Landscape
Around Montcalm hotels you will discover an extraordinary richness of landscape and coast. Close by are the pristine expanses of The Camargue, a national nature reserve created where the River Rhone meets the Mediterranean to create Western Europe's largest river delta. Here, salt water marshes, lonely islands, pastures and dunes create a natural habitat of exciting diversity. Unique breeds such as the roaming Camargue horses flourish here, as do 400 species of birds including pink flamingoes.
Landmarks and Culture
Just a few miles away you can also discover the glorious ancient town of Avignon, enclosed in its 800-year old ramparts and a vibrant centre filled with cultural and entertainment highlights. Avignon was once the chosen seat of Papal power and its historical importance is reflected in the dazzling array of amazing architecture. This centres around the huge medieval Palais des Papes, but there are countless further gems, such as the Pont d'Avignon, spanning the majestic Rhone. All that exploration in the bright Provence sunshine can be tiring, so you'll be glad to discover a sumptuous choice of restaurants, bistros and cafés serving market-fresh produce and delicacies.
Provençal Cuisine
This fertile and culturally diverse region of France is famous for its glorious cuisine. With the Mediterranean as a southern border, fresh fish and shellfish are plentiful with iconic dishes such as bouillabaisse, salad Niçoise and fruite de mer available in restaurants everywhere.
The sun-blessed climate delivers a bounty of bright, tasty fruit and vegeSEOSITE_LEVEL_DESCRIPTIONs that dazzle in the markets, and olives are also proudly produced, both for fine oil and signature treats such as tapenade, the delicious paste made with olives, olive oil, anchovies, capers and garlic. Try it on fresh bread or served with grilled fish or chicken.
Other vital ingredients that make Provençal cuisine so special include fresh and dried herbs, such as thyme, marjoram, rosemary, sage and basil.