the neighbourhood of Gardanne

La Provence is well known for its aromatic plants with Grasse as the world's capital of parfumes. Many artists have been attracted by the combination of the special sunlight, the scents from the vegetation, the dry climate in summer times and the mild winters. Starting with painters like Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, Chagall, Braque, Miro and many more. Writers found their inspirations; to mention Alphonse Daudet, Frédéric Mistral, Jean Giono, Marcel Pagnol, Albert Camus as well as composers like Bizet, Debussy Gounod.
During centuries craftsmanship has contributed to the wealth of activities and can still be found in many villages.
The hilly hinterland of the Côte d'Azur offers the authentic side of Provence. You may run into a herd of sheep and goats, visit the lively local markets and admire the colors and shapes of the forests with its different varieties of oaks, pines, mimosas and chestnut trees.

In the vicinity of Gardanne you can choose among many types of activities.
If you are an amateur of classical music or jazz you may go to a concert.
Festivals of classical music are organized in Callas (5min) ,Fayence, Vidauban, Tourtour, Cannes, Nice. The famous festival of piano at La Roque d'Antéron or the open air opera in Orange are examples of the rich offer during summer time.
Jazz festivals are taking place in St Raphaël, Antibes, Ramatuelle, Hyères, Menton and others.
Village festivals are organized by locals to show traditions and folk art.
Many galleries and art exhibitions welcome interested visitors.
Since the time of Louis XIV Moustiers St- Marie has been famous for its earthenware and santons.
Vallauris and Biot are well known for their glassware, Salernes for the tiles and terra cotta.
Many other village have hidden jewels waiting for your discovery.

The pleasure of good food has always been cultivated in Provence as fruits and vegetables are locally produced. A wide selection of restaurants from gourmet type to simple plates is waiting for your discovery.
The road between Callas and Le Muy is called "La route du vin" as vineyards are located on both sides of the roads and wine can be tasted all year round.

The major seaside resorts are just 30 min from Gardanne : St-Aigulf, Fréjus, St. Maxime, St. Raphaël, Port Grimaud, Cogolin and a little farther St.Tropez and Ramatuelle with its coastal natural reserve. Cannes, Nice or Monaco are within the reach for a day's trip.

Sports like Golf ,Tennis, Horse riding or canoeing can be exercised within 10 min from Gardanne.
A big network of dirty roads is accessible directly from Gardanne for walking or mountain biking. Road biking is also very popular in the area.

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Last update 01/09/2006 - Glossary - Partners - Links - Webmaster : ghost-pc-buster