If there's one thing we're doing on constant loop right now, it's thinking about vacation. How nice it would be to just pack your suitcase and travel to your dream destination. We'll have to be patient for a little while yet, but until that time comes, we want to sweeten the time with the most beautiful places in Europe. A survey has revealed the top ten destinations of Falstaff TRAVEL readers.

In tenth place is the beautiful Provence in the South France's.

Experience the French Savoir Vivre at first hand

Provence in the south of France has everything a traveller's heart could desire. From luxurious seaside resorts on the Riviera, to quaint mountain villages and enchanting towns surrounded by glowing lavender fields. Not for nothing was the region a great inspiration for famous artists, such as Vincent van Gogh. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures that every year countless tourists travel to Provence to enjoy the approximately 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. By the way, the sunniest city in mainland France is Toulon, at the southern tip. The best thing about Provence: by car or by train, you can discover one charming place after another in no time.

Those currently wishing to travel to Provence will need a negative PCR test no more than 72 hours old, as well as a sworn declaration that they are symptom-free.

Between the old town and the Riviera: the most beautiful places in Provence

The diversity of Provence is characterized by chic cities by the sea, such as Marseille, Nice and Cannes. It is not uncommon for Hollywood stars and artists to be drawn there. Between the picturesque old towns, these places also offer plenty of opportunities to go on a cultural discovery tour, relax on the white sandy beach and swim in the crystal clear water, while enjoying an aperitif or two and listening to the sounds of the French language. Mixed with the excited cicadas and the sound of the sea, it makes the perfect soundtrack for a holiday in France. And by the way, the exclusive shopping streets invite you to grab the latest it-pieces of the fashion world.

Those who take a detour into the interior will be thrilled by the mountainous landscape, the azure lakes and the idyllic rivers. The highlight, however, are the miles of lavender fields that run through the breathtaking landscape. Between the cute French country houses and the vineyards, you can see old stone churches and monasteries, which make the ambience perfect. Again and again, you encounter the wonderful scent of the pine trees and know that you are in paradise. But beware: if you stop directly at the lavender fields and want to cut some bushes, you should not only pay attention to the bees buzzing around the lavender, but also to the farmers who own the fields.

The landscape in the Camargue is even more spectacular. While driving through the flat roads of the nature reserve, it can happen that wild horses, flamingos or even bulls cross the way. Speaking of horses: many explore the area in the south of France with a guided horseback ride through the marshes and then stop in quaint villages like Arles or Saintes Maries de la Mer to taste the regional delicacies.

Of course, a visit to Provence cannot be made without a stopover in the historic capital of the region, Aix-en-Provence. The university city convinces with dreamlike small streets, where the colorful life takes place. People laugh, dance, drink and eat and make sure that the true French feeling of life immediately passes over to every single visitor. Aix, as the city is affectionately known by the locals, is most famous for its warped, pastel-coloured houses, shiny cobblestones and chic, modern shops and concept stores. Nîmes is also a university town and well worth a visit. For in addition to its imposing history, which dates back to the Roman Empire, Nîmes also delights as the warmest city in the south.

Top addresses in Provence

You should not miss these addresses.

Concept Store Maison Onissia

If there's one thing the south is known for, it's combining beauty. Like in the concept store Maison Onissia, which convinces in the middle of Aix-en-Provence with stylish fashion, accessories but also interior pieces.

18 Rue Courteissade, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France
maisononissia.com

Restaurant La Chassagnette

If you want to experience real French cuisine with all its culinary highlights, the best place to eat is the chic La Chassagnette in Arles. The dishes have already been awarded several stars and convince with regionality. All the ingredients come either from organic farms no more than 100 km away or from the restaurant's own 2-hectare vegetable garden.

Mas de la Chassagnette, Chemin du Sambuc, 13200 Arles, France
chassagnette.fr

Verdon Gorge

Adventurers are in the right place in the Verdon Gorge. The turquoise river Verdon is actually a highlight in itself. Many take advantage of the opportunity and discover the surroundings by canoe, kayak or paddle boat. Others cycle along the route or go on an exciting hike.

3 of the most beautiful hotels in Provence

As diverse as the region itself, is also the selection of exclusive accommodations. Here you will find a selection of the most beautiful hotels in Provence.

Domaine de Terre Blanche, Tourrettes

The Terre Blanche Resort takes guests to its own oasis of tranquillity. Set amidst the village of Tourrettes, the approximately 300-hectare property is a paradise for relaxation seekers and golf lovers. The luxurious suites and private villas offer privacy at the highest level. A pool landscape invites you to relax - those who want even more can enjoy the exclusive wellness area on more than 3000 square metres. Guests also have access to two 18-hole golf courses, two tennis courts and the hotel's own gym.

Route de Bagnols-en-Forêt, 83440 Tourrettes, France
Tel: +33 4 94 39 90 00
terre-blanche.com

Les Roches Blanches, Cassis

The exclusive Les Roches Blanches is only one kilometre from the centre of the beautiful town of Cassis and is located directly by the sea. The highlight is the outdoor pool, with a brilliant view of the most beautiful bays of southern France. But also the hotel's own restaurant convinces at the highest level. Those in search of relaxation can pamper themselves with a spa treatment in the modern facilities. In May, the luxury hotel also offers the "Wellness experience by the Mediterranean". This includes exclusive treatments, dinner at the hotel, champagne in the room, a delicious breakfast and a cosmetic kit from Sisley.

9 Avenue des Calanques, 13260 Cassis, France
Tel: +33 4 42 01 09 30
roches-blanches-cassis.com

Maison Albar Hotel L'Imperator, Nîmes

In the heart of the historic city of Nîmes, near the famous Arena, you will find the luxurious Maison Albar Hotel L'Imperator. Once the writer Ernest Hemingway stayed in the hotel in Art Deco style. Guests appreciate the largest and probably most beautiful garden in the entire city. A sunny oasis of relaxation awaits on more than 1000 square metres. The exclusive rooms and suites shine with well thought-out interiors. In addition, the hotel has 8 private houses, which stand for even more exclusivity. We also recommend the three different restaurants and bars, which offer excellent cuisine.

15 Rue Gaston Boissier, 30900 Nîmes, France
Tel: +33 4 66 21 90 30
maison-albar-hotels-l-imperator.com

Picture Credits: Frank Derrier / Pixabay, Julian Hacker / Pixabay, Hans Braxmeier / Pixabay, Ciarán Ó Muirgheasa / Pixabay, Ishm / Unsplash, Marcela Grassi, Adrien Ozouf, Didier Delmas, Terre Blanche Hotel