Our centre is situated in the middle of a region that contains some of the most historical towns and beautiful countryside in Provence. Avignon is 20 minutes to the north, St Rémy and Les Alpilles 15 minutes south, the hilltop villages of the Luberon to the East and La Montagnette and Arles to the West.

During the week you will have a chance to explore this beautiful area and meet some of the local guides and artisans. The visits are guided but also allow time to explore towns and villages by yourself. 

 

(Click on map to enlarge)

Avignon
City of culture and ancient home of the papacy during the 14th century. It is possible to walk along the ancient walls and 'sur le pont d'Avignon' - le pont St Bénezet. The 'Palais de Pape' is architecturally unique and dominates the old town. It is the largest Gothic palace in Europe. Avignon is also home to Europe's largest theatre and dance festival, which takes place in July. The town comes alive with street acts and professional performances.
St Rémy
Although only a small town, St Rémy is one of Provence's cultural centres. Built on a Celtic-Ligurian site, it became an important Roman settlement. The ruins of 'Glanum' are set in a striking landscape with a backdrop of Les Alpilles (first picture). St Rémy later became an important medieval town and was the birthplace of Nostradamus. Vincent van Gogh stayed at the psychiatric hospital during 1889. The hospital was built around an ancient church (second picture). The beautiful setting of St Rémy attracted Princess Diana and Princess Caroline of Monaco, who still has a property in the area, which historically had strong links to Monaco

Le Luberon
A short drive to the east lies the valley of the 'Le Luberon'. During the turbulent Middle Ages villages were built on hilltops for defence. Gordes (first picture) is a stunning example of this with its 12th century castle in the centre. Roussillon (second picture) is a magical village surrounded by red cliffs of ochre. The houses of the village are decorated in this native earth colour and it is used by local artists
Arles
Once the Roman capital of Provence, Arles has many well-preserved remains, including the Arena. Arles is a very beautiful town and for some people it is the heart of Provence. It is proud of its history and traditions and the town is full of colour. The traditional Arlesian dress and white horses of the Camargues are famous throughout France. Some of Van Gogh's most famous works were painted at Arles, including the 'Night Café'. The café still exists today.