Cannes and Saint-Tropez, white-sand beaches and lavender fields, cicadas buzzing and rosé wine… lots of refreshing, pink-tinted rosé wine. These are some of the reasons why Provence wine tours are so popular: world-class destinations, splendid scenery, and the taste of lingering summer in a glass of rosé. In fact, a Provence wine tour will include many of these sights (and wines) and will make for an unforgettable experience in the South of France.
Provence is one of the most romantic and beautiful regions of France. And as painted in the famous memoir, ‘A Year in Provence’ by Peter Mayle, the picture of Provence life is a charming 200-year-old farmhouse in a rural village surrounded by lavender. Reality is no different. With quaint little towns and their weekly markets, and lavender fields and vineyards stretching for miles and miles on end, this place is exactly as the book portrays. A fairytale destination for travellers who want to journey back in time and enjoy French tradition in all its glory.
From having some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Europe and being home to the most spectacular châteaux, to dishes like Ratatouille made in centuries-old traditional formats, history is the key to unlocking this region’s heart and soul. The glamorous coastline is also a draw to many of its visitors, with the dazzling, yacht-lined Côte d'Azur being the perfect place to rub shoulders with the rich and famous.
Then, of course, we need to talk about the wine. From refreshing Provence Rosé to quality Clairette de Die, there’s a drink for every night of the week – and plenty of choice for pairing with the region’s seafood. For gastronomy and luxury wine tasting experiences, there’s no better place than pretty Provence.
This delicious wine-tasting destination has been producing wine for over 2,600 years. That makes Provence the oldest wine region in France, and one of the most prestigious. White grapes here include Rolle (Vermentino), Ugni Blanc (Trebbiano), Bourboulenc, Clairette, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc.
In the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence AOC, the second-largest Provençal wine appellation. Nearly 60% of production is red, followed by 35% rosé and 5% white. Wine activities here are concentrated between the mountainous range running parallel to the coast, and its vineyards are never too far from the ocean. Its Grenache brings fatness and a fuller body to the wines, the Counoise varietals are delicate, fruity and supple, while the Mourvedre is robust and assertive.
To get a taste of the most famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape red, plan a visit to Southern Rhone where some of the oldest and most confidential wineries can be found. Or tour the Bellet wine estates if you are staying nearby in Nice.
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Most of Provence has a sea climate, and this is characterized by hot and dry summers with mild winters. Every season offers a unique advantage in this large region, and it’s also good to note that there are micro-climates and local variations. These range from the Alpine climate inland to the continental climate in the northern Vaucluse.
To see the quintessential lavender fields, arrive in the summer from late June to August. Sunflowers also bloom in July. If you want to avoid the busy tourist period, arrive during or just after the spring shoulder season.
September is also a great time to travel, with cooler temperatures that make it ideal for hiking, cycling and other outdoor pursuits. Fall is definitely this region’s best-kept tourism secret, with crowds disappearing and warming dishes such as Pistou soup replacing summer’s light salads. Vineyards are also at their most colourful and there’s a palpable buzz in the atmosphere as locals await the grape harvest.
When attending a wine tasting in Provence, it's important to dress stylishly yet comfortably, as you'll likely be walking through vineyards and standing for periods. Here are some suggestions for an appropriate outfit:
Dress/Skirt: Light, breathable sundress or skirt.
Footwear: Wedges, espadrilles, or flat sandals.
Layering: Light cardigan or scarf.
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunhat, small crossbody bag.
Shirt: Linen button-down or polo shirt.
Trousers: Lightweight trousers or chinos.
Footwear: Loafers, boat shoes, or clean sneakers.
Layering: Light jacket or sweater.
Accessories: Sunglasses, hat.
Provence is home to around 600 wineries. This region is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and excellent wines, particularly its rosés. The wineries range from small, family-owned estates to larger, well-known producers, offering a diverse array of wine-tasting experiences.
You will find some of the best wineries in Provence in Cassis and Bandol, featuring a-million-dollar views of the Mediterranean. Other wine-growing areas to include on your list are the wineries in Coteaux d'Aix en Provence, Palette and the Coteaux Varois, which -although relatively unknown elsewhere- produce world-class wines.
In your quest to find wineries in Provence, make sure you pay a visit to the fantastic vineyards of Bellet, where some incredible wines are being made out of the spotlight. On the hillsides of Nice, the wine estates in Bellet will happily open their doors to welcome you into their wine-making world where only local grape varieties are used, such as Rolle for whites and Braquet or Fuella Nera for rosés and reds.
There is much more than rosé to the French Riviera and the best wineries in Provence will make sure they introduce you to their crisp whites and robust reds too when you visit them. But if you are after the “la vie en rose” experience, rest assured that there will still be plenty of refreshing rosé to taste. Come to the south of France for the trip of a lifetime!
Château d'Esclans - Whispering Angel
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When visiting Provence, there are several charming cities you shouldn't miss. Each offers a special blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Here are some top recommendations:
Aix-en-Provence: Known for its vibrant markets, historic architecture, and connection to the painter Paul Cézanne.
Avignon: Famous for the Palais des Papes, the medieval bridge Pont Saint-Bénézet, and the annual theater festival.
Arles: Renowned for its Roman ruins, such as the amphitheater and the Alyscamps, and its association with Vincent van Gogh.
Marseille: The largest city in Provence, known for its bustling Old Port, historic Le Panier district, and the stunning Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde.
Cannes, famed for its glamorous film festival and stunning Mediterranean coastline, epitomizes luxury and elegance on the French Riviera.
Nice: Located on the French Riviera, Nice offers beautiful beaches, the Promenade des Anglais, and the vibrant Old Town.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Famous for its Roman heritage and as a spot where Vincent van Gogh created many of his masterpieces.
Gordes: A picturesque hilltop village known for its stunning views, stone buildings, and proximity to the Sénanque Abbey.
Cassis: A charming location known for its cliffs, calanques (rocky inlets), and delightful harbor.
Les Baux-de-Provence: A dramatic medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop, offering spectacular views and historic sites.
Toulon: A significant naval port with beautiful beaches, a lively market, and a picturesque old town.
Each of these cities and towns in Provence has its own unique charm and attractions, making the region a delightful destination to explore.
Provence offers a rich tapestry of sights and experiences, blending natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Here are some top attractions and sites to see in Provence:
Gorges du Verdon: Often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe," this stunning river canyon is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying breathtaking views.
Calanques National Park: Between Marseille and Cassis, these rocky inlets offer dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and great hiking trails.
Lavender Fields: Particularly in the Luberon and around Valensole, these fields bloom in summer, creating iconic Provençal scenery.
Palais des Papes in Avignon: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.
Pont du Gard: A remarkably preserved ancient Roman aqueduct bridge.
Roman Theatre in Orange: One of the best-preserved Roman theatres, still used for performances today.
Aix-en-Provence Markets: Vibrant markets offering local produce, crafts, and more.
Les Baux-de-Provence: Visit the Château des Baux and the Carrières de Lumières, an art and light show in a former quarry.
Arles Amphitheatre and Van Gogh Trail: Explore Roman architecture and sites that inspired Vincent van Gogh.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Renowned for its exceptional wines and beautiful vineyards.
Bandol: Another excellent wine region, particularly known for its rosés.
Camargue: A unique natural region known for its wild horses, pink flamingos, and bullfighting culture.
Luberon Regional Park: Offers charming villages, beautiful countryside, and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Provence is a region rich in diversity and beauty, offering something for every traveler, whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean ambiance.
Whispering Angel is famous because of its high quality and delicious taste, effective branding, and strong association with Provence's renowned rosé wines. Its popularity is also boosted by celebrity endorsements and wide availability, making it a standout choice among rosé lovers.
Whispering Angel became famous in part because celebrities like Adele and Victoria Beckham are known to enjoy this wine. Their influence has helped to popularize the wine and make it trendy among wine enthusiasts and social circles.
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Provence is a popular destination with wine enthusiasts, foodies and luxury seekers alike. This chic yet glitzy destination has cultivated a world of high-end resorts and tourist services. Let us whisk you away to a 5-star golf and spa hotel with a Michelin starred restaurant between Provence and the French Riviera, a fairytale château complete with vineyards and wine tasting, or a magnificent French villa with pool just outside the city of Aix-en-Provence.
Whether you dream of charming country manors and private rentals surrounded by nature, or castle hotels, we can help you customize the perfect holiday.
Food in Provence is an unforgettable experience, with a great selection wines in most bars and restaurants. If you want a gastronomic experience to remember, there are plenty of Michelin-starred venues to choose from too.
Oustau de Baumaniere has two stars to its name and its wine cellar boasts over 60,000 bottles! For a modern take on Provençal cuisine, book your table at Le Champ Des Lunes at Le Domaine de Fontenille. If you enjoy the culinary poetry of regional cooking and organic ingredients, try Benvengudo Restaurant by Chef Thomas Voisin. Or eat the seasons with the freshest local ingredients at Restaurant de la Bastide de Marie, a venue that’s within reach from Avignon or Marseille.
