Aix sits at a crossroads of very different landscapes. Within an hour's drive you can reach limestone gorges, hilltop villages, the Mediterranean coast, or the wild Camargue wetlands.
North and Northwest: The Luberon and Les Alpilles
The rugged limestone ridges of the Luberon and the Alpilles dominate the area between Aix and Avignon. A drive through either will uncover picturesque villages where you can stop for lunch on plane-tree-shaded squares and shop for lavender-scented gifts, Provencal fabrics, and santons. The medieval village of Les Beaux de Provence has transformed from a hilltop ruin into a thriving artists' colony. Saint Remy de Provence is known for its Roman ruins and the asylum where Van Gogh painted Starry Night.
South: Les Calanques
The limestone peaks of the Provencal interior drop sharply to the Mediterranean, forming a craggy shoreline accessible mostly by boat or on foot. Boat trips from Cassis explore this fjord-like coastline. Divers can discover underwater caves, and walkers can reach secluded beaches on footpaths from the interior. Marseille, France's second city, sits on the western end of the calanques area. The Vieux Port is the perfect place to try bouillabaisse, the hearty Provencal fish stew.
West: La Camargue
The Rhone delta extends over several hundred square miles, much of it in protected nature reserves. Come here to see flamingos, wild horses, and the famous black bulls raised for Provencal bullfights (the bulls are not killed in this version). In Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, European gypsies gather in May and October for their pilgrimage.
Northeast: Gorges du Verdon
Also known as the Grand Canyon of the Verdon, this is one of the most spectacular drives in France. There is a north rim and south rim option, and neither is for the faint-hearted. A full circuit takes a day, so plan an overnight. Hiking and rafting offer a closer view of the canyon.