Essentially French

May/June 2027

27th May - 1st June

Price is 3,750 euros per person (double occupancy)

Day 1: Thursday 27th: Arrival in Mazan

  • Arrival at Avignon TGV Station: Your journey begins as you are greeted at the Avignon TGV station and driven to your charming home in Mazan, a picturesque village in the heart of Provence. We pick-up from Avignon TGV between 11.00 am and 2.00pm. Guests can make their own arrangements if they prefer.

  • Check-In and Orientation: On the first evening of our small group tours, guests are warmly welcomed into our spacious home in Mazan. After settling into their suites, guests gather in the salon for aperitifs and dinner. This relaxed setting allows everyone to become acquainted whilst savouring the ambience of our historic residence. Our home boasts a rich history, having once housed a Papal family and served as a sanctuary for the Knights Templar.

Evening:

  • Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner in the Salon, savouring Provençal cuisine. Unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings of your home in Mazan.

Day 2: Friday 28th: Hilltop Villages - Gordes and Roussillon

Morning:

  • Abbey Sénanque: Start your day with a beautiful drive to the famous Sénanque Abbey, surrounded by beautiful lavender fields, (bloom in July).

  • Head to Gordes: We continue on to Gordes, one of the most picturesque hilltop villages in France.

  • Wander Gordes: Stroll through the narrow streets, visiting local shops and enjoying the stunning views.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch in Gordes: Enjoy lunch at a stunning restaurant, then enjoy the breathtaking views of the Luberon Valley.

  • Drive to Roussillon: Continue your journey to Roussillon, known for its vibrant ochre cliffs and buildings.

  • Ochre Trail: Walk the Ochre Trail and learn about the history of the ochre industry, or simply wander through the magnificent colourful streets and boutique shops.

Evening:

  • Return to Mazan:

  • Dinner at Mazan: Enjoy an aperitifs in the salon before a dinner at home.

Day 3: Saturday 29th: Sault (Lavender) aPicnic & Winetasting

Morning:

  • Visit Sault: After a leisurely breakfast, we drive through the Provence’s rolling hills, vineyards and quaint villages to the hilltop village of Sault. We maybe lucky enough to see the first hues of lavender. Optional visit the Distillerie Aroma ‘Plantes, a family-run distillery, whereby you can observe how the essence of Provence is captured in oils.

  • Explore the Village: Take a stroll through the medieval streets of Sault. Discover local artisan shops including Provençal fabrics and small boutiques for handmade goods or visit the famous nougat boutique!

Afternoon:

  • Picnic lunch: Enjoy a sumptuous picnic under the Plane trees with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. (weather permitting).

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a local wine tasting at a generational family run Chateau Estate, wander through their vineyard and admire their stunning Chateau.

Evening:

  • Return to Mazan:

  • Relax at Home, aperitifs in the salon before having dinner in a restaurant in Mazan (walking distance).

Day 4: Sunday 30th: Visiting Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

  • Today we visit two stunning villages on the Sorgue river, L’lsle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Spend the morning exploring the picturesque town of L’lsle-sur-la-Sorgue, famous for its antique markets and canals. Browse through the numerous antique shops, visit the bustling market (Sunday is market day), and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterside restaurant (including beer and wine).

  • In the afternoon, we drive to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a charming village nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs, 230m tall. Take a stroll along the Sorgue River, visit the Petrarch Museum, the Paper Mill, (still producing high quality rag paper using traditional techniques dating from the 15th century), or wander up to the viewpoint overlooking the village and natural spring.

  • Return to Mazan for aperitifs in the Salon.

  • Dinner: Relax and enjoy aperitifs in the Salon before dinner in one of our village restaurants (walking distance).

Day 4: Monday 31st: Discovering Avignon

Morning:

  • Drive to Avignon: Embark on a day trip to Avignon, a city rich in history and culture.

  • Visit Palais des Papes: Explore the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.

Afternoon:

Scenic Train Ride: Board the charming mini tourist train for a 45-minute guided ride through the historic center of Avignon. As we weave through the ancient streets, take in breathtaking views of the Palais des Papes, Place de l’Horloge, and the medieval ramparts that have stood for centuries. The train provides a delightful introduction to the city’s rich history and architectural beauty, setting the stage for our next stop.

Leisure Time to Explore & Shop:
The afternoon is yours to stroll the charming streets of Avignon at your own pace. Wander through bustling squares, browse elegant boutiques, or explore local Provençal markets filled with lavender, artisanal soaps, and regional delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely café stop in Place de l’Horloge, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere, or seek out a hidden gem in the city’s many independent shops and galleries.

Evening:

  • Return to Mazan: .

  • Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your final evening with a special farewell dinner at a renowned local restaurant in our village. Enjoy a multi-course meal featuring gourmet Provençal dishes, paired with exceptional local wines. Toast to new friends and unforgettable memories.

Departure Day 6: Tuesday 1st:

Morning:

  • After a leisurely breakfast: Depart from our home in Mazan, as Brendan takes you to Avignon TGV Station. Bid farewell to Provence and new friends as you board your train or drive to your next adventure.

This itinerary provides a rich mix of historical exploration, visits to stunning hilltop villages, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Provence.

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