Provocative Provence

There’s more to this fiery, rebellious French region than lavender fields and sleepy villages

Though its wide open spaces are temporarily out of bounds, Provence has long drawn visitors with its picturesque lavender fields and simple, rustic charm. But there is far more to this mercurial, boisterous region than quiet countryside – as the acclaimed author and food critic François Simon lovingly attests in the pages of Provence Glory. This collection of vibrant images depicts the real Provence, from the cowboys of the Mailhan family bull ranch in Arles (above) to the vividly dressed fashionistas of the Côte d’Azur.

“The spirit of Provence is very much present in this image,” Simon explains. “The colours are warm, the energy of the men depicted is alive as they ride through fresh, awakened landscapes. It represents the liveliness of this region; abrupt, wild and provocative. Provence never ceases to rebel, to oppose, to sing and make you wonder. It is a free land and, though its winters are often raw and intense, it remains so beautiful. There is nowhere quite like it.

“I love this country because it contradicts itself in a magnificent manner. You can say one thing, then state the opposite – and you can still be right. To quote a Lebanese proverb: ‘If a person thinks they have understood Provence, it’s because it wasn’t explained well.’”

Though distinctly French, the region benefits from historical and geographic influences that nevertheless allow it a unique character, making it an essential stop for any visitor hoping truly to acquaint themselves with the country. “Because it’s so close to Italy – the true South and the wonderful Mediterranean – Provence shows a different side of France,” Simon argues. “Because of this, there is so much to be grasped – it almost feeds the nostalgia of a preserved landscape that has yet to be changed, but may evolve. That’s why people come here: it has everything.”

by François Simon is published by Assouline (assouline.com; RRP £70). Buy it now for £60 at books. telegraph.co.uk or call 0844 871 1514.

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