK Travel : Provence and Côte d'Azur

Provence’s top sights span the region’s rich and varied history, from Roman arenas, isolated abbeys, and the palace of the medieval popes, to the more recent opulence of the belle époque era and the glamorous resorts beloved of the 20th-century jet set. Sunsoaked beaches, pretty villages nestled among lavender fields and a mountainous hinterland have inspired generations of artists, and continue to enchant every visitor to the area.

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Avignon

Rather than the better-known and more touristy cities like Nice and Marseille, try staying in a smaller city like Avignon. It is truly beautiful with gorgeous architecture and parks, has its own museum, still has the big shops - and the hotels are roughly half the price of those in Nice! We found loads of gorgeous little outdoor restaurants where they do 2 courses for 8 euros in the Place de la Horloge, near the Palais de Papes. Try it - it's really worth it!
Bechard SA, Fabrique de Calissons

Famous to Aix-en-Provence, visitors HAVE to try the local pastry, calissons. Soft, velvety and sweet, these fruit flavored, almond-shaped pastries are incredible. Bechard SA is located on the Cours Mirabeau pedestrian area in the heart of Aix. Walking through the winding streets up to the Cathedral Saint-Saveur (Rue Jacques de la Roque), while enjoying calissons is an unforgettable experience.
Cannes

The city of Cannes is perhaps most famous for its annual film festival; however, has a long and interesting history dating back thousands of years. Today, its atmosphere of vibrancy and cultural richness is fortified by it proud heritage.
Cap D'Ail

A really beautiful, tiny and secluded beach with sparkling waters, only a short drive or hop on the train away from Nice.
Castellane

The remote village of Castellane is tucked away among the rugged hills of Provence, surrounded by the wildest and emptiest scenery in France. Castellane is the gateway to the breathtaking Gorge du Verdons, France's answer to the Grand Canyon. Drive around the top of the canyon for a succession of jaw-dropping views or take a whitewater rafting trip along the river, organized by the small and friendly rafting company in the main square (the water is at its wildest in spring). The picturesque village is overlooked by a colossal, craggy outcrop of rock with a chapel on top; there are steps up to the top from the village square. Two very good traditional French hotels in the main square double as the best restaurants in town. To get to Castellane from the coast, take the main road north from Nice. The drive is straight out of a James Bond film: a seemingly endless succession of winding rock tunnels, cliff-hugging roads and beautiful valleys - amazing to find such an empty and unspoilt wilderness so close to the Cote d'Azur.
Hotel Eza Vista

Great "residence" hotel, clean and spacious. Good value for a family of five, and right next door to a great little bakery (and Fragonard Perfumery, if you are intereted). We have three children, so the kitchenette and the hotel's proximity to Nice, Monaco, etc. made our trip that much more enjoyable.
Hotel Ibis Marseille Centre Bourse

Less than 500 m from the old port, the Ibis Marseille Centre Bourse hotel is in the heart of Marseille, close to historic monuments and tourist sites. A short stroll from the Canebière, with a wide variety of choices for eating and drinking: restaurants, cafés, etc. The hotel has 51 air-conditioned rooms available for booking, including 2 for disabled guests, a bar open 24/24 and Wifi connection. The hotel is entirely non-smoking. Pets accepted.
L'Oasis

Restaurant 2 Rosette Michelin-rated. Purpose-built in neo-medaeval style with attractive shady central terrace. Serves Mediterranean food with occasionally an Oriental slant. Excellent service includes car jockey.
la maison sur la sorgue

We have just returned from a delightful stay at La Maison sur la Sorgue. The house itself has been beautifully and luxury restored, without losing any of its original Provencal charm. with charming hosts, who guided us on things to do and see and even offered us an aperitif! The breakfasts are delicious and very elegantly presented. A great stay in a wonderful town.
La Tamarissiere

This beautiful, tranquil village is set at the mouth of l'Herault. A couple of years ago my husband and I, together with our three children and two friends, went camping at Vias Plage.

Whilst driving around exploring the area and taking the children karting, just off the D612, we decided to try to find the sea.

Continuing down the narrow country lane we passed through this wonderful village with restaurants and bars just literally feet from the river.

As we arrived at the point where the river met the sea, the quai continued out into the Mediterranean, at the end of which proudly stood a small lighthouse. All along the quai were places amongst the rocks where the children could fish for crabs or, more adventurously, use a fishing pole for larger prey.

As we rested there, the sun began to set, giving that wonderful golden glow that is unique to the south of France. The lights in the village along the opposite bank of the river began to twinkle in the twilight, making the spot a veritable fairyland.

This is one of the nicest holiday places we have ever visited throughout our family lifetime, and one day we would love to return.