Pretty Provence

Looking to spend some time under the Provencal sun? Head to the
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region to soak up the rays, and the joie de
vivre.

getting there
There
are a number of small towns and villages to visit around the area, so
your best bet is to rent a car. Fly into Marseille and make the 30 km
drive to Aix-en-Provence.

sleep
The 18th centurybastide Le
Clos des Freres Gris has only four guest rooms and is just minutes
from Aix-en-Provence. Although theres a lot to explore around the area,
we recommend taking the time to just lounge poolside on the Lecomte
familys gorgeous property. From 130, 2240 Avenue Fortuné Ferrini,
Luynes, (33) (0)4 42 24 13 37, http://freres.gris.free.fr

eat
Pick up fresh baguettes and olives for lunch but
treat yourself to a delectable dinner at La
Tomate Verte. The price of the meal depends on how many courses you
choose. Just an entrée (called plat) is 20, while 3 courses is 29. And
keep an eye out for celebs; while savouring our tomato tartine, we
checked out the beautiful manes of fellow diners Frédéric Fekkai and his
wife Shirin. La Tomate Verte, 15 rue des Tanneurs, 13100 Aix en
Provence, 04, 42 60 04 58, www.latomateverte.com

do
Head to Cassis, a nearby town famous for its
cliffs and sheltered inlets called calanques. Take one of the many boat
tours to see the inlets up close, or nab a spot on the busy beach and
cool off in the Mediterranean.

shop
When youve had your fill of sunbathing, take a
stroll in the streets of Cassis where youll find a number of chic
fashion boutiques including Lulli
Sur la Toile. The small space is filled with lines like See by
Chloe, Marc by Marc Jacobs and Givenchy. Lullu Sur la Toile, 21 Avenue
Victor Hugo, Cassis, 04 42 08 17 14, www.lulli-sur-la-toile.com