If you’re searching for the most beautiful towns in Southern France, here’s the ultimate list. I’ve explored this region from end to end and selected my top 10 favorite destinations to enjoy in spring, and now I’m sharing them with you. These charming towns are full of history, breathtaking landscapes, and an undeniable charm that will make you fall in love. I always recommend them to my friends when they visit.
Why visit in spring? Because it’s the best time to experience these towns in all their splendor: longer days, mild temperatures, and landscapes in full bloom. Plus, it’s the perfect season to avoid summer crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience.
In this guide, I’ll take you to discover 10 hidden gems in Southern France, from medieval villages to vibrant coastal retreats. Keep reading and get ready to fall in love with each one of them.
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1- Bormes-les-Mimosas on the French Riviera
ℹ️ Population 8277 Inhabitants in 2020
If there’s a town that looks like it came straight out of a springtime fairytale, it’s Bormes-les-Mimosas. Located on the French Riviera, this Provençal gem bursts with color and fragrance in spring, when its streets are draped in flowers and the sun is warm enough to enjoy the outdoors without the summer crowds.
What makes Bormes-les-Mimosas perfect for a family getaway is its peaceful atmosphere and garden-like setting. Strolling through its cobbled streets, lined with bougainvillea and pastel-colored houses, is a sensory delight for both kids and adults. But it’s not just its beauty that captivates visitors—this charming town offers plenty of family-friendly activities.
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Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Bormes-les-Mimosas
- Explore the Old Town: Kids love wandering through its narrow alleyways, discovering hidden fountains and cozy little squares with charming terraces.
- Visit Parc Gonzalez: A botanical garden where spring explodes in a riot of colors, making it a must-visit spot for nature lovers.
- Enjoy a Beach Day: Just a few kilometers away, the beaches of Cabasson and l’Estagnol are perfect for a family picnic with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
- Follow the Mimosa Route: If you visit between late winter and early spring, the town turns golden with blooming mimosa flowers, creating a unique natural spectacle in France.
- Discover Fort de Brégançon: This historic fort, the official summer residence of French presidents, offers guided tours during the season. Perched on a small island with breathtaking sea views, it’s a fascinating excursion for all ages.
Every time I return to Bormes-les-Mimosas in spring, it feels as magical as the first time. Its relaxed atmosphere, blooming gardens, and proximity to the sea make it an ideal destination for a family trip. Without a doubt, it’s one of my favorite towns in Southern France.
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Bormes les Mimosas, besides being recognized as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, also holds the prestigious seal of Village Fleuri and the recognition of Les Plus Belles Baies du Monde, thanks to the spectacular bay of Bormes.
2- Aigues-Mortes – A Walled Town That Captivates All Ages
â„ą Population 8640 Inhabitants
If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, Aigues-Mortes is the perfect town to visit in spring with your family. Located in the heart of the Camargue, this medieval gem, with its imposing stone walls, looks like something straight out of a knight’s tale.
What I love most about Aigues-Mortes is that it’s not just a picturesque town—it’s a journey back in time. Walking through its cobbled streets, surrounded by perfectly preserved ramparts, makes kids feel like they’re in an adventure movie. And in spring, the weather is ideal for exploring without the intense heat of summer.
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The Perfect Family Itinerary in Aigues-Mortes:
- Walk Along the City Walls: One of the best experiences is strolling along the medieval ramparts, which offer panoramic views of the town and the Camargue’s unique landscapes. Kids love imagining themselves as knights defending the fortress!
- Discover the Tour de Constance: This historic tower, once a royal prison, offers incredible views over the surrounding marshes.
- Take a Boat Trip Through the Camargue: From the Aigues-Mortes port, boats set off through the canals, where you can spot white horses, bulls, and the famous pink flamingos in their natural habitat.
- Visit the Aigues-Mortes Salt Marshes: Just outside town, the salt marshes create a spectacular landscape with salt mountains and pink-hued lagoons. Guided tours on a small train make the experience even more exciting for kids.
Aigues-Mortes is a place where history comes to life and nature amazes at every turn. Every time I visit in spring, I love exploring it with my family at a slow pace, discovering every corner of this fortified town. It’s undoubtedly one of the best towns in Southern France and a perfect spot for a family getaway.
👉 Aigues-Mortes: A Fortified Town Steeped in History
3- Les Baux-de-Provence – A Magical Journey to the Middle Ages with Family
â„ą Population 319 Inhabitants
If there’s a town that leaves you speechless upon arrival, it’s Les Baux-de-Provence. Perched atop a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Alpilles Natural Park, this destination is a true journey back in time. Its medieval streets, impressive ruins, and breathtaking panoramic views make it a must-visit in spring, when the weather is perfect for exploring without the scorching summer heat.
What I love most about Les Baux is its ability to transport you to another era. It’s one of those places where kids get excited imagining castles, knights, and battles, while adults fall in love with the Provençal charm and endless views of the region.
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Top Attractions in Les Baux-de-Provence:
- Explore Château des Baux: The ruined fortress is the heart of the town. Its walls, towers, and giant catapults are a magnet for kids, who can roam freely while imagining medieval adventures.
- Stroll Through the Cobblestone Streets: This small town is packed with charming spots, from craft shops and ice cream parlors to cozy terraces in picturesque squares.
- Carrières de Lumières: A one-of-a-kind experience in the region. This immersive digital art show, projected onto the walls of an ancient stone quarry, is a mesmerizing spectacle for children and adults alike.
- Viewpoints with spectacular views: From several points of the village, you can admire the landscapes of the Alpilles, a breathtaking panoramic view.
Every time I visit Les Baux-de-Provence in spring, I enjoy the perfect balance of history, culture, and nature. It’s a destination that enchants both adults and children and deserves a spot on any itinerary of the best towns in Southern France.
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4- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Art, History, and Nature for a Perfect Family Getaway
ℹ️ Population 9888 inhabitants
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a town that captures your heart at first sight. Located in the heart of Provence, this charming destination perfectly blends history, art, and stunning landscapes that once inspired Vincent van Gogh. In spring, when the fields begin to bloom with poppies and lavender, it’s the ideal time to explore without the summer crowds.
What I love most about Saint-Rémy is its authentic and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a town meant for slow travel, where you can wander through stone houses, picturesque squares with fountains, and vibrant Provençal markets. Plus, it offers fantastic family-friendly activities, from Roman ruins to scenic trails perfect for little adventurers.
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The Perfect Family Itinerary in Saint-RĂ©my-de-Provence
- Follow Van Gogh’s Footsteps: A marked trail through town lets you discover the landscapes that inspired some of his most famous paintings—a great way to introduce kids to art and culture.
- Visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery: This is where Van Gogh stayed and painted many of his masterpieces. The serene surroundings make it a peaceful and inspiring visit.
- Explore Glanum, the Ancient Roman City: Just outside town, these well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse into Roman history. Kids will love imagining life in ancient times as they walk among temples and thermal baths.
- Enjoy a Picnic in the Alpilles: The nearby Alpilles Natural Park features easy family-friendly trails with breathtaking views of Provence.
- Visit the Provençal Market: Saint-Rémy is famous for its open-air market, held every Wednesday. It’s the perfect place to sample local specialties and soak up the Provençal atmosphere.
- Viewpoints with spectacular views: From several points of the village, you can admire the landscapes of the Alpilles, a breathtaking panoramic view.
Saint-RĂ©my-de-Provence is a town where art, history, and nature come together in perfect harmony. It invites you to slow down, explore with family, and experience the true essence of Provence.
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5- Collioure – A Picture-Perfect Town Between the Sea and the Mountains
ℹ️ Population 2429 inhabitants in 2020
If there’s a town in Southern France that seamlessly blends color, history, and the sea, it’s Collioure. Nestled on the Mediterranean coast in the Occitanie region, this charming fishing port once captivated artists like Matisse and Derain with its incredible light and unique atmosphere. In spring, when the weather is mild and the streets burst into bloom, it’s the perfect time to explore without the summer crowds.
What I love most about Collioure is its vibrant yet laid-back ambiance. It’s a place where you can stroll at a relaxed pace with your family, taking in the colorful houses, turquoise sea, and the impressive fortress offering panoramic views.
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What we love in Collioure:
- Wander Through the Old Town: Its narrow streets, lined with artisan shops and cozy cafés, are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Kids love discovering hidden corners and charming squares with fountains.
- Visit the Château Royal: This medieval fortress is one of the town’s top highlights. You can explore the interior and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean.
- Walk Along the Harbor and Beach: Collioure’s port looks like a postcard, with traditional fishing boats and its iconic seafront bell tower. The small pebble beaches are perfect for a break while kids play by the water.
- Follow the Fauvism Trail: A marked route through town highlights the spots where Matisse and Derain painted some of their most famous works—a unique way to introduce children to art.
- Hike to Fort Saint-Elme: Perched on a hilltop, this historic fortress offers spectacular views of the coast and the Pyrenees. The short hike up is a fun adventure, and the reward is well worth the effort.
Every time I visit Collioure in spring, I fall in love again with its special light, peaceful charm, and perfect blend of sea and mountains. It’s a place that invites you to unwind and explore with your family, making it one of the best towns in Southern France.
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Collioure has been elected the Preferred Village of the French, in the year 2024.
6- Sauve – A Medieval Treasure of Nature and Legends
ℹ️ Population 1915 inhabitants in 2020
If you’re looking for a town filled with history, mystery, and breathtaking natural surroundings, Sauve is a must-visit in Southern France. Nestled at the foot of the CĂ©vennes in the Occitanie region, this medieval gem has the authentic charm of off-the-beaten-path destinations, yet it holds plenty of hidden treasures to discover. In spring, when the days are longer and nature is in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to explore with your family.mejor Ă©poca para explorarlo en familia.
What I love most about Sauve is its timeless atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses, and medieval passageways feel like something out of a fantasy movie. It’s a place that sparks adventure, where kids can imagine themselves as knights and explorers while uncovering the town’s rich history.
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What we like best at Sauve:
- Wander Through the Old Town: Strolling its narrow alleys is like stepping back in time. The stone houses with colorful shutters, medieval arches, and quaint squares with fountains create a truly magical setting.
- Discover the “Mer de Rochers” (Sea of Rocks): Just outside the village, this incredible natural labyrinth of rock formations is one of the most exciting experiences in the area. It’s a great family hike, where kids can climb, explore, and marvel at unique geological wonders.
- Visit the Old Bridge Over the Vidourle River: This historic stone bridge offers beautiful views and is the perfect spot for a spring picnic.
- Hike to the Tour de MĂ´le Viewpoint: For adventurous families, a scenic hike leads to this ancient ruined tower, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the valley and the CĂ©vennes mountains.
Sauve is one of those villages that surprises and captivates. Its blend of history, nature, and legends makes it a perfect family-friendly destination and a hidden gem in Southern France.
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7- Goudargues – The Venice of Gard
ℹ️ Population 1140 inhabitants in 2020
If you’re looking for a picturesque, peaceful village surrounded by water, Goudargues is the perfect destination. Nestled in the heart of the Cèze Valley, this charming town is often called the “Venice of Gard” thanks to the canals that run through its center. In spring, as the trees lining the water begin to bloom and terraces come alive with activity, the atmosphere here is nothing short of enchanting.
What I love most about Goudargues is its tranquil and welcoming spirit. It’s a village designed for leisurely strolls, enjoying nature, and escaping the city’s hustle and bustle. Its main canal, with its historic washhouses and shaded terraces, creates a relaxing ambiance, making it an ideal place for a family retreat.
Perfect family plan in Goudargues:
- Wander Through the Village Center: Cobblestone streets, tree-lined canals, and charming local shops make simply walking around Goudargues a delightful experience.
- Spend a Day by the Cèze River: Just a short distance from the village, the Cèze River offers spots where kids can splash in the water, take gentle walks, and enjoy nature.
- Enjoy a Drink on a Terrace by the Water: The sound of flowing water and the shade of plane trees create the perfect setting for a relaxing family break.
- Go Kayaking on the Cèze: For adventurous families, springtime is the ideal season for kayaking down the river, when the water levels are perfect and the scenery is breathtaking.
- Discover the Sautadet Waterfalls: Just a few kilometers from Goudargues, these stunning waterfalls are a natural wonder. While swimming is prohibited in the strongest currents, there are calmer areas where children can play safely.
Every time I visit Goudargues, I fall in love with its laid-back charm, simple beauty, and deep connection with nature. It’s the perfect town for families seeking tranquility, warm weather, and a stunning natural setting, making it a must-visit stop on any itinerary through Southern France.
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8- Lussan – A Medieval Retreat with Breathtaking Views
ℹ️ Population 506 inhabitants in 2020
If there’s a town in Southern France that perfectly blends history, authenticity, and nature, it’s Lussan. Perched atop a hilltop in the Gard department, this fortified village offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the region—rolling hills, lavender fields, and the majestic Cévennes mountains on the horizon.
In spring, when the landscape is bursting with color and the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures, it’s the ideal time to visit with family.
What I love most about Lussan is its peaceful medieval charm. There are no big crowds or touristy shops, just perfectly preserved stone streets, towering ramparts, and a breathtaking natural setting that invites you to explore and unwind. It’s a place where history and nature come together to create an idyllic escape for families.
The Perfect Family Itinerary in Lussan:
- Stroll Through the Old Town: Lussan is a “perched village”, with cobbled streets, stone houses, and picturesque corners. Its ramparts and towers offer spectacular views, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk with kids.
- Explore the “Via Ferrata of the Concluses Canyon”: For adventurous families, this natural wonder features impressive rock formations and a dry canyon carved by ancient water flows. In spring, when the riverbed is almost dry, it’s a fascinating playground for exploration.
- Visit Château de Lussan: While this historic fortress is not always open to the public, it remains the symbol of the village and a great spot to learn more about its medieval past.
- Go Biking or Hiking in the Countryside: The lavender fields and rural trails surrounding Lussan are perfect for a family-friendly outdoor adventure.
Lussan is a place where authenticity thrives, a village that has preserved its medieval soul while embracing its spectacular natural surroundings. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking peace, history, and breathtaking landscapes, and a must-visit stop on any itinerary of the best towns in Southern France.
👉 Discover Lussan – A Charming Medieval Village
9- Mourèze – A Village Among Rocks and Otherworldly Landscapes
ℹ️ Population 220 inhabitants in 2020
If you’re looking for a unique destination where nature and adventure blend seamlessly with the charm of a small village, Mourèze is the perfect choice. Located in the Hérault department, this village is famous for its dolomitic cirque, a surreal landscape of spectacular rock formations that look like something from another planet. In spring, when the heat is still mild and the vegetation is at its peak, it’s the best time to explore it with your family.
What I love most about Mourèze is that it’s not just a pretty village, but also a gateway to outdoor adventures. It’s a place where kids can climb, run, and explore freely, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
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What I love in Mourèze:
- Explore the Cirque de Mourèze: This incredible labyrinth of rock formations is the main attraction of the village. Marked trails with varying difficulty levels make it a perfect hiking spot for families, offering giant rocks and panoramic views along the way.
- Stroll Through the Old Town: Mourèze may be small, but it’s full of charm. Its cobbled alleys, stone houses, and picturesque church make it an ideal place for a relaxing walk after an outdoor adventure.
- Hike to the Monte Liausson Viewpoint: For more adventurous families, this hike offers one of the best panoramic views in the region, with Lac du Salagou on one side and the Cirque de Mourèze on the other.
- Relax at Lac du Salagou: Just a short drive away, this stunning red-water lake is perfect for a picnic, a swim, or even activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Stargazing Night: Thanks to its natural surroundings with no light pollution, Mourèze is an ideal spot for an unforgettable night of family stargazing.
Every time I visit Mourèze, I’m amazed by its blend of natural beauty and tranquility. It’s an ideal destination for those looking for a hidden gem in Southern France, where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
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Cordes-sur-Ciel – A Dreamy Village Above the Clouds
ℹ️ Population 856 inhabitants in 2020
If there’s a town in Southern France that seems to float in the sky, it’s Cordes-sur-Ciel. Perched atop a hill in the Tarn, this medieval masterpiece is one of the most breathtaking villages in the region. In spring, when the morning mist sometimes wraps around it and the surrounding fields burst into color, visiting becomes a truly magical experience.
What fascinates me most about Cordes-sur-Ciel is its timeless atmosphere. Its steep cobbled streets, intricately carved stone facades, and panoramic views make every corner feel special. It’s the perfect place to explore at a slow pace, letting yourself be enchanted by its history and unique charm.
Family attractions in Cordes-sur-Ciel:
- Wander Through the Medieval Streets: Climbing the cobbled alleys is an adventure in itself. Along the way, you’ll discover Gothic mansions, fortified gates, and artisan shops, making it an ideal experience for all ages.
- Visit the Sugar and Chocolate Art Museum: A must-visit if you’re traveling with kids! This small but fascinating museum showcases intricate sculptures made from sugar and chocolate—and, of course, there’s a shop full of irresistible treats.
- Explore the Porte de l’Horloge: One of the ancient city gates, with its iconic clock and imposing structure, is one of the town’s most photographed landmarks.
- Enjoy the Views from the Top: Reaching the highest point of the village, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Tarn valleys and rolling hills—a perfect spot for a break and unforgettable photos.
- Join an Artisan Workshop: Cordes-sur-Ciel is famous for its community of artists and craftsmen. You’ll find ceramic, painting, and glassblowing workshops where kids can watch artisans at work or even participate in small hands-on activities.
Every time I visit Cordes-sur-Ciel in spring, I feel like I’ve stepped into a fairy tale setting. It’s a place where history, beauty, and the magic of the landscape combine to create a unique family experience. No wonder it was voted France’s Favorite Village in 2014! Without a doubt, it’s one of the best towns in Southern France.
👉 Cordes-sur-Ciel: One of the Most Beautiful Medieval Villages in Tarn
Cordes sur Ciel has been elected favorite Village of the French in 2014.
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My selection of charming southern towns to visit in Spring: The Map
Conclusion: The 10 Best Towns in Southern France to enjoy in springtime
Touring the most beautiful villages in the south of France in spring is an unforgettable experience. From the mimosa fields of Bormes-les-Mimosas on the CĂ´te d’Azur to the medieval lanes of Cordes-sur-Ciel, each destination offers its own charm. The special light of Collioure, the magic of Aigues-Mortes with its ramparts, or the tranquility of Goudargues, known as the “Venice of the Gard”, make this region a traveler’s paradise.
If you are looking for the 10 best villages in southern of France, these destinations are perfect for a spring getaway with your family, as a couple or even alone. History, spectacular landscapes, gastronomy and culture await you in every corner. Which one will be your next stop?
Dear reader,
This article has been written by me, Diego, who has been living in France for a few years and traveling this beautiful country for many more! And it is inspired by my experiences and the tastes of me and my family.
I love to show you the charming villages of France and all there is to do here and I know that many times the organization of a trip can be complicated. That’s why, through my guides, I try to inspire you and help you in your planning.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and, above all, that it has been useful.
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