Touring Provence by Train, South of France

Set between the Alps and the Mediterranean, this historically and culturally rich region is blessed with an exceptional climate, with 3,000 hours of annual sunlight to nurture the orchards, almond trees, olive groves and vineyards which dot its colourful, terraced, herb-scented hillsides and help create the traditionally relaxed local lifestyle. It is also a craggy land of castles, picturesque perched villages and endlessly enthralling larger towns which are both ancient yet lifeaffirmingly vibrant, such as Avignon, Nimes and Arles. Our itinerary aims to capture the essence of Provence and give a nicely rounded introduction to this beguiling region, each of whose different centres has its own unique flavour.

Avignon
Overlooking the vast plains of the Rhone river, Avignon has long been the strategic hub of the whole valley. Enclosed within its medieval ramparts and dominated by the massive 14th-century Palais des Papes, it is a beautifully preserved city which is mainly pedestrianised, so ideal for exploring on foot. The Place de l’Horloge, with its pavement cafes and restaurants and impromptu street theatre and music, is the city’s fulcrum from where to discover the many churches, museums, 17th century façades and unexpected courtyards.

Nîmes
To the west, where Provence gives way to Languedoc, lies the colourful, bustling city that is Nimes. It too is home to numerous impressive Roman antiquities, most notably its magnificent arena and “Maison Carrée” temple, the 18th century tiered gardens of the Fontaine and striking modern landmarks like the Norman Foster-designed arts complex. It is truly delightful to wander leisurely through the Old Town’s warren of narrow streets and intimate courtyards and savour sights, sounds and smells that are so unmistakeably Provençal.

Arles
Further south, and natural gateway to the wild and beautiful protected area of the Camargue, lies the old Roman city of Arles. Its many UNESCO-classified remains include the 20,000-seater arena, one of the best preserved of its type and still used for concerts, theatre and bullfights, Constantine’s baths and Alyscamps burial grounds, all complemented by the ochre walls and Roman-tiled roofs of later buildings. More recently Arles was home to Van Gogh and Gauguin.