South of France, comprising the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, which combined have 6 distinct departments. The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (also known as PACA) region is stunningly diverse, offering an array of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. From the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera—think Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez—to the rugged beauty of the Alps, where winter sports and hiking reign supreme, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur’s landscape is as varied as it is breathtaking. Inland, you’ll find the tranquil, lavender-scented hills of Provence, dotted with charming villages and vineyards, while the wetlands of the Camargue are a haven for wildlife and nature lovers.
Whether you’re seeking cosmopolitan cities like Marseille and Avignon, alpine adventure in the Hautes-Alpes, or relaxing Mediterranean coastline, PACA’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty ensures that no two areas feel the same. This rich diversity means it cannot be summed up in one experience—every corner offers something distinct, from the artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence to the serene landscapes of the Verdon Gorge. This is truly a region of contrasts, where the vibrancy of the coast meets the peaceful charm of rural Provence.
The South of France, as we see it, is made up of one large administrative region: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
We have a lovely collection of properties in this region and we encourage you to have a look at them all on a map here.
Alpes-Maritimes – Capital: Nice
The Alpes-Maritimes department, with Nice as its capital, blends the glitz of the French Riviera with the rugged beauty of the Maritime Alps. Nice’s iconic Promenade des Anglais, the old town, and the museums dedicated to Matisse and Chagall make it a cultural hub. The coastline is lined with glamorous towns like Cannes—famous for its film festival—and Antibes, known for its beautiful beaches and the Picasso Museum. Inland, the town of Grasse is the world’s perfume capital, where you can tour perfume factories and flower fields. The Mercantour National Park, with its alpine trails and wildlife, offers a stark contrast to the cosmopolitan coastal towns, perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
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Bouches-du-Rhône – Capital: Marseille
As the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, Marseille is a bustling port city, blending maritime history with vibrant culture. Visit the striking Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, the modern MUCEM museum, and the bustling Vieux Port. The Calanques National Park, stretching between Marseille and Cassis, offers stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, ideal for hiking or boat trips. Inland, Aix-en-Provence charms visitors with its artistic legacy tied to Paul Cézanne, whose studio is a must-visit. The department is also home to Arles, where Roman ruins like the amphitheater and the city’s connection to Van Gogh add cultural richness. For nature lovers, the Camargue wetlands, famous for flamingos, wild horses, and salt flats, provide a unique, peaceful escape.
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Var – Capital: Toulon
The Var department, with its capital at Toulon, is known for its Mediterranean coastline, charming villages, and beautiful vineyards. The glamorous resort town of Saint-Tropez is world-famous for its beaches, nightlife, and jet-set lifestyle, while Toulon itself is a major naval base with a picturesque harbor and rich maritime history. The department also boasts the Îles d’Hyères, a group of idyllic islands with sandy beaches and pristine waters, ideal for day trips and snorkeling. Inland, the Var’s scenic countryside is dotted with Provençal villages like Bormes-les-Mimosas and Ramatuelle, as well as vineyards producing renowned rosé wines, particularly in Bandol. Adventurers will enjoy visiting the Gorges du Verdon, which offers opportunities for canoeing, rock climbing, and hiking through its dramatic cliffs.
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Vaucluse – Capital: Avignon
The Vaucluse, with Avignon as its capital, is steeped in history and culture, offering visitors the chance to explore the iconic Palais des Papes and the famous Pont d’Avignon. Avignon hosts a renowned performing arts festival each July, attracting visitors from all over the world. The department also features the legendary Mont Ventoux, a magnet for cyclists and hikers. The Luberon region, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages like Gordes and Roussillon, is famous for its picturesque landscapes. In Orange, the Roman theater, one of the best-preserved in Europe, continues to host performances today. The Vaucluse is perfect for history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking the charm of Provençal countryside.
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Alpes-de-Haute-Provence – Capital: Digne-les-Bains
The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is a rural, mountainous department known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with endless lavender fields, deep gorges, and picturesque villages. The capital, Digne-les-Bains, is famous for its thermal baths and lavender festivals, making it a perfect base for relaxation. The region is home to the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon, offering adventure activities such as hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing. Don’t miss the hilltop town of Sisteron, with its impressive citadel, and the tranquil lavender plains around Valensole in the summer. For a cultural touch, visit the Lavender Museum or explore the charming streets of Manosque, the hometown of writer Jean Giono.
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Hautes-Alpes – Capital: Gap
Hautes-Alpes, with its capital at Gap, is a high-altitude department nestled in the French Alps, offering pristine natural landscapes. It’s one of the most mountainous areas in France, making it a prime destination for winter sports, with popular ski resorts like Serre Chevalier and Vars. During the summer, the Écrins National Park attracts hikers and nature lovers with its dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, and glaciers. The town of Briançon, one of Europe’s highest cities, is a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its Vauban fortifications, adding a historical and cultural dimension to the natural beauty. Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or exploring historic mountain towns, Hautes-Alpes offers adventure in a serene alpine setting.
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We are specialist in holiday rentals in the South of France, if you would like any recommendations, or to have a conversation about the merits of holidaying in the South of France do get in touch.
