The southeast of France is home to sun-kissed Provence where walkers can choose between a wide array of distinctive areas. Provence is particularly renowned for its dazzling light, vivid colours and natural beauty. Little wonder that Provence is a region beloved by artists and has inspired the likes of Van Gogh, Cezanne, Matisse and Picasso.

Whilst the towns established along the Mediterranean coastline are very developed, inland Provence comprises wild and dramatic landscapes. The Southern Alps and surrounding foothills are heavily forested and mountainous. An absolute highlight is the spectacular limestone Verdon Gorge in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This is Europe’s deepest gorge towering above the turquoise waters of the winding Verdon River. The Verdon Natural Regional Park located in the Verdon Valley is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

The lush Luberon Hills with their stunning mix of historic villages, lavender fields, vineyards, orchards and forests, are often described as “Classic Provence”. Despite its popularity, it is still possible to explore quiet walking trails linking the ancient hill-top hamlets in the Luberon Regional Park. Favourite towns along the way include the perched medieval villages of Gordes, Bonnieux and Roussillon as well as fascinating Fontaine-de-Vaucluse with the largest natural spring in France at the foot of the Vaucluse Mountains.

For art lovers, it is possible to walk through the limestone Les Alpilles foothills in the Rhone Valley and visit places which inspired many of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings. Whilst living in Arles and Saint-Remy, he painted 350 works in his quest to accurately capture the intense colours of Provence.

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Haute Provence Trail

Commencing in the foothills of the Provencal Alps, this trail offers a scenic mix of mountains, forests, medieval towns and lavender fields. The star attraction is the magnificent Verdon Gorge with its towering limestone walls and the turquoise waters of the Verdon River.