Frommer's travel guide refers to Gordes as the most beautiful village in France, a fitting description for this popular Renaissance village. Resting on the edge of the Plateau de Vaucluse, Gordes has always been popular with artisans, but has more recently become a popular country retreat for wealthy Parisians. Today, you will find many galleries around the village, with artists such as Victor Vasarely in residence during the summer.
Roussillon, 45 km east of Avignon, is a popular weekend haunt for trendy Parisians who enjoy the sleepy ambience and colorful scenery. According to the Frommer's guide, much of the village has been snapped up by second home owners. The proximity to the airport makes this a relatively accessible destination for the international jet-setter.
Grimaud is located just 11 km west of Saint Tropez. The village has retained much of its medieval character and many of the traditional houses in the village have been restored by their owners. If you are exploring the area by water, Grimaud offers a small marina in which you can moor your craft for the duration of your stay.
Famous for its rich tradition in craft manufacturing, Cogolin provides a serene haven amidst the hustle and bustle of the most popular section of the French Riviera. Found just 10 km inland from Provence's most popular destination, Cogolin is today a popular alternative to the busy center of Saint Tropez. This village is an ideal base from which to explore the rest of the Riviera, You'll find restaurants, markets and boutique shops on your doorstep.
Saint Raphael is located a short drive north along the Riviera from Saint Tropez, next to the town of Frejus. With its picturesque harbor, casino and close proximity to an 18-hole golf course, it is no surprise that Saint Raphael is a popular destination for international jet-setters.
Although there is little activity within the sleepy hamlet of Uchaux, it remains a popular destination for jet-setters thanks to the Chateau de Massillan luxury hotel located there. Developed from a fortified castle that was once a hunting lodge for Henry II, the hotel today has 12 luxury rooms and is set amongst 24 acres of parkland.
Eygaliers is a small village nestled on the side of a hill and just a 10 km drive from the town of Saint Remy. Located at the edge of the Alpilles, the village is a popular winter skiing destination, and is also popular with gastronomes, as it is home to the Michelin two-star restaurant Chez Bru.
Plan de la Tour is a close neighbor of Grimaud. Although this is a small and relatively spread-out village, many artists and writers choose it to escape the hordes of tourists associated with Saint Tropez and its surrounds. Plan de la Tour is also lucky enough to count Johnny Depp and his wife Vanessa Paradis among its residents.
The beach at Les Baux de Provence is a favorite for jet-setters holidaying in Provence and tourism provides the main economy in the village itself. The combination of fantastic scenery, luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants in the area make this a step above many of the other beaches in the region.
La Croix Valmer is a summer resort situated at the southern tip of the Saint Tropez peninsula. The seven sandy beaches in the area are popular with tourists and many private villas dot the periphery of the village.
