Page 36 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Provence & The Côte d'Azur

34  INTRODUCING PROVENCE

The Beaches of Provence

From the untamed expanses of the Rhône delta to the hot spots
of the Riviera, via the cliffs and coves of the Var, the coastline
of Provence is extremely varied. Resort beaches around the
towns of the Riviera, such as Menton, Nice and Monte‑Carlo, are
crowded and noisy in the height of summer. They often charge
a fee, but are usually well‑kept and offer good watersports
facilities. It is, however, possible to seek out quieter corners
away from the crowds if you know where to look.

The Côte d’Azur beaches
offer warmth and sunshine
all year long, making towns
such as Villefranche-sur-
Mer (see p92) very popular
with tourists.

The Camargue beaches (see pp140–42) at the mouth The Côte Bleue is dotted
of the Rhône delta, are often deserted. The long, flat with fishing ports and
sands are ideal for horse riding, but there is a shortage elegant summer residences.
of amenities. Pine trees line the beaches.

Arles Salon de
Provence
BOUCHES-DU-RHONE
AND NIMES Aix-en-Provence
Saintes-Maries-
de-la-Mer
Martigues
C Carry-le-
a Rouet Marseille
C ô t e B l e u e Aubagne
m a r g u e
L e s C a l a n q u e s
Bandol
Les Calanques Sanary-sur-Mer
(see p157) are Cap
beautiful and Sicié
dramatic fjord-like
inlets situated east of
Marseille. The sheer
white cliffs, some
400 m (1,312 ft) high,
drop vertically into Cap Sicié is a small
the tempting, peninsula that juts
blue water. out from the Var
mainland. It is famed
for its strong winds and
waves, ideal for experi-
enced windsurfers.