La Joie de Vivre en France 2020 Please join us!
See below for detailed itinerary options in Normandy, The Chateaux of the Loire, Paris, Lyon, Provence, and the French Riviera from Nice.
Check out these itinerary options below and contact us if you are interested starting a small group tour. Let’s get something started!
Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through France, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience in France with our Concierge Travel Services.
We know that the decision to spend your valuable time and money traveling is a costly investment. Call on us to create the perfect guided or independent travel custom itinerary. We work closely with groups who want a personalized, private experience. Che Bella Tours is Creative Travel, and the partner you want when planning a remarkable family vacation, destination wedding, trip of a lifetime or other special occasion. Contact us for more information. Planning is half the fun!
Imagine a country where people work 35-hour weeks, take seven weeks of paid holidays per year, take an hour and a half for lunch, have the longest life expectancy in the world, and eat the richest food on the planet. Imagine a people who keep alive their local shopkeepers while still being among the most prosperous consumer societies in the world with one of the best healthcare systems. France is a country rich in culture and landscape. The French live their modern lives among Roman ruins and medieval churches, historic architecture and gorgeous views.
See below for detailed itinerary options in Normandy, The Chateaux of the Loire, Paris, Lyon, Provence, and the French Riviera from Nice.
Check out these itinerary options below and contact us if you are interested starting a small group tour. Let’s get something started!
Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through France, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience in France with our Concierge Travel Services.
We know that the decision to spend your valuable time and money traveling is a costly investment. Call on us to create the perfect guided or independent travel custom itinerary. We work closely with groups who want a personalized, private experience. Che Bella Tours is Creative Travel, and the partner you want when planning a remarkable family vacation, destination wedding, trip of a lifetime or other special occasion. Contact us for more information. Planning is half the fun!
Imagine a country where people work 35-hour weeks, take seven weeks of paid holidays per year, take an hour and a half for lunch, have the longest life expectancy in the world, and eat the richest food on the planet. Imagine a people who keep alive their local shopkeepers while still being among the most prosperous consumer societies in the world with one of the best healthcare systems. France is a country rich in culture and landscape. The French live their modern lives among Roman ruins and medieval churches, historic architecture and gorgeous views.
Normandy
Pre-Tour Day 1. Arrive Paris. Your Adventure Begins!
Overnight in Paris 1 night. I have chosen a smart and cheerful 4-star hotel located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated just a short walk from Luxembourg Gardens in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district.
After we check your bags at the hotel, we’ll go for our orientation walk on the beautiful Left Bank.
Tonight: Included Dinner
Pre-Tour Day 2. To Rouen and then on to Bayeux, Normandy.
We’ll meet our driver and depart at 9 a.m. and head toward Normandy, one of the wonders of the world. From Paris to Rouen is about 2 hours, the city best known for Joan of Arc. Our local guide will meet us in Rouen for a tour of the city. We’ll visit the Cathedral and surrounding old town with time for you to explore the town and have lunch.
4:00 depart Rouen to Bayeux (about 1.5 hour drive). 2000-year old Bayeux is the only city that was not destroyed during the battle of Normandy. Our 4-star hotel is located right in the old town, with a courtyard pool and a lovely breakfast, and the perfect departure point for our tour of the Normandy Beaches.
Included dinner in Bayeux.
Pre-Tour Day 3. Full Day Tour of the Normandy Beaches
Today is the day when we remember the sacrifices of a young generation of Americans, Canadians, British and French Soldiers who fought for our freedom. Our local guide will tak us on a full day tour of the Landing Beaches. We will first drive to Sainte Mere Eglise to see the famous church. This area is where everything started on D-Day: June 6. Then, stop at Utah Beach. We’ll spend a moment at the Memorial of Major Winters (Band of Brothers, 101st Airborne), before reaching the German Cemetery of La Cambe. We then will go thru Pointe du Hoc, before continuing on to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. The visit of the German guns at Longue Sur Mer will make you realize what the Atlantic Wall was about. The day ends at Arromanches and its temporary Mulberry Port, an all-important just-made-on-time portable port and bridges which allowed the arrival of thousands of troops and equipment necessary to the Battle of Normandy and the invasion of Germany.
Dinner on your own in Bayeux. Overnight in Bayeux.
Pre-Tour Day 4. Mont San Michel and back to Paris
This morning we have an early checkout and take a 1.5 drive to our tour of the island of Mont San Michel. Perched on a rocky islet in the midst of vast sandbanks exposed to powerful tides between Normandy and Brittany stands the ‘Wonder of the West’, a Gothic-style Benedictine abbey dedicated to the archangel St Michael, and the village that grew up in the shadow of its great walls.
Our local guide will give us a tour of the island town and include a visit of the abbey. You’ll have a time on your own to explore and have lunch before we head back to Paris.
Dinner on your own in Paris.
Overnight in Paris.
Pre-Tour Day 1. Arrive Paris. Your Adventure Begins!
Overnight in Paris 1 night. I have chosen a smart and cheerful 4-star hotel located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated just a short walk from Luxembourg Gardens in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district.
After we check your bags at the hotel, we’ll go for our orientation walk on the beautiful Left Bank.
Tonight: Included Dinner
Pre-Tour Day 2. To Rouen and then on to Bayeux, Normandy.
We’ll meet our driver and depart at 9 a.m. and head toward Normandy, one of the wonders of the world. From Paris to Rouen is about 2 hours, the city best known for Joan of Arc. Our local guide will meet us in Rouen for a tour of the city. We’ll visit the Cathedral and surrounding old town with time for you to explore the town and have lunch.
4:00 depart Rouen to Bayeux (about 1.5 hour drive). 2000-year old Bayeux is the only city that was not destroyed during the battle of Normandy. Our 4-star hotel is located right in the old town, with a courtyard pool and a lovely breakfast, and the perfect departure point for our tour of the Normandy Beaches.
Included dinner in Bayeux.
Pre-Tour Day 3. Full Day Tour of the Normandy Beaches
Today is the day when we remember the sacrifices of a young generation of Americans, Canadians, British and French Soldiers who fought for our freedom. Our local guide will tak us on a full day tour of the Landing Beaches. We will first drive to Sainte Mere Eglise to see the famous church. This area is where everything started on D-Day: June 6. Then, stop at Utah Beach. We’ll spend a moment at the Memorial of Major Winters (Band of Brothers, 101st Airborne), before reaching the German Cemetery of La Cambe. We then will go thru Pointe du Hoc, before continuing on to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. The visit of the German guns at Longue Sur Mer will make you realize what the Atlantic Wall was about. The day ends at Arromanches and its temporary Mulberry Port, an all-important just-made-on-time portable port and bridges which allowed the arrival of thousands of troops and equipment necessary to the Battle of Normandy and the invasion of Germany.
Dinner on your own in Bayeux. Overnight in Bayeux.
Pre-Tour Day 4. Mont San Michel and back to Paris
This morning we have an early checkout and take a 1.5 drive to our tour of the island of Mont San Michel. Perched on a rocky islet in the midst of vast sandbanks exposed to powerful tides between Normandy and Brittany stands the ‘Wonder of the West’, a Gothic-style Benedictine abbey dedicated to the archangel St Michael, and the village that grew up in the shadow of its great walls.
Our local guide will give us a tour of the island town and include a visit of the abbey. You’ll have a time on your own to explore and have lunch before we head back to Paris.
Dinner on your own in Paris.
Overnight in Paris.
The Châteaux of the Loire Valley
The chateau has become synonymous with the Loire Valley from the time it was embraced by French Royalty as a safe haven away from the political back-stabbing of Paris and then as a rich cultural playground. Over 300 chateaux, including “the ladies’ castle Chenonceau, the expansive Chambord, Azay-le Rideau floating over the river Indre, Amboise with its Leonardo de Vinci connection, Cande where Edward Prince of Wales married Wallis Simpson provide something for every size group and budget.
Contact us to help you create the perfect chateaux route and accomodations for your group.
The chateau has become synonymous with the Loire Valley from the time it was embraced by French Royalty as a safe haven away from the political back-stabbing of Paris and then as a rich cultural playground. Over 300 chateaux, including “the ladies’ castle Chenonceau, the expansive Chambord, Azay-le Rideau floating over the river Indre, Amboise with its Leonardo de Vinci connection, Cande where Edward Prince of Wales married Wallis Simpson provide something for every size group and budget.
Contact us to help you create the perfect chateaux route and accomodations for your group.
Paris
Day 1. Arrive Paris. Your Adventure Begins!
Overnight in Paris 3 nights. I have chosen a smart and cheerful hotel located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated just a short walk from the eastern gates of Luxembourg Gardens in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, the center for bookstores, design shops, museums, churches, high-end art galleries, boutique hotels, historic cafés, restaurants, and the most beautiful real estate in Paris. I like to start our time in Paris with an orientation walk and prepare for our included French picque nique lunch. We’ll stop at a few of the local shops and markets to pick up our groceries and learn a bit about the local delicacies. Add a few bottles of tempanade, some French mustards and then we’re off to meet my oh-so-French assistant who will have set up for our oh-so-French picque nique. If it looks like rain, we’ll have made arrangements at a local brasserie for lunch.
Tonight we are going to begin our Included Welcome Dinner festivities with an included cruise on the Seine. Taking a boat ride down the Seine river at the beginning of your trip is a great way to get a feel for the layout of the city and gives you a wonderful perspective of all of the sights. After our tour we are off to a nearby brasserie for a classic French dinner.
Day 2. Day in Paris: Paris Morning Tour
We’ll drive through the important sights on the Left Bank, then go on to the Champs Elysees, past the Arc du Triomph and Les Invalides, and Place du Concorde. We’ll finish with a walk through the Tuilleries Gardens and a guided tour of the highlights of the Louvre. Your tour includes admission to the Louvre, private guide, car and driver.
Your tour will included my detailed Paris Guide, including my favorite walks, shops, how to use the Metro, restaurants, etiquette and a French language cheat sheet.
You might want to think about viewing the Impressionist Masterpieces at the Orsay Museum, see the Monet Waterlilies at the L’Orangerie, sculpture in the Rodin Museum, see the war museum and Napoleion’s Tomb at Les Invalides, shop the funky boutiques in the Marais District, or jog along La Promenade Plantée, a three mile long elevated green space near the Bastille or pay homage to Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde at Pere Lachaise Cemetery. You tour price includes a Metro Pass and I will show you how to get around, take you where you want to go, or make any reservations you would like. Think about exploring the neighborhood and the bridges along the Seine. Along the banks there are the bouquinistes, or book sellers. The green boxes are filled with used books, great prints and all kinds of souvenirs. Across the Seine, near Saint Chapelle and the central police station is a flower and bird market. We will keep you apprised on the reconstruction of Notre Dame.
Tonight: Included sunset tour of the Eiffel Tower and included dinner
Day 1. Arrive Paris. Your Adventure Begins!
Overnight in Paris 3 nights. I have chosen a smart and cheerful hotel located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated just a short walk from the eastern gates of Luxembourg Gardens in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, the center for bookstores, design shops, museums, churches, high-end art galleries, boutique hotels, historic cafés, restaurants, and the most beautiful real estate in Paris. I like to start our time in Paris with an orientation walk and prepare for our included French picque nique lunch. We’ll stop at a few of the local shops and markets to pick up our groceries and learn a bit about the local delicacies. Add a few bottles of tempanade, some French mustards and then we’re off to meet my oh-so-French assistant who will have set up for our oh-so-French picque nique. If it looks like rain, we’ll have made arrangements at a local brasserie for lunch.
Tonight we are going to begin our Included Welcome Dinner festivities with an included cruise on the Seine. Taking a boat ride down the Seine river at the beginning of your trip is a great way to get a feel for the layout of the city and gives you a wonderful perspective of all of the sights. After our tour we are off to a nearby brasserie for a classic French dinner.
Day 2. Day in Paris: Paris Morning Tour
We’ll drive through the important sights on the Left Bank, then go on to the Champs Elysees, past the Arc du Triomph and Les Invalides, and Place du Concorde. We’ll finish with a walk through the Tuilleries Gardens and a guided tour of the highlights of the Louvre. Your tour includes admission to the Louvre, private guide, car and driver.
Your tour will included my detailed Paris Guide, including my favorite walks, shops, how to use the Metro, restaurants, etiquette and a French language cheat sheet.
You might want to think about viewing the Impressionist Masterpieces at the Orsay Museum, see the Monet Waterlilies at the L’Orangerie, sculpture in the Rodin Museum, see the war museum and Napoleion’s Tomb at Les Invalides, shop the funky boutiques in the Marais District, or jog along La Promenade Plantée, a three mile long elevated green space near the Bastille or pay homage to Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde at Pere Lachaise Cemetery. You tour price includes a Metro Pass and I will show you how to get around, take you where you want to go, or make any reservations you would like. Think about exploring the neighborhood and the bridges along the Seine. Along the banks there are the bouquinistes, or book sellers. The green boxes are filled with used books, great prints and all kinds of souvenirs. Across the Seine, near Saint Chapelle and the central police station is a flower and bird market. We will keep you apprised on the reconstruction of Notre Dame.
Tonight: Included sunset tour of the Eiffel Tower and included dinner
Day 3/4. Another day (or two?) in Paris
Soak in the sights or choose one - or a few - of our cultural activities.
Foodie Tour of Montmartre: Montmartre has a flourishing restaurant scene, historical culture and charming ambiance. As you stroll the area with our local chef, we’ll enjoy different types of French culinary delights, including cheeses, chocolates, crepes and macaroons. You’ll stop at a boulangerie where you’ll learn about classic French breads and baguettes. A few items from the local butcher will round out your grocery list before you head to a wine bar to enjoy the fruits of your discoveries.
The Palace of Versailles. The palace was originally built as a hunting lodge for Louis XIII, and then transformed in the 1600’s into the extravagant Palace we will see by Louis XIV. Our VIP reservations include Marie Antoinette’s apartments and you can add the amazing Musical Fountain Shows and the Musical Gardens as well as Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet.
Giverny, enjoy the quaint village where Monet famously made his home from 1883 until his death in 1926. It’s here that he cultivated the celebrated garden we see in many of his most famous works.
Soak in the sights or choose one - or a few - of our cultural activities.
Foodie Tour of Montmartre: Montmartre has a flourishing restaurant scene, historical culture and charming ambiance. As you stroll the area with our local chef, we’ll enjoy different types of French culinary delights, including cheeses, chocolates, crepes and macaroons. You’ll stop at a boulangerie where you’ll learn about classic French breads and baguettes. A few items from the local butcher will round out your grocery list before you head to a wine bar to enjoy the fruits of your discoveries.
The Palace of Versailles. The palace was originally built as a hunting lodge for Louis XIII, and then transformed in the 1600’s into the extravagant Palace we will see by Louis XIV. Our VIP reservations include Marie Antoinette’s apartments and you can add the amazing Musical Fountain Shows and the Musical Gardens as well as Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet.
Giverny, enjoy the quaint village where Monet famously made his home from 1883 until his death in 1926. It’s here that he cultivated the celebrated garden we see in many of his most famous works.
Lyon
Day 1: Day in Lyon - an easy TGV train ride from Paris
Lyon is France’s second city, one of France’s oldest cities, and the gourmet capital of France. My favorite hotel is located in Old Lyon, made up of 4 restored Renaissance buildings set around a glass-roofed courtyard. There’s a tale to every detail in this hotel. I just fell in love with it. The entrance, the rooms, the decorations, the ambiance ... it’s a quirky 5-star hotel that I think you will love.
Our 3 hour morning guided tour will include the Place Bellecour, the great piazza in the city centre between the Rhône and the Saône rivers, the basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière a late 19th century basilica built in shimmering white stone in the neo-Byzantine style, the historic quarter of le vieux Lyon, a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings and finishing up at the famous food market: Les Halles de Bocuse.
Spend some time at the epicenter of Lyon gastronomy: Les Halles Paul Bocuse. This market dates back to 1859, though it wasn’t until its extensive renovation in 2006, that it became home to no less than 56 specialty food shops and restaurants. There is an amazing variety of in season foods and everything is fresh—each stall is a small gastronomic oasis.
Afternoon on your own in Lyon.
Overnight in Lyon.
Included Bouchon Dinner. Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital and tonight we explore Le Bouchons. Cooks in and around Lyon learned long ago how to use the plethora of products that surround this central city to create hearty, simple family dishes. Bouchons are a type of bistro, their decor is simple, but the food and ambience of any good bouchon will warm the coldest heart.
Day 2: Burgundy Wines and Beaune
Our time in Burgundy will include a visit to Beaune’s Hospice en Beaune, a 15th-century foundation and former hospital whose colourful glazed-tile roofs and distinctive medieval architecture symbolise the glorious reign of the Dukes of Burgundy, and then some free time to explore this beautiful town.
Burgundy has become known for being the best land in the world for producing both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but we will also try other whites of this area in their Chablis and Nuits-St-Georges. Chardonnay is the grape, and when made in Burgundy, it is called white Burgundy. Red Burgundy is made from pinot noir, but is referred to simply as Burgundy. These wines are robust and perfect to accompany your escargot, Beef Bourguignon, Coq au vin, wild mushrooms, game and fresh water fish.
Contact us to discuss your wine preferences and together we’ll create the perfect winetasting itinerary for you.
Overnight in Lyon. Tonight: Dinner on your own
Day 1: Day in Lyon - an easy TGV train ride from Paris
Lyon is France’s second city, one of France’s oldest cities, and the gourmet capital of France. My favorite hotel is located in Old Lyon, made up of 4 restored Renaissance buildings set around a glass-roofed courtyard. There’s a tale to every detail in this hotel. I just fell in love with it. The entrance, the rooms, the decorations, the ambiance ... it’s a quirky 5-star hotel that I think you will love.
Our 3 hour morning guided tour will include the Place Bellecour, the great piazza in the city centre between the Rhône and the Saône rivers, the basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière a late 19th century basilica built in shimmering white stone in the neo-Byzantine style, the historic quarter of le vieux Lyon, a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings and finishing up at the famous food market: Les Halles de Bocuse.
Spend some time at the epicenter of Lyon gastronomy: Les Halles Paul Bocuse. This market dates back to 1859, though it wasn’t until its extensive renovation in 2006, that it became home to no less than 56 specialty food shops and restaurants. There is an amazing variety of in season foods and everything is fresh—each stall is a small gastronomic oasis.
Afternoon on your own in Lyon.
Overnight in Lyon.
Included Bouchon Dinner. Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital and tonight we explore Le Bouchons. Cooks in and around Lyon learned long ago how to use the plethora of products that surround this central city to create hearty, simple family dishes. Bouchons are a type of bistro, their decor is simple, but the food and ambience of any good bouchon will warm the coldest heart.
Day 2: Burgundy Wines and Beaune
Our time in Burgundy will include a visit to Beaune’s Hospice en Beaune, a 15th-century foundation and former hospital whose colourful glazed-tile roofs and distinctive medieval architecture symbolise the glorious reign of the Dukes of Burgundy, and then some free time to explore this beautiful town.
Burgundy has become known for being the best land in the world for producing both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but we will also try other whites of this area in their Chablis and Nuits-St-Georges. Chardonnay is the grape, and when made in Burgundy, it is called white Burgundy. Red Burgundy is made from pinot noir, but is referred to simply as Burgundy. These wines are robust and perfect to accompany your escargot, Beef Bourguignon, Coq au vin, wild mushrooms, game and fresh water fish.
Contact us to discuss your wine preferences and together we’ll create the perfect winetasting itinerary for you.
Overnight in Lyon. Tonight: Dinner on your own
Provence
Day 1. Avignon
We can begin this portion of our tour in Avignon. I love the hotel I use there; they do everything right. From the classically decorated rooms to the service, to the bar to the morning breakfast, this is travel at its best.
Our city tour will include the Palace du Papes. In 1309, French Pope Clement V decided that Avignon was more to his liking than Rome. For the next seventy years the Popes resided here, making Avignon one of Europe’s most powerful cities. We’re then on to the gardens of Rocher des Doms for panoramic views of the Rhône and Benezet Bridge and finish in the Place de Horloge.
Overnight in Avignon. Included dinner. We can coordinate our tour itinerary to include a wonderful private cooking demonstration, dinner and wine tasting in the cellar of the hotel.
Day 2. Château Neuf du Pape, San Remy
We’re then on our way to Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The Southern Rhone Valley is distinguished for its big, bold red wines. The best known of these is Chateaubriand-du-Pape, created from several of the region’s 13 different grapes, notably Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah. We’ll begin with a wine tour and tasting, followed by a lovely included lunch at a beautiful castle overlooking the vineyards.
After lunch we're off to San Remy, a lovely little town to stroll and shop for those luscious Provençal goodies and crafts.
We’re then on to a brief stop at the Monastère St-Paul-de-Mausolée. Although it was a short time that Vincent Van Gogh was hospitalized there, it was a time of great creative energy. Despite, or because of, his fragile mental state, the year he spent here was one of his most productive—Van Gogh painted Starry Night and many self-portraits and landscapes during his time there.
Overnight in Avignon. Dinner is on your own.
Day 1. Avignon
We can begin this portion of our tour in Avignon. I love the hotel I use there; they do everything right. From the classically decorated rooms to the service, to the bar to the morning breakfast, this is travel at its best.
Our city tour will include the Palace du Papes. In 1309, French Pope Clement V decided that Avignon was more to his liking than Rome. For the next seventy years the Popes resided here, making Avignon one of Europe’s most powerful cities. We’re then on to the gardens of Rocher des Doms for panoramic views of the Rhône and Benezet Bridge and finish in the Place de Horloge.
Overnight in Avignon. Included dinner. We can coordinate our tour itinerary to include a wonderful private cooking demonstration, dinner and wine tasting in the cellar of the hotel.
Day 2. Château Neuf du Pape, San Remy
We’re then on our way to Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The Southern Rhone Valley is distinguished for its big, bold red wines. The best known of these is Chateaubriand-du-Pape, created from several of the region’s 13 different grapes, notably Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah. We’ll begin with a wine tour and tasting, followed by a lovely included lunch at a beautiful castle overlooking the vineyards.
After lunch we're off to San Remy, a lovely little town to stroll and shop for those luscious Provençal goodies and crafts.
We’re then on to a brief stop at the Monastère St-Paul-de-Mausolée. Although it was a short time that Vincent Van Gogh was hospitalized there, it was a time of great creative energy. Despite, or because of, his fragile mental state, the year he spent here was one of his most productive—Van Gogh painted Starry Night and many self-portraits and landscapes during his time there.
Overnight in Avignon. Dinner is on your own.
Day 3. The Pont du Gard and Cooking in Uzes
This morning, we're headed for the 2000-year old Pont du Gard. Our visit will begin at the museum, where we’ll learn about the engineering of Roman life and their aqueducts. Afterwards, we’ll take a lovely walk to the bridge. Picture time!
Think about adding a Kayak the River Gardon to the Pont du Gard
I think important to see destinations from a different point of view. On the water, you’ll notice things that you would never see on land, and and I’m always looking for the opportunity to burn off some calories from all of the other excursions we enjoy. I also just really love kayaking. It’s a leisurely 5 miles paddle along the banks of the river with plenty of time to swim. Your reward at the end is a great view of the 2,000 year old Roman aqueduct.
We're then off to a private villa in Uzes, where we’ll work with our local chef to learn how to make a few local dishes, perfect our knife skills, whip up a few sauces, learn about farm to table cuisine ... and, of course, enjoy the evening with food, friends, music and plenty of local wine.
Overnight in Avignon.
Day 4. To Aix in Provence
Aix-en-Provence is one of France’s most beautiful cities. Traversing one of the world’s most famous wine regions, the Rhone Valley. The city is known for its gorgeous architecture as well as its vibrant culture, abundance of cafes and shops. It was the hometown of famous painter Cézanne.
We’ll enjoy a morning tour of the town and finish at the Le Grande Marche, a Provençal cornucopia of delicacies. Sniff, taste and sample, and stock up on dried herbs, green and black olives marinated a dozen different ways and, of course, the best cheeses and olive oils. The rest of the day and evening is yours to explore the small cobblestoned streets of the historic center. Think about a hike or bike ride in the country or visit Cezanne’s studio.
Overnight in Aix in Provence
Day 5. Hiking the Luberon and then to Lourmarin for Truffle Hunting
The Luberon is a great destination for a walking vacation. There is an extensive and accessible network of walking paths and trails for every level. Walking paths take you through farms, vineyards, orchards and woods, past beautifully-restored homes and simple farm dwellings, up on the mountains, through the gorges, alongside massive cliffs. The area surrounding the Luberon mountains is a designated natural park. The countryside is rich with bits of history and evidence of life from other times, and on foot you'll discover special places that aren't in the tourist guidebooks. We've come upon prehistoric caves, ancient bories, a Roman oppidium, old mills, 700-year old chapels, and abandoned villages.
On to Lourmarin. No region is more of a market-must than Provence, which thrives on a bounty of fresh produce – grown locally and piled high each morning at the market. Our scenic road today begins with a stop at an olive farm enroute to Lourmarin, nestled in the middle of vinyards, olive groves and almond trees. In the village you will walk amidst the typical Mediterranean architecture in its winding narrow streets, lovely old restored houses, and well shaded public squares where you can immerse youself in the gentil Provençal ambience. The village has a good selection of antique shops, art galleries, gift shops, gourmet delis and cafés.
Later today (around 6pm), we begin our truffle hunting experience in the misty woods of Provence. Truffles are fungi, like mushrooms, but they grow underground and they’re a very expensive delicacy. The hunting is really more of an exercise in digging. Knowing where to dig and exactly how deep to dig is the trick. We’ll learn about the history of truffle hunting and the details of how truffles are made and hunted in modern times. We’ll watch the truffle-hunting dogs use their noses to find them and dig them up.
We’ll explore the farm and learn about fresh herbs of the area before the Included Dinner: our grand truffle tasting experience.
This morning, we're headed for the 2000-year old Pont du Gard. Our visit will begin at the museum, where we’ll learn about the engineering of Roman life and their aqueducts. Afterwards, we’ll take a lovely walk to the bridge. Picture time!
Think about adding a Kayak the River Gardon to the Pont du Gard
I think important to see destinations from a different point of view. On the water, you’ll notice things that you would never see on land, and and I’m always looking for the opportunity to burn off some calories from all of the other excursions we enjoy. I also just really love kayaking. It’s a leisurely 5 miles paddle along the banks of the river with plenty of time to swim. Your reward at the end is a great view of the 2,000 year old Roman aqueduct.
We're then off to a private villa in Uzes, where we’ll work with our local chef to learn how to make a few local dishes, perfect our knife skills, whip up a few sauces, learn about farm to table cuisine ... and, of course, enjoy the evening with food, friends, music and plenty of local wine.
Overnight in Avignon.
Day 4. To Aix in Provence
Aix-en-Provence is one of France’s most beautiful cities. Traversing one of the world’s most famous wine regions, the Rhone Valley. The city is known for its gorgeous architecture as well as its vibrant culture, abundance of cafes and shops. It was the hometown of famous painter Cézanne.
We’ll enjoy a morning tour of the town and finish at the Le Grande Marche, a Provençal cornucopia of delicacies. Sniff, taste and sample, and stock up on dried herbs, green and black olives marinated a dozen different ways and, of course, the best cheeses and olive oils. The rest of the day and evening is yours to explore the small cobblestoned streets of the historic center. Think about a hike or bike ride in the country or visit Cezanne’s studio.
Overnight in Aix in Provence
Day 5. Hiking the Luberon and then to Lourmarin for Truffle Hunting
The Luberon is a great destination for a walking vacation. There is an extensive and accessible network of walking paths and trails for every level. Walking paths take you through farms, vineyards, orchards and woods, past beautifully-restored homes and simple farm dwellings, up on the mountains, through the gorges, alongside massive cliffs. The area surrounding the Luberon mountains is a designated natural park. The countryside is rich with bits of history and evidence of life from other times, and on foot you'll discover special places that aren't in the tourist guidebooks. We've come upon prehistoric caves, ancient bories, a Roman oppidium, old mills, 700-year old chapels, and abandoned villages.
On to Lourmarin. No region is more of a market-must than Provence, which thrives on a bounty of fresh produce – grown locally and piled high each morning at the market. Our scenic road today begins with a stop at an olive farm enroute to Lourmarin, nestled in the middle of vinyards, olive groves and almond trees. In the village you will walk amidst the typical Mediterranean architecture in its winding narrow streets, lovely old restored houses, and well shaded public squares where you can immerse youself in the gentil Provençal ambience. The village has a good selection of antique shops, art galleries, gift shops, gourmet delis and cafés.
Later today (around 6pm), we begin our truffle hunting experience in the misty woods of Provence. Truffles are fungi, like mushrooms, but they grow underground and they’re a very expensive delicacy. The hunting is really more of an exercise in digging. Knowing where to dig and exactly how deep to dig is the trick. We’ll learn about the history of truffle hunting and the details of how truffles are made and hunted in modern times. We’ll watch the truffle-hunting dogs use their noses to find them and dig them up.
We’ll explore the farm and learn about fresh herbs of the area before the Included Dinner: our grand truffle tasting experience.
The French Riviera from Nice
Nice, one of the oldest French cities, became Capital of the French Riviera in the 1800’s and today is the 5th largest city of France. Our morning tour will begin with a drive along the Cote d’Azur, or Blue Coast, with a visit to the Rothschild Mansion and its beautiful gardens. We’re then back in Nice for a panoramic driving tour of Roman sites, Baroque churches, and the Belle Epoque and Art Deco architecture that characterizes the city. We’ll drive along the Promenades des Anglais and finish at the Old Town market, where we’ll stroll the streets and you can have lunch and move on to other activities. The afternoon is yours to enjoy. You might want to consider:
• Stroll the Promenades des Anglais, Nice’s beach boulevard. It’s pedestrian friendly, with lots of people on blades and bikes. Here you can also sit on the typical blue Riviera seats that are lined up along the shore.
• Walk around the port of Nice to see the impressive yachts and colorful fishing boats. Or come down here as the sun rises tomorrow to see the fishermen depart for the day and the sun rise over the Castle hill.
• The Chagall Museum. Chagall was involved in the construction of the museum and produced his artworks to fill the rooms. You’ll see different works from different stages throughout his life.
• Take the train or hop a bus to Monte Carlo. Live out your inner 007 at the Casino while gawking at the fancy people with their fancy cars. Then hike up to Monaco Ville and see the Grimaldi Palace and the very well-done Aquarium. Think about a stop at the charming hill town of Eze on the way.
You might also want to think about:
• A first-hand introduction to the culture and cooking of Nice. We’ll begin the morning at Nice’s famous Cours Saleya market with Chef Rosa to sample seasonal produce and meet the local producers. Then we’re off to her kitchen to create typical Nicoise dishes for our lunch.
• Take the train or hop a bus to Monte Carlo. Live out your inner 007 at the Casino while gawking at the fancy people with their fancy cars. Then hike up to Monaco Ville and see the Grimaldi Palace and the very well-done Aquarium.
• The heiress Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild had an Italian-style pink palazzo erected on the beautiful Cap Ferrat peninsula at the start of the twentieth century; enjoy a rare glimpse into the life and home of the superrich and then enjoy a 5-star lunch stop overlooking the Mediterranean in the charming hill town of Eze.
• Channel your inner-Hollywood with a day trip to Cannes and the perfumeries of Grasse. Enroute we’ll pass the fields or gardens that contain the local flowers (such as roses, jasmine, violet, mimosa, lavender) which are the basis for the famous perfumes of France. Grasse is the perfume capital of the world. Our private tour will make a stop at one of the most famous factories, which will include an overview of the history of perfume making, an overview of historical and current techniques (with some demonstrations), and a visit to a gift shop where you can purchase fragrance products.
• An excursion to Antibes and Biot. If you are interested in art and glassware, think about choosing this excursion to Antibes and Biot. The Picasso Museum in Antibes is situated in the old Grimaldi chateau and features not only a superb Picasso collection but also other important 20th century artists and a permanent collection of sculptures on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Biot, between Antibes and Nice, is a picturesque hill village renowned for its pretty glassware. There are several glass works where you can watch the glass blowing process and of course shops to buy the finished product. Suggested reading for a colorful insight into Antibes: Mediterranean Summer by David Shalleck.
• St. Paul de Vence and Vence. This little town ticks all the boxes of Provence – old men playing pétanque, beautiful views over the hills, manicured gardens, stone fountains, small alleyways and art galleries. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, enjoy lunch and take some great shots for your photo album. At the end of the day we will head over to nearby Vence. Vence is a quaint little town of narrow streets, intriguing passageways, and tempting craft and specialty shops.
Nice, one of the oldest French cities, became Capital of the French Riviera in the 1800’s and today is the 5th largest city of France. Our morning tour will begin with a drive along the Cote d’Azur, or Blue Coast, with a visit to the Rothschild Mansion and its beautiful gardens. We’re then back in Nice for a panoramic driving tour of Roman sites, Baroque churches, and the Belle Epoque and Art Deco architecture that characterizes the city. We’ll drive along the Promenades des Anglais and finish at the Old Town market, where we’ll stroll the streets and you can have lunch and move on to other activities. The afternoon is yours to enjoy. You might want to consider:
• Stroll the Promenades des Anglais, Nice’s beach boulevard. It’s pedestrian friendly, with lots of people on blades and bikes. Here you can also sit on the typical blue Riviera seats that are lined up along the shore.
• Walk around the port of Nice to see the impressive yachts and colorful fishing boats. Or come down here as the sun rises tomorrow to see the fishermen depart for the day and the sun rise over the Castle hill.
• The Chagall Museum. Chagall was involved in the construction of the museum and produced his artworks to fill the rooms. You’ll see different works from different stages throughout his life.
• Take the train or hop a bus to Monte Carlo. Live out your inner 007 at the Casino while gawking at the fancy people with their fancy cars. Then hike up to Monaco Ville and see the Grimaldi Palace and the very well-done Aquarium. Think about a stop at the charming hill town of Eze on the way.
You might also want to think about:
• A first-hand introduction to the culture and cooking of Nice. We’ll begin the morning at Nice’s famous Cours Saleya market with Chef Rosa to sample seasonal produce and meet the local producers. Then we’re off to her kitchen to create typical Nicoise dishes for our lunch.
• Take the train or hop a bus to Monte Carlo. Live out your inner 007 at the Casino while gawking at the fancy people with their fancy cars. Then hike up to Monaco Ville and see the Grimaldi Palace and the very well-done Aquarium.
• The heiress Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild had an Italian-style pink palazzo erected on the beautiful Cap Ferrat peninsula at the start of the twentieth century; enjoy a rare glimpse into the life and home of the superrich and then enjoy a 5-star lunch stop overlooking the Mediterranean in the charming hill town of Eze.
• Channel your inner-Hollywood with a day trip to Cannes and the perfumeries of Grasse. Enroute we’ll pass the fields or gardens that contain the local flowers (such as roses, jasmine, violet, mimosa, lavender) which are the basis for the famous perfumes of France. Grasse is the perfume capital of the world. Our private tour will make a stop at one of the most famous factories, which will include an overview of the history of perfume making, an overview of historical and current techniques (with some demonstrations), and a visit to a gift shop where you can purchase fragrance products.
• An excursion to Antibes and Biot. If you are interested in art and glassware, think about choosing this excursion to Antibes and Biot. The Picasso Museum in Antibes is situated in the old Grimaldi chateau and features not only a superb Picasso collection but also other important 20th century artists and a permanent collection of sculptures on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Biot, between Antibes and Nice, is a picturesque hill village renowned for its pretty glassware. There are several glass works where you can watch the glass blowing process and of course shops to buy the finished product. Suggested reading for a colorful insight into Antibes: Mediterranean Summer by David Shalleck.
• St. Paul de Vence and Vence. This little town ticks all the boxes of Provence – old men playing pétanque, beautiful views over the hills, manicured gardens, stone fountains, small alleyways and art galleries. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, enjoy lunch and take some great shots for your photo album. At the end of the day we will head over to nearby Vence. Vence is a quaint little town of narrow streets, intriguing passageways, and tempting craft and specialty shops.
Please join us!
Contact us to schedule your dream trip to France.
Contact us to schedule your dream trip to France.