Stage 1: Der Luberon – Lavendel, Ockerdörfer & Panoramablicke
Starting point: Avignon or Aix-en-Provence
Recommended duration: 3 – 4 Days
Welcome to the heart of Provence! This region boasts lavender fields, vineyards, and historic hilltop villages. Especially in summer, your stay here will be an experience of color and fragrance.
Highlights:
- GordesThe view of the village is beautiful – especially atmospheric at sunrise.
- Roussillon: Famous for its ochre cliffs – a hike through the “Sentier des Ocres” is a must.
- Bonnieux & Lacoste: Two medieval villages with magnificent views of the valley and a typical Provençal flair.
- Sénanque Abbey: Surrounded by lavender fields – a photo opportunity par excellence.
Hiking tips:
Le Colorado Provençal (Rustrel) – Circular trail through luminous ochre cliffs and gorges (approx. 2–4 km)
Ochre Trail (Roussillon)) – Circular trail through ochre quarries in warm colours, embedded in pine forest
If you're short on time and want to start directly from the village, the 'Sentier des Ocres' in Roussillon is the perfect choice. Those looking for more hiking and wanting to experience the ochre-red play of colors in a more expansive landscape shouldn't miss the 'Colorado Provençal' in Rustrel.
Both places are worthwhile—but they offer different experiences. Depending on your time, wanderlust, and travel plans, you can include both or one of them.
Pitch tip:
- Camping des Sources (Gordes) – quiet terraced pitches, ideal starting point for the Luberon.
- Bonnieux (municipal) pitch – simple but authentic and within walking distance of the village.
Many holidaymakers give positive reviews of these campsites – especially because of their proximity to attractions and their great location in the middle of nature.
Stage 2: Gorges du Verdon – Spectacular gorges & turquoise water
Travel time from Luberon: approx. 2 – 3 hours
Recommended duration: 2- 4 Days
The Verdon Gorge – also called the “Grand Canyon of Europe” – is a breathtaking natural wonder with deep gorges, cliffs and turquoise water.
Highlights:
- Lake of Sainte-Croix: Ideal for kayaking, swimming or stand-up paddling.
- Route des Crêtes: Panoramic road with fantastic viewpoints.
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: A charming village with a special flair – multiple awards and popular with holidaymakers
Hiking tip:
- Sentier Blanc-Martel (13 km) – Challenging hike along the gorge, including spectacular views.
Pitch tip:
- Camping Saint Jean (Moustiers) – a family-friendly campsite nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for a longer stay in the Gorges region.
Stage 3: Mediterranean Coast – Calanques & Côte Bleue
Travel time from Verdon: about 3 hours
Recommended duration: 3 – 5 Days
Now your camping holiday will truly have a Mediterranean feel. The Côte Bleue is a quieter alternative to the crowded Côte d'Azur, with beautiful campsites and stunning scenery. The Calanques National Park offers a mix of wild, rocky coastline, swimming coves, and crystal-clear waters.
Highlights:
- Cassis: Pretty coastal town, ideal starting point for hikes in the Calanques.
- Calanque d'En-Vau: One of the most beautiful bays in the region – accessible only on foot or by boat.
- La Couronne: A coastal town with a typical southern French flair – ideal for relaxing days. A quieter alternative to the Côte d'Azur.
Hiking tip:
From Cassis to the spectacular bays – hike via Port-Pin to the Calanque d'En-Vau (approx. 3-4 hours).
Start in the picturesque harbor of Cassis and follow the path that first leads you to the family-friendly Calanque Port-Pin – then on to the impressive, fjord-like Calanque d'En-Vau, nestled between steep limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.
A hike full of contrasts – from the relaxed start by the water to the panoramic view at the end. Ideal for active travelers seeking coastal charm off the beaten track.
Please note the access rules: Calanques are partially closed in summer (fire hazard – check online or at local tourist offices for information).
Pitch tip:
- Camping Les Cigales (Cassis) – very central location for Calanques hikers.
- Camping Lou Cigalon (La Couronne, Côte Bleue) – directly on the water with baths.
Stage 4: Camargue – Flamingos, salt lakes & white horses
Travel time from Cassis: approx. 1,5 – 2 hours
Recommended duration: 2 – 3 Days
Finally, we head to the wild estuary of the Rhône: the Camargue offers a completely different atmosphere – vast plains, pink salt lakes, bird colonies and marshland.
Highlights:
- Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: Pilgrimage site directly by the sea – with long beaches and gypsy flair.
- Saltworks of Giraud: Pink shimmering salt fields – magical, especially at sunset.
- Naturpark Camargue: Ideal for horse riding, cycling or bird watching.
Activities:
- Cycling tours through the salt pans (e.g. by e-bike from the campsite).
- Riding with Camargue horses by the sea or in the lagoon landscape.
- Boat tour on the Petit Rhône – River cruise throughthe delta.
Pitch tip:
- Camping de la Brise (Saintes-Maries) – directly behind the dunes, with wide beach access.
- Camping Crin Blanc (near Albaron) – in the heart of the nature park, ideal for birdwatchers.
Travel tips for campers in Provence
- Best time to travel: May – June & September – October – pleasant climate, fewer tourists.
- Apps & Tools: Park4Night, Camper contact, Komoot for hiking routes.
- Beware of wild camping: Strictly prohibited in national parks such as Calanques or Verdon – use official parking spaces.
- Market days: Many villages host traditional weekly markets – perfect for shopping and feasting!
- Domaine tip: Many domaine wineries offer tastings and small pitches – often with breathtaking views!
- FrancePassionIf you want to experience France in an authentic, relaxed way, away from crowded campsites, France Passion is the perfect choice. It's a network of over 2.000 farms, winegrowers, and producers that offer campervan travelers free overnight pitches – in the heart of nature, on a farm, in a vineyard, or on the edge of a lavender field.
Conclusion: Discover the South of France in a campervan
A camping holiday in Provence is ideal for experiencing the beauty of this region in a flexible and immersive way. With the Hannes Camper, you travel independently, experiencing authentic villages, wild, romantic nature, and authentic French life.
Whether you stay at a small campsite, a pitch near the city, or at a domaine winery, every stay brings new impressions and experiences.
This route through Provence can easily be completed in 2-3 weeks and offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and campervan freedom. Whether hiking through the Calanques, watching the sunset in the Camargue, or enjoying morning coffee in a lavender village—these stages will enchant you.
Start your next camping holiday now – and discover Provence in a whole new way.
