Think sunny days and straw hats, croissants and cafés, mornings strolling vibrant Provençal markets in charming villages with cultural and historical landmarks, a Chateau De Pape Winery for tastings, witnessing lavender fields in full bloom, gathering at the countryside home of a local Chef for a hands on cooking class, boating and swimming in the clear Mediterranean, plenty of free time to relax and savor it all and of course - on the last day - celebrating the most French of all the French holidays, Bastille Day!

We’ll base ourselves in the sweet, picturesque town of Aix en Provence. For our “field trips” we’ll be in great company with Nathalie, our English speaking, Aix en Provence native and local guide. Together, we’ll discover the 🌟 magic of southern France.

Days & Experiences

July 8 • Wednesday • Day 1: Arrival in Aix-en-Provence 🌍(D)

Bienvenue en France! Arrive by day to our centrally located hotel, less than a 10 minute walk from the famous, tree lined pedestrian boulevard Cours Mirabeau. Rest, swim or explore on your own before we gather for our late afternoon guided Welcome Walk followed by our first “bienvenue” group dinner together. Raise a glass of Provence’s famous rosé cuvée and toast to an exciting journey ahead - Sante’!

Thursday • Day 2: Aix Market, Cassis, & Coastal swim ⛵️(B, L)

Spend your free morning exploring Aix’s lively town market on your own. This afternoon we drive south to one of Europe’s tallest sea cliffs, Cap Canaille presenting endless coastal views. Next we’ll wander through the pastel colored seaside village of Cassis before we board our own private boat to glide along the brilliant Calanques coastline, stopping to swim along the coast in an impossibly clear turquoise sea.

Friday • Day 3: Luberon, Lourmarin Market & Lavender Fields 💜(B)

Driving out of Aix we’ll pass meadows and villages to spend the morning browsing the charming Lourmarin Market and relaxing at one of the many quaint cafés. From there to the postcard-perfect views of the medieval village Gordes before we really test our photography skills in front of the bountiful blooming lavender fields surrounding the 12th c. Abbaye de Sénanque, très jolie!

Saturday • Day 4: Free Day in Aix 🎨(B, D)

Follow your heart, there are so many options to enjoy on your own and at your pace – explore Aix’s main street market (round 2) or the flower market Marché aux Fleurs, or beautiful boutiques, visit Musée Granet or walk over to the 18th c. Caumont Centre D’Art for lovely exhibits of well-known artists, such as the post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, born and raised here in Aix en Provence. View his bio film then explore the elegant mansion, the gardens and café. I can also help you book an e-bike tour, local spa treatment or an afternoon croissant baking class. Or choose to visit St Remy, Arles and the Van Gogh’s routes with Nathalie. We’ll gather later this evening to share our discoveries at a fun Saturday night group dinner.

Sunday • Day 5: Isle sur la Surge Market & Châteauneuf-du-Pape winery 🍇(B, L)

Let’s head north for our personal treasure(s) hunt at Isle-sur-la-Sourge, the second largest antique market outside of Paris. Enjoy free time in this town nicknamed “Little Venice,” for its quaint canals, before driving to a Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard, celebrated for its Grenache and Syrah based Cuvée blends. We’ll gather around the table for local yum specialties, wine tasting and a toast to some of Provence’s finest vintages.

Monday • Day 6: Free time & French Flavors 👩🏻‍🍳(B, D)

A relaxed Aix morning for the last bit of adventure, find cafés frequented by Cézanne and Camus, mail home treasures or just relax at the pool. Late this evening we’ll enjoy fresh and delicious Provence flavors at our Chef led, multi-course, hands-on, French Cooking Class followed by a lovingly served dinner of our creations. Bon Appetite!

Tuesday • Day 7: Bastille Day Celebrations! 🎉 (B, D)

Let’s celebrate France’s Independence Day with the locals! The streets will be alive with joyful music and festivities, most likely a late night fireworks display and certainly the irresistible Provençal spirit! We’ll toast again to our fantastique! week together at our final dinner tonight along the Cours Mirabeau.

July 15 • Wednesday • Day 8: Departure Day ✈️

Assistance for any transfers to the Marseille airport or train station.

Merci & Bon Voyage!