Paris, Lyon and Provence
11 days/10 nights
Imagine a country where people work 35-hour week and get seven weeks of paid holidays per year.
Imagine a people who eat the richest food on the planet yet have the longest life expectancy in the world.
Imagine a people who support their local shopkeepers while still being among the most prosperous consumer societies in the world. France is a country rich in culture and landscape, where very modern lives exist amidst Roman ruins, medieval churches, historic architecture and gorgeous views.
Pre- and post-tour suggestions to Normandy and Mont Sant Michel,
Le Chateaux of the Loire
and Nice with the French Riviera
Please inquire about pricing
11 days/10 nights
Imagine a country where people work 35-hour week and get seven weeks of paid holidays per year.
Imagine a people who eat the richest food on the planet yet have the longest life expectancy in the world.
Imagine a people who support their local shopkeepers while still being among the most prosperous consumer societies in the world. France is a country rich in culture and landscape, where very modern lives exist amidst Roman ruins, medieval churches, historic architecture and gorgeous views.
Pre- and post-tour suggestions to Normandy and Mont Sant Michel,
Le Chateaux of the Loire
and Nice with the French Riviera
Please inquire about pricing
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Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through France, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience with our Concierge Travel Services.
Suggested time to travel: April - October |
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Pre-tour suggestions to:
• Normandy and Mont Saint Michel • Le Chateaux of the Loire Valley La Joie de Vivre en France Tour: 3 nights Paris 2 nights Lyon 3 nights in Avignon 2 nights Aix en Provence Post-tour suggestion to: • Nice and the French Riviera |
OPTION TO NORMANDY AND MONT SAINT MICHEL
Pre-Tour Day 1. Arrive Paris. Your Adventure Begins!
Overnight in Paris 1 night. Our smart and cheerful 4-star hotel is located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated just a short walk from Luxembourg Gardens in the Saint-Germain-du-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 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. It's 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. We are then off to 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 all 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. A poignant day.
Dinner on your own in Bayeux. Overnight in Bayeux.
Pre-Tour Day 4. Mont Saint 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 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.
Overnight in Paris 1 night. Our smart and cheerful 4-star hotel is located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated just a short walk from Luxembourg Gardens in the Saint-Germain-du-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 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. It's 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. We are then off to 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 all 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. A poignant day.
Dinner on your own in Bayeux. Overnight in Bayeux.
Pre-Tour Day 4. Mont Saint 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 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.
OPTION TO LE CHATEAUX in the LOIRE VALLEY
Situated between northern and southern France, The Loire Valley is made up of charming villages. 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. Today, there are over 300 chateaux in the region
Contact us to help you create the perfect chateaux route and accomodations for your group. Here is a suggested itinerary:
Day 1. To the Loire Valley - Train from Paris to Amboise
Amboise is a quaint village on the bank of the Loire River. Vast fields of sunflowers and castle peaks make the drive breathtaking.
The orientation of the charming city begins with the Amboise Chateau Royal, built on a spur above the town and he first Italianate chateau in France. We'll discover the detailed, behind-the-scenes moments of the Royal court’s daily life and enjoy the remarkable panoramic view of the Loire valley. Leonardo Da Vinci was buried within the ground of the Chateau.
We’re then on to Château du Clos Lucé, the official residence of Da Vinci from 1516 until 1519, when he died.
Tonight: Included Dinner in Amboise
Day 2. A Day of Chateaux
We'll start our day at the The Castle of Chambord. In the middle of a forest as large as the city of Paris, Chambord was the first Loire Valley chateau listed in the world heritage by UNESCO. Ordered in 1519 by King Francois I, with 426 rooms, 77 staircases and 282 fireplaces, it is the largest castle in the region. Leonardo da Vinci is the creator of its incredible double helix staircase.
We’ll take some time to rent bikes, enjoy the included horse and bird of prey show, and lunch at one of the cafes in the area.
We’re then on to the Castle of Chenonceau. The unique architecture makes it one of the most exquisite Chateaux in the Loire Valley. Nicknamed “the ladies castle,” Chenonceau was the home of princesses and queens, including Catherine de Medici.
We’ll be transferred back at end of the day to Amboise.
Inquire about stopping enroute for a winetasting of mature Vouvray wines.
Dinner on your own in Amboise tonight.
Day 3. The Loire Valley - Saumur
A wonderful way to start the day is to see how the academy horsemen work with the horses, jumping, long reins, airs above the ground and classical riding.
The town of Saumur lies on a beautiful stretch of the western Loire valley. It’s a glorious area known for its odd troglodyte dwellings built in the limestone cliffs. Over 1,500 km of galleries, cellars and villages punctuate one of the largest and richest collections of troglodytic sites in Europe.
Lunch will be in a stylish restaurant in a troglodyte cave. Saumur is famous for its excellent sparkling wine, where we will end our day with an included tour and tasting.
Day 4. The Gardens at Villandry and Cooking Lesson.
We’ll begin our day at The Chateau and Gardens of Villandry, the last of the great chateaux of the Loire built during the Renaissance in the Loire Valley. You’ll enjoy a relaxing morning at your own pace, wandering throught the terraced gardens and chateau.
You are then on to spend the afternoon with our Michelin chef for a private cooking lesson followed by dinner in the 19th century house and a visit to their private caves.
Day 5. To Chartres
We leave The Loire Valley this morning and be transferred to Chartres. This afternoon you’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the town and see France’s oldest cathedral to learn about its Celtic and Roman history and see the magnificent rose window.
Included Dinner and Chartres en Lumières
Day 6. Morning transfer from Chartres to Paris or on to the next part of your itinerary
Contact us to help you create the perfect chateaux route and accomodations for your group. Here is a suggested itinerary:
Day 1. To the Loire Valley - Train from Paris to Amboise
Amboise is a quaint village on the bank of the Loire River. Vast fields of sunflowers and castle peaks make the drive breathtaking.
The orientation of the charming city begins with the Amboise Chateau Royal, built on a spur above the town and he first Italianate chateau in France. We'll discover the detailed, behind-the-scenes moments of the Royal court’s daily life and enjoy the remarkable panoramic view of the Loire valley. Leonardo Da Vinci was buried within the ground of the Chateau.
We’re then on to Château du Clos Lucé, the official residence of Da Vinci from 1516 until 1519, when he died.
Tonight: Included Dinner in Amboise
Day 2. A Day of Chateaux
We'll start our day at the The Castle of Chambord. In the middle of a forest as large as the city of Paris, Chambord was the first Loire Valley chateau listed in the world heritage by UNESCO. Ordered in 1519 by King Francois I, with 426 rooms, 77 staircases and 282 fireplaces, it is the largest castle in the region. Leonardo da Vinci is the creator of its incredible double helix staircase.
We’ll take some time to rent bikes, enjoy the included horse and bird of prey show, and lunch at one of the cafes in the area.
We’re then on to the Castle of Chenonceau. The unique architecture makes it one of the most exquisite Chateaux in the Loire Valley. Nicknamed “the ladies castle,” Chenonceau was the home of princesses and queens, including Catherine de Medici.
We’ll be transferred back at end of the day to Amboise.
Inquire about stopping enroute for a winetasting of mature Vouvray wines.
Dinner on your own in Amboise tonight.
Day 3. The Loire Valley - Saumur
A wonderful way to start the day is to see how the academy horsemen work with the horses, jumping, long reins, airs above the ground and classical riding.
The town of Saumur lies on a beautiful stretch of the western Loire valley. It’s a glorious area known for its odd troglodyte dwellings built in the limestone cliffs. Over 1,500 km of galleries, cellars and villages punctuate one of the largest and richest collections of troglodytic sites in Europe.
Lunch will be in a stylish restaurant in a troglodyte cave. Saumur is famous for its excellent sparkling wine, where we will end our day with an included tour and tasting.
Day 4. The Gardens at Villandry and Cooking Lesson.
We’ll begin our day at The Chateau and Gardens of Villandry, the last of the great chateaux of the Loire built during the Renaissance in the Loire Valley. You’ll enjoy a relaxing morning at your own pace, wandering throught the terraced gardens and chateau.
You are then on to spend the afternoon with our Michelin chef for a private cooking lesson followed by dinner in the 19th century house and a visit to their private caves.
Day 5. To Chartres
We leave The Loire Valley this morning and be transferred to Chartres. This afternoon you’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the town and see France’s oldest cathedral to learn about its Celtic and Roman history and see the magnificent rose window.
Included Dinner and Chartres en Lumières
Day 6. Morning transfer from Chartres to Paris or on to the next part of your itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVE PARIS. YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS! |
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Your greeter will be waiting for you at baggage claim to transport you from the airport to our hotel.
Our hotel is a smart and cheerful hotel located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated and 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.
We'll 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, exquisite breads and pastries, and then we’re off to meet my oh-so-French assistant who will have set up for our oh-so-French picque nique.
Tonight we are going to begin our Included Welcome Dinner festivities with a 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.
Included dinner
Overnight in Paris, 3 nights with breakfast
Our hotel is a smart and cheerful hotel located right in the heart of the Left Bank, perfectly situated and 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.
We'll 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, exquisite breads and pastries, and then we’re off to meet my oh-so-French assistant who will have set up for our oh-so-French picque nique.
Tonight we are going to begin our Included Welcome Dinner festivities with a 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.
Included dinner
Overnight in Paris, 3 nights with breakfast
DAY 2: A DAY IN PARIS |
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On our private 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.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Paris. Consider:
• 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.
• Viewing the Impressionist Masterpieces at the Orsay Museum
• Seeing the Monet Waterlilies at the L’Orangerie, sculpture in the Rodin Museum, and Napoleion’s Tomb at Les Invalides
• Shopping at the funky boutiques in the Marais District
• Strolling along La Promenade Plantée, a three mile long elevated green space near the Bastille
• Paying homage to Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde at Pere Lachaise Cemetery.
You tour price includes a Metro Pass and we will show you how to get around, take you where you want to go, or make any reservations you would like.
Tonight: Included sunset tour of the Eiffel Tower and included dinner
Overnight in Paris
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Paris. Consider:
• 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.
• Viewing the Impressionist Masterpieces at the Orsay Museum
• Seeing the Monet Waterlilies at the L’Orangerie, sculpture in the Rodin Museum, and Napoleion’s Tomb at Les Invalides
• Shopping at the funky boutiques in the Marais District
• Strolling along La Promenade Plantée, a three mile long elevated green space near the Bastille
• Paying homage to Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde at Pere Lachaise Cemetery.
You tour price includes a Metro Pass and we will show you how to get around, take you where you want to go, or make any reservations you would like.
Tonight: Included sunset tour of the Eiffel Tower and included dinner
Overnight in Paris
DAY 3: A DAY AT YOUR LEISURE IN AND AROUND PARIS |
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Today is your day to explore Paris your way. Kick around shops and bookstores. Have a long, leisurely lunch. Stroll through one of the city's many museums.
Overnight in Paris
Inquire about one of our Dig a Little Deeper private optional tour excursions below. Pricing will be based on the number of participants. Click on the + below for details.
Overnight in Paris
Inquire about one of our Dig a Little Deeper private optional tour excursions below. Pricing will be based on the number of participants. Click on the + below for details.
NEW! Dig a Little Deeper Series
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.
Literary Paris. During the roaring twenties, Paris was considered the cultural capital of the Western world. Artists and writers flocked to the city from far and wide, including celebrated American writer Ernest Hemingway. During this 3-hour Hemingway-focused Paris literary tour with a literature expert, we'll explore St. Germain, a neighborhood in the city's Left Bank that was once the epicenter of Paris' avant-garde. We'll learn about a wide range of artists, writers, and thinkers in Hemingway's circle including Fitzgerald, Picasso, Pound, Matisse, and the inimitable Gertrude Stein, whose modernist salon provided the gravitational pull for the entire movement.
Cooking classes. Visit the market with a chef. Master the French sauces. Learn how to make French pastries. Paris has some of the best culinary schools in the world. If you have always wanted to become a chef, then it is your time to shine.
A Toast to Champagne. On this full-day tour to Champagne from Paris, we’ll explore the home to some of the most important champagne producers in the world. Our guide today is a sommelier who graduated from the Paris Wine School. Together, we’ll learn about the history of the Champagne region and why its climate is perfect for the production of the effervescent wine. We'll discover the Champagne Road, the city of Epernay and taste Champagne at small properties and at world-famous domain like Veuve Cliquot. Lunch is included in a gastronomic restaurant in the city of Epernay. At the end of the day, thanks to tastings and conversations with specialists, we’ll have expanded our palates and learned to appreciate the nuances of a variety of different champagnes.
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.
Literary Paris. During the roaring twenties, Paris was considered the cultural capital of the Western world. Artists and writers flocked to the city from far and wide, including celebrated American writer Ernest Hemingway. During this 3-hour Hemingway-focused Paris literary tour with a literature expert, we'll explore St. Germain, a neighborhood in the city's Left Bank that was once the epicenter of Paris' avant-garde. We'll learn about a wide range of artists, writers, and thinkers in Hemingway's circle including Fitzgerald, Picasso, Pound, Matisse, and the inimitable Gertrude Stein, whose modernist salon provided the gravitational pull for the entire movement.
Cooking classes. Visit the market with a chef. Master the French sauces. Learn how to make French pastries. Paris has some of the best culinary schools in the world. If you have always wanted to become a chef, then it is your time to shine.
A Toast to Champagne. On this full-day tour to Champagne from Paris, we’ll explore the home to some of the most important champagne producers in the world. Our guide today is a sommelier who graduated from the Paris Wine School. Together, we’ll learn about the history of the Champagne region and why its climate is perfect for the production of the effervescent wine. We'll discover the Champagne Road, the city of Epernay and taste Champagne at small properties and at world-famous domain like Veuve Cliquot. Lunch is included in a gastronomic restaurant in the city of Epernay. At the end of the day, thanks to tastings and conversations with specialists, we’ll have expanded our palates and learned to appreciate the nuances of a variety of different champagnes.
DAY 4: TO LYON |
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Lyon is one of France’s oldest cities and the gourmet capital of France. Our 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. The entrance, the rooms, the decorations, the ambiance ... it’s a quirky 5-star hotel that you will love.
Our private morning tour will include the Place Bellecour, the Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, 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.
Afternoon on your own in Lyon. Spend some time at Les Halles. This market dates back to 1859 and 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.
Included Bouchon Dinner. 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. The majority of these establishments are family-run, and most of the chefs are women. Quaint culinary customs, like totting up the bill on the paper tablecloth, or serving wine in a glass bottle wrapped with an elastic band to stop drips make this an authentic culinary experience. Various piggy parts drive Lyonnais cuisine but, have faith, this French city is said to be the gastronomic capital of France. Dine and decide.
Overnight in Lyon, 2 nights with breakfast
Our private morning tour will include the Place Bellecour, the Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, 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.
Afternoon on your own in Lyon. Spend some time at Les Halles. This market dates back to 1859 and 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.
Included Bouchon Dinner. 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. The majority of these establishments are family-run, and most of the chefs are women. Quaint culinary customs, like totting up the bill on the paper tablecloth, or serving wine in a glass bottle wrapped with an elastic band to stop drips make this an authentic culinary experience. Various piggy parts drive Lyonnais cuisine but, have faith, this French city is said to be the gastronomic capital of France. Dine and decide.
Overnight in Lyon, 2 nights with breakfast
DAY 5: BURGUNDY WINES AND BEAUNE |
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Our day trip to 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.
Afternoon lunch and wine tasting. Burgundy has become known for being the best land in the world for producing both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These wines are robust and perfect to accompany our included lunch of escargot, Beef Bourguignon, Coq au vin, wild mushrooms, game and fresh water fish.
Overnight in Lyon.
Afternoon lunch and wine tasting. Burgundy has become known for being the best land in the world for producing both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These wines are robust and perfect to accompany our included lunch of escargot, Beef Bourguignon, Coq au vin, wild mushrooms, game and fresh water fish.
Overnight in Lyon.
DAY 6: TO PROVENCE: AVIGNON |
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We'll travel by motor coach to the the lovely town of Avignon. Our hotel does everything right. From the classically decorated rooms to the service, to the bar to the morning breakfast ... this is travel at its best.
Our private 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.
Included dinner.
Overnight in Avignon, 3 nights with breakfast
Our private 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.
Included dinner.
Overnight in Avignon, 3 nights with breakfast
OPTIONal stay at a french farmhouse in the vines.
If your group would prefer a country stay rather than being in Avignon, consider our luxury villa option in the Luberon. A driveway bordered by cyprus, olive trees and lavender bushes leads up to the house. A warm welcome awaits you in this elegant 18th-century stone country house or "bastide". Its 57-acre vineyard grows Grenache, Syrah, Roussanne, Vermantino, Cinsault and Mourvedre.
In autumn, the vineyards come alive with glowing colors and the much-awaited grape-harvesting season is in full swing!
In summer, take advantage of two swimming pools that blend perfectly into the surroundings. The first is heated and close to the breakfast terrace. It is also protected by stone ramparts and follows the form of the building. The second lies opposite the vines and merges with the greenery. Springing up like a pond, it has been restored in the spirit of the two original reflecting pools.
Indoor and outdoor dining is available for all meals as well as afternoon tea.
The spa is oriented towards nature and pleasure, where the energies from the five natural elements (wood, fire, stone, plants and water) interact to provide you with total well-being.
All of our day excursions can be easily done when staying at this villa.
In autumn, the vineyards come alive with glowing colors and the much-awaited grape-harvesting season is in full swing!
In summer, take advantage of two swimming pools that blend perfectly into the surroundings. The first is heated and close to the breakfast terrace. It is also protected by stone ramparts and follows the form of the building. The second lies opposite the vines and merges with the greenery. Springing up like a pond, it has been restored in the spirit of the two original reflecting pools.
Indoor and outdoor dining is available for all meals as well as afternoon tea.
The spa is oriented towards nature and pleasure, where the energies from the five natural elements (wood, fire, stone, plants and water) interact to provide you with total well-being.
All of our day excursions can be easily done when staying at this villa.
DAY 7: A DAY IN CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE AND SAN REMY |
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Today we are 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.
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.
Overnight in Avignon.
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.
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.
Overnight in Avignon.
DAY 8: THE PONT DU GARD |
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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 on the River Gardon to your day
It's important to see destinations from a different point of view. On the water, you’ll notice things that you would never see on land. 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 this 2,000 year old Roman aqueduct.
Overnight in Avignon.
Think about adding a Kayak on the River Gardon to your day
It's important to see destinations from a different point of view. On the water, you’ll notice things that you would never see on land. 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 this 2,000 year old Roman aqueduct.
Overnight in Avignon.
DAY 9: AIX-EN- PROVENCE |
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Traversing one of the world’s most famous wine regions, the Rhone Valley, Aix-en-Provence 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.
Included dinner in Aix-en-Provence
Overnight in Aix-en-Provence, 2 nights with breakfast
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.
Included dinner in Aix-en-Provence
Overnight in Aix-en-Provence, 2 nights with breakfast
DAY 10. A DAY OF LEISURE IN AND AROUND |
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Included Farewell Dinner in Aix-en-Provence
Overnight in Aix-en-Provence
Inquire about one of our Dig a Little Deeper private optional tour excursions below. Pricing will be based on the number of participants. Click on the + below for details.
Overnight in Aix-en-Provence
Inquire about one of our Dig a Little Deeper private optional tour excursions below. Pricing will be based on the number of participants. Click on the + below for details.
NEW! Dig a Little Deeper Series
Hike or E-Bike the Luberon. 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. he countryside is rich with bits of history and evidence of life from other times, and you will discover special places that aren't in the tourist guidebooks.
Truffle Hunting. 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 finish up the day with a grand truffle tasting experience.
Cooking lessons at a private villa in Uzes. This afternoon, 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.
The Lavender of Provence. If you are traveling with us during June and July, think about this full day tour through the lavender fields and surrounding area. We'll begin with a visit to the picturesque town of Manosque, where the celebrated L'Occitane Museum is located. Our route will continue to a lunch stop at a quaint village which is also home to creators of quality earthenware and ceramics. We will then take a relaxing stroll through the amethyst fields while learning about the cultivation and farming of lavender.
Truffle Hunting. 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 finish up the day with a grand truffle tasting experience.
Cooking lessons at a private villa in Uzes. This afternoon, 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.
The Lavender of Provence. If you are traveling with us during June and July, think about this full day tour through the lavender fields and surrounding area. We'll begin with a visit to the picturesque town of Manosque, where the celebrated L'Occitane Museum is located. Our route will continue to a lunch stop at a quaint village which is also home to creators of quality earthenware and ceramics. We will then take a relaxing stroll through the amethyst fields while learning about the cultivation and farming of lavender.
DAY 11. TRANSFERS TO PARIS OR MARSEILLE FOR FLIGHTS OUT OR CONTINUE YOUR JOURNEY WITH ONE OF OUR OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS |
Included transfers to the TGV train to Paris or Marseille airports or on to the next part of your journey. Here are a few of our suggested itineraries:
POST-TOUR OPTION TO NICE AND THE FRENCH RIVIERA
Day 1. Transfer from Provence to Nice. One of the oldest French cities, Nice became Capital of the French Riviera in the 1800’s and today is the 5th largest city of France. We'll enjoy a driving panoramic tour of Nice, including the cities 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 our hotel where you'll have the rest of the day to enjoy the boardwalk.
Day 2. A Tour along the French Riviera. Our morning tour will begin with a stop at the Nice market, followed by a drive along the Cote d’Azur, or Blue Coast, with a visit to the Rothschild Mansion and its beautiful gardens. 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. After, our coach will drop us off at the nearby town of Eze. We'll enjoy a long winding walk up the seaside village, stopping at charming galleries and overlooks on the way and finishing at our Michelin lunch stop overlooking the Mediterranean.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Nice
Day 3. A Day of Choices in Nice:
• Stroll the Promenades des Anglais. Sit on the blue Riviera seats that are lined up along the boulevard and watch the rollerbladers and bikes go by.
• Walk around the Port of Nice to see the impressive yachts and colorful fishing boats.
• 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.
• Explore the culture and cooking of Nice. We’ll begin the morning at Nice’s famous Cours Saleya market with with our chef to sample seasonal produce and meet the local producers. Then we’re off to her kitchen to create the beloved Nicoise dishes for our lunch.
Add some days to your stay. You might want to think about:
• 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.
• Channel your inner-Hollywood with a day trip to Cannes and the perfumeries of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.
• 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. These little towns tick all the boxes of Provence: winding streets, old men playing pétanque, beautiful views, manicured gardens, stone fountains and art galleries. You’ll have the whole day to explore and finish with a dinner of to-die-for rotisserie chicken and lavender creme brûlée.
Day 2. A Tour along the French Riviera. Our morning tour will begin with a stop at the Nice market, followed by a drive along the Cote d’Azur, or Blue Coast, with a visit to the Rothschild Mansion and its beautiful gardens. 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. After, our coach will drop us off at the nearby town of Eze. We'll enjoy a long winding walk up the seaside village, stopping at charming galleries and overlooks on the way and finishing at our Michelin lunch stop overlooking the Mediterranean.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Nice
Day 3. A Day of Choices in Nice:
• Stroll the Promenades des Anglais. Sit on the blue Riviera seats that are lined up along the boulevard and watch the rollerbladers and bikes go by.
• Walk around the Port of Nice to see the impressive yachts and colorful fishing boats.
• 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.
• Explore the culture and cooking of Nice. We’ll begin the morning at Nice’s famous Cours Saleya market with with our chef to sample seasonal produce and meet the local producers. Then we’re off to her kitchen to create the beloved Nicoise dishes for our lunch.
Add some days to your stay. You might want to think about:
• 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.
• Channel your inner-Hollywood with a day trip to Cannes and the perfumeries of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.
• 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. These little towns tick all the boxes of Provence: winding streets, old men playing pétanque, beautiful views, manicured gardens, stone fountains and art galleries. You’ll have the whole day to explore and finish with a dinner of to-die-for rotisserie chicken and lavender creme brûlée.