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Spring in Provence... with kids.

Writer's picture: Flavie Flavie

Photo credit Marie Calofopoulos (All Rights Reserved)


As I was talking with one of my clients this past week, I discovered that he and his family were going to spend some time in our beautiful Provence... He asked if I had some recommendations on where to go and what to do, and if you know me a little bit you know that one of my passions is to share the cool spots I have been to and good restaurants or bars I enjoy hanging out with my friends or family!


Perfect timing for a blog post!


Because they are staying in Pernes-les-Fontaines, this is where we are going to start!

Pernes, is located between Carpentras (where my house is) and Isle sur la Sorgue (plenty of things to talk about here... I will come back to this great little town later!).


Not far from the famous Mont Ventoux, Pernes is called the Pearl of the Comtat. This was at a time the capital of the Comtat Venaissin, under the popes' dominion, and it's a beautiful village full of history.


It's close to Avignon and the Luberon, it's an ideal place for visiting Provence


First Paternus, then Paternae, then Pernes, the town, which is endowed with a natural spring and had 36 fountains in 1936 finally became "Pernes-les-Fontaines".

You said fountains?! You'll find no less than 40 – twice that if we count the private ones – dating from the 18th century and with several listed as Historic Monuments. Covered in moss or mascarons, monumental or minuscule, you can admire them as you let yourself be guided by the sound of the gushing waters or by following the “Circuit des Fontaines". Amongst the most beautiful are the Gigot fountain at the foot of the Ferrande Tower and the Cormoran fountain near the covered market.


I am not going to go more in depth (today) on what makes Pernes so special, there are plenty of great guide books you can find online or at the newly expanded multi media library or event the center of tourism in Pernes.


Don't miss the Saturday market, which is one of my favorite in the area. If you are lucky your kids will get to pet donkeys from the rescue center.


And where shall you eat while in town?

I like to hang out at:

Le Café de la Place, the staff is friendly, the food is simple, but good... but harm you with patience, you are in the South and some times it takes a little time to get your order

Lou Mas des Sept Lieux, is fun if you have kids, and you are in no rush.

Auberge de la Camarette is really good but make sure you make a reservation well in advance!


Pernes is a great starting point to visit Provence with kids. Be cautious that it gets hot, really hot (over 100F) so pack plenty of water, hats and sunscreen!


Don't miss the famous Pont D'Avignon of course, as you can sing the song to your kids while walking the bridge.

I highly recommend the interactive visit of the Popes' Palace, the first time I took my daughter there, she was barely 3 and she loved it!

You have also the little train that will allow you to discover the city in a fun and interactive way.

Many brasseries are kids friendly on the main Place de L' Horloge, you can just seat there and watch people walking by. The carrousel Belle Epoque is a beautiful Merry-Go-Around entirely restored, you might see the cat who lives on the carrousel while enjoying the attraction.


Beside sitting by the pool you can also enjoy a great picnic in the Valley du Toulourenc,

Be sure and hit a boulangerie or grocery store before you come so you can bring a sandwich or salad to enjoy. There are dry rock areas where you can set your towel and enjoy your lunch. You should definitely wear your swimsuit and water shoes because the rocks hurt to walk on in bare feet. The scenery is fantastic.


An absolute must-do in Provence is to visit the town of Les Baux. A picturesque walled town with ancient houses that have been carefully restored, this lovely village can only be visited by foot.


Do not miss the Carrières de Lumières, a former stone quarry that is now a museum of light and art. You will be able to enjoy a spectacular moving light show of art to the sound of music


It's really an amazing experience for kids and adults, where they will feel they are inside the works of the art. With artwork projected on walls and the floor in the quarry. A mesmerising experience for kids as the oversized art appeared to be dancing to choreographed music.

It is also nice and cool in the space, making it a great spot for a break from the Provencal heat.


Who doesn't like a petting zoo?


I highly recommend the Mas de La Gallinière, with nearly 400 animals of 80 different breeds and from all horizons, you will have fun! Donkeys, cows, horses, rabbits, goats, sheep, turkeys, geese, hens, pheasants, peacocks and many others live in complete harmony.


Just as curious as you are, you can approach them; they are not ferocious and quite used to the gentleness of a hand petting them. You can also bring your picnic there and enjoy the scenery.


When in Provence, you can enjoy visiting beautiful churches and cathedrals, but Carpentras hosts one of the most beautiful and oldest synagogue in Europe. I took my daughter there as she was a toddler for the first time and this is a place full of history and beautiful art. Make sure to call to book your visit.









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