Around the vineyards: the most beautiful spots in Green Provence and Verdon
It is in a corner of preserved nature that you have a meeting with Green Provence and Verdon, an exceptional place of escape.
Explore its wonders: verdant fields as far as the eye can see, majestic gorges, spiritual sanctuaries, and so much more... An overview of the region's must-sees that will enhance your tastings of Provence rosés.
The Lower Verdon Gorges
The Verdon Gorges are the largest canyon in Europe. In its lower section, discover an exceptional and less crowded natural setting. For hiking, the Garde Canal trail is ideal, with spectacular views of the limestone cliffs that you can safely follow thanks to footbridges and stairs. To explore the gorges along the water and at your own pace, opt for a canoe, pedal boat, or paddleboard.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces
This sanctuary, built in 1519 following the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Provence, is a major pilgrimage site. Even King Louis XIV came to thank Our Lady of Grace in 1660. Every year, thousands of faithful come to climb Mont Verdaille. Combine a visit with spirituality by hiking from Cotignac, with beautiful views of the Provençal countryside.
Cotignac and its Rock
It's a joy to stroll through the picturesque little streets of this charming village! Art galleries, ceramics workshops, and decoration boutiques invite you to discover all sorts of traditional and contemporary skills, making Cotignac a true center of craftsmanship. Don't miss its impressive Rocher, an 80-meter tuff cliff where you'll see troglodyte dwellings that once served as shelters.
The fountains of Barjols
Barjols, the "Tivoli of Provence," is famous for its circuit of 19 historic fountains, a refreshing stroll to the sound of flowing water. On the ground, nails with the Barjols emblem will guide you through the village streets. On your route, stop at the Pont d'Or fountain, the oldest (1784), as well as the Raynoard fountain located on the Place de la Rouguière and created by the sculptor Jules Récubert in 1906.
The Basilica of Saint-Maximin
A Gothic architectural gem, this basilica is considered the third tomb of Christianity. Its imposing 73-meter-long and 29-meter-high nave contains numerous treasures, including the relics of Mary Magdalene and a monumental organ composed of 2,690 pipes. The patron saint of the town of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, Mary Magdalene is honored every year at the end of July.
Brignoles
Formerly home to the Counts of Provence, Brignoles invites you on a stroll through French history with its medieval old town and palace. On the second weekend of August, the Medieval Festival transforms the city center into a lively spectacle, where alleyways and squares come alive.
