Aix-en-Provence, Brignoles & Draguignan

This area of Provence is known for its impressive architecture and rich culture which - when coupled with stunning landscapes, delightful little villages, and the Mediterranean coast within easy driving distance - make the interior of Provence a delightful destination for a holiday.

One of this vast region's main cities is Aix-en-Provence. It is an extremely popular town to visit, rich in culture, architecture and history with guided tours throughout the year, even on Christmas Day! It is perfectly located with a view of the Mont St Victoire in the background, made famous by Cézanne in his many paintings of this mountain that rears up from its surrounding landscape.

Brignoles is a very large market town, known for its peaches, honey, olives and olive oil. Its medieval town and main square lined with cobble-stoned streets, make it the fantastic destination that it is.

Draguignan resembles a medieval village, full of museums and beautiful churches. It makes a great place to step back in time and learn about the history of the area and admiring the many old buildings surrounding you.

Things to See & Do in Aix-en-Provence, Brignoles & Draguignan

Beaches

Although a few miles inland from the coast, there are still some great places to swim nearby. One of the best spots is at Lac de Carcès, which is a 20-minute drive from Brignoles.

Towns and Villages

In addition to the main towns of Aix-en-Provence, Brignoles & Draguignan, there are many smaller towns and villages well worth a visit. These include:

• Aix-en-Provence. As well as being the home of the French artist Paul Cézanne it is known locally as "the town of 100 fountains". It was also a Roman town, and has a thermal spa that is open to the public. Well worth a visit. Aix is also well-worth a visit if you're looking for a varied range of restaurants (beyond the often predictable plat de jour often found in smaller towns and villages.)
• Bagnols en Foret is an 11th Century hilltop village with a pretty square lined with restaurants and shops.
• Bargemon is another pretty village with original 12th Century walls and many restaurants.
• Barjols, known as the doorway to Haute Provence and the hilly country of the Var.
• Callian is one of the oldest villages in the Var, full of charm and history.
• Carcès has plenty of shops and a regular market that supplies fresh local produce.
• Cotignac is another pretty village, with a pretty square and regular craft and produce markets, known for it's limestone caves that were once used as homes by the locals.
• Fayence is a great location for a walk to explore the winding streets or vineyards that surround the village.
• Lorgues is a pretty village with a regular market and a wide selection of shops and is surrounded by vineyards.
• Mallemort is worth a visit for the famous suspension bridge that spans the river Durance.
• Rognes is another great location for anyone looking for outdoor sports and also for wine enthusiasts. There are regular tours of the village that are a great way to learn about the local history and culture.
• Rousset lies at the foot of Mont Sainte-Victore, in the heart of the landscapes painted by Cézanne. Among garrigue-covered hills and the vineyards of Arc, this little corner of paradise has preserved the quality of life and charm of a typical Provencal village. Enjoy a gentle stroll through its quiet, paved streets lined with shops and craft workshops.
• Ventabren has an interesting history and is also home to Aqueduct de Roquefavour, the largest aquaduct in the world.

Events and Festivals

As a busy tourist area there are arts, crafts, music and food festivals throughout the summer months. Here are few of our favourites.

• Fete des Tripettes in Barjols is a picturesque and traditional festival that has been held in the village for over 650 years!
• The unusual Fete du Melon is a celebration of, well, the famous local melon! and is usually held at the end of June.
• For an open air theatre and cinema, visit Cotignac, where there is a busy programme of events throughout the summer season.

Sights and Attractions

You're away from the coast so won't find any theme or waterparks around, but there is plenty for the outdoor enthusiasts.

• Pont Royal is a golfing resort built around an ancient domaine, with top-class eateries and in an idyllic setting.

Find a Holiday Villa in Aix-en-Provence, Brignoles & Draguignan

Choose one of the destinations below to view our range of holiday villas, chateaux, and apartment rentals. If you're not sure which area would suit your best or you have specific needs, you can always contact us and one of our team will be able to help you with your search.

Featured Holiday Homes in the Provence

Morningside

• 4 bedrooms, sleeps 8

Morningside, located in Bandol in Provence, is the perfect villa for families, thanks to the private swimming pool and gated garden. Being only a 5-minute walk from the heart of the town, this property is ideal for families or groups looking to relax to the fullest.
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Villa Romantic Grande

• 7 bedrooms, sleeps 16

Villa Romantic is just as the name suggests - a very romantic and beautiful hilltop Provençal-style Mas with separate cottage dating back to 1820. This property provides charm and comfort, but the main attraction is the stunning roman-style private swimming pool.
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Les Grands Chenes

• 5 bedrooms, sleeps 10

This spacious property has been newly decorated and furnished in a luxury typical Provencal style. From its perched position surrounded by orchards and vineyards it offers far-reaching views over the surrounding picturesque villages of Bonnieux, Roussillon, Lacoste, and to the distant Mont Ventoux.
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Splendid Mas Provencal

• 8 bedrooms, sleeps 21

A wonderful old Mas, this beautiful destination has just about everything you could wish for in a family holiday. Beautiful gardens inspired by the Mediterranean climate, large heated pool, sauna and jacuzzi spa, and plenty of games.
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Artists House

• 3 bedrooms, sleeps 9

This beautiful house, built over a thousand years ago, has now been brilliantly renovated by a couple of painters who fell under its spell. Located in the best street of Bonnieux, perhaps one of the most sought-after villages in the Luberon.
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Angel Manor

• 5 bedrooms, sleeps 10

Luxurious country house with large pool and panoramic views. 40 minutes from St Tropez. 3kms to village with restaurants and shops. Internet Access. 5 bedrooms / 5 bathrooms.
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Luberon Heaven

• 7 bedrooms, sleeps 16

A beautiful old converted stone farmhouse with heavenly uninterrupted views over the Luberon hills. Sleeps 10 in 5 bedrooms/5 bathrooms of the main house and 4-6 in the small house adjoining. Large heated swimming pool (12m x 8m), a tennis court and beautiful quiet lawned terraces with shady trees.
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L’Oustale de Maubec

• 2 bedrooms, sleeps 4

Light and spacious first floor apartment offering lovely views of the Luberon Valley. Large, secure garden perfect for children and pets. Private, heated pool. Parking. Easy walking distance into village with all services and shops. All the ingredients for a perfect holiday in Provence!
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Villa Occitane

• 3 bedrooms, sleeps 8

Villa Occitane is a luxury villa located on the Pont Royal Golf and Country Club, boasting a private swimming pool, internet, satellite TV and a beautiful garden to sit and relax in. With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this is the ideal place for a family or group of friends to enjoy their holiday together.
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Fontaine de Salernes

• 7 bedrooms, sleeps 13

Gorgeous, traditional-style provencal manoir renovated to a high standard and set in its own gated grounds. Heated pool. Spacious living both inside and outside, just three minutes drive to village of Salernes. Superb venue for weddings of up to 100 guests.
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Villa Sainte Anastasie

• 3 bedrooms, sleeps 6

Villa with 3 bedrooms and private pool just 0.5km from the village of Ste Anastasie sur Issole, it is approached via a lane which runs through wooded hills laced with vineyards. The hillside setting of the villa is tranquil and uncrowded; ten or so villas nestling amongst the trees.
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Apartment Chabaud

• 2 bedrooms, sleeps 4

L'Appartement Chabaud is a fully renovated and refurbished apartment set within Le Prieuré, an 18th Century former silk factory and Priory. This apartment with shared heated pool is just a 5 minute walk to shops and restaurants although remains very secluded.
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