Roman Provence

We begin the day with a visit to Orange, where we will explore the theatre, Roman triumphal arch and the fantastic museum. The Roman city on the site was founded in 35 BC, however, it was originally under Celtic rule. The ancient porticoes, Celtic fortifications and beautiful fountained squares make this small town well worth the visit. In the afternoon, we explore charming Saint Rémy de Provence, a charming village where the Provençal way of life is alive and well.

We spend the day in Nîmes, which was once a thriving Roman town. Visits include the Arena of Nîmes, where the former amphitheatre was remodelled as a bullring in the 19th century, and the beautifully preserved temple façade at Maison Caree. Next, we see the original spring of Nemausus, around which the pre-Roman settlement grew up, and has since been landscaped into a modern day park. We then continue to the Temple of Diana and the newly opened Archaeological Museum, Musée de la Romanité, and a little free time available for further independent exploration of this wonderful location.

This morning we head off to the spectacular site of Glanum, once an oppidum which has played host to some fascinating excavations. Here, we will visit the museum and there is an option to walk to the viewing areas that overlook the site, sanctuary, monuments and residential area. We proceed to Avignon for an independent lunch and then the rest of the afternoon is free to spend at leisure. Take the opportunity to soak in the atmosphere, culture and history of the area, which also boasts an array of local shops.

We visit the Musée Granet, home to a collection of artefacts from the pre-Roman site of Entremont, which we later visit. The site was setteled between 180 and 170 BC and was then abandoned due to the Romans taking control in 123 BC. It contains two distinct areas of settlement around the ramparts. In the afternoon, we take a leisurely drive over the Luberon Hills to Pont Julien, which is a Roman bridge over the Calavon river. It was built between 29 BC and 14 AD during the early Roman Empire by Domitius Ahenobarbus.

The Roman past of Arles still seems remarkably close. Today, we visit the Obelisk, Cloisters, and Cryptoporticus tunnels that are located deep beneath the forum. We also have the chance to marvel at the amphitheatre which is still in use to this day. Other sites include the impressive ancient theatre, Roman baths, and the Alyscamps. Next, we tour the modern Archaeological Museum, which vividly tells a story of Roman Arleat through its fantastic exhibits and collections. Arles is a truly fascinating destination to explore. Finally, we return to our hotel via Barbegal, where we have a short stop to observe the ancient aqueducts and mills.

We spend our morning at the spectacular stretch of aqueduct that once fed the historic city of Nîmes: the Pont du Gard. This monument was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and in 2004 it was awarded the coveted title of 'Grand site de France.' Described regularly as a true masterpiece of ancient architecture, the Pont du Gard is a sight to behold. Upon our return to our hotel, we will stop off at Les Baux de Provence to explore the ancient village, which is perched on a rocky outcrop.

Driving north, we reach Vaison la Romaine with its impressive Roman ruins. We visit the site of Puymin where we can see the remains of houses, a theatre and a sanctuary. On our return, we stop briefly at Cavaillon to see the remains of a 1st century Roman arch.

We drive to the Pont Flavien, a rare example of a Roman bridge with triumphal arches. We then proceed to the airport for our return flights home.