Flavours of Provence

Day One – Paris
Today we meet at our centrally located hotel in the heart of Paris, at welcome drinks in the bar this evening.

 

Day Two – Paris to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Today we travel to Provence by TGV (fast train) to our home for the next nine nights, an exquisite hotel located in a charming riverside village. The hotel is furnished in beautiful Provencal style, and offers private facilities, swimming pool and relaxing outdoor areas by the river.  This evening we dine in a village restaurant with a beautiful courtyard garden setting. (B, D)

 

Day Three – Avignon
Today we explore Avignon, discovering the Palais des Papes, medieval home of the Papal Court; the Pont d’Avignon, made famous in the French nursery rhyme; Place de l’Horloge, a charming square in the shade of the plane trees, overlooked by the 19th century Town Hall and Avignon Theatre. Then plenty of time to wander and take in the ambience of this wonderful city, and of course to explore the shops! Later in the the afternoon a visit to Villeneuve-les-Avignon, to see the 13th century fortifications and beautiful rambling gardens of Fort St Andre. (B)

 

Day Four – L’Isle sur la Sorgue, Fontaine de Vaucluse
L’Isle sur la Sorgue is a delightful village in a picturesque setting on the banks of the River Sorgue, which retains a handful of charming ancient water wheels. Today is market day, well known not only for produce but considered to be one of France’s finest open air antique markets. After the market we return to Fontaine de Vaucluse, where we find the Musee 1939 – 1945, highlighting the Nazi Occupation and French Resistance which was centred in this area. Discover the source of the River Sorgue, tumbling through a rocky gorge through the village. You can also visit the old mill which still produces beautiful paper. (B,D).

 

Day Five – Les Baux, L’Oustau de Baumaniere
Les Baux de Provence is a unique medieval Provencal village sitting high on a rocky spur overlooking a valley. After a wander discovering the many quaint shops and cafes, we arrive upon a sweeping plateau at the top of the hill, where we explore the extraordinary ruins and archaeological sites. Next, one of the gourmet highlights of your tour is L’Oustau de Baumaniere, the famous restaurant renowned throughout the world. Our long relaxing lunch is an unforgettable experience as much as a meal! (B, L)

 

Day Six – Gordes, Abbaye de Senanque, Roussillon, Lacoste
An unforgettable day visiting the famous picturesque hill villages of the Luberon – Gordes (market day today – one of the best of the region), the Cistercian Abbaye de Senanque, ochre toned Roussillon, and the ancient home of the infamous Marquis de Sade, Lacoste; each offering a unique and diverse view of the culture and history of the region that Peter Mayle made famous in “A Year in Provence”. (B)

 

Day Seven – Cassis
Today a taste of the Mediterranean, at the stunning seaside fishing village of Cassis. We are at leisure to spend the whole day here, to wander around the tiny port, shop in the gorgeous boutiques, or sit in a café by the water. Cassis is known for its great seafood, particularly the local specialty, bouillabaisse. Take a trip on a small boat out to the calanques, the magnificent limestone fjords that flank the coast. (B)

 

Day Eight – Orange, Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Our relaxing day today includes a visit to the historic Roman town of Orange and the wonderful Roman Theatre, one of the most intact ruins of its type in the world and a UNESCO world heritage site, which is still used for concerts and performances to this day. The village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a name synonymous with great French wines, and we will stop here on the way home for a tasting at our favourite winery. (B)

 

Day Nine – Chateau Val Joanis
Today we visit Chateau Val Joanis, whose privately owned gardens are famous throughout Europe. Enjoy a tour of the winery and explore the stunning gardens, before a lunch of local Provencal specialties, tasting a different wine with each course. On the way to Chateau Val Joanis we stop in the charming village of Lourmarin. You may choose to visit the chateau, or explore the local market which is on this morning. (B, L)

 

Day Ten – St. Remy-de-Provence
St Remy de Provence was for a time home to Vincent Van Gogh and now boasts many beautiful boutiques and cafes. Free time to enjoy the ambience of this quintessentially Provencal town before lunch at a local farmhouse. (B, L)

 

Day Eleven – Pont du Gard to Avignon
This morning we discover the 2000 year old Pont du Gard, the spectacular Roman aqueduct spanning the Gard River. We then transfer to Avignonwhere we stay this evening in order to appreciate the ancient buildings illuminated to create an unforgettable sight.(B,D)

 

Day Twelve – Avignon to Paris
Today we leave Provence, returning to Paris on the TGV. This evening a farewell dinner cruise on the Bateaux Mouches on the Seine, enjoying delicious food, wine and entertainment as we pass the historic monuments. (B, D)

 

Day Thirteen – Paris
After breakfast the tour ends.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

• Meals as per itinerary (all include wine), breakfasts throughout the tour, transport including 1st class train travel, private air conditioned buses on day tours, private guides, accommodation in exclusive four star hotel in Paris, accommodation in charming three star hotel in Provence & Avignon, all entries and excursions, wine tastings, the full time services of your tour director.