Provence, France

Provence is to be found in the sunny south east corner of France, with the Mediterranean Sea to its south and its mountains dropping down to the sea, the region is fundamentally rural and covers an area of more than 18,650sq miles or 30,000sqkm with a population of around 4.25million. Provence’s climate is the mildest in France. The summers are hot and for the most part dry, the winters by the coast are mild and warm.

The villages perched on the hilltops, many of which have now been restored, with their cobbled streets, archways and steps are undoubtedly of architectural interest. These villages date back to the Middle Ages when they were built around castle keeps, enclosed by thick stone walls, a good example of this being the village of St Paul-de-Vence, a popular sight-seeing destination.

Many species of flowers, insects, animals and birds can be found in Provence. Early Spring is perhaps the best time to see the flowers and late Spring to see the birds. There are some natural areas which have been made into reserves, these can be explored often by way of designated routes. But the Mistral, from the Latin word magistralis meaning masterful, a strong cold dry northerly wind blows strongest at this time of year and springtime can be cold and rainy.

Fetes are held throughout the year and in the months of July and August there are several music festivals. In the Summer months local markets are rich in fruit and vegetables and in July the plains of Valensole in the south are covered with the color and blossom of lavender and the air is scented with its perfume.
In Autumn the harvesting of the grapes takes place; in November the weather can be stormy and the rains heavy while in December snow covers the mountains.

Traditions play a very important part in the lives of the Provençal people. Craftsman with their age-old skills are very highly thought of and their wares can be widely found in the homes of Provence. At lunchtime the shops will always close at exactly midday. Conversation often includes the weather, the wine, the harvest, the flowers, the fruit and the vegetables and of course boules.