The Provence-Alps-Côte d’Azur region is ideally situated between the Mediterranean coastline and the Alps. Its location and climate are extremely attractive. Extraordinary scenery combined with a rich historical past of exceptional archaeological and architectural interest, together with a multitude of celebrations and festivals, make it an exciting area to visit. Every city, town, village and resort is adequately equipped to accommodate and cater for the needs of the tourist trade whether in top class hotels or on camp sites.
The French Riviera-Côte d’Azur stretches along the Mediterranean at the foot of the last outcrop of the Alpine chain. Thanks to its southern situation, the proximity of the sea, the full southern exposure and, above all, to the screen of high mountains which protect it from the cold continental winds, it enjoys an exceptionally high winter temperature. Its privileged position means that the slopes are covered with tropical vegetation : orange and aloe, cactus and eucalyptous, rose-laurel, bougainvillea and mimosa.An interesting variety of tourism has been carefully developed here over the years.
Needless to say, the seaside resorts are the last word in entertainment, for aquatic sport and swimming, while the hill-walker and those seeking the quieter pathways find a varied countryside ; and when the seasonal change progresses, winter sports come into their own. One can honestly boast that vsitors from all over the world rate this place the premier European tourist region.
In under two hours you can travel from the palms and lemon trees of the coast to the nearby Alpine peak for coolness in the summer and snowsports in winter. With such a number of attractive features combined with the variety and quality of entertainment and the multitude of hotels and villas, it is no wonder that it attracts visitors from all over both in summertime and wintertime.
5 reasons to visit Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Art and Culture, a roman land
In 2007, archaeologists unearthed a life-size bust of Caesar that had been lying in the Rhône River for more than 2,000 years. A cultural itinerary has been created to coincide with the exhibition “Caesar, the Rhône remembers” unveiling the Provence-Côte d’Azur’s many Roman sites.
Outdoor Adventures
From thrill seekers who fancy taking to the air or going underground, to fans of family holidays, there is something for everyone.
Wine, Flavours and lifestyle
Surrounded by Côtes du Rhône and Côtes de Provence wine valleys, the region offers a cuisine as varied as its scenery. Discover the Bouillabaisse, the truffles, the olives, as well as the lavender essential oils and the markets of Provence.
City breaks
Elected European capital of culture for 2013, Marseille is without doubt one of the most dynamic cities in France combining diversity with energy and excitement. Along with Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Arles, the region hosts a huge number of events and festivals all year round.
Ski and Wellbeing
Enjoying a week in the mountains and finding affordable activities to please everyone can sometimes be challenging but some of the Southern Alps’ top ski resorts have come up with a range of activities to ensure everyone finds something for them.