Sports in Provence

About : Sports in Provence

As one of the destinations of the Tour de France, cycling enthusiasts around the world can see why Provence is fertile terrain for outdoor sports. The event, which was first staged in 1903, often passes through the mountainous town of Gap in the Hautes-Alpes, where competitors' spirits are tested by rocky peaks and hills that rise 745m above sea-level. However, cycling is not the only sport to take place in Gap as the town is home to an 18-hole golf course, canyoning and aerial sports, and has announced its interest in hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics.

White-water rafting in Provence

Rafting is among the most popular sports in Provence, especially in the Verdon Gorge, which is said to be one of Europe's most beautiful valleys. Kayaking, rock climbing and hiking can also be enjoyed in the region, but nothing sets the pulse racing like white-water rafting. Children aged 8 and upwards can join a beginner's course in tackling the rapids, with many of these setting off from Castellane.

Pétanque in Provence

Pétanque is the indigenous sport of Provence, an ancient form of boules played in towns and villages across the region. The aim of the sport is to throw a ball as close as possible to a smaller ball, called the cochonnet, or to move an opponent's ball away from the cochonnet. The game originated in La Ciotat and the Pétanque World Championship is held in Marseille each year.