Summer is here and sometimes it's a real hit! But here in Provence, we've learned to live with the sun. Between grandmother tricks, southern rhythm et good freshness tips, here are our 10 tips for getting through the heatwave in style (and without overheating).
01
Adopt the Provençal rhythm: long live the siesta!
Forget long days. Here, we live in rhythm of the sun : we get up early, take a break in the shade during the hottest hours (12 p.m.–16 p.m.), and resume our activities at the end of the afternoon.
Shutters closed during the day, open at night: a classic that works.
02
Enjoy the freshness of old stones
When the heat becomes oppressive, Grand Avignon offers many cool cultural stopovers.
Air-conditioned museums, exhibitions, galleries, chapels or heritage sites with thick walls: all perfect refuges to continue exploring without suffocating.
03
Cool off differently: make way for indoor activities
Heading to the place air-conditioned, fun or relaxing.
- A movie in a movie theater
- An escape game or a quiz with friends
- An indoor climbing session
- An immersive visit to the planetarium
- A relaxing moment in a spa
- An indoor show
Original ideas for get a change of scenery without getting overheated !
04
Choose your walks carefully
In the middle of the day, avoid hills! Prefer the shaded banks the Rhône or Barthelasse Island. The air is fresher, the walk more pleasant, and the view of the Pont d'Avignon is worth the detour.
05
Experience Avignon by night
In the evening, the city's atmosphere changes. Enjoy the night visits offered in several heritage sites, stroll through the cool alleys, or attend tours by lantern light.
06
Eat light and local
Provençal salads, sun-drenched fruits, melon, tomatoes from local producers... We eat fresh, we drink plenty of water, and we avoid heavy meals at lunchtime.
07
Cool off in the water points
To escape the heat, the outdoor pools of Grand Avignon offer perfect spaces for relaxing or swimming. Less than 30 minutes away, the Pont du Gard invites you to swim in the river in an exceptional natural and heritage setting. Finally, for water sports enthusiasts, the region offers canoeing, paddleboarding, and wakeboarding, for a refreshing discovery of the region.
08
Live in the era of terraces
When the sun is beating down, there's no need to rush. In Provence, we know how to take our time. In the cool of the day, sit on a terrace, under the plane trees in a shady square, or in the shelter of a quiet alleyway. Drink an early morning coffee, share an aperitif at sunset, or dine under the stars... That's also what summer is all about in Grand Avignon: simply enjoy the moment.
09
Enjoy the cool evenings during festivals
When the sun sets, the show begins.
Of course, there is the Festival d'Avignon, but also appointments more intimate : Villeneuve on Stage welcomes you in a guinguette spirit with shows, food trucks and a relaxed atmosphere under the stars.
10
Be careful and stay tuned
Remember to consult the Météo France warning bulletins, limit your movements in case of strong heat, and take care of the most fragile.
Heatwave information number: 0 800 06 66 66 (free call)
Summer in Provence is lived at a different pace: slow, fresh and smartThe sun is our ally, provided we tame it... without abusing it!
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