Hyeres

Follow the sun to the fabulous seaside town of Hyeres, in the most southern part of Provence. The oldest resort on the French Riviera, it has enticed many a famous face over the years including Queen Victoria and DH.Lawrence, and there's a lot to explore. The Place Massilon is a characteristic open square with shuttered colourful houses, the 12th-century Tower of Saint-Blaise, cafe and restaurant terraces bursting with life and urgent chatter and a daily market, it's the social hub of Hyeres. Facing the Porte Barruc you'll find a mesmerising park with pretty walkways and arches on different levels with olive and pine trees offering shade for the numerous Mediterranean plants. Above The Place Massilon and the old town, you'll find a network of cobbled streets and pretty buildings meandering up the hillside with great viewing points along the way. Then, head for the beach. L'Almanarre is the closest, and very popular. For a more peaceful affair, try the beaches on the Giens Peninsula.