New York Habitat Blog

There are any number of picturesque towns and villages throughout the South of France to use as a base for your travels throughout the region. But, how would you like to stay in a hilltop fortress town in Provence, population 22, which has been inhabited for eight millennia? 

Provence Vacation Rental 4 Bedroom in Les Baux (PR 248) "La Dame à la Licorne"

Les Baux de Provence, at the foothills of the Alpilles Provençal mountain chain, is set in white rock on a promontory, which is how it got its name (“baou” means rocky spur in the local dialect). Controlled by Celts, the Lords of Les Baux, the Masons des Comtes de Provence and finally Louis XIII, this stunning piece of French history is 45 minutes south of Avignon and just 10 minutes from Saint-Rémy de Provence.

The view from the old castle is amazing and the Cathédrale d’Images, set in a former stone quarry, offers wonderful exhibitions. Listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages In France,” Les Baux de Provence has a strong Roman heritage and is also the landscape of famous painters such as Van Gogh, Cézanne and Matisse, who came here to capture the extraordinary light and color of the region.

Standing among the old mansions, historic monuments and ruins of the Cité des Baux, New York Habitat’s exclusive hosted 3-bedroom in Les Baux de Provence (PR-248) offers exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the village from its windows and terraces, as it is one of the highest in the village.

What makes this apartment a Hidden Gem?

The house has an historical and cultural heritage that the owner perfectly knows how to keep alive. There are many things to discover in this family house, as well as among the narrow streets of this fascinating and timeless village that formerly belonged to the Grimaldi of Monaco.

Provence Accomodation 4 Bedroom Chateau in Les Baux (PR 248)

The first bedroom is known as “La Dame à la Licorne” and boasts a large window overlooking the village and the “Val d’Enfer,” providing light in the whole bedroom. “La Suite” has a master bedroom and another room with a balcony, which can be used either as a second bedroom or as a study and reminds us that all the houses of the village has been built against the roc itself, in the authentic troglodyte tradition of this village.

And finally, the third and unexpected guestroom is located on the top floor of the house: “Le Bijou.” A large French window gives access to a private terrace with one of the most beautiful view of the Cité des Baux.

For more information about the Chateau de Baux check out:

Chateau de Baux website

Marseille tends to get a bad rap when it comes to South of France vacation destinations - and that’s a shame. While it’s not for everyone, the city has so much to offer to the discerning traveler. You can find various lists of Marseille attractions easily enough; but New York Habitat would like to have a serious talk to you foodies out there about just how amazing Marseille can be.

Cafe in Marseille, South of France Photo

Bouillabaisse was invented in Marseille, and the city’s authentic restaurants take great pride in being a part of this bit of France’s culinary history. A hearty fish stew, it is traditionally served with several kinds of delectable fish on a plate, the bouillabaisse broth in a bowl, and small sliced of grilled bread in a basket or tray with a side of rouille, a mayonnaise made of olive oil, garlic, saffron and cayenne pepper.

While even the hole-in-the-wall places have decent bouillabaisse, it’s recommended to splurge a bit and go to a higher-end restaurant for your first experience. Start off with a selection from the raw bar, tuck into a bouillabaisse and then end the meal with tasty treats inspired by the North African and Middle Eastern influences of Marseille.

Almost any time of day is a good time for pastis, the unofficial drink of Marseille. In fact, it’s not unusual to see market vendors, fishermen and other early morning risers sipping a pastis from the wee hours right up to lunchtime and beyond. While most popular in Marseille and a cool, refreshing drink throughout the South of France in summer, 130 million liters are sold each year - which works out to over two liters per citizen!

Made from star anise, it was invented by alcohol producers as a way to recoup profits lost when wormwood, the “active” ingredient in absinthe, was banned in the early 20th century. While pastis is roughly the color of a weak Scotch when poured from the bottle, water is added in generally a 5:1 ratio, turning it a milky, yellowish color and served over an ice cube or two.

As with any favorite, pastis has been incorporated into a wide variety of locally made cocktails - but it’s advisable to take it slow, as pastis is stronger that its crisp, herbal taste implies. We recommend trying Death in the Afternoon - pastis with Champagne - invented by none other than Ernest Hemingway.

Photo of Marseille: South of France

Are you ready to dig in? Then check out this 2-bedroom vacation rental in Marseille (PR-23), located in one of the beautiful area of Le Vallon des Auffes, a traditional small fishermen’s port in the heart of the city. This apartment is on the 14th floor with an amazing 360-degree view over the Vallon des Auffes and the Mediterranean Sea. Or, nestled in the hills and facing the sea, this 2-bedroom rental in Marseille (PR-932) is located in the Bompard near Corniche Kennedy, in Marseille’s colorful 7th district.

While Marseille might not be on everyone’s vacation agenda, foodies follow their noses and are richly rewarded with the most succulent seafood the Mediterranean has to offer. Have you ever visited a place specifically for the purpose of eating a local delicacy? Let us know in the comments!

The hottest ticket in the South of France this summer is the Exhibition “Picasso Cézanne” at the Musée Granet of Aix en Provence, and New York Habitat wants to make sure you have a apartment to stay in when you go to see it.

Aix-en-Provence, France

Did you know that Picasso was a huge fan of Cézanne? He even owned three of his works. The exhibition highlights the influences of Cézanne on Picasso’s development as an artist, as well as thematic similarities in their works.  It’s a must-see exhibition that will thrill fans of both artists.

Although you may not have heard of it previously, the Musée Granet of Aix en Provence is no lightweight.  Recently renovated, it is permanent home to a stunning sculpture gallery as well as an extensive landscapes collection and an impressive number of 17th century Italian paintings.

While you’re in the area, make an appointment to tour the Château de Vauvenargues, where Picasso lived for several years - and a site he chose specifically for its proximity to Cézanne.  This is the first time the Château is being opened for public viewing, and is guaranteed not to be overrun with tourists thanks to the guided tours, limited to less than 20 people each.

So, art lovers, what do you say - a little sun, a little fun, and a little art appreciation in the South of France? Excellent!  These New York Habitat vacation accommodations are sure to fit your style.

We simply adore this 2-bedroom rental in Aix en Provence (PR-348).  It’s so light and airy, and the flooring is to die for. Both the dining room and the kitchen have access to a long balcony overlooking the gardens, with a beautiful view of the countryside of Aix - you can even catch sight of the Montagne Sainte Victoire.

South of France Accommodation: Studio Vacation Rental (PR-311)

This 4-bedroom rental in Aix en Provence (PR-919) is great for larger groups or families. With rooms on two levels, everyone has plenty of room - and the open-plan living area ensures that no one is “stuck” in the kitchen alone! And best of all, while it is in the heart of Aix it has a private garden for al fresco dining, all summer long.

For more intimate accommodations, try a studio in Aix en Provence (PR-311). The location is ideal if you want to enjoy the cosmopolitan air of Aix en Provence and experience what is like to live independently as a true native. It’s just a stone’s throw from the Aix en Provence City Hall on Place des Cardeurs, and all the shops, restaurants, groceries, cafés, schools and colleges are nearby.

Once you see the Picasso Cézanne exhibit share your comments below.

When you think of the South of France, you probably think of glitzy beach towns along the Mediterranean like Cannes or Nice, or charming provincial towns like Avignon or Aix-en-Provence.  But did you know that between the coast and country lies a large nature preserve that is unlike anything you’d ever expect in the South of France?  The Camargue is definitely worth exploring and with a vacation apartment rental from New York Habitat, it couldn’t be easier to see all that the Camargue has to offer.

Camargue: Blue Coast, France

Located along the southern coast just west of Marseilles, the area known as the Camargue is formed by the Rhone River delta and covers over 350 square miles, making it the largest delta in Western Europe. Made up of pastures, wetlands, marshes, lagoons, sandbars and salt flats, and home to over 400 species of plants and animals, most of the Camargue is a national park and wildlife refuge.  Traveling through the area you are sure to see large flamingos and the small wild horses native to the region which are kept by the gardians.  You’ll also see huge mountains of salt, the area’s main source of income.  Throughout the dry season, sea water will evaporate, and the salty remnants will be gathered into mountains, sometimes as high as a house!  There are not many towns and villages in the Camargue, with the exception of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which is where Mary Magdalene, Mary Salome and Mary Jacobe were said to have landed when they left Egypt. The town is an annual gathering place for gypsies who celebrate Saint Sarah, who may or may not have been the daughter Mary Magdalene.  Walk through the town to learn about these women and decide for yourself!

New York Habitat has some wonderful accommodations for your visit to the Camargue in the town of Carry-le-Rouet, a village on the eastern edge of the area known for its annual sea urchin festival that runs from December to February every year.

This 1 bedroom villa rental in Carry Le Rouet, Camargue - Blue Coast (PR-805) is just a two minute walk to the beach!  But you can also take a dip in your private pool, just off the large terrace which is perfect for dining al fresco.  The house itself is decorated in the charming Provincial fashion but the kitchen and bathroom include all the modern amenities for your comfort.

South of France: accommodation in the Blue Coast, Camargue (PR-374)

If you don’t want to stay too long in the Camargue this 2 bedroom villa bed and breakfast rental in Carry Le Rouet, Camargue - Blue Coast (PR-374) might be for you.  Also in Carry-le-Rouet, this villa is a bit farther from the beach but still within walking distance.  Enjoy the views, and breakfast, from the large terrace!

Both of these rentals are a short drive from the major cities in the area, such as Marseilles or Aix-en-Provence, if you need a break from quiet country living.

If you think you’ve seen and done everything there is to do in the South of France, the Camargue might just hold a few surprises for you.  Though you won’t be surprised by your New York Habitat vacation apartment rental - it will be just as nice and accommodating as expected.

If you’ve been to the Camargue, please share your tips with us in the comments section.

You may not have heard of Saint Rémy de Provence before; it doesn’t have the world-wide recognition of Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, or other well known provincial cities and towns.  But thanks to two famous men who once called it home, Nostradamus and Van Gogh, many have been visiting this quaint little town and finding it to be just as enjoyable as the larger cities in the area.  A vacation apartment rental from New York Habitat is a great way to experience Saint Rémy and find your own inspiration.

Saint Remy de Provence, France

Michel de Nostradame, or as we know him, Nostradamus, was born in the sixteenth century in Saint Rémy de Provence, and his childhood home still exists.  Though he traveled throughout France and Italy to study and work, most notably for Catherine de Medici, Saint Rémy still holds Nostradamus as a native son and honors to him and his life can be seen throughout the town, such as a fountain made from a bust of him in the historic center.

Vincent Van Gogh is another famous man that Saint Rémy holds dear.  For the last year of his life, Van Gogh committed himself to the asylum and former monastery Saint Paul de Mausole, which still serves as a psychiatric hospital to this day, though small tours are permitted.  It was here that Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works, such as The Starry Night and Bedroom in Arles.  To see some of Van Gogh’s work, go to the Musée Estrine, which organizes a themed exhibit of some of the artists’ paintings each year.  The tourism office has also organizes tours of Van Gogh’s time in Saint Rémy which includes many of the landscapes that inspired him and in some places, the exact spot where a painting was completed is marked.

The best way to experience Saint Rémy de Provence as these two great men did would be to rent an apartment from New York Habitat.  Stay right in the historic center of town, like Nostradamus, in this 1 bedroom maison de village (PR-790).  This historic home is full of provincial charm with its tiled floors, stone walls, and exposed wooden beams.  Best of all, everything you could want, from shops and restaurants to the weekly market, is right outside your door!

South of France Accommodation: 2-bedroom rental in Saint Remy de Provence PR-695

If you’d like to stay in the Saint Rémy of Van Gogh, look at this 2 bedroom villa (PR-695), further out in the country around the town but still a short walk away from the historic center.  This beautiful house features a large open floor plan with lots of light from the many windows.  The outdoor space is equally large and inviting with is terrace, gardens and pool.

Saint Rémy de Provence, a smaller town with its own cultural heritage, is the perfect place for your next vacation in the South of France. Renting an apartment from New York Habitat will really let you feel like a local and get a feel of life here.  Let the spirits of its two famous residents, Nostradamus and Van Gogh, infuse and inspire you to create your own great works.

For more about Saint Rémy de Provence, read our other blog article Top Towns to visit in the South of France: #5 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

Have you visited Saint Rémy, or other smaller towns in Provence?  Please share your experience with us in our comments section.

As you pack up the kids to head back to school, perhaps you are feeling a little nostalgic for your own school days.  Why not try and capture some of your collegiate spirit in one of the oldest university towns in Europe, Aix-en-Provence?  You won’t have to live in musty old dorm rooms with a luxurious apartment rental from New York Habitat.

Aix en Provence terrace

Ideally located in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence has been known as a university town since 1409. To this day, its reputation stands and is home to some of the most prestigious, and oldest, universities in France.  But if you’re not all about books and studying, don’t worry; there are plenty of extra-curricular activities in Aix as well.

Museums abound in Aix, especially since the painter Paul Cézanne called this town home for much of his life.  Besides a museum built around Cézanne’s studio, his father’s house, and the surrounding grounds, is now also partially open to the public.  There are also quite a few museums dedicated to Aix’s history, which is quite extensive considering it dates back to 123 BC!  Aix is also well known for its fountains, bell towers, and architecture. Stroll about town, or rent a bike to get you around, and soak up the French atmosphere.  After your day of sight-seeing, head to Les Deux Garçons, a brasserie that’s been around since 1792 and has served such remarkable clients as Cézanne, French author Emile Zola, and American author Ernest Hemingway!

South of France accommodation: 1-bedroom in Aix en Provence (PR-432)

New York Habitat has plenty of terrific accommodations for your stay in Aix-en-Provence.  Some notable choices are:

•    This 2 bedroom rental in the heart of Aix (PR-755).  Located on the top floor of its building, this apartment offers spectacular views, especially from its large balcony.  The apartment itself is nicely furnished and well-equipped.  Best of all, you’ll be steps from the center of town and all the major sites!

•    You can also stay in this 2 bedroom rental in Aix-en-Provence (PR-479), which is also a penthouse apartment, and also located in the center of Aix.  This apartment is a nice mixture of old and new, with gleaming hardwood floors and exposed ceiling beams.  Enjoy the views or dine al fresco style from your two balconies!

•    This 1 bedroom rental in Aix-en-Provence (PR-432) is also available for you.  This apartment, also located in the center of Aix, is very modern but will still make you feel right at home since it retains some of its French charm with its large windows.  Like the other two apartments, this one also has a balcony so that you might continue to enjoy the sights and sounds of Aix even when you’re not in town.

There are plenty of reasons to relive our back-to-school days in the university town of Aix-en-Provence this fall.  Aix is a wonderful city to visit in its own right, but all the schools, universities, and other educational programs located here give Aix a more youthful and fun atmosphere, despite the city’s age. But you don’t have to live like a student with a great vacation apartment rental from New York Habitat.

Have you been to Aix-en-Provence before?  What did you like about the city?  Please share your thoughts with us in your comments section.

“Les Rencontes d’Arles” is an international event in the South of France. It is one of the older photography festival and one of the most important in the world.

These events were created in 1969 by photographers and people passionate about photography like Clergue, Lemagny, Rouquette and Dieuzaide who each organized summer several expositions, fairs and nights in the Antique Theater in order to showcase their photography, creations and new concepts in the world of art.

South of France accommodation: 4 bedroom rental in Beaucaire, Avignon Region (PR-821)

This year, expositions will take place from July 8th to September 14th. It is an occasion to discover the vision of art of many different people from around the South of France.

This year (the 39th) marks the return of two famous inhabitants of Arles : the famous designer Christian Lacroix and Maja Hoffmann, the women at the origin of a major project : a foundation of arts and culture in Arles. Christian Lacroix is this year’s artistic director and has invited some of his favorite photographers.

The program includes many exhibitions, awards, arts practices, seminars and night festivities.

Take part in that artistic events where you will find pictures and meet artists that will make you discover a different aspect of photography and the wonderful city of Arles!

Arles is one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. It is located in the Camargue region that is famous for its landscapes, tradition with bulls and for its Roman and Romanesque heritage.

If you decide to discover the Camargue and the surrounding villages, stay in a 4 bedroom duplex villa rental in Arles (PR-760).

Arles is a cultural crossroad with its well-known music, literature, photography and theatre festivals. New York Habitat has a beautiful 2 bedroom apartment rental in Arles, Camargue (PR-815) that you could also consider.

Arles, South of France

As with many cities in Provence, in Arles the sun shines more than 300 days per year! This gives the region a special light year round. You can enjoy the sun in this 4 bedroom vacation rental in Beaucaire – Avignon region (PR-821) : an authentic southern French Mas.

The Saturday market is typical site in this region: it is one of the most beautiful in Provence but also one of the largest (it is more than 2 kilometers long!). You can find whatever you want: fruits, vegetables, spices, fish, meat, regional products and more. You can also linger with the local population and learn more about the local culture.

A trip the south of France is not complete without a visit to the Arles region and is made even better by enjoying the festivities surrounding the “Les rencontres d’Arles”.

If you have been to the events and want to share your experience please leave a comment below.