How to Savor Summer Inspired By the South of France

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Dreaming of summer in the south of France? With its azure coastline, charming villages, and relaxed lifestyle, this part of France truly embodies the essence of summer. I know I’m looking forward to spending a few weeks in Provence this summer. But if Nice, Marseille and Saint Tropez aren’t part of your travel plans this season, I’m here to help you channel the south of France lifestyle, no matter where you live.

This post is your guide on how to savor summer inspired by the south of France and bring a little taste of its beauty and joie de vivre to your own life. We'll be diving into style, activities, food specialties and more. Plus, I’m sharing some of my favorite products from the region that you can find in the U.S.

If you’re obsessed with the South of France aesthetic, then this guide is for you! Continue reading to explore summer living inspired by the south of France.

How to Savor Summer Inspired By the South of France

1. Savor Mediterranean-Inspired Cuisine

The flavors of the South of France are rich and vibrant, influenced by the sun-drenched produce of the Mediterranean and its closeness to the sea.

To enjoy the region’s cuisine, experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil to infuse your dishes with Provencal flavors. Prepare light and colorful salads with tomatoes, olives, and goat cheese. For an afternoon snack, try some tapenade with a crunchy baguette or fougasse, a traditional Provençal bread similar to focaccia, often flavored with olives, herbs, or cheese.

If you’re more adventurous, try your hand at making traditional Provençal specialties like pissaladière (a savory onion tart), ratatouille or salade niçoise. And no French meal would be complete without wine, so don't forget to pair your meals with a refreshing glass of rosé (or whatever vin you prefer).

2. Set up a Relaxing Outdoor Oasis

Southern France is famous for its outdoor lifestyle, and you can bring a touch of this culture to your own space. Create a cozy outdoor oasis where you can unwind under the sun. Set up a comfortable seating area. For al fresco dining, consider a bistro table and chairs. Otherwise, opt for wicker or wrought iron chairs. Add cushions in rich colors like terracotta, olive green, and lavender for Provençal style.

Greenery can completely transform your outdoor space, so be sure to add some potted plants and flowers. Plant them in terracotta pots for an authentic South of France aesthetic. If you have a green thumb, consider planting fragrant herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme. Potted citrus trees add a touch of the Mediterranean too.

String fairy lights overhead for a magical ambiance in the evenings. Add a large parasol (or retractable awning if you have the space) for shade on the sunniest of days.

With a little creativity, you can create a relaxing outdoor spot for leisurely meals, reading a book, or simply savoring a glass of chilled limonade. It’s the heart of the South of France, right in your own backyard.

3. Explore Local Farmers' Markets

One of the highlights of the South of France is its lively farmers' markets filled with an array of fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products. Seek out your local farmers' markets and indulge in the experience. Take your time strolling through the stalls, sampling seasonal fruits, picking up some locally made products, and chatting with the vendors. Supporting local producers and enjoying the flavors of the season will transport you to the beautiful markets of Provence.

Shop for ingredients that define the delicious cuisine of southern France. Here’s your Mediterranean shopping list to inspire your shopping:

1. Olives & olive oil. The star of the show! South of France cuisine heavily relies on olive oil for cooking and drizzling.

2. Tomatoes. Ripe, juicy tomatoes are a staple ingredient in dishes like ratatouille and bouillabaisse.

3. Eggplant, zucchini, & bell peppers. These summer vegetables are abundant and star in stews, roasted dishes, and salads.

4. Herbs de Provence. This fragrant blend typically includes thyme, rosemary, savory, sage, and basil, adding an earthy touch to many dishes.

5. Stone fruits. Apricots, peaches, cherries, and figs are a delicious summer treat and enjoyed fresh or incorporated into desserts.

6. Garlic. A base flavor in many dishes, adding depth and savory character.

7. Seafood. Fresh fish and shellfish are plentiful, featuring in bouillabaisse, soupe au pistou (fish soup with pistou sauce), and grilled dishes.

8. Lamb. A popular meat, often featured in stews, roasts, and navarin (lamb stew with vegetables).

9. Honey. Local honey adds sweetness to desserts and can be drizzled over cheese or fruit.

10. Wine. The region boasts renowned vineyards producing excellent red, white, and rosé wines to complement the cuisine.

4. Add Elements of Provencal Interior Style

The South of France is renowned for its effortless elegance and rustic charm. Add elements of Provençal interior style into your home. Start by incorporating natural materials like wood, terracotta and stone. Opt for a warm and neutral color palette with calming colors like creamy whites, lavenders, terracotta, olive greens, and muted yellows.

Bring the outdoors in with terracotta pots containing fresh lavender, rosemary, or bright blooms. Wicker baskets and woven rugs also add a rustic touch. Linen, cotton, and toile de Jouy fabrics in soft hues and floral patterns are quintessential Provence. Use them for curtains, upholstery, throw pillows, and tablecloths.

If you’re preparing for a total makeover, look for furniture pieces with a distressed finish, natural wood tones, and simple lines. Wrought iron accents and comfortable upholstered chairs add a touch of elegance.

By bringing in elements that evoke the seaside or countryside, you can infuse your living space with the spirit of the South of France.

5. Host an Al Fresco Soiree

The French take great pleasure in dining al fresco, especially during the summer months, and you can recreate this experience in your own backyard.

Host an outdoor gathering with family and friends. Create an inviting ambiance by setting your table with crisp linens, elegant tableware, and candles. Scatter terracotta pots filled with colorful blooms or fragrant herbs as centerpieces. You can find more decor inspiration on Pinterest.

Prepare a spread of delicious, fresh dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. For appetizers, you might offer a selection of olives, marinated artichoke hearts, tapenade with bread, and fresh summer vegetables with a simple vinaigrette. When deciding on the main course, consider classic bouillabaisse stew, a herb-roasted leg of lamb, or a platter of grilled fish with fresh summer vegetables. Keep it light for dessert with a selection of seasonal fruits, a decadent tarte tatin, or a platter of local cheeses with honey and grapes.

Set up a boules (pétanque) court for a fun outdoor game enjoyed in the South of France. Alternatively, provide a bocce ball set or giant Jenga.

For a fun party favor, send your guests home with small bags filled with homemade lavender sachets, local honey, or miniature bottles of olive oil.

Read More: How to Host a French Dinner Party

6. Capture the Essence of Lavender

Lavender fields are an iconic symbol of Provence. Incorporate this aromatic flower into your summer by adding lavender-scented candles or essential oils to your relaxation routine. Use lavender-infused products, such as bath salts or linen sprays, to bring a touch of tranquility to your daily life. You can even grow a small pot of lavender in your garden or on your balcony, allowing the purple blooms and calming scent to transport you to the Provençal countryside.

7. Embrace Slow Living

The South of France is synonymous with a leisurely pace and a focus on savoring life's simple pleasures. Embrace the art of slow living by taking time to relax, disconnect, and enjoy the company of loved ones. Set aside moments to appreciate the beauty of nature, such as watching a sunset or strolling through your city. Practice mindfulness, indulge in self-care rituals, and take siestas to recharge. Slowing down is what summer is all about.

8. Choose Effortless Chic Style

Southern France is known for its effortless yet chic style. Compared to Paris, the style is more casual and adapted to the sunny environment and sandy beaches. Get this style aesthetic by opting for lightweight fabrics, flowing dresses, linen trousers, and relaxed tailoring. Choose a color palette inspired by the region's natural surroundings, such as whites, soft neutrals, and shades of blue reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea. When accessorizing, keep it practical with stylish hats, oversized sunglasses, and comfortable footwear to complete your French-inspired ensemble.

Read More: French Riviera Capsule Wardrobe

9. Play Pétanque

Pétanque, a beloved French game similar to bocce ball, is a staple of outdoor social gatherings in the South of France. Gather your friends and family for a friendly game in your backyard, a local park, or even a sandy beach. To play, you'll need a set of metal balls, known as boules. The objective is to toss your boules as close as possible to a smaller target ball called the cochonnet. Enjoy some friendly competition and savor the relaxed pace of the game, reminiscent of sunny afternoons in the South of France.

Although you may not physically be in the South of France, you can savor the spirit of this French region with this summer lifestyle guide. With these French-inspired ideas, you can bring a taste of the South of France to your own surroundings and enrich your summer with the French joie de vivre.

What are your favorite ways to bring a touch of the South of France to your summer? Let me know in the comments below.