Provence Magnifique
Step into the storybook beauty of Provence. From wandering Van Gogh’s landscapes in St.-Remy de-Provence to exploring hilltop villages, savoring cuisine, and experiencing the region’s rich traditions.
Les Lodges Sainte-Victoire, 5-star (7 Nights)
Discover Provence through its most captivating expressions of art, culture, gastronomy, and landscape on this eight-day journey based entirely at the elegant Les Lodges Sainte-Victoire, a five-star countryside retreat nestled among olive groves and vineyards beneath the iconic Montagne Sainte-Victoire.
From the artistic legacies of Cézanne and Van Gogh to the hilltop villages of the Luberon, medieval Avignon, renowned vineyards, and vibrant Provençal markets, each day reveals another facet of the region's timeless beauty.
Throughout the journey, enjoy the ease and comfort of a single luxury hotel stay, allowing for a slower, more immersive experience while exploring some of southern France's most celebrated landscapes and villages.
Day 1: Welcome to Provence
Upon arrival at Marseille-Provence Airport, be transferred privately to Aix-en-Provence, the cultural heart of Provence. After settling into the luxurious surroundings of Les Lodges Sainte-Victoire, the journey begins with a celebratory welcome dinner in the historic center of Aix. Savor a refined three-course menu paired with regional wines, offering a memorable introduction to the flavors and elegance of Provençal living.
Day 2: Cézanne's Provence
Explore the city through the eyes of its most celebrated artist, Paul Cézanne. A guided walk reveals the places that shaped his artistic vision, including the celebrated Atelier des Lauves, where he created many of his masterpieces. Continue to the Painter's Garden, where guests can admire the exact landscape that inspired some of his most famous works. This afternoon, discover the exceptional collections of the Musée Granet, home to an outstanding selection of Cézanne paintings alongside works by Picasso and Giacometti. Enjoy free time to stroll Aix's elegant boulevards, fountains, and bustling squares.
Day 3: Luberon Villages & Landscapes
Journey into the enchanting landscapes of the Luberon, one of Provence's most beloved regions. Begin in Lourmarin, a picturesque village nestled among vineyards and olive groves, before continuing to the hilltop village of Ménerbes, celebrated for its timeless beauty and Provençal character.Visit a local olive estate to learn about the production of Provence's liquid gold. Following a traditional Provençal lunch featuring farm to table ingredients, continue to Roussillon, where the striking Ochre Trail unveils a landscape painted in vivid shades of crimson, amber, and gold.
Day 4: Van Gogh & Les Baux-de-Provence
This morning, travel to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where Vincent van Gogh lived and painted during one of the most prolific periods of his life. Visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole, the monastery where the artist resided, and follow a scenic route marked by reproductions of his paintings displayed at the precise locations that inspired them. In the afternoon, continue to the dramatic village of Les Baux-de-Provence, perched high atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Alpilles. Conclude the day with an unforgettable immersive art experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where monumental works of art are projected across vast limestone quarry walls.
Day 5: French Culinary
Experience Provence through its most cherished tradition: gathering around the table. Begin the day at Aix-en-Provence's lively markets alongside a local chef, selecting the freshest seasonal ingredients while learning about regional culinary traditions and local history. Continue through the landscapes that inspired Cézanne to a private countryside villa surrounded by gardens and vineyards. Along the way, visit a renowned winery in the prestigious Palette appellation for a tasting experience. Enjoy a hands-on culinary workshop using market-fresh ingredients and produce from the organic garden to create lunch.The afternoon offers time to discover the fragrant Provençal garrigue and its aromatic herbs before returning through the scenic forests surrounding Aix.\
Day 6: Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Travel to the historic city of Avignon, once the seat of the papacy. Enjoy a visit of the magnificent Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, followed by time to admire the famous Pont d'Avignon and wander the charming artisan streets of the old town. Continue into the celebrated vineyards of a family-owned estate, discover generations of winemaking expertise during a guided tasting featuring distinctive wines paired with regional cheeses.
Day 7: Market & Fragrance Creation
Immerse yourself in one of Provence's most vibrant weekly traditions at the local market. Wander through colorful stalls overflowing with artisan cheeses, olive oils, lavender products, aromatic herbs, handcrafted goods, and regional specialties. This authentic market experience offers an intimate glimpse into everyday life in Haute-Provence. In the afternoon, participate in a unique perfume-making experience within the historic Cordeliers Convent. Guided by fragrance specialists, craft a personal scent using exceptional botanical essences and take home a custom-created perfume as a lasting souvenir of Provence. This evening, gather for a celebratory farewell dinner in Aix-en-Provence, raising a glass to a week of unforgettable discoveries.
Day 8: Au Revoir Provence
Breakfast at leisure before transfers to the airport or onward travel. Depart with the scents, colors, and inspiration of Provence lingering long after the journey ends. Choose to extend your stay with us to Paris or Nice.
