Brighton has plenty going for it in summer. The seafront comes alive, the cafés are busy and there’s always somewhere to enjoy a drink in the sunshine. But as anyone who has spent a British summer by the coast knows, the weather doesn’t always cooperate.
One minute you’re enjoying an ice cream on the beach, the next you’re reaching for a jumper.
For Brighton residents looking for a change of scenery, Provence offers something rather tempting. Think warm evenings, beautiful countryside, lively village markets and the chance to spend an entire afternoon outdoors without constantly checking the forecast. While the south of France might sound like a faraway luxury, it’s a surprisingly achievable summer escape.
Swap the Pebbles for Provençal Countryside
There’s something wonderful about Brighton’s coastline, but Provence offers a completely different kind of scenery. Instead of the familiar promenade and busy beachfront, imagine winding roads lined with olive trees, vineyards stretching across the hills and little stone villages perched above the countryside.
The Luberon is particularly beautiful, with places such as Gordes, Roussillon and Lourmarin offering a glimpse of traditional Provençal life. You can spend mornings exploring narrow streets, stopping at independent shops and enjoying coffee in shaded village squares.
It’s a refreshing change from the usual seaside routine, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that feels peaceful without being completely isolated.
A Holiday Home That Feels Like Your Own
Part of the appeal of travelling to Provence is having the freedom to enjoy the destination at your own pace. Rather than staying in a busy hotel, many families and groups prefer the space and privacy of a villa. It’s particularly appealing when you’re travelling with children or several generations of the family.
With Abode villas family villas in Provence, travellers can explore accommodation options that offer a more independent way to experience the region. You can start the morning with breakfast on the terrace, spend the afternoon beside a private pool and gather everyone around the table for dinner as the sun begins to set.
Having your own kitchen also means you can make the most of local markets, picking up fresh bread, cheeses, seasonal fruit and other ingredients for relaxed meals at home. Then, when everyone wants a quieter day, there’s no pressure to go anywhere at all.
Getting There Is Easier Than You Might Think
One of the biggest misconceptions about visiting the south of France is that getting there has to involve a complicated journey. For Brighton residents, London Gatwick is a convenient airport to consider, with rail and road connections from the city. Flights to airports such as Marseille or Nice can provide access to Provence, depending on your chosen destination and the available routes.
Hiring a car is often worthwhile once you arrive, particularly if you’re staying in the countryside. Many of Provence’s most attractive villages and rural properties aren’t easily reached by public transport. You may also like the thought of travelling by ferry. That way you can take your own car.
Before booking, it’s worth checking the distance between your arrival airport and accommodation. Provence is a large region, and choosing the right airport or ferry port can save you a lengthy transfer.
Summer Days Are Made for Taking Your Time
Perhaps the biggest difference between a summer holiday in Brighton and one in Provence is the pace of the day. There’s no need to rush out first thing to secure a good spot on the beach or squeeze activities into a brief spell of sunshine. In Provence, mornings are ideal for visiting markets or exploring nearby villages before the midday heat arrives. Afternoons can be spent swimming, reading in the shade or enjoying a long lunch.
As the temperature begins to cool, the villages come alive again. Restaurant terraces fill up, families wander through the streets and the evening stretches out over good food and conversation.
July and August can be particularly hot, so families with younger children may prefer June or September when conditions are often a little more comfortable.
