Why you should discover Bédoin in Provence

Bédoin, Provence © French Moments

In this article, I have chosen to tell you about the village of Bédoin, where we stayed for a fortnight in Spring. Situated at the foot of Mont Ventoux, the village benefits from many tourist assets. Here is a small summary of our stay in this little corner of paradise. Between vineyards, cherry orchards, lavender Read more…

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What to see in Nice when cruising the French Riviera

Nice Port © Rosanna Delpiano - licence [CC BY-SA 4.0] from Wikimedia Commons

You should start (or finish) a cruise in Nice for many good reasons. The vibrant French town is ideally situated on the Mediterranean seafront, with the Maritime Alps towering above its hinterland. This is a little guide to what to see in Nice when cruising the French Riviera!   Watch our short video on the Read more…

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Villas in Provence: French Elegance in Southern France

Villas in Provence - Villa Ephrussi de Rotschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Source: Depositphotos.com

Provence is a region in southeastern France that has long been a favourite destination for travellers worldwide. With its stunning natural landscapes, picturesque villages, and rich cultural heritage, Provence offers a unique blend of history, art, and nature that appeals to all kinds of visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Roman ruins, tasting local Read more…

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The Prince’s Palace of Monaco: A Mini-Guide

The Prince's Palace of Monaco. Photo: @SNABSA via Twenty20

Standing on a rocky promontory (Le Rocher), the Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the ruling Prince of Monaco. The castle has been the home of the Grimaldi dynasty since the end of the 13th century. The Palais de Monaco occupies a unique and spectacular geological site, facing the Mediterranean Sea at Read more…

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The most beautiful sites in the Luberon

Luberon © French Moments

The Luberon is a protected mountainous region in the département of Vaucluse, in the southeast of France, which shelters a huddle of charming villages. Let’s discover some of its most beautiful sites.     About the Luberon region in Provence The Luberon, adored by French author Marcel Pagnol, was Samuel Beckett’s refuge during the Second Read more…

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The French Riviera or Côte d’Azur: A discovery guide

French Riviera - Côte d'Azur © Frédéric Ducarme - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons

For many French people, the French Riviera (or Côte d’Azur) is synonymous with summer holidays. Between mountains and the sea, the French Riviera offers a stunning variety of landscapes and colours, from beaches and seclusive bays to promontories. The seashore is lined with cluster pines, palm trees and the Mediterranean maquis. Let’s have a closer Read more…

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The French Alps: A Mini Discovery Guide

Mont-Blanc from Salève © French Moments

Walking underneath dramatic glaciers and snow-capped peaks, strolling in the picture-perfect old towns and villages, tasting the delicious mountain cheese while relaxing on the shores of alpine lakes, the French Alps have much to offer to its visitors. Although crowded in winter, this part of France is often bypassed by English-speaking tourists in summer who Read more…

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The Esterel Corniche Road: A Scenic Journey

The Esterel corniche road. Photo by StevanZZ via Envato Elements

Between Saint-Raphaël and La Napoule, the Esterel massif offers natural scenery which inspires wonder. It is one of the most beautiful regions of Provence, opened to mass tourism since the creation by the Touring Club of the Esterel corniche road or Corniche d’Or (1903). The contrast between the coast’s bustling life and the hinterland’s deserted Read more…

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The cultural highlights of Provence

Lourmarin 13 © French Moments

The Provence, part of the PACA region, one of the richest in France, is the most visited area in France after Paris city. Located in the South-East, this picturesque area is famous for its mild weather, snow-clad mountains, fields of lavender, olive trees and vineyards. But the noticeable mediaeval architecture in the main cities, fortified Read more…

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The Countryside of Bonnieux and Lacoste, A Provençal Exploration

Walking in the countryside of Bonnieux © French Moments

Our accommodation is in a Provençal farmhouse in the middle of the Luberon countryside. This location is ideal for exploring the surrounding area without taking the car. For us, the countryside of Bonnieux is a complete change of scenery.Bonnieux early morningSince arriving in Provence, we’ve been walking around our accommodation, especially in the mornings when Read more…

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The Calissons of Aix: a Specialty Candy from Provence

Calissons of Aix. Photo by annapustynnikova via Envato Elements

The city of Aix-en-Provence and the delicious calissons have had a common destiny for several centuries. It is one of the emblematic delicacies of Provence and is one of the famous thirteen Christmas desserts. Let’s lift the curtain on this subtle mixture of almonds and candied melons.     What are calissons from Aix? Calissons Read more…

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The best sites to see around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Place Favier, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence © French Moments

Last August, we were in Provence, in the area around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, for a couple of days. The south of France is always a popular destination with a guaranteed warm summer. It was definitely sizzling when we were there, and afternoon naps were a must! Here are some of our favourite places around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence that we Read more…

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The Alpilles in Provence: A Discovery Guide

If you are looking for a postcard image of Provence, that of authentic Provençal atmosphere, then look no further than the Alpilles mountain range! The region boasts some of Provence’s most famous tourist sites, such as the fantastic Roman ruins of Glanum, the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence, the stylish and refined little town of Read more…

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Sur le Pont d’Avignon

Sur le pont d'Avignon © French Moments

Sur le pont d’Avignon is a traditional French song dating to the 15th century. The mimed ronde involves all sorts of characters dancing around or on the famous bridge Pont Saint-Bénézet in Avignon.The story of the songSome scholars date the song back to at least the 15th century. However, neither the author nor the origin of the Read more…

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Sainte-Agnès, a perched village above Menton

General view of Sainte-Agnès © Patrick Rouzet - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons

When driving on the mountain road D22, the hilltop village of Sainte-Agnès makes a great impression. It is perched on the flank of a mountain high above the town of Menton and the Mediterranean sea. Locals claim the village is the highest coastal village in Europe. Whether this is true or not, from there, the Read more…

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Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: A Discovery Guide

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Guided Walk © French Moments

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence lies in the beautiful countryside against the backdrop of the Alpilles range. Lush green fields with sturdy cypresses and poplars surround the delightful country town. In this article, I have included a 1 km self-guided walk across the streets of the old town to help you discover all the exciting places. Watch our short Read more…

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Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Guided Walk: A Tour of the Country Town

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Guided Walk © French Moments

Welcome to the ‘Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this charming country town under the warm, gentle embrace of the autumn sun.  This video marks the eighth of a series where I unveil the wonders of Provence’s Read more…

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Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A Seaside Resort on the Riviera

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - Stock Photos from Kovankin Sergey - Shutterstock

The seaside resort of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lies on a beautiful peninsula on the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is primarily a fashionable destination amongst celebrities and millionaires, with many opulent villas built on a great site.   Plan your trip to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat! 🏨 Find the best accommodations in Villefranche-sur-Mer and the region on Booking.com Read more…

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Roussillon in Provence: What to See and Do

Roussillon in Provence © French Moments

Roussillon lies in the northern part of the Luberon, between the Luberon mountain and the Vaucluse Plateau. The village is famous for its ochre quarries that were exploited from the end of the 18th century until the 1930s. CONTENTS Watch this short video on the Luberon!1Plan your trip to Roussillon2Why you should visit RoussillonPlace du Read more…

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Roussillon Guided Walk: A Tour of the Ochre Village in Provence

Roussillon Guided Walk © French Moments

Welcome to the ‘Roussillon Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun.  As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…

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Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: A Discovery Guide

Roquebrune by Xilow (Public Domain)

As the Corniche roads from Nice descend towards Menton, it approaches the Mediterranean resort of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. The perched village of Roquebrune overlooks the luxuriant vegetation of the Cap Martin peninsula. From the medieval castle, breathtaking views command the coastline of the French Riviera, from the mountains above Menton and Italy to the dazzling Principality of Read more…

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Rocher de Monaco: Discover the Rock of Monaco

The Rock of Monaco (Le Rocher de Monaco). Photo: bbsferrari via Envato Elements

The oldest part of the Principality of Monaco is Le Rocher de Monaco (aka the Rock of Monaco), a rocky promontory between Port Hercule and the Fontvieille district. This is the oldest part of the micro-state and the only district spared by developers. The old town of Monaco-Ville is home to political, judicial and religious Read more…

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Renting a car in Nice Airport: A Road Trip in the Hinterland

Renting a car in Nice Airport. Source: Depositphotos.com

Nestled on the shores of the Mediterranean, Nice Airport (Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur) is not only a gateway to the glamorous French Riviera but also the third busiest airport in France. Its unique location, sandwiched between the sea and the mountains, makes it a scenic arrival point for travellers worldwide. Renting a car in Nice Airport Read more…

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Provence unpacked: journeying with the best suitcases

Unpacked Provence copyright French Moments

As we eagerly anticipated our 40-day recess in the picturesque village of Bonnieux, nestled in the heart of the Luberon, we were armed with not just luggage but a promise of seamless travel. The travel companions in question? The Level8 Textured Luggage Set was our trusty entourage for the awaited adventure. Follow us for a Read more…

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Provençal Tomatoes and Aubergines / Tomates et aubergines farcies à la Provençale

Tomates Farcies French Moments 05

Provençal Tomaotes and Aubergines are a delicious vegetarian dish which is often cooked in Provence where aubergines (eggplant) and tomatoes are full of flavour. This recipe is often made with mince (pork/chicken etc.) but this recipe is fully vegetarian and is very easy to cook … Ingredients Serves 4 1 red onion finely diced 3 garlic Read more…

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Principality of Monaco: A Discovery Guide

Principality of Monaco

Enjoying over 300 days of sunshine a year, the most glamorous destination on the Mediterranean looks like nowhere else on the French Riviera. The Principality of Monaco is a tiny state no larger than New York’s Central Park. It comprises a cluster of high-rise towers built on the side of the Maritime Alps. The celebrated Read more…

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Practical info for planning your visit to Aix-en-Provence

Cours Mirabeau, Aix-en-Provence © French Moments

The din of cicadas, the southern French accent, a glass of Pastis at a table outside a café: this is Aix-en-Provence, one of France’s most delightful towns. Aix has long been the capital of Provence. This can be seen in its architecture, the wealth of its private mansions, and the ever-present traces of its flourishing Read more…

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Place de l’Hôtel de Ville of Aix-en-Provence

The fountain of Place de l'Hôtel de Ville of Aix © French Moments

Place de l’Hôtel de Ville of Aix is arguably one of Provence’s most famous squares. It shows a great array of architectural styles, from the most simple to elaborate Baroque styles. Some interesting monuments border the square: the Town Hall, the Corn Exchange Hall and the Clock Tower. Follow the guide!     Place de Read more…

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Place d’Albertas: an elegant square in Aix-en-Provence

Place d'Albertas, Aix-en-Provence © French Moments

Not far from the Natural History Museum of Aix-en-Provence lies the elegant Place d’Albertas. The small square is arguably one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Provence.     Place d’Albertas: A Bit of History The Albertas were a parliamentarian family originating from the Italian city of Alba. They came to Aix in Read more…

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Pistou – Provençal pesto

Pistou © French Moments

Pistou (Provençal pesto) is typically Provençal and is a sauce made with basil, garlic, olive oil and salt. Unlike Italian pesto, the one from Provence does not necessarily use pine nuts or cheese. Ingredients 150g Basil 150g Pine nuts 5 cloves of Garlic 1 tea spoon of Salt 1 tea spoon Pepper 25cl of Olive Read more…

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Pissaladière (French onion pizza)

Pissaladiere © French Moments

Pissaladière is a sort of like a cheese-less pizza .. this is a typical lunchtime snack easily found in boulangeries in Provence. A pizza base is topped with soft caramely tasting onions, anchovies and black olives. Served traditionally with chilled rose this makes a refreshing change from cheese laden pizza! Ingredients Makes 6-8 slices For Read more…

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Peillon: A Discovery Guide of the Perched Village

Peillon - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons

Situated in the hinterland of Nice, picturesque Peillon is one of the most beautiful villages of the French Riviera. You’ll discover this beautiful village on an eagle’s nest on a sheer cliff. A visit to the old village offers an unforgettable journey through history. The old town invites you to stroll through its winding streets Read more…

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Peille, a hilltop village in the Nice Hinterland

The village of Peille @sibuet via Twenty20

Peille is a perched village set atop a narrow rocky spur overlooking the Peillon Valley in the Prealps of Nice.   Plan your trip to Peille and the region of Nice! 🏨 Find the best accommodations in Nice and the region on Booking.com 🙋‍♀️ Get the PASS CÔTE D’AZUR and take your pick from more Read more…

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Pastis from Provence

Pastis made in Marseille © Cristalanis - licence [CC BY-SA 4

Pastis is almost like a religion in Provence where the best pastis is found. Pastis from Provence: the unmissable beverage! “Il faut vous enivrer sans trêve. / Mais de quoi? / De vin, de poésie, ou de vertu, à votre guise. / Mais enivrez-vous.” “Get drunk and stay that way. / On what? / On Read more…

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Nice Carnival: A Discovery Guide

Nice Carnival, The King © H. Lagarde - OTC Nice

If there is a festival worth mentioning in the South of France, I couldn’t miss the Nice Carnival. It is the most significant event organised on the French Riviera. But most of all, it is one of the three most famous carnivals in the world, alongside Rio de Janeiro and Venice. The colourful event takes Read more…

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My 50 most beautiful photos of Provence

Photos of Provence: Gordes under the clouds © French Moments

As our time in Provence comes to an end after a delightful stay spanning over five weeks, anchored in the picturesque hilltop village of Bonnieux in the heart of the Luberon, we would like to pay tribute to this magnificent region. In commemoration of this charming corner of the world, we’ve curated a compilation of Read more…

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Monte-Carlo: Discover Monaco’s Famous District

The famous Monte Carlo Casino. Photo: @SteveAllenPhoto via Twenty20

Two names stand out in the glamorous and exclusive world of the French Riviera: Monaco and Monte Carlo. These two destinations are often used interchangeably, but are they the same? Of all the districts in the Principality of Monaco, Monte-Carlo is undoubtedly the most prestigious and chic, lively and residential. This is mainly due to Read more…

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Montagne Sainte-Victoire: the iconic mountain of Aix

Montagne Sainte-Victoire © Olivier Risnes

Montagne Sainte-Victoire is an iconic natural landmark in Provence, along with other famous peaks such as  Mont Ventoux and Sainte-Baume. The “mountain of Aix” extends over 18 kilometres east of Aix-en-Provence. Reaching 1,011 metres / 3,317 ft at Pic des Mouches, the celebrated mountain owes its fame to painter Paul Cézanne, who could see it Read more…

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Monaco by Night: What to See and Do

The Principality of Monaco by night @kityyaya via Twenty20

Picture this… The sun finally sets over the Principality of Monaco. The lighthouses in the port light up as the boats return from their cruises on the Mediterranean. Gradually, the city’s lights lit up, from the Prince’s Palace perched on Le Rocher to the famous Casino of Monte-Carlo. The restaurants and their terraces are starting Read more…

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Menton’s Parks and Gardens: A Little Guide

Menton's Parks and Gardens. Photo: Tangopaso (Public Domain)

The resort town of Menton on the Mediterranean Sea boasts the most interesting parks and gardens that are an invitation to the exotic. You’ll find intimate parks and exuberant or botanical gardens. This article gives you a shortlist of Menton’s parks and gardens to discover on your next visit to the “Pearl of France”.   About Read more…

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Menton on the French Riviera – A Discovery Guide

Menton, French Riviera © Vinbaron - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons

The beauties of nature, the magnificence of the sun, the intoxication of the ever-changing sea… this was how Menton was described by English doctor James Henry Bennett, considered by the locals as the creator of the seaside resort. One of the prettiest towns on the French Mediterranean shores, sunny Menton is rightly nicknamed the “Pearl Read more…

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Menton Lemon Festival: A Little Guide

Menton Lemon Festival © Ville de Menton

The most Italianate and warmest town on the French Riviera has become famous for the colourful Menton Lemon Festival. Like no other, this carnival is a significant event on the French Riviera. Each Winter attracts no less than 240,000 spectators in Menton, France. Visitors come from far away to marvel at the impressive citrus sculptures Read more…

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Ménerbes in Provence: What to See and Do

Ménerbes © French Moments

The old village of Ménerbes is situated on a rocky outcrop 230 metres above sea level. The territory of the commune reaches the top of Petit Luberon in the south and spreads downwards to the Calavon River in the north. Home to 1,000 inhabitants, Ménerbes is one of France’s most beautiful villages. CONTENTS Watch this Read more…

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Ménerbes Guided Walk: A Tour of the Historic Village in Provence

Ménerbes Guided Walk © French Moments

Welcome to the ‘Ménerbes Guided Walk’, an enchanting chapter from our last journey through Provence! During a memorable 40-day stay in Bonnieux, our lovely home base, I explored this other picturesque village under the warm, gentle embrace of the early autumn sun.  As the Provençal landscape basked in a serene, sunny glow, I meandered through the Read more…

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