The South of France has long been a haven for creatives. Van Gogh, Cézanne and Matisse all lived here during their careers, cementing its status as an artistic haven. But it’s not about the great dead masters – new generations of artists, collectors and gallerists continue to be drawn to the area, creating an art scene that’s not just steeped in history, but also new ideas and originality. Medieval towns, fishing villages and olive groves become the backdrop for experimental and contemporary art, from sculpture to painting to installation. Here we present the Smith Art Route through the South of France.
Villa Lacoste
Bugs
The dreamy fishing village of Bagos, perched above the Bagus-Sirang lagoon, would be the perfect place to while away an afternoon even without its resident art gallery, which certainly adds to its appeal. RatuvuCelebrating its tenth anniversary last year, it is an unexpected treasure trove of contemporary artists from France, the Netherlands, Italy and Belgium. Curated by Belgian artists Sabine Friederichs and Herman Van Synghel, Latuvu is an alternative spelling of “Latuvu”.L’as-tu vu?”, which means “did you see it?” ” You’ll be glad you did. Afterwards, it’s just a 5-minute walk Palace of Artsanother jewelry gallery in a former Presbyterian house, on the terrace before lunch Bari Garden.
Where to stay
capito castleIt is a 19th-century castle and extensive manor house just 20 minutes’ drive east of Bages, on the south coast of Bages Languedoc region, with a view of the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. Or book a room on the spire castle Or seek privacy in a secluded villa among the vineyards.
Arles
The Provence city of Arles inspired some of Van Gogh’s most famous masterpieces, Cafe terrace at night arrive sunflowerso it is only fitting that there should be an art museum here dedicated to displaying his work and influence. Opened for more than ten years,Vincent Van Gogh Foundation It continues to attract countless visitors eager to see his work in the city where it was first created. After visiting the exhibition commemorating the work and life of the late, great painter, grab a coffee and stroll along the Rhone River, which inspired the artist’s creations Starry night over the Rhoneand then go to 2 Place Lamartine, which is Van Gogh’s former residence. yellow house. Incidentally, this is also the place where he infamously cut off his ear after a dispute with Paul Gauguin. The property was damaged in World War II but is still recognizable.
Where to stay
15 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens create Charalmond Winery So special. The bedrooms have a calm and elegant atmosphere, but it’s the lush greenery outside, the heated swimming pool surrounded by pink parasols, the idyllic gazebo (perfect for reading) or the vast olive grove that will captivate you. It’s a bit far from Arles but located Alpilre Regional Nature Parkso it’s worth the 30-minute drive to see more of the greenery.
Arles
Charalmond Winery
An exhibition space converted from a private mansion, Lee Ufan Arles is a relatively new art destination, opening in 2024. The Korean artist and philosopher, known for his understated sculptures and paintings, created the gallery with the help of his friend, Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Home to Ufan’s work, including paintings, installations, his iconic sculptures, and temporary exhibitions of his favorite artists, it is an elegant, meditative cultural venue that allows you to get up close and personal with one of South Korea’s most experimental and respected creative minds. Before leaving, make a beeline for the library and shops.
Where to stay
After all the intellectualism, return to Domaine de Chalamon to relax in the vast grounds, stroll through manicured gardens, cypresses, pine and plane trees, and enjoy an aperitif under pink-striped parasols.
Arles
Arles’ main artistic connection may have been Van Gogh, but brightness — a sprawling 27-acre “creative complex” — further cementing its artistic reputation. Conceived by Maja Hoffmann (heir to the pharmaceutical company Hoffmann-La Roche) in collaboration with architect Frank Gehry, the space offers exhibition halls, residences and rehearsal rooms for artists and performers, design and research laboratories, restaurants, cafés and bars, a hotel, and a landscaped park filled with sculptures and installations. Gehry’s gleaming 56-meter-tall tower is truly breathtaking, made of steel, concrete and glass. You could spend a day here, but there is much more to see. Be sure to check out their online program for the latest exhibitions and events.
Where to stay
saint remyThis 19th-century mansion is said to have been built by a colonel who fell in love with a local woman and lived there forever. Located in the historic market town of the same name, a 30-minute drive north of Arles, you’re bound to fall in love with this hotel (and want to stay indefinitely), with its 12-metre south-facing swimming pool and rooftop terrace for magical sunset views.
Marseille
seaside
Marseille has become a favorite for those city breakers who prefer a sunny and adventurous feel. The creative scene keeps popping up, but if you only choose one destination on this artistic journey, go for itbeauty of may -Better known as “La Friche”. A former tobacco factory, it is a vast cultural community complex spanning six main exhibition spaces, a bookstore, a café and a rooftop bar. From gigs and movie nights to creative workshops, there’s always a great range of events going on. It’s also family-friendly, with kid-friendly activities and events. There is a lot to see, so allow plenty of time.
Where to stay
Art Deco accommodation in Marseille seasideLa Friche is a 20-minute taxi ride away and each bedroom has sea views. The hotel also has a rooftop pool and bar, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Aix-en-Provence
lowe studio It was Paul Cezanne’s last studio and is now open to the public. From 1902 until his death in 1906, the “Father of Modern Art” worked in this bright space on a hilltop in Provence. It was built to his exact specifications and is situated among olive groves overlooking his long-time muse, Mont Saint-Victoire, which was the protagonist of many of his paintings. The first floor features a full-height window facing north, allowing Cézanne to take full advantage of the views. The ceiling was kept high so that he could utilize large canvases, and a slot in the wall allowed them to be transported to a gallery or private home. Tickets sell out early, so be sure to book in advance.
Where to stay
If French luxury and opulence sounds right up your alley, then the beautiful Villa Galici Will prove heaven. Just a 15-minute walk from Cézanne’s studio, this 18th-century property combines old-world elegance with modern decor.
Aix-en-Provence
Lacoste Castle
If you want to get a feel for your culture while enjoying the region’s sunny climate, Lacoste Castle‘s trail of public art is unparalleled. Admire Damien Hirst’s giant anatomical sculptures, Louise Bourgeois’s crouching spiders or Tracey Emin’s neon scripts; this is where art collides with stunning scenery. Guests receive maps to take a self-guided tour of the oak and olive groves. There are also several restaurants at various price points, as well as a winery that offers wine tastings.
Where to stay
Helpfully, there’s a hotel on site: a critically acclaimed modernist masterpiece Villa Lacoste. You don’t have to stay there to take advantage of this trail, but it’s hard to resist being completely immersed in the culture and tasting the top-notch wines.
saint paul de vence
Want to enjoy more works of art in a sun-drenched place? Margo Foundation It’s not to be missed. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the idyllic medieval town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, it is France’s first private foundation for modern and contemporary art and home to some of history’s greatest contemporary sculptors, including Braque, Giacometti and Miro. Explore the gardens and find among the mosaics and fountains works by Barbara Hepworth and Marc Chagall, among dozens of 21st century greats. Additionally, there’s much more to see on the two roof terraces, which offer superb views over the photogenic countryside.
Villa Lacoste
Where to stay
Only 10 minutes drive from the foundation Toyle Branchis a 200-year-old farmhouse that has been lovingly restored to become a peaceful country retreat with creativity at its heart. It has a strong connection with art and was created by the Belgian collective Leroy Brothers, whose works can be seen everywhere. There are also contemporary gallery spaces to explore and two swimming pools to relax in.
OK
original pull station Once a petrol station, although the gallery has since moved to a larger location northeast of Nice, its mission (and name) remains the same – to support emerging local artists and give them a platform to showcase their work. The idea behind the project is to provide new talent with opportunities to develop and grow, and established names with the chance to experiment. To achieve this, La Station hosts five exhibitions a year, as well as a series of festivals and performances.
puno este
Where to stay
For pure Riviera charm, puno este This is where you should go. It’s on the edge of a cliff on a winding peninsula, so you’ll wake up to beautiful views Cote d’Azur In all its glory. Here, your leisure options include the privacy of your private beach or one of two swimming pools – the first, an indoor pool that is part of the hotel’s stunning spa, and the second, an infinity pool set on the edge of landscaped gardens.
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