An Insider’s Guide to Provence (2026 Update) by Keith Van Sickle

In 2021, Keith Van Sickle published An Insider’s Guide to Provence, and he has now released an updated edition. This book serves as a supplementary reference material rather than a traditional guidebook. Comprehensive travel guides, such as those from Fodor’s, Lonely Planet, and Rick Steves, cover all aspects of travel, including accommodations in Provence. However, Keith’s book contains recommendations based on his and his wife’s personal experiences in Provence. We had the opportunity to ask Keith a few questions about the 2026 version of An Insider’s Guide to Provence. Please read his answers below.

Insider’s Provence

What motivated you to update the book?
A good guidebook should remain current, and I ensure that mine is always up to date. The guide must be up to date for restaurants, as a favourite spot may occasionally close or a new one may open. I’m constantly discovering new and interesting places to visit, and I add these to each edition.

Has much changed since the first edition?
Not a lot other than what I just mentioned. Provence remains a glorious place to visit!

How do you choose which places, restaurants, or experiences make it into the book — and which don’t?
I include only the experiences that we, my wife Val and I, have enjoyed during our visits to Provence. This book features everything we found worthwhile and engaging. If something is of low quality or feels like a tourist trap, it is not included.

What do you consider to be insider/local recommendations?
A suggestion you may not find in other guidebooks, especially recommendations from my local French friends, offering unique and authentic experiences that are unavailable elsewhere. Many readers have expressed gratitude for my guidance on locating what I refer to as the “hidden parking lot” in St-Rémy-de-Provence. It’s spacious, free of charge, and can be difficult to find unless you know where to look.

I have included several biking and hiking routes, catering to different preferences ranging from flat, shaded walks to challenging, hilly rides. Additionally, I provide information on where to rent e-bikes in the Alpilles. Since Val and I enjoy picnicking, I also highlight locations with beautiful scenic views that are perfect for this activity.

Do you have plans (or interest) to expand the guide in future editions to other parts of Provence (Vaucluse, Var, Alpes de Haute Provence, Alpes Maritimes)?
While I love all those regions, my heart is in the western part of Provence. I don’t spend enough time in the other areas to do them justice in a guidebook.

Do you include travellers’ practical needs for first-time visitors?
I provide substantial practical information, including emergency phone numbers, toll booth operations on French highways, and tips on driving, dressing, and dining. However, I do not include certain details, such as hotel recommendations. I view my book as a supplement to some of the excellent standard guidebooks, like those by Rick Steves or Fodor’s.

What are some of your favourite “discoveries” in Provence that are a result of your time in the region?
Provence has a rich agricultural history, and I always look forward to the annual animal festivals. One of my favourites is the St. Eloi celebration, where horses parade through town adorned with flowers in their manes. However, my absolute favourite festival is the transhumance, during which thousands of sheep march through the streets, accompanied by shepherds, sheepdogs, and the occasional goat.

As for unusual discoveries, there is a nearby town famous for its melons. They have constructed a nine-ton(!) statue of a melon at the entrance to town, and it always makes me smile when I drive by.

©Luberon Coeur de Provence

And because I’ve experienced a few mishaps, I’ve realized how pharmacies are a crucial part of the French healthcare system. They are often the first place a traveller should visit when facing a medical issue—depending on how serious it is, of course. One benefit is that, while it can be difficult for a visitor to find a doctor on short notice, France has plenty of pharmacies, so you can always find one nearby.

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Châteauneuf-du-Pape Full day Wine Tour with the sommelier-guide and 3 winery visits

Discover one of the most famous red wine-producing areas of France, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with this wine tour! You will start the day with the discovery of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its history.

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).