Provence

Provence, France: Where History and Beauty Converge

A journey in Provence is a chance to ramble along ancient cobblestone paths, explore hilltop fortifications, discover hidden heritage, and wander back in time. Its natural beauty, rich terrain, and Mediterranean climate attracted Roman emperors, popes, princes, and artists—and they all left their mark on Provence.

Uncover the Essence of Provence through a Journey from Avignon to St-Rémy

Starting in Avignon, we head for the hill towns of the Luberon and Vacluse regions, regarded as the heart of Provence. Their delightful hill-capping villages are a perfect blend of rugged limestone topography, ancient vineyards, and lavender fields—perfect for a relaxing, yet active, walking and hiking vacation.

In the Luberon region a spectacular and gnarled limestone massif rises to an elevation of 3,690 feet and is riddled with caves, cut with deep gorges, dotted with ancient hilltop villages, and is jealously protected as a French regional natural park.

We conclude in the town of St-Rémy-de-Provence, birthplace of Nostradamus, but more frequently associated with Vincent Van Gogh, where he spent a year after mutilating his ear. It was a turbulent time, but also the most productive of his life, producing 143 paintings during his 53 weeks in an asylum. St Rémy is known for its art galleries, fine foods, and fashion. But for lovers of the outdoors, St-Rémy is perfectly situated on the flanks of Les Alpilles, a limestone massif which offers great hiking and a fascinating display of flora endemic to the region.

Delve into the Timeless Legacy of Ancient Rome, Hidden in the Heart of Provence

The name Provence comes from the region’s role as the first Roman province. And most historians agree that the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world are in France, not Rome. During Roman rule, many Provençal towns were more urban and had larger populations than they have today. And Roman influence today is always close to the surface in Provence.

Transform Meals into Masterpieces

The tantalizing cuisine of Provence, considered the best in France, would be nothing without generous use of olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and local herbs. Any dish described as a la provençal will sweep you away with its regional flavors. And you’ll love visiting a colorful local market to purchase the ingredients for your afternoon cooking class in the village of Gordes.

Want to extend your stay? This tour starts and concludes at the Avignon TGV station, giving you easy and direct access to Paris. Ask your Alpenwild Destination Specialist about pre- and post-tour travel in Paris.