11-Nights Hiking Provence: Hilltop Villages to Les Calanques

Avignon

Visitors to Avignon won't want to leave, and the town is too interesting to leave. Avignon is ancient, full of history, life, youth, art, music and activity. Just to "see" the town itself, a visitor could wander the narrow streets inside the fortified walls for days without tiring of them.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

In this village in the heart of Provence, you’ll find all the charm of a typically Provencal way of life. You’ll soon be strolling along the boulevards under the shade of century-old plane trees. Wander around the narrow little streets, discovering squares where fountains play, and the attractive boutiques and art galleries that make the town’s historic centre so lively. Sit outside at one of the many cafes and restaurants, enjoying their welcome while you refresh yourself with a drink or try the country cooking based on local products. You’ll find a warm, friendly welcome in this charming little town of St. Remy, especially on market days and at the many celebrations and festivals throughout the year.

Gordes

Gordes is a very beautiful old village, in the heart of Provence, perched on the southern edge of high Plateau de Vaucluse. The stone buildings built in tight against the base of the cliffs and those perched on the rocks above, including the 12th-century castle, are made of beige stone that glows orange in the morning sun. The view from the village is a southern panorama out across fields and forest and small perched villages to the Montagne du Lubéron. Behind the village, small roads lead into the rocks and valleys and forests of the Plateau de Vaucluse, with the picturesque Abbaye de Sénanque nearby. See the beautiful village, the amazing views, and the lovely, rocky and forested contryside. Gordes is also a popular summer residence for artists, media, and film people from Paris. Victor Vasarely, who lives in a village of bories, has a Didactic Museum here as an extension to the Vasarely Foundation in Aix-en-Provence.

Cassis

Cassis, an old Provencal fishing port, is a popular summer resort that has drawn many famous painters to its sunny bay. Famous for its high white cliffs, Cassis lies at the foot of Europe's highest cliff, Cape Canaille (405m, 1352ft). Walk along the Promenade des Lombards and enjoy the small beaches dominated by a 14th century castle, shop in the boutiques or relax in the cafes.