Exploring Vineyards and Villages : South of France Road Trip

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve daydreamed about driving through the The South of France has been thoroughly explored by... me ! And let me tell you, it’s even better than you can imagine! Visualize this: you’re driving a car, cruising past the gorgeous villages, the rolling vineyards and on roads that would capture your heart. You might call it a crikey treasure, but I have spent hours and hours exploring the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region and I have to say, it is worth my time!

The only downside about this area? Well, there’s no such thing as a downside! Would you like to indulge in the high life of the French Riviera as I did? Or would you prefer the quiet stillness of the lavender fields in Provence? Either way, you are in for a surprise.

So here’s what I’ll be covering:

• The best sights for those who never run out of things to do (you’ll fall in love with them!)
• Mother nature creating wonders that will leave you awestruck
• No words can ever justify how picturesque these towns are
• Where to start your trip, and how to best avoid the pitfalls (some I learned the hard way!)

So take your tea and get comfortable – I am about to show you how to prepare for the trip of your dreams! I will take you from those cobbled roads of the past to those little vineyards where you can get the best wine. Just so you know – once you visit the Southern France, every other place is completely pointless!

Cote d'Azure

Menton : My Little Slice of Mediterranean Heaven

I have to tell you about Menton, this little gem right on the Italian border. The locals call it the Pearl of France and I believe them! Imagine me wandering through cobblestone streets, surrounded by buildings in the most gorgeous pastel colours you’ve ever seen. It’s like walking through a watercolour painting!

The other day I popped into the Jardin Serre de la Madone and oh my goodness, what a treat! The terraced gardens are chock full of the most exotic plants, it’s like stepping into a tropical paradise.

Don’t miss:

• The Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange - the views are breathtaking!
• For a taste of local life get to the Marché des Halles. The citrus fruits are crazy good.
• And the food? It’s got an Italian twist! Have you tried socca? It’s this incredible chickpea flatbread that will make your taste buds sing!

Monaco: Where Luxury Meets the Sea

Okay, so let me tell you about Monaco - it’s mental in the best way! This tiny place is where the rich come to play and honestly, it’s not hard to see why.

Want my top tips?

• You have to go to the Monte Carlo Casino - even if you’re not feeling lucky, the building itself is worth a look.
• Take a walk through the Jardin Exotique. The succulents are cool but those city views? Amazing!
• And here’s a foodie secret: find some Barbajuans. They’re these little fried parcels filled with Swiss chard and ricotta. Bliss!

Monaco

Nice

I love Nice - it’s the heart of the French Riviera and trust me it’s even more beautiful in real life than in pictures! The Promenade des Anglais is a feast for the eyes and the city has this energy about it I can’t get enough of.

Here are some of my faves:

• The Musée Matisse is a must see. I spent hours wandering around Matisse’s colourful works of art - he knew what he was doing when he chose Nice as his home!
• Want a real Nice experience? Do what I did and take a walk along the Promenade des Anglais (with ice cream in hand of course). Then get lost in the winding streets of Vieux Nice - it’s like stepping back in time with the most beautiful markets and cafes you’ll ever see.
• And don’t even get me started on the food! You haven’t really been to Nice until you’ve had a proper Salade Niçoise. Fresh tomatoes, perfectly boiled eggs, those famous Niçoise olives and tender tuna - it’s heaven on a plate.

Nice

Cannes

Oh Cannes! If Nice is the heart of the Riviera, Cannes is definitely its glamorous soul. I pinched myself the first time I walked past those fancy boutiques and golden beaches.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

• Pop by the Palais des Festivals - even if you’re not visiting during the film festival in May, it’s fun to pose on those famous red steps. I did!
• Take a stroll down La Croisette promenade - it’s people watching at its best. If you’re feeling brave (like I was), jump on a boat to the Lérins Islands. The views are stunning!
• Hungry? Get a bowl of bouillabaisse. With a glass of rosé.

Saint Tropez

What’s wonderful about Saint Tropez? It’s like watching that boy from your school go on to become a Hollywood actor – it was a humble fishing village in the beginning, but now it’s a favorite nesting place of the wealthy! But it hasn’t let its popularity outsmart it.

I think you’ll like:

• The Citadel - a bit of a climb, but crikey, those views over the bay are worth every step! I spent hours up there just taking it all in.
• Fancy a proper French market experience? Go down to Place des Lices - I bought some lovely local goodies there.
• And don’t forget to try the Tarte Tropézienne! It’s a cream filled brioche that was born here. You won’t regret it.

Saint Tropez

Moustiers Sainte-Marie

And if you want something a bit different, this will blow your mind! A village literally hanging off limestone cliffs - that’s Moustiers for you. The best bit? A huge star suspended between the cliffs above the village - wow!

Here’s what not to miss:

• Go up to Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel - I was a bit knackered by the climb but the views are stunning!
• Have a look around the pottery workshops - I couldn’t resist buying one of their lovely hand painted ones.
• When you’re hungry try the daube - it’s this lovely beef stew that will warm your bones. Perfect after a day of walking!

Whether you want glamorous beaches or village life, these are real gems. I find each one gives you a different taste of what makes Southern France so good. Don’t you agree that’s what travel is all about?

Verdon Gorge

I’ll never forget my first glimpse of the Verdon Gorge - it literally took my breath away! They call it Europe’s Grand Canyon and it’s a real showstopper. Trust me if you’re a nature nut like me you have to add this to your bucket list.

Imagine this : you’re paddling through crystal clear turquoise water in your kayak surrounded by limestone cliffs that seem to touch the sky. I did this last summer and let me tell you it’s proper magic! The way the sun hits the water and creates these emerald reflections - it’s like a fairy tale.

Don’t want to get your feet wet? No problem! I’d highly recommend the Sentier Blanc-Martel trail. It’s one of my favourite walks in the area and the views are stunning. You’ll want to bring your camera for this one - there are endless photo opportunities!

Verdon Gorge

The Dreamy Lavender Fields of Valensole

I recall my first visit to the Valensole plateau quite vividly – it was as if I had entered a work of art! You must picture this – endless domains of violet stretching into infinity, the kind and warm Mediterranean rays bathing everything in light. If you want to see this magic (and trust me you should!) plan your visit between late June and early August when lavender is blooming.

I spent hours wandering through these fragrant fields and let me tell you it’s worth getting your trainers dusty! Have you ever tried to capture the perfect lavender photo? Here’s a top tip: visit during the “golden hour” just before sunset - the light is beautiful. And while you’re there why not pop into one of the lovely family run farms? They’ll show you around the lavender farm and you can buy some lovely lavender goodies to take home.

Adventure Time at the Ardèche Gorges

Want some adventure? The Ardèche Gorges are the ticket. I remember my heart racing as I paddled down the Ardèche River in my canoe surrounded by limestone cliffs. It’s proper exciting but don’t worry even beginners can do it with a good guide!

The star of the show has to be the Pont d’Arc - this massive natural stone arch is stunning. I’d recommend bringing a proper British picnic and finding one of the secret beaches along the river for lunch. Bliss!

And if you don’t want to get your feet wet the hiking trails are good. You’ll get some great views of the gorges - for your Instagram!

Ardèche Gorges

I have to tell you about Gordes - it’s a total stunner! Imagine a village sitting right on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau with views over the Luberon Valley that will blow your mind. I love wandering through the cobblestone streets, getting lost amongst the old stone houses until I stumble upon the magnificent Château de Gordes. It’s a real fortress, this one, dating back to the 11th century and now home to some great art exhibitions. If you’re like me you’ll be chuffed to bits when you visit the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque - especially in summer when the lavender’s in bloom. It’s proper Instagram gold!

Now let me take you to Les Baux de Provence - another great village perched on top of a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains. I think it’s got some of the most dramatic views I’ve ever seen! Every time I wander through the narrow streets I find something new - a quirky little shop or some medieval ruins. The Château des Baux is a must see and I always make time for the Carrières de Lumières. Trust me watching art projections on the walls of an old quarry is something else!

Hungry? You’re in luck:

• Go to La Bastide de Gordes - their Provençal food is to die for. The way they use local olive oil and fresh herbs... chef’s kiss
• If you’re feeling fancy treat yourself to L’Oustau de Baumanière in Les Baux. It’s got a Michelin star and blimey you can taste why!

I’ve been to these villages countless times and they never fail to impress me. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie or just love a good view (and who doesn’t?) you must add these to your South of France itinerary. Take it from someone who’s been - you won’t regret it!

Gordes

I am going to take you through one of my favorite locations in France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. And if you're a fan of wine just like I am – boy, are you going to have quite the vacation! I have been to some wonderful vineyards and I am confident you will love my favorites.

Château Neuf du Pape

First we have Château Neuf du Pape – and you are going to love it! What a delightful afternoon I had, strolling about their vineyards in the rolling hills of the Rhône Valley taking in the details of how they produce red wines. What’s the best of it? Drinking their strong red wines, which they have been making for hundreds of years! Awesome!

Domaine de Saint-Ser

Have you ever sipped wine while looking at a mountain? That’s exactly what you’ll do at Domaine de Saint-Ser. I sat there with a glass in hand and was completely mesmerised by the views of Mont Sainte-Victoire. Their rosés are lovely - perfect for a sunny afternoon!

Château de Berne

And if you want a bit of luxury then you have to check out Château de Berne near Lorgues. I had the most amazing day here - visited their historic cellars, tasted some award winning wines and finished off with a proper fancy meal in their restaurant. The lavender fields are a bonus - they’re stunning!

Domaine de la Citadelle

Looking for something a bit different? Go to Domaine de la Citadelle in Luberon. It’s run by this lovely family who are very into organic farming. I learned loads about their sustainable methods and their wines? Delicious!

Mas de Cadenet

Mas de Cadenet has been my go to for rosé since I discovered it. They’ve been making wine since 1813 and blimey do they know what they’re doing! The setting is gorgeous and their tastings are really relaxed and informal.

La Bastide Saint Dominique

And finally there’s this little gem La Bastide Saint Dominique. Not as well known as some of the others but their wines are great! I had a lovely time in their cellar trying their small batch wines. It feels like you’re in on a secret!

Here’s a top tip: take your time at each place. Wine tasting in Provence isn’t just about drinking lovely wine (though that’s brilliant!) - it’s about soaking up the history and culture too. Each vineyard has its own story and they’re all worth hearing.

Vineyards

I have some of my best tips ready to share with you! Whether being your first time in France or not, these will certainly enhance your trip and make it absolutely fabulous.

Let’s proceed to the interesting parts and that’s planning your route! It is obvious that I’ve learnt that it is extremely important to have a clear plan of action, but never to overschedule and pack the days too tight. For instance, some of my fondest moments however were getting lost and making unplanned stops in Menton and Saint Tropez. And here’s the best advice, if you time your visit for March of May, there won’t be any tourists and the weather will be beautiful, perfect. How’s that?

Right, and about transport. There are two choices here: a rental car or a campervan. Personally, I am a fan of the campervan – how cool is it to literally have your house on wheels? And you can park it towards secluded locations and wake up to breathtaking scenery. But if a person prefers hotels comfortable cars will be alright too.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s comfy! I once made the mistake of hiring a tiny car for a two week trip and let’s just say my back wasn’t too happy about it. Go for something with decent legroom and good air con – you’ll thank me later when you’re cruising through Provence in the spring!

Snag Your Perfect Campervan Early

Book early, book early, book early! I can’t stress this enough. Last summer I nearly missed out on my dream van because I left it too late!

• I use Motorhome Republic now - they’re great for comparing different vans and prices. Plus they’ve got everything from tiny 2-berths to luxury motorhomes.
• Here’s a money saving tip: look out for the early bird deals. I saved 20% on my last booking just by booking early!

Pack Like a Pro

Want to know my secret to stress-free packing? Keep it simple! After years of trips I’ve got this down to a fine art.

• Keep it simple, folks. I mean those clever convertible trousers, a good waterproof (you never know!), and your comfiest trainers. Don’t forget your sun cream - the French sun can be sneaky!
• I learnt the hard way about tech essentials. Now I never leave without my portable charger, GPS and camera. You’ll want to capture those Provence moments!

Stay in the Loop

Being connected makes everything so much easier - and I mean everything!

• Get a local SIM card when you arrive. I used to faff about with roaming, but this is much cheaper and more reliable. Trust me on this one!
• Have you downloaded your travel apps yet? They’re absolute lifesavers! I use mine for everything from finding hidden local restaurants to navigating those charming (but confusing!) French villages.

There you have it - my top tips for an amazing South of France adventure. Get these sorted and you’ll be free to get on with the important stuff - like deciding which vineyard to visit first!

A South of France road trip is an adventure of vineyards and villages. Imagine yourself driving along winding roads, each bend revealing more and more of the scenery, history and local delights.

With the right bits and bobs and a bit of planning you’ll be all set to get stuck in to this region. So pack up, buckle up and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime on your South of France trip. Bon voyage!