Ah, the golden province of Provence! This area, one of France’s most popular tourist destinations, is blessed with an average of 300 days of sunshine a year. It also has one of the most beautiful spring times.

To find out how pretty spring is in Provence visit the charming hill town of Bormes-Les-Mimosa. It is the epitome of exactly how perfect France is in the spring. As you walk down its green fields, you will see the Mimosa trees in radiant, exuberant full bloom. Their branches are heavy with golden yellow flowers, as bright as the sunshine. You can take a break in the sidewalk cafes and enjoy the gorgeous view. You’ll see hills and the ocean of the Mediterranean sparkling in the distance. You can also spend many happy hours browsing through the goods in the village shops.

Ah the shopping is wonderful in Provence. You’ll find jewellery stores, fresh olives, olive oil flavoured with basilic and cushions filled with fragrant lavender. You can also visit stores to taste the famous limoncello (a local drink made from lemons),

Spring is a good time to visit Provence if you want to avoid the tourist crowds. During this time of year the road and beaches are clear and empty. It’s very relaxing. You can enter a restaurant and the owners will greet you happily and have plenty of time to serve you and make your time there enjoyable.

Even the famous city of St Tropez sheds its cosmopolitan reputation and becomes quieter and serene during the Spring. You can find a waterfront seat in one of the cafes situated by the picturesque harbor. Be sure to visit there early in the morning so you have time to explore the designer shops in the little alleys. Take your brunch at a sidewalk cafe and enjoy the famous French pastry, such as a croissant or petit pain with a hot chocolate or coffee.

Children will absolutely enjoy the chance to play in the sand and frolic in the water as you relax on the beach with a good book. You can then retire to the villa in the afternoon for a leisurely nap. What a relaxing way to enjoy Spring!