The All Saints’ holiday runs from 21 October to 5 November 2023. Although this is the ideal time to get things sorted and prepare for winter, the climate in Provence is still mild, so there’s plenty to do as a family or as a couple. Hiking, sightseeing, wine-tasting, well-being… Provence offers a wealth of things to discover all year round. Whether you’re planning to come on holiday or already live in the region, discover the 10 activities that Plaisirs et Maisons de Provence has selected for you for the All Saints’ Day holidays.
Discover the gastronomy of Provence
Enjoy the last honey harvests at the end of the season:
The richness of the flora of Provence is a major factor in the life and development of the region’s bees. Lavender, rosemary, all flowers, thyme… From spring through to autumn, the honey harvested in Provence has a sunny aroma that is incomparable to that of other regions.
Make the most of your All Saints’ Day holiday to visit a bee farm and taste the wonderful floral and sweet flavours of the honeys at the end of the season.
Discover the flavours of freshly harvested green olives from Provence:
Green olives, a staple of Provençal cuisine, are picked in autumn!
So it’s the perfect time for a day out discovering olive growing! Visit an olive grove, accompanied by a local farmer who will share his passion for olives with you. You’ll spend a warm and friendly day discovering and savouring the flavours of Provence.
Treat yourself to a family cooking class in a Provencal atmosphere:
Immerse yourself in a typically Provençal atmosphere by concocting unique dishes with the flavour of Provence. From the selection of seasonal ingredients to the preparation and tasting of the dishes, you’ll share a fun-filled day of regional flavours together.
Taste the new 2023 vintage:
If you’re planning a holiday as a couple, take the time to taste the new 2023 vintage of fine Provencal wines.
Wine production is the oldest activity in Provence. The region’s wines are made from grape varieties that are typically Mediterranean, dry and sunny. Discover the AOCs of the Rhône Valley on a wine tour. On the programme: vineyard visits, learning technical terms and, of course, TASTING!
Discover the rich heritage of Provence
The Carrières des Lumières are always a wonderful place to visit in October. Set in the heart of the rock since 1800, these former quarries offer a unique artistic experience.
Visit Provence’s historic heritage:
Discover the many stories of Provence. Heir to an exceptional heritage built by the Romans and the Christians, the region boasts a wealth of heritage from the past and the present, both rural and urban: the Palais des Papes in Avignon, the Mucem in Marseille and the ancient theatre in Arles, to name but a few.
The Carrières de Lumières: a marvellous place to visit in October. Located in the heart of the rock since 1800, these former quarries offer a unique artistic experience during your stay in Provence!
Since 24 February 2023, two new exhibitions have been on show at the Carrières de Lumières:
- ‘Mondrian, The Architect of Colour”: an exploration of the artist Piet Mondrian and his influence on the art world, highlighting his contribution to abstract art and the use of colour.
- ‘From Vermeer to Van Gogh – The Dutch Masters”: An exhibition highlighting the works of Dutch masters such as Vermeer and Van Gogh, offering an insight into classical and impressionist Dutch art.
In addition to these two exhibitions, a third exhibition is available:
‘Tintin: L’aventure immersive”: an immersive experience through the captivating world of Tintin, the famous reporter and adventurer.
For more details on opening times and tickets, visit the official Carrières des Lumières website: Site des Carrières des Lumières.
These exhibitions promise to be exciting artistic experiences when you visit Provence in October 2023. Make the most of them!
Admire the panoramic views of Provence
Thrills amidst the natural landscapes of Provence: For sports fans, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy thrills amidst the landscapes of Provence. If you like walking, there’s nothing like a nice hike in the Alpilles, the Lubéron or the Ventoux to admire the magnificent panoramas these natural parks have to offer. You could also opt for mountain biking for added excitement.
For an unforgettable spectacle, treat yourself to a canoe trip on the Pont du Gard for an unforgettable immersive experience.
Or would you prefer to get up high and take in the scenery? Then opt for THE thrill of paragliding, microlighting or parachuting. One thing’s for sure, the beauty of the Provençal landscapes will leave a lasting impression on your mind!
Photography courses to capture the beautiful autumn colours:
Do you love taking photos on holiday and are always on the lookout for the best shot to sum up your stay? There’s nothing like the colours of autumn to introduce you to photography. Opt for a phototourism tour. You’ll be able to combine business with pleasure, discovering the region’s natural, historical and human heritage while learning how to capture the most beautiful images of this pretty corner of Provence.
Horse or carriage rides through the autumn landscapes:
Discover authentic Provence with a charming tour of its heritage on horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage.
We particularly recommend the Camargue for this emotionally-charged activity. On horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage, you’ll fall under the spell of this wild expanse where sky and sea intermingle.
Enjoy the benefits of the thermal waters of Aix-en-Provence :
Try a 100% relaxing sensory experience in one of the largest areas dedicated to well-being in Provence. This unique place will welcome you in a very special refined atmosphere organised to meet everyone’s needs. You’ll be able to take advantage of a host of high-quality treatments based around exceptional spring water: sensory spa, massages or hydro-balneotherapy, you’ll leave this experience totally relaxed.
Well-being day in Provence: Enjoy the benefits of the thermal waters of Aix-en-Provence:
Try a 100% relaxing sensory experience in one of the largest areas dedicated to well-being in Provence. This unique place will welcome you in a refined atmosphere designed to meet everyone’s needs. You’ll enjoy a host of high-quality treatments based around exceptional spring water: sensory spa, massages or hydro-balneotherapy, you’ll leave this experience totally relaxed.
