November 10, 2007
Exploring Provence and the French Riviera
Many British people regard the French Riviera with the sophisticated, beautiful but highly expensive Cote d’Azur, but the region of Provence, known for its historic towns and villages, has maintained its sensational beauty and strong charm.
Located in the south-east of France, LaProvence is surrounded by various landscapes and offers a variety of lifestyle options. The Mediterranean cost, ‘off the beaten track’ countryside with lavender fields and vineyards, towns full of art, history and natural beauty, make up the many faces of Provence. It is a region with superior cultural interest of history, religion, museums, parks, gardens, towns and castles.
La Camargue, popular for tis rice-rivers (riziere), pink birds (flamand), horses and gypsy festival, has a slow pace, natural uncrowed beaches and beautiful sunsets. Sainte-Marie de al Mer and Arles are the larger urban areas in the Camargue. These places are famous for their history and Roman relics especially in Arles where you will find the Roman amphitheatre and baths.
France’s second city, Marseilles, is the largest city in Provence. The Ancient Greeks introduced Marseilles as a trading post in 600BC and was handed to the Roman Empire who established La Provincia Romana. It is a port city and trade remains an integral part of the local economy today. The industrial areas of shops, cafes and restaurants are situated outside the city of Fos, I’Estaque, Vitrolles and Plan de Campagne. Thus, “The port of Marseille is now a tourist attraction,” says Patricia Run of Business Vente Provence. But there are also lses known but also amazing sight in Provence. Just a few miles from Marseilles, you will be welcomed by the lush countryside and green hills of Aubagne, home to lively villages like Cuges-les-Pins and Carnoux.
Saint Tropez is one of the most fashinable resorts of Provence. Expensive restaurants, shops and luxury yachts are everywhere. But you can also enjoy coastal life at slightly inland villages like La Garde Freinet, Plan de la Tour and Carces where there is a more relaxed atmosphere and prices are much lower than the fashionable resorts.
La Provence has a sunny climate but the temperatures are kept reasonable by the sea winds. Summer temperatures in April – October average 20 to 25 degrees. The region has good national and international transportation links. Nice, Marseille, Toulon and Nimes have airports.
Prices in the region depends on the location. To get the best value for money, it is better to search for towns and cities near the popular areas to purchase a property.
Posted on: France
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