In 2024, France fell from first place among the largest wine-producing countries in 2023 to third place, behind Italy and Spain. 2024 Grape Growing Challenges in France Throughout the 2024 season, the wine year in France has been problematic, with great variation across the country. It started with frost in …
Readers often ask us for recommendations about where to eat lunch in Aix-en-Provence. The truth is that restaurants change hands frequently, and every establishment can have an off day. However, navigating an unfamiliar destination can be tricky, so we offer a few suggestions. Below is a list of tried-and-true restaurants …
“The origin of the olive tree is lost in time, coinciding and mingling with the expansion of the Mediterranean civilizations which for centuries governed the destiny of mankind and left their imprint on Western culture.” ~ International Olive Council Olives of Provence If you like olives, wine, and beautiful vistas, …
For the past 11 years, I have guided tours through Provence. One of my tours, Edible Provence, offers two (2) cooking classes. Last year, I was very disappointed with one of the cooking class instructors I’d been using and needed to find someone new. While browsing the internet, I landed …
When most people think of the South of France, their minds jump to the glamour of Cannes or the charm of Nice. But if you’re looking for a place where history, art, and stunning landscapes come together, the artful village of Mougins is the spot you don’t want to miss. …
The Alpilles (miniature Alps) run from east to west for 30 kilometres, starting at the edge of the Durance River and the town of Orgon to the western edge near Fontvieille. Although the Alpilles are not high, with a maximum height of 498 metres, they are dramatic with jagged limestone …
For all our time spent in Provence, I’m embarrassed to admit that we had never been to les Gorges du Verdon. And it’s not far from Lourmarin, only about an hour and a half, in the hills of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. We’d heard it was worth a visit, but what …
One of the life experiences I cherish the most is spending time along the Côte d’Azur. However, I must confess that I’m geographically challenged, so the more I visited, the more confused I became about something relatively straightforward. “Which seaside towns are below which hilltop villages?” To settle the question, …
One of my French students, Mary Katherine, wanted to visit the French Riviera during her immersion homestay in Provence. It was January, a lovely month to see the Côte d’Azur. It is not beach weather, but it is generally sunny and, with the proper layers, comfortable for touring around. Plus, …
Nestled just a short ferry ride from the glamorous shores of Cannes, the Lérins Islands offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera. Of these islands, Île Sainte-Marguerite stands out as a haven of natural beauty and tranquillity. The Journey to Île Sainte-Marguerite The adventure …
Exclusive and charming, this 5 room B&B is surrounded by nature yet is only a stone's throw from historical Bonnieux.
Located in the peaceful south Luberon, this well-appointed gîte offers a real escape to the peaceful Provencal countryside with all the necessary modern comforts.
In the quiet village of Lagnes, La Cour des Sens is a stylish B&B with 4 guest rooms, 2 small holiday flats and 1 larger holiday home.
Ferme du Val is a spacious seven (7) bedroom home, including a studio apartment that sleeps, 14 people. Available for short or long-term rental.
Handcrafted in Apis Cera's workshop in Provence, Ambroise is a 100% pure beeswax candle pillar produced in a custom mold. A cylindar-shaped candle gets it's name from Saint Ambrose (c. 340 – 397), the archbishop of Milan, who was the protector of beekeepers. Sold in a set of two (2) candles they burn for approximately 36 hours.
Discover the art of hosting in the relaxed Provence style, focusing on simple, fresh ingredients and conviviality. This seasonal collection features 20 recipes, including starters, main courses, side dishes, and desserts. Featuring seasonal ingredients such as tomatoes, figs, goat cheese, and chard, this Summer Recipe Collection helps with ideas for easy entertaining.