Postcards from Provence

Provence is the stuff that dreams are made of. Lavender, sunflowers, and vineyards fill the countryside. Ancient villages cling to the sides of hills, inviting visitors to explore medieval buildings. Local markets overflow with produce and spices so lovely and fresh that your mouth waters just looking at them. Everywhere, people seem to be enjoying the good life in the south of France. We fell in love with all the sights, flavors, and history of this divine place, and these photos will show you why.

Provence in Photos

In summer, the field at Abbaye de Senanque is ablaze with purple lavender

Squares from the 18th century (and older) abound in Aix-en-Provence

Buildings in the little towns drip with wisteria

Cruising the calanques is one of the best things to do in Cassis

Food markets teem with everything you need for a delicious meal

Read: An Embarrassment of Riches — Provence Market Days

Built around 70 AD, the Arena of Nimes still hosts bullfights and other events

Roman ruins are everywhere

Vineyards line the hillsides throughout the Cotes du Rhone

The village of Roussillon sits on a deposit of ochre

It doesn’t get much prettier than Gordes

The village of Gigondas is charming around every corner

Something new accents something old

See: France’s Palace of the Popes

Jardins de la Fontaine in Nimes is a free, public park modeled after Versailles

The streets of Arles are great places to get lost

The colors and ocean air are mesmerizing in the seaside town of Cassis

There’s a little sense of humor, too

The Pont du Gard still stands after 2000 years

Not all the works of art are old

And the views look like this

Have you visited Provence? What was your favorite thing to see there?