We spent a wonderful week near Ponteves, a couple of hours drive from Marseille.
We were introduced to a lovely little French hotel by good friends of ours who live in the UK. They have been going there for more than 20 years and, a couple of years ago, they took us there for a week.
It was such a magic experience. Situated a short distance from the village of Barjols and surrounded by olive fields the location is so idyllic. In July the weather is warm, the surrounding villages and markets are at their best and the fields of lavender are stunning as are the local wineries set among the lavender.
For the more active visitor to this region there is hiking, cycling, relaxation and swimming.
Close to the Riviera, Verdon gorges and Lake SainteCroix, are highly popular with tourists. Opportunities for canyonning and rock climbing just 10km from the hotel. Visit a vast range of typical little Provence-style villages and soak up the atmosphere of the local markets you will find one every day somewhere.
A drive to Monaco and Aix in Provence with its weekly market is worth a couple of day trips.