From visiting the markets and hilltop villages, to feasting on seafood platters, Jodie Kidd and her family treasure their time in the South of France. Here’s her guide to the most stylish spots in Provence.
Where is your favourite destination and why?
Provence — always Provence. There’s something deeply grounding about the light there, and the rhythm of the place. The lavender fields, the cicadas, the old stone farmhouses — it’s a region that speaks to every one of the senses. There’s a certain magic that never wears off. It’s all about barefoot mornings, lazy lunches in the shade and long drives through vineyards in an open-top car.
When was the last time you were there and who were you with?
Last summer — I went with close friends and my son, Indio. We stayed just outside Gordes, in this beautifully restored mas (farmhouse) with views that stretch out towards the Luberon hills. We cooked together, swam, read books and spent every evening outdoors under the stars. It was heaven.
Where do you like to stay there?
I love the understated elegance of Domaine de Fontenille, near Lourmarin — it’s the sort of place where everything feels curated yet effortless. But sometimes I prefer a private villa in the hills around Bonnieux or Ménerbes. A place with its own kitchen garden, a pool and a view. The kind of setting where time slows down.
The local markets are the heartbeat of Provence. The colours, the aromas, the chatter — it’s pure joy
What has been your favourite meal there?
That’s a tough one! Every meal feels like a favourite. But if I had to pick, it would be a simple, fresh seafood platter by the coast served with an ice-cold G&T. We were at a little restaurant by the water near Cassis — barefoot, sea air in our hair, laughter all around. I remember the grilled langoustines, served with just a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil. Absolutely unforgettable.
What are your top three restaurants?
La Chassagnette near Arles where the food is organic, and the vibe is creative and rooted in the landscape. Then there’s Le Jardin de Berne which is located within the stunning Château de Berne wine estate, a calm and tranquil space deep in the Provençal countryside. The food is out of this world, with many of the ingredients sourced from the château’s own gardens. And I can’t come to Provence and not go to L’Oustau de Baumanière. Nestled in the stunning Les Baux-de-Provence, away from the bustle of the coast, it has a real old-world charm. It has a lovely shaded terrace, surrounded by olive groves and serves the most incredible food.
What would you do if you only had 24 hours there?
Start early with a wander through the L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market, coffee in hand. I’d pick up some olives, fresh figs, maybe a few antique treasures. Then a drive through the hills with the car top down to make my way to a long lunch in the sun — perhaps at Chez Bruno in Lorgues, where the truffle risotto is heavenly. For dinner I’d go to Christophe Bacquié’s restaurant, La Table des Amis. The seafood, particularly the John Dory, is just amazing. The chef has a deep respect for local Provençal ingredients. It’s a real treat coming here, and the food never disappoints.
What is the one unmissable thing you recommend doing?
Visiting the local markets — they’re the heartbeat of Provence. The colours, the aromas, the chatter — it’s pure joy. I always bring home a little something: lavender, artisan soaps, or honey from the region.
Is there a hidden gem you are willing to share?
Yes — Oppède-le-Vieux. A tiny hilltop village that feels untouched by time. Go at sunset when the stones glow gold and the streets are silent. There’s a little terrace there where we once watched a thunderstorm roll in across the valley with a drink. Pure magic.
See more: Five lesser-touristed towns to visit in the South of France
Who do you call to have a good time there?
A mix of old friends who’ve made Provence their home — artists, chefs, motorheads. And my son, of course. He brings the best energy to any place.
Favourite shops?
I always stop by Maison Godet Parfum in Saint-Paul-de-Vence — it sells beautiful scents, steeped in heritage. Also Côté Bastide in Aix for homeware, and the brocante markets for antique finds — I’ve picked up some gorgeous ceramic jugs and vintage linen.
The one thing you would bring home as a souvenir?
Olive oil. Always. The rich, green, peppery kind you just can’t replicate back home. And maybe some Provençal linen napkins for your summer table.
Your favourite beauty spot?
There’s a waterfall near Sillans-la-Cascade that feels like something from a dream. We hiked down early in the morning once and had it all to ourselves. Cold, clear water and wild, green banks. It’s one of those rare places that feels completely untouched.
Your packing essential?
A floaty white dress, a Panama hat and a bottle of Bombay Sapphire for that perfect sundowner G&T.
A song that reminds you of the place?
Les Champs-Élysées by Joe Dassin. It’s got that timeless, joyful spirit of a summer drive through the country with the windows down.
Your dress code for the destination?
Easy, effortless elegance. Think linen shirts, espadrilles, oversized sunglasses. And always a scarf — for your hair, your neck or tying around your bag.
Do you have a top wellness tip for the area?
Yes — mornings at Terre Blanche spa. It’s quiet, restorative and the treatments are exceptional. But honestly, the wellness comes in the air, the food, the rhythm of the place. It’s a kind of luxury that’s as much about headspace as skincare.
Which building you would like to live in?
A bastide (manor) surrounded by olive trees, with blue shutters and stone floors that stay cool underfoot. Somewhere with a big wooden table outdoors for endless lunches and late-night conversations. Provence is full of those dream homes — old bones, full of soul.
Jodie Kidd attended the E1 London Showrun, presented by Bombay Sapphire, official global partner of UIM E1 World Championship
