Will be staying in two locations in Provence. One week in Nimes and another week in Sablet, northeast of Orange. Want too see as much as possible in the areas. Anyone have ideas that are not the usual Roman ruins, Pont-du-Gard, wine tasting as written up in all the books. We will definitely do those. We are not hikers and will have a car. Any ideas greatly appreciated.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
530 posts
First, don't entirely discount the Roman ruins etc that are written up in the books. They are written up for a reason. Perhaps I've misinterpreted, but it sounds like you are a more independent traveler. Therefore, I suggest you just get in your rental car and explore. If your intuition takes you to Arles, Aix-en-Provence, or to the coast or other places, so be it. All are wonderful. If you discover some unwritten-about village that you like, even better (but be sure to report back). Provence and the nearby regions are incredibly beautiful, and next time I'm there I plan to wander entirely guidebook-less. I really believe that's how you find the best of Provence, and perhaps the best of France.
Posted by
Atlanta
3262 posts
We spent 2 weeks in Provence last spring staying near St. Remy. Rick's Provence book is filled with suggestions. We especially enjoyed the morning markets in the small towns. Both the Carmargue and Cassis were highlights for us.
Posted by
Lake Oswego, Oregon
1329 posts
Nancy - I would be sure to see the medieval part of Vaison la Romaine, the Luberon perched villages, market day (varies by town/village), lavender fields if you are there in the summer. I second Cassis - loved it.
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
Vasion La Romaine!!! Stay in the old citie medieval on top of the mountain if possible. Tuesday Market in town every week since the 1700's...a great place for sure! There are roman ruins in the "downtown" area if you wish to see them...lots of good restaurants as well in the downtown and in the citie medieval.
Posted by
Dallas
1022 posts
A nice day trip from Nimes would take in the spectacular Millau Viaduc with a side trip to the beautiful village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. Another would be a loop through the Camargue visiting Aigues-Mortes and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.