Top 10 panoramic views in Provence

If you’re a fan of exceptional natural areas, discover Provence’s finest viewpoints! Believe us – you’ll never get tired of these stunning panoramas.

Marvel at the Gorges du Verdon

Europe’s highest canyon, the Gorges du Verdon is famed far and wide and the 440,000-acre Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon boasts truly incredible landscapes. Whether you’re travelling with the family or seasoned hikers, there are walking tours here for everyone here, including the « basses gorges » (lower gorge), grand canyon, and tranquil footpaths around Lac Sainte-Croix lake – just take your pick! If you want to get up close and personal with the Gorges du Verdon, rent out a canoe and enjoy a relaxing ride through the limestone cliffs cascading down into turquoise waters.

Enjoy a change of scenery in the Camargue

If you want to get away from the hubbub of urban life and enjoy a breath of fresh air, head to the Camargue! Set between wetlands and saltmarshes, the Camargue and its vast expanses of wild countryside are a haven for nature lovers. Slip your binoculars out quietly and you’ll be able to observe some of the 350 bird species that come here to feed and nest, including pink flamingos at Étang de Fangassier. Don’t forget to visit a local bull or horse ranch to learn more about the Camargue’s emblematic animals too.

Roam the Montagne Sainte-Victoire

A genuine walkers’ paradise, the Montagne Sainte-Victoire is a favourite spot for outdoor sports fans. After touring Aix-en-Provence, head to the Massif de la Sainte-Victoire to get your fill of breathtaking landscapes. Stop off for a countrified picnic to admire the breathtaking panoramic views over Provence: it’s easy to understand why Cézanne chose to set up his easel in this enchanting setting.

Reserve and natural area in Provence

Tackle the Calanques fjords on the GR51 footpath

Whether you’re touring on foot, by bike or even by boat, set off to explore the Calanques fjords on the GR51 long-distance footpath. After tackling the footpaths leading to the Balcons de la Méditerranée (balconies of the Mediterranean), stop off to admire the panoramic view over wild coves and crystal-clear waters – a genuine picture-postcard setting! Tip: the view is even more magical at dusk, when the setting sun lights up the cliffs and reflects on the water.

Get to know the Ochres of the Luberon

After exploring the little lanes of Roussillon, one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, head to the Sentier des Ocres du Luberon for a colourful experience! Take the stairs carved into the ochre rock and let this fairytale site work its magic. With its striking contrasts of fiery stone and green oaks, this is a great spot to take some amazing pics too. Want to see more? Head to the nearby Colorado of Provence to continue your plunge in colourful Provence!

Explore the Garlaban Hills

Brought to fame by Marcel Pagnol, the Massif du Garlaban is one of Provence’s must-see sights. Slip on your walking shoes, grab a large bottle of water and a picnic and head off for a casual hike in the country. After an easy climb, you’ll reach the top of the Garlaban at an altitude of 628 metres: jaw-dropping panoramic views over Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea await you.

Explore the Sainte-Baume Hills

How about a delightful forest walk in the Massif de la Sainte-Baume? Take the Sentier du Canapé footpath to get your fill of awe-inspiring scenery. One of the highlights of the walk is the Grotte de la Sainte-Baume – pilgrims travel from the world over to visit this cave and the church set inside it: a truly unique site and absolute must-do. The views from the cave entrance are stunning too. The way back also offers some fabulous surprises – it was once walked by King Louis XIV himself!

Attention, the cave Sainte-Baume is currently closed for work

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Une publication partagée par Ninon (@ninonolivia) le 22 Oct. 2018 à 6 :53 PDT

Admire the Dentelles de Montmirail

Welcome to the kingdom of nature lovers! Here, in the mountains of the Vaucluse area, the limestone has been carved into spectacular lacy rock formations, lined with forests and vines. Climbers, walkers and mountain bikers seeking fabulous panoramic views are bound to find the route of their dreams among the many footpaths on offer. On the way back, stop off at one of the local vineyards: Muscatel and Beaumes-de-Venise are local institutions in Provence.

Roam the fragrant garrigue

An intrinsic part of the Mediterranean, the arid garrigue is one of the symbols of Provence. Enjoy a relaxing stroll as you appreciate the wafting scents of wild thyme and rosemary filling the air – you’ll be inspired to don your apron and concoct one of our typical little Provencal dishes afterwards! Your walk will also unveil the many typical plant and animal species typically found in the garrigue: a wonderfully peaceful moment, cradled by the sound of chirping cicadas hidden away in the wild lavender bushes.

Flora in Provence

Follow the Côte Bleue coastal road

From Martigues to Marseille, discover the magnificent panoramic views of the Côte Bleue coast as you venture from cove to fjord and contemplate the translucent waters of the Mediterranean. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the Calanque des Eaux Salées – the fjord is only accessible on foot. Swim out to the little island just offshore to enjoy relaxing and bathing in the incredible natural pool heated by sunshine. If you want to savour more of the charms of the Côte Bleue, head to the Couronne Vieille coves where you can lay down your towel among the rocks and let the sound of the waves lull you – what better way to get back on top of the world!