Travel Slides: Southern France - Provence and more. Janet and Jacek Govenlock

Southern France - Provence and beyond

Janet and Jacek Govenlock

Sunday, October 18, 2026, 12:30

France was the first country of our youth grandtours. The first trip together and the first meeting with the dreamed other world. It was in 1975 and since then we return there very willingly and often. This time, the date of our next trip to the South of France was set by the lavender fields, which are in full bloom in early July. July in Provence is not only the time of blooming lavender, but also corridors and cultural festivals in Avignon and Arles.

Then we will travel further west, to the border with Spain, to see the medieval castles of the Cathars. The national holiday of the French, July 14, we will spend on the walls of Carcassonne, enjoying one of the most spectacular fireworks displays. Elsewhere, we will see well-preserved Roman monuments and magnificent buildings of contemporary architecture icons.

We assure you that you will leave with the conviction that Southern France is one of the most interesting lands in Europe.