Aix-en-Provence
An easy 25 kilometres from Marseille lies the incredibly chic and fashionable town of Aix-en-Provence. Oozing with class and haute-couture standards, this town boasts beautiful tree-lined boulevards, impressive 17th and 18th century mansions and fountains and an ancient Roman spa.
The main boulevard, Cours Mirabeau is graced with elegant cafes, including the famous Deux Garcons, which served the likes of Cezanne and Picasso during their heyday. Other top attractions include the Mossue (the moss-covered Fountain of Hot Water), David D'Angers's statue of King Rene, the Granet Museum (set in the old Priory of the Knights of Malta) and Cezanne's atelier, known today as the Lauves workshop.
Approximate travel time from Marseille via train: 45 minutes
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Arles
From the Romans to Van Gogh, Arles has captured the imagination of travellers with its sweeping landscapes, charming waterfront location along the Rhône and several UNESCO-listed heritage monuments. The Roman origins can still be seen across the city with a well-preserved colliseum and open-air theatre, called the Théâtre Antique.
Bull fights and re-enactments of gladiator battles are regularly held during the spring and summer months. Vincent Van Gogh is also closely associated with the city as he created some of his best work with more than 300 paintings and drawings completed during his short 15 month stay in Arles. Other reasons to visit include the many fruit, vegetable, cheese and wine markets that line the buzzing Boulevard des Lices.
Approximate travel time from Marseille via train: 45 minutes
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Avignon
Home to the papal powers during the 12th century, this once powerful city still bears its proud heritage with several stunning monuments spread across the area. Encircled by ancient stone ramparts, the city's most magnificent monument is the Palais des Papes, built as the primary papal home to escape the angry mobs of Rome in 1308.
It's one of the largest medieval, Gothic churches in the world and has borne witness to many of France's major events. The palace was sacked by revolutionary forces during the French Revolution and was used as a military barracks are prison under Napolean's reign. The other famous attraction in Avignon is the Pont St. Bénézet, known as the Pont d'Avignon. The summer months see one of the world's top theatre festivals, the Avignon Theatre Festival sweep across the city. Performances take place inside many of Avignon's historic monuments adding an extra charm and allure to this cultural touchstone.
Train journey from Marseille: approx. 60 minutes
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Les Calanques
Spanning the coastline between Marseille and Cassis, the viscerally stunning Calanques comprise a series of striking valleys formed out of the remains of ancient river mouths. Made almost entirely of a brilliant white limestone, the geology of the area offers a unique ecosystem as there is no soil in the area. Visitors can follow many of the well-marked trails in the area or wander off the beaten track.
Spectacular panoramas not to miss include those found at Cap Canaille and the Corniche des Crêtes. When exploring, it is advised to bring adequate sun protection, walking shoes or boots and plenty of water, especially if visiting during the hot summer months. Several boat services run to Les Calanques from the Vieux Port and are an easy 5 minute walk from the hotel.
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