When most travellers picture Provence, they imagine lavender fields, summer heat, and crowded markets. Locals know the secret season begins in October.
Cotignac Without the Crowds
Cotignac, one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, transforms as autumn arrives. The air cools, visitors vanish, and life slows.
Markets brim with figs, chestnuts, and late grapes. The village square buzzes with conversation, while live music drifts from cafés.
At the centre is Lou Calen, a restored three-hectare estate. More than a hotel, it is a cultural hub. Travellers meet artisans, chefs, and winemakers, discovering a Provence most outsiders never see.
Campervan Stopovers in Cotignac
- Aire de Camping-Car du Vieux Village: A central, convenient site for Cotignac, within walking distance of Lou Calen and village shops.
- Camping Les Blaches: Surrounded by pine forests, it offers spacious pitches, electricity hookups, and easy access to local walking trails.
- La Bergerie de Provence: Small, eco-conscious site ideal for quiet nights near the village, with scenic views and picnic facilities.
October: The Golden Month
Autumn in Cotignac invites you to linger. Seasonal food, local festivals, and hands-on workshops enrich every stay.
- Quince Festival (October): Artisan stalls, local delicacies, and live music fill the village square. Community spirit makes it unforgettable.
- Le Grand Repas (9 October): Michelin Green Star chef Benoît Witz presents a seasonal menu at Lou Calen’s Bistrot.
- Vignobles en Scène (17 October): Guest winemakers join Lou Calen’s restaurants for wine-paired dinners overlooking Cotignac’s historic square.
Beyond dining, visitors can join workshops. Try basket weaving, herb foraging, or wood carving. Every session connects you to Provençal rhythms.
As Winter Descends: The Truffle Season
By late November, Cotignac grows quieter. Limestone cliffs stand stark against winter skies, and the first black truffles emerge.
- Aups Truffle Market: Just 20 minutes away, this bustling market launches the season. Locals and chefs seek the year’s first “black diamonds.”
- Truffle Hunting with Lisa Canut: Join Lisa and her dogs in the forests of Aups. Afterwards, enjoy tastings in her home.
Campervan-Friendly Overnight Options Near Aups
- Camping Aups les Pâquerettes: Quiet riverside site, ideal for truffle hunters visiting markets or taking guided forest walks.
- Aire de Camping-Car Aups Centre: Central location with modern facilities and easy access to local cafés, shops, and historical streets.
This seamless shift from autumn to winter makes Cotignac rare. Travellers witness Provence’s most authentic, soulful side.
Why Visit Now
For decades, Provence meant summer. Lou Calen is changing that. Its seasonal festivals, workshops, and Green Star dining celebrate Provence year-round.
“Summer shows you Provence’s beauty,” says Lou Calen owner Graham Porter. “Autumn and winter show you its soul.”
At a Glance: Autumn–Winter Highlights
- Quince Festival – October: Market, music, and tradition.
- Le Grand Repas – 9 October: Seasonal tasting menu by Benoît Witz.
- Vignobles en Scène – 17 October: Wine-pairing dinners with guest winemakers.
- Lou Calen Workshops: Foraging, basket weaving, and carving.
- Aups Truffle Market – Late November: Start of truffle season.
- Truffle Hunting with Lisa Canut – December–February: Hunts and tastings with a local expert.
- Zad Moultaka at La Falaise Gallery – Autumn: Exhibition by the acclaimed Lebanese artist.
Campervan Stopovers
- Most sites are open year-round but booking ahead is advised in October–February.
- Electricity hookups, water refill points, and waste disposal vary; check local signage.
- Cotignac’s small roads suit compact to medium campervans; large motorhomes may need careful manoeuvring.