"No one can possibly prepare you for this ethereal level of beauty"
Richard Goodman, 'Provence'
Provence celebrates the senses. Home to some of the world's greatest masters - Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso - and a haven of the European aristocracy for centuries, it invites us to enjoy a less hectic, more laid back pace of life. Provence makes us shift our attention to a different set of priorities.
Its stark beauty will inspire you, too, as our Provence Arts & Scents tour offers a full immersion in its unique lifestyle.
This nine-day tour is a true voyage into the heart of Provence. Limited to eight people, this group will be based in Aix-en-Provence, a town famous since Roman times for its waters, olive oil, architecture, music and savoir-faire.
You will stay in a deluxe boutique hotel part of the exclusive Relais & Château group, a peaceful oasis just minutes from Aix historic centre. During the day you will explore scenic routes leading to picturesque villages and discover centuries-old markets; you will follow in the steps of the world's greatest artists and visit the places immortalized in their works. And since Provence is about art, you will have the option of attending two painting classes with a local artist - both in her studio and sur le motif, at the foot of the mountain Cezanne painted many times - to bring home your own works of art.
Provence is also home to a deeply-rooted culinary tradition. To be introduced to its fresh flavors, you will join a local chef for a culinary class in his 17th-century chateau, followed by an intimate lunch in his garden. For dinners, we have selected both restaurants favored by locals and award-winning places renowned for outstanding food; to sample the rose wines Provence is famous for, you will be invited to a private wine-tasting event in a vineyard with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
If after this first-class immersion in Provence's arts and lifestyle you want to explore it further, we invite you to join us for Two Jewels in Provence, a three-day extension tour of Les-Baux-de-Provence and Arles, towns of rich character and history. This tour group will stay in a boutique Relais & Chateau hotel overlooking Les Alpilles mountain. Its restaurant is part of the exclusive Relais Gourmand group, and its wine cellar trully exceptional.
Provence Arts & Scents and Two Jewels in Provence were designed with the help of local experts, who selected what they feel is the real Provence - a land of unmatched elegance and style. Come see it to refine your senses and renew your spirit.
Like the great masters did.
