Tranquillity and nature lovers, Haute-Provence is for you! This hilly region so appreciated by the writer Jean Giono, begins in Manosque and ends at the southern Alpes and has not yet been spoilt by mass tourism. Several villages are worth a visit, especially around Forcalquier, the Valensole plateau and the Verdon canyon. Forcalquier, a small village perched up high, was once the capital of Provence. The surrounding countryside is gently sloped, sheep graze, fields of wheat and lavender bend in the wind. To really get away from it all, take the road that leads to Banon, discover villages with a population of less than a hundred gathered around the church and the local bar, and also taste one of the best goat cheeses called “Banon”, a small cheese wrapped in chestnut leaves. The Valensole plateau also teases the senses in June and July with its lavender fields. The countryside is then a mix of lavender blue, greens of the trees and red ochres of soil. A living painting with an aroma! The Verdon canyon is more touristic: it attracts water sports lovers and hikers who are astounded by the fabulous panoramic view. Moustiers Sainte-Marie, a small village with a chapel topped with a star, wins over those wishing to mix nature and culture.
Ups: more affordable property
Downs: further away from the TGV stations (Aix-en-Provence and Avignon) and from the Marseille-Provence airport (1 hour).