Going on Walking Holidays in Provence is akin to being in a living postcard. The Mediterranean region is a beautiful mix of things to see, hear, and smell, with the lavender, the sunlit vineyards, the medieval towns perched on hills, and the soft river banks, and it is just so nice to discover all these at a slow and easy pace. Every step is a perfect opportunity to take it slow, to take the deep breath of the perfumed countryside, and to feel the ancient tastes of country life in France.
Your first walking trip in this region is not only about the destination but also about the journey. The lavender fields and the sun-bathed vineyards are just some of the highlights where you can find incredible opportunities for photography and sporting activities; they are meant to impress and amaze those who take the walking trail slowly. Whether walking in the company of a fragrant olive plantation, sipping coffee at a cute village café, or just experiencing the cicadas’ music on a warm afternoon, you’ll be the one to dictate the rules of your trip, and every decision will add to its entire value.
Provence is a veritable cornucopia of different kinds of landscapes. Are you going to witness the lavender fields of the Luberon, the challenging paths of the Alpilles, or the easy-going hills and valleys of the Vaucluse? Marked hiking trails according to your experience should be apartment and mixing shorter village-to-village walks and longer scenic paths will add up to a nice variety. It is better to plan beforehand to get the perfect mix of both!
One of the delights of walking holidays is residing in delightful, locally-owned inns or guesthouses. Select accommodations that conveniently sit along your intended route, preferably offering a cozy welcome, hearty breakfasts, and soft beds. This guarantees that each night is like a little reward after a long day spent learning new things and also lets you totally immerse yourself in the slow, easy-going lifestyle.
The secret to having a great time during your hiking trip is good packing. Along with other essentials, pack comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing to suit changing weather, a bottle of water that you can refill, sunblock, and a small backpack. Make sure to have a guidebook or digital GPX maps for navigation, but also include spontaneity in your plans; some of the most beautiful experiences are the result of sudden alterations to the route.
Turn your walks into a delight for your taste buds by planning them around the local flavors. Stop at the village bakeries to delight in the fresh pastries, savor the local wines at the less famous vineyards, or bring along some artisanal cheeses and breads for your picnic. These tiny gastronomic stops make a walk a holistic experience, teaching you about the land and its culture.
Provence is perfect for walks in the morning and late afternoon. The air is cooler, the light is gentler, and the colors and the wildlife in the countryside seem to come alive. Do not stay outdoors during the hottest part of the day, especially in summer, and use that time to relax, go sightseeing in a nearby village, or have a meal at a slow pace.
Walking Holidays in Provence is not just a journey, but a proposition to relax, to breathe the beautiful nature, and to discover the region's culture, food, and even its landscapes as if it were on your own time. A unique pleasure, an unforgettable adventure, and a ton of great memories are what you get when you plan well, secure comfortable lodging, and feel like discovering.