Luberon Vaucluse T.seray
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Top 10 eco-friendly mini adventures in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

If you’re seeking an eco-tourism break in France or novel holiday spiked with a taste of adventure, the South of France’s nature reserves are simply made for you! Explore our fabulous scenery nestling between sea and mountain and have fun while nurturing the environment. Check out our selection of totally tempting mini adventures!

Breakfast with breathtaking vistas over the Vallée des Baux

Revel in the beauty at Mas d’Aigret

If you’re looking for a dream holiday destination in France, head to the Alpilles! Mas d’Aigret, a hotel-restaurant lying at the foot of the extraordinary medieval village of Les-Baux-de-Provence, welcomes you for a gourmet-style change of scenery. A holder of the prestigious “Maître Restaurateur“ and “Valeurs Parc Naturel Régional” labels, this establishment is situated in one of the most stunning areas of the Alpilles Regional Nature Reserve. Open your eyes wide and simply lap up the breathtaking views from the terrace – there’s no better place to start the day with a tasty cup of coffee topped with delicious local produce. The peaceful garden steeped in Provencal charm boasts beautiful views over the surrounding mounts too. And another great surprise awaits you at the end of the day: Mas d’Aigret is located just a stone’s throw from the Sentier des Trémaïés walking trail situated down from the Château des Baux and offering 360° vistas over the iconic landscapes of the Alpilles. An absolute must at sundown!

The Luberon by bike

A cycling escapade as you please

Fancy exploring France and its gorgeous scenery by bike? A 236 km cycling route plus a host of alternative trails await you in the Luberon hills. Pedal off to explore the villages of Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence at the heart of the Luberon Regional Nature Reserve for a family adventure par excellence! The route is lined with breathtaking scenery dotted with hilltop villages, verdant valleys and exceptional historic sites promising plenty of forever memories to take back home. And after effort comes comfort: remember to stop off along the way to savour the delicious local produce and gastronomic fare, and pick up some goodies from the local farm shops and markets to stow in your backpack.

Gone with the wind on the “Sentier de La Digue à la Mer” trail

From Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer to Phare de la Gacholle

If you fancy a green break with all the family, head to the Camargue Regional Nature Reserve, lace up your walking shoes, grab your backpack and venture out to explore Camargue’s breathtaking lakes, wetlands, and landscapes. You’ll love this fascinating trail crossing vast stretches of salt marshes – and it’s suitable for all the family. If pedalling is your jive, you can also do the tour by bike; whatever you choose, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for majestic pink flamingos taking to the air… Our tip: you can reach the sea by heading to Phare de la Gacholle lighthouse. Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the Musée de la Camargue (Musée du Parc) museum. The Marais du Vigueirat saltmarshes, located on the other bank of the Grand Rhône, are also well worth a visit.

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Roaming the Maralpine between Alps and Mediterranean

The many moods of the Alpes-Maritimes

Treat yourself to 5 days and 4 nights exploring the magnificent Préalpes d’Azur Regional Nature Reserve with this wonderful walking tour crossing villages, mountain passes and peaks. An absolute dream for long-distance hikers! Revel in refreshing rivers and bubbling brooks, and take to the heights at the summit of Cheiron mountain. We definitely recommend stopping off at the charming hilltop villages along the way – a perfect excuse to sample the region’s culinary specialities! Leading from Saint-Auban to Grasse or Saint-Auban to Vence, this tour promises to enchant dedicated slow tourism fans.

Wandering in Queyras: an exceptional adventure

Peaceful mountain pastures

Opt for a back-to-nature green holiday with this glorious 5-day self-guided tour crossing Izoard valley and mountain hamlets – the perfect choice if you’re travelling with family or friends. The package includes a really great selection of eco-friendly accommodation too. The only down side is you won’t want it to end!

 

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Une publication partagée par gipfelwelt.net (@gipfelwelt)

A tranquil cycling tour of the Comtat Venaissin

A mini adventure at the foot of Mont Ventoux

Ecotourism has to be earned! Things can get pretty steep here, but the views really make it worth your while. Climb on your trusty bike and conquer the 1,650-metre uphill slope that awaits. And no stress – simply opt for an electrically-assisted bike if your calves can’t take the heat. Pedal along the pretty lanes crossing the Comtat Venaissin: an official Land of Art & History. This discreet area overflowing with varied and beautifully-preserved scenery is home to many natural treasures. In just 2 or 3 days, you’ll have time to discover the Dentelles de Montmirail rock formations, Carpentras, the winegrowing villages at the foot of Mont Ventoux and the Mounts of Vaucluse. Mont Ventoux is at the tips of your fingers (or pedals) too!

A photography course in the Verdon

Zooming in on nature

Looking for a resolutely novel activity in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur? David and Stéphanie host exceptional photography courses inviting participants to get a whole new angle on the stunning Verdon Canyon. These award-winning nature photographers know the mountains like the back of their hand. In addition to their profession, which takes them to the four corners of the world, David and Stéphanie love recharging their batteries by observing the canyon in different lights, or the majestic flights of eagles… Thanks to their advice, you’re sure to go home with pics to impress!

Conquering the Calanques fjords

From La Ciotat to Marseille

Ecotourism and dream decors really do go hand in hand… Head to the Calanques National Park for a weekend or more to see for yourself. A 31 km hiking trail awaits, crossing the iconic landscapes of the fjords – a succession of monumental cliffs, dazzling colours and picturesque little ports such as Cassis. Simply sublime! And if you want to have your bread and eat it too, simply stop off at a café terrace to savour a local dish and admire the sweeping views, or take a dip in the Med. In short, the perfect mini adventure for lovers of wide-open spaces, hiking and seascapes!

Learn to photograph animals in Mercantour

A novel stroll through the mountains

If you’d love a novel holiday experience up close and personal with animals, we have just what you need! Head off on a hike with Gil, a passionate animal photographer promising an adventure to remember. One of his excursions, hallmarked by the prestigious Esprit Parc National label, takes you on a tracking expedition in Ubaye Valley in the footsteps of the local fauna. A little tip: patience is your best ally. Gil’s exceptional photos offer a fascinating glimpse into his world, where silence and discretion are key to capturing magical moments. Now it’s your turn to play!

 

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Une publication partagée par Espace Mer (@espace_mer)

Riding the waves in Port-Cros National Park

Priceless natural riches

Need some inspiration for a special upcoming birthday? Here’s a gift they won’t forget in a hurry! Climb aboard an old gaffer for a day out on gorgeous Porquerolles island. On the programme: a stroll around the decks of the Brigantin, sundowners on the beach and scenery that promises to take your breath away. Another option: enjoy a magical day breaking the waves around the Golden Islands on Captain Stéphane’s sailboat. Water, water everywhere…

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