THE MAGIC OF PROVENCE. The beauty of Provence has inspired artists and lovers for centuries. Some believe its brilliant light is the source of its mystique. The painters Paul Cézanne and Vincent Van Gogh, who set up easels here, certainly thought so.
Bright, sunny skies shine across Provence's landscape from the Alps, which border it to the East, and down to the Mediterranean Sea in the south. Others credit the sweet, fresh air, perfumed by endless fields of lavender as the inspiration for great art -- and great love.
Still more insist it is the distinctive Provençal cuisine, a happy merger between the bounty of the mountains and the sea, that makes this an essential stopover on any France itinerary. Beyond these sensory delights, Provence's Romanesque churches, Roman ruins, and must-see museums also lure romantics.
UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE
- Plucking a sunflower like those Van Gogh immortalized
- Baring it all in a bikini at the beach in St-Tropez
- Strolling celebrity-clogged La Croisette in Cannes
- Marveling at the Maeght Foundation's world-famous modern-art collection in St-Paul-de-Vence
- Driving on narrow, twisting corniches from one scenic village to the next
- Gambling in the famed Monte Carlo casino
RIVIERACÔTE D'AZUR. The French Riviera has long been famous for its beaches, shops, casinos, sunny climate, and jet-set celebrities parading behind dark shades. From east to west, legendary resort towns -- including St-Tropez, Cannes, Cap d'Antibes, Nice, and Cap-Ferrat -- dot this posh, 125-mile-long stretch.
Art-lovers will want to visit Nice's Musée Chagall and Musée Matisse. For panoramic views of the sparkling-blue Mediterranean, head up to Eze. This ancient hilltop village's narrow passageways and enchanting gardens are perfect spots to steal a kiss.
All About France
Part 1: Introduction >
Part 2: Paris, France >
Part 3: Provence & the French Riviera
Part 4: French Travel Tips >
Part 5: French Tourism Regions >
