Secrets of Provence

This unforgettable journey begins in the beautiful town of Aix-en-Provence, where we gather before heading to the charming Mediterranean village of Cassis. Known for its stunning coastal scenery, Cassis is a picture-perfect introduction to Provence. From here, we travel through the renowned Bandol wine region, immersing ourselves in the vibrant countryside, before arriving at Le Lavandou, where we will settle for the next three nights.

Our adventure continues with a scenic walk on the idyllic Iles d’Hyères, or the “Golden Islands,” named after the shimmering hue of their southern cliffs. These islands, celebrated for their natural beauty, offer spectacular coastal paths that invite peaceful exploration. The following day takes us to the legendary St. Tropez, where we begin a coastal trek along a rugged stretch of cliffs, followed by a journey inland through beautiful vineyards, blending breathtaking sea views with the charm of Provence’s countryside.

Leaving the coast behind, we head towards the Montagne du Luberon, a captivating mountain range that stretches east from Cavaillon. Here, we discover medieval villages nestled into the rock, with their tall stone houses and winding streets preserving the region’s ancient history. The landscape is dotted with olive groves, lavender fields, and “bories”—stone cabins that once sheltered farmers working the fields—adding to the region’s rustic charm.

We then visit the village of Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs, where vibrant red and orange hues colour both the cliffs and the village itself. After exploring this unique landscape, we make our way to Forcalquier, our base for the next five nights. This sun-soaked area of Provence is known for its fragrant lavender fields, olive trees, and rolling hills. During our stay, we’ll enjoy a series of picturesque walks through hillsides covered with wild rosemary, sage, and lavender, all while experiencing the region’s famed culinary traditions, from aioli and daube to rabbit baked in a honey-lavender crust.

A visit to Forcalquier’s bustling market is a highlight, as is exploring ancient abbeys, Europe’s largest gorge, the Luberon Valley, and the Lure Mountains, which inspired the novels of Jean Giono. The scents of Provence—the fragrant herbs, pine, and lavender—accompany us throughout our journey. Each day ends with relaxation in the tranquil gardens of our country retreat, with the option to swim, play tennis, or simply unwind before dinner. You’ll have the chance to sample local specialties like award-winning Pastis and homemade orange wine, culminating in a dinner at a nearby restaurant showcasing the best of Provençal cuisine.

Our final destination is the alpine town of Barcelonnette, set in the remote Ubaye Valley of the French Alps. Steeped in history and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, Barcelonnette offers the perfect gateway to the Mercantour National Park. Here, we’ll explore some of the most spectacular landscapes along the Italian border, bringing our journey to a close with awe-inspiring views and unforgettable memories of Provence and the French Alps.