Smell lavender fields, cherry blossoms, verbena gardens, and the Mediterranean Sea as you embark on a journey to Provence – a region with many ancient Roman influences. Your trip will include a visit to Arles a city that inspired the artists Van Gogh and Picasso. Encounter the actual landmarks so clearly defined in Van Gogh’s work. In Avignon and Aix en Provence the colorful panoramic views provide further influence as seen in paintings by these Master Impressionists. Experience firsthand the objects that Cezanne painted in his workshop. Considered a shopping destination for fashion and luxury, Aix-en-Provence has many galleries and boutiques to explore. Indulge in the Roman baths nearby and visit the vineyards for the ultimate wine and olive oil tastings. Your visit to this exquisite region will include the wine route – Cotes du Rhone (home of red and white wines) and the famous and very exclusive Chateauneuf du Pape. In Saint Remy enjoy market day where the sights and smells will leave you hungry as you pack lunch for a picnic, but not before visiting nearby Roman ruins and the house of Nostradamus. With chateaus and cellars abound, our package will provide private visits and culinary experiences including wine and cooking schools. Visit olive groves, the L’Occitane factory, and a lavender museum. Enjoy a farm to table lunch at a bull farm nestled among rice fields. Learn the art of making chocolate and visit a confectionary factory. Visitors will have an inner glimpse on how local ingredients are used to make perfume and not only visit a local perfume factory, but have their own particular scent created.
With a sunny climate Provence is an ideal destination for playing golf. Consider the Golf Pass which provides access to seventeen courses some of which include the regions of Avignon, Luberon, Barbaroux and Saint Endreol as examples.
St. Tropez is not only home of mega yachts and magnificent beaches filled with the affluent and movie stars, but this quaint village has rich history as it served as the inspiration for legendary artists Picasso, Matisse, and Maillol. Your excursion includes a visit to the art museum, shopping, and immersing yourself in Michelin star restaurants and cafes along the shore.
In glamorous Cannes explore past the Red Carpet of the film festival its beautiful shoreline dotted with magnificent villas. Take a ferry to enjoy the outer islands such as the irresistible St. Marguerite Island and St. Honorat Island. Each offers something unique from legends of The Man in the Iron Mask to a charming and quiet island of Ciscan monks serving rare wine.
Some of the Highlighted Festivals include:
July – Avignon Theater Festival
July – BMW Polo Masters – St. Tropez
July – International Lyrical Festival – Aix en Provence
July – Tour de France stages – Gap
September – Gastronomy and Sublime Crus Collide – Cassis
October – St. Tropez Regatta