Heading West from Toulon, the country exhales the scents of thyme and lavender so typical of Provence. Marcel Pagnol's vivid descriptions of these sun-scorched villages and landscapes, where cicadas sing away the hot Summer days, are as true today as they were at the turn of the century.

SANARY (15 mins. from Toulon). A pretty 11th-century harbour, where local Boules players share a joke and Pastis with fishermen selling their wares at the fascinating daily fish market.

Set a mile or so inland, the steep Medieval village of LE CASTELLET (20 mins. from Toulon) is an absolute must for arts and crafts lovers, with specialities including painting, pottery, weaving and woodwork.

BANDOL (20 mins. from Toulon) is a lively and sophisticated resort, featuring an elegant palm-lined promenade, Casino and delightful boutiques selling high-quality jewellery, shoes, clothes and artwork. The steep and arid terraces stretching into the hills around the town produce some of France's oldest and most famous wines - the "AOC Bandol". Don't forget to stop off at one of the many vineyards to taste!

Golfing fans will love the "Golf de Frégate" 18-hole golf course in Saint-Cyr, with its fantastic views over the Mediterranean sea - a course much appreciated by international players.

CASSIS (40 mins. from Toulon). A drive to this delightful Provençal port and its breathtaking "Calanques" or little fjords, takes you along a magnificent clifftop road overlooking the sea. Most of the calanques can only be accessed by the sea, so a boat tour is highly recommended.

The majestic Basilica of Saint-Maximin (1 hr. from Toulon) is rightly considered as the finest example of Gothic-style architecture in Provence.

MARSEILLES (45 mins. from Toulon). The huge and buzzing City offers numerous sightseeing possibilities plus a totally unique cosmopolitan atmosphere. Not to be missed are the beautiful Old Port, impressive hilltop Basilica and Frioul Islands.

AIX-EN-PROVENCE (1 hr. from Toulon). The ancient capital of Provence, Aix is a lively and extremely picturesque Roman Spa town built around the Cours Mirabeau main thoroughfare, where University students meet for coffee and a chat. The town's Quartier Mazarin features many beautiful 17th century mansion houses and Archbishop's palace, where the town's music festival takes place each year.

AVIGNON (1 hr. 50 mins. from Toulon). Known as the "City of Popes", the town is world-famed for its rich historical, architectural and artistic heritage, including the Popes' Palace - a fabulous example of 14th-century Gothic architecture.