>>1135690My pics were from Languedoc and Provence is where you're going, but I might have some tips anyway
The closest pretty place from Avignon are the Alpilles hills, just south of the city. They don't go above 500m high but it's a very rocky terrain that offer plenty of day hikes and some almost desertic sights. It also has a handful interesting old towns such as the fortified cliffside village of Les-Baux-de-Provence, if you are also interested in man made stuff
Right next to the Alpilles you have the Luberon range. Bigger, higher, but less "agressive" with its round slopes. It also offers its share of hikes and there's quite a lot of horse riding going on as well to visit the area. It's very pretty but agriculture has a very important place here so it's not exactly pristine. It's quintessencial Provence for sure though
Further there is the threshold between the proper start of the Alps and the plain and pre-Alps, where you'll find the Vergon canyon. There are some really scenic drives to do there
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqDFn3EscN0And the Verdon canyon is a must. Be advised the canyon is a very touristy spot, except many people on the main belvederes and famous sights in spring but there are still many hiking routes especially deep in the canyon where you'll be in peace. The water is stunningly blue, the cliffs towering, it's a must in my book BUT it's a bit more than 2h away from Avignon, might not be very practical for you
Other places I recommend: the Camargue, which is the Rhône river delta. No mountains here or drought, it's a country of ponds and marshland, where rice is cultivated, horses roam free, and red flamingos are by the thousands. Less than 1h away from Avignon so worth checking, unique place in France
