What to see and do in Provence in spring?

“Apéros Panorama” sundowners in Beaucaire, an eyeful of scenery

Fancy some wine tasting with a difference? Head to the top of Saint-Roman Abbey in the Gard area – Europe’s only Troglodyte abbey -, where an exceptional evening awaits you! But beware, you’re more than likely to fall madly in love with this incredible site: the remains of a monastery carved into the rock, tucked away in wild garrigue… On the programme: a tour of the site with wine tasting and tapas paying tribute to local produce. To make the most of the visit, you’ll need a pass to enjoy the intimate aperitif on the upper terrace of this mysterious and captivating venue. The 360° views over the Rhône Valley and Alpilles are simply out of this world too! A delicious moment of sharing and togetherness in the company of two passionate winegrowers.

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Une publication partagée par Just Rosé (@justrosefestival)

“Just’ Rosé” festival in Sanary, life in the pink!

Wake up and smell the rosés… The Just’Rosé open-air festival in Sanary-sur-Mer is an ode to the good life, with over 50 exhibitors from Provence and elsewhere come to meet visiting wine lovers and introduce them to their wares. You’re simply sure to find the rosé of your dreams here, whether you’re seeking an elegant poolside beverage, refreshing drink or rosé to accompany a game of petanque with your pals. What’s more, Sanary is irresistibly instagrammable all decked out in pink… Don’t miss the contests for the prettiest shop window and best wine bottle, plus art walks and concerts that promise to get festival-goers in the party mood. Meanwhile, kids can have fun with the Just’Kids space, cordial bars, magician, wooden games and makeup workshop. Pink is the colour! Please note that the 2024 edition has been cancelled due to roadworks, so the Just’Rosé festival looks forward to seeing you in 2025!

“Fête de la Transhumance” in Castellane

Flocks and meadows are part of the natural charm of Provence; a region that has remained deeply attached to its traditions. The three-day Transhumance Fair in Castellane pays homage to pastoralism and offers visitors a fascinating insight into the world of sheep farming. Discover how wool is woven to create the cosy sweaters we love to sport in winter, or how sheepdogs are trained. Foodies will love strolling around the stalls of the large farmers’ market, piled high with a tempting range of local goodies. Pause awhile to chat with the producers – they’ll be happy to unveil some of their time-honoured secrets. Castellane’s restaurants are also taking part in the fun with a special “Shepherd’s Menu” sure to satisfy even the most demanding connoisseurs. And because music is a must for a great atmosphere, you’ll also enjoy a heartwarming folk evening followed by a traditional mass.

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Une publication partagée par Arles Camargue Tourisme (@arles_camargue_tourisme)

“Fête des Gardians” in Arles, flying the flag of tradition

We call them “gardians” and they are the cowboys (or girls) that stand guard over the herds in Camargue. When spring comes around, a special procession is dedicated to them in Arles, ending at Eglise de la Major, the seat of their ancient guild dedicated to Saint George. The “gardians” and their horses are blessed during the traditional Provencal mass attended by villagers and visitors alike. After that, it’s time to elect the new captain of the “Confrérie des Gardians” guild and, every 3 years, a new Queen of Arles. Don’t miss the fabulous show of traditional games and races too!

The R2, THE groovy rooftop venue in Marseille

Spanning 1,250 m2 between sea and sky, the R2 is quite simply THE PLACE TO BE. Dedicated to fine dining and events, this gorgeous space features the “Terrasses du Port” rooftop venue, the festive “Matiasma” restaurant and the events and catering space “Le Reverso”. The rooftop boasts exceptional, 360° panoramic vistas over Marseille, the Mediterranean Sea, Frioul islands and Côte Bleue coast. You only live once, so simply sit back, relax and gaze out over the horizon for as long as the mood takes you… The city’s new must-do, the R2 hosts four exciting weekly events featuring a varied line-up of electric and experimental music and shows courtesy of French and international artists, DJs and performers. Swathed in a chill ambience embellished with greenery, the outdoor screenings also promise to astonish. A top new hangout for art and electro buffs, the R2 is reaching for the stars!

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Une publication partagée par Nuits Musicales d'Uzès (@nuits_musicales_uzes)

“Les Nuits Musicales” in Uzès, for music lovers

One of the oldest festivals in Occitania, “Les Nuits Musicales“, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020, returns to the ducal town of Uzès every spring, magicking it into an exceptional musical stage. This annual event has become a must for all lovers of classical music and jazz! The new L’Ombrière auditorium is the venue for the concerts, where the greatest conductors, performers, composers and artists come to amaze our music-loving ears with their virtuosity.

Golden hour aperitif at the Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez

There’s no time like the present for savouring a delicious cocktail – unless of course you’d rather wait until you’re comfortable seated on an idyllic rooftop… Perched at the summit of Saint-Tropez‘s most Parisian-style hotel, this gorgeous rooftop venue – also welcoming the restaurant “Les Toits” – is the perfect place for a spring sundowner. The terrace, perched between the village and Gulf, boasts magnificent vistas over the roofs of Saint-Tropez and Mediterranean Sea, inviting relaxation and reverie. The cocktails are unique here too: every drink is made to measure according to your preferences and spur-of-the-moment whims. Head mixologist Cédric Callé, the shaker magician, has crafted an exceptional menu of colourful, refreshing and exuberant signature cocktails sure to astonish traditional Martini and Cosmopolitan fans. Each recipe is unique, so even if you try, you simply won’t find them anywhere else.

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Une publication partagée par Hôtel De Paris Saint-Tropez (@hoteldeparissainttropez)

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Une publication partagée par Le grand ménage (@legrandmenage)

“Le Grand Ménage” in the Luberon, a tribute to performing arts

Held in spring in the towns of Cucuron, Vaugines, Cadenet, la Tour d’Aigues and Cabrière d’Aigues, this street art festival is a genuine showcase for talent and creativity, featuring a whirlwind, nine-day line-up of shows and concerts guaranteeing fun and frolics for locals and visitors alike! Ten or more troupes take centre stage in the streets, lanes and squares of the Luberon, inviting audiences on an urban stroll filled with enriching encounters and offering a new angle on street arts, far from the formal world of traditional theatre, yet overflowing with sensational acting and artistic talents.