Welkeys presents its destinations in the South of France #1

Dreaming of destinations in the South of France? Did you know that this Monday, January 18th, is known as "Blue Monday"? It’s famously considered the most depressing day of the year! If you’re tired of the bad weather and winter, your Welkeys concierge has the perfect remedy.

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Whether you’re looking to escape for a winter break or planning a summer getaway, we’d like to introduce you to our destinations in the South. Here’s some inspiration to get you dreaming of summer by the sea!

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Occitanie, a major region in the South of France

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This is the French region with the highest number of Blue Flag-certified beaches and ports. It is home to medieval cities like Aigues-Mortes and Carcassonne, as well as Roman-era sites. If you love the water, you’ll have your pick of beaches, seaside resorts, and canals. If you prefer wild nature, the region is full of unique natural spaces like the Gorges de l’Hérault. Gastronomy is also a highlight, featuring fresh seafood and local vineyards.

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Toulouse, nicknamed the "Pink City," is home to many Romanesque and pink-brick buildings. Notable examples include the Saint-Sernin Basilica and the Capitole, which houses the Opera and City Hall. The cloisters, convents, and private mansions are also worth a visit. Take a stroll through the Jardin des Plantes or visit the Natural History Museum, the second largest in France. Explore the Garonne River and the Canal du Midi on foot, by bike, or by boat. Space and aviation enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover the birthplace of Ariane and Airbus.

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The city of Montpellier will delight architecture lovers. It has successfully blended medieval and contemporary structures. You’ll enjoy walking through the Place de la Comédie, visiting the private mansions, and relaxing in the oldest botanical garden in France. If you want to cool off and look at the sea, the beaches are easily accessible by bike. Bike paths will lead you there, winding between rivers and lagoons.

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If the mountains call to you, we’ll welcome you to La Mongie, part of the Grand Tourmalet resort. The Pic du Midi is easily accessible and houses the highest planetarium in Europe. Depending on the season and your preferences, you can go skiing or hiking. The town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre is renowned for its thermal springs.

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Avignon is not officially part of the Occitanie administrative region; it is located on the other side of the Rhône. A visit to the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace, is a must. You can walk along the ramparts and across the famous bridge.

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Marseille and its surroundings

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Marseille, the third-largest city in France after Paris and Lyon, is known as the "Cité Phocéenne." You’ll love the Panier district. It’s steep, but it’s packed with charming squares and churches. You’ll also find some great street art there. When it comes to food, this is the land of navettes, bouillabaisse, supions, aioli, and Provençal stew. And let’s not forget pastis, best enjoyed during a game of pétanque. From the Old Port, you can explore the surrounding islands, including the Château d’If. The bastides, which you can discover on walks, are typical structures that sit somewhere between a luxurious second home and a farm estate.

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Aix-en-Provence is part of the same metropolitan area as Marseille. The pedestrianized city center, with its many fountains, is perfect for wandering. You’ll be following in the footsteps of Cézanne and Picasso. Take advantage of your time in the city to buy olive oil and taste the calissons and traditional pompes à l’huile.

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How can we talk about the region without mentioning the calanques? These are narrow sea inlets that reach into the land, forming true underwater gardens. You can easily access them from Cassis. The town itself is also a pleasure to explore, nestled between vineyards and pine forests. You’ll be won over by the colorful facades of its narrow streets, its beaches, and Cap Canaille, the highest sea cliff in Europe.

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Ideal for exploring the calanques, La Ciotat is a nautical paradise, perfect for sailing sports. Cinema fans will love walking where the Lumière brothers filmed their first movies. A stroll through the pedestrian streets will make for a pleasant morning or afternoon.

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If you have a little more time, you can go looking for lavender fields, set off to discover goat cheeses like Picodon, or travel the Provence wine route.

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Whether or not you’re already a fan of Southern France, your Welkeys concierge is here to support your next trip as you discover the wonders of the country. We’ll see you on Thursday for the second part of this series, where we’ll introduce our destinations on the French Riviera and in Corsica!