From its herb-scented hills to its yacht-filled harbours, no other region of France fires the imagination as strongly as Provence. The vivid landscape and luminous light have inspired artists and writers. The borders of Provence are defined by nature: to the west, the Rhône; south, the Mediterranean; and north, where the olive trees end. Within is a contrasting terrain of plummeting gorges, Camargue saltflats, lavender fields and sun-drenched beaches. Past visitors have left their mark, most visibly the Romans. The warm sunlight nurtures intense flavours and colours. Peppers, garlic and olives transform a netful of Mediterranean fish into that epitome of Provencal cuisine, bouillabaisse.