"No one can possibly prepare you for this ethereal level of beauty"
Richard Goodman, 'Provence'
Small village squares, shaded terraces, narrow streets lined with small shops, the scent of lavender in the air...
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, this sunny part of Southern France gently invites us to enjoy a less hectic pace of life; it makes us shift our attention to a different set of priorities.
Its stark beauty will inspire you too, when you join us in our Provence Arts & Scents tour, a full immersion in the unique Provençal art of living.
This nine-day tour is a true voyage into the heart of Provence. Limited to eight people, this group will be based in a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, a town famous since Roman times for its fountains, olive oil, architecture, music and savoir-faire.
You will explore scenic routes leading to picturesque Provençal villages, shop in centuries-old markets and follow in the steps of the old masters. You may choose to attend two painting classes with a local artist - in her studio and at the foot of the mountain Cézanne used to paint - or you may opt for joining the the locals for a game of pétanques.
To be introduced to the unique flavors of the Provençal cuisine, you will join a distinguished local chef for a culinary class in his 17th-century château, followed by an intimate lunch in his garden. For your meals we have selected both authentic restaurants favored by locals as well as Michelin-starred tables renowned for outstanding food. To sample the distinctive wines Provence is famous for, you will be invited to a private tasting in a winery with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
If after this first-class experience of Provence's true colors you decide 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. Our group will stay in a boutique Relais & Château hotel often described as 'an earthly paradise' overlooking Les Alpilles mountains and Les Baux village; its two-star Michelin Guide and Relais Gourmand restaurant (the gold list of French restaurants) pays tribute to the Mediterranean flavors, and the wine cellar is renowned.
We visit Provence twice a year - spring and fall - when it's at its best. But if your schedule doesn't match our tour dates, or if you prefer a tailor-made tour, please see our Bespoke Tours of Provence for details.
Provence Arts & Scents, Two Jewels in Provence and our bespoke tours were designed with the help of local experts, who have selected what they feel is the real Provence: a place to refine your senses and renew your spirit, like the great masters did.
