to southern France. Whether you want to dip into the region´s cultural treasures and its sky-blue seas, follow in the footsteps of Matisse, or simply eat your way around, this guide will prove indispensable.

*42 detailed maps
*special food & wine section with recipes from the region´s top chefs
*festival listings and how to get tickets for Cannes, Avignon and the Monaco Grand Prix
*accommodation for every budget: camping, chambres d´hote, wine chateaux, century-old mills
*essential information for outdoor pursuits, from selling France´s highest cliffs to riding the most spectacular canyon in Europe

Promenade with film stars in Cannes, feel the rush at Monte Carlo´s opulent casino, museum-hop in Nice and explore scenic hilltop villages. Or simply stretch out in the Provençal sun and savour fine wine mingled with the scent of lavender fields. Whatever your taste, our definitive guide gives you detailed regional coverage for the perfect getaway.

FIND YOUR WAY - our highlights and itineraries, fold-out road map and practical directory help plan your trip

SAMPLE GOURMET DELIGHTS - from farmhouse feasts to designer dining, our extended listings take you to the very best places to eat

REST YOUR HEAD - hand-picked sleeping options for every budget, from grand chateaux to cosy farmhouses

IMMERSE YOURSELF - our discerning arts and enter­tainment coverage includes world-famous art in Aix and Arles, Roman architecture in Nîmes and film in Cannes

GET ACTIVE - from long-distance hikes to gentle bike rides and luxurious spas, our dedicated outdoors chapter covers a multitude of activities