The relief palatable, the calm almost surreal, something is missing – the wind has stopped! Mistral Wind In France, the mistral is a strong wind that typically blows from the north or northwest. Mistral, the name for this wind, means “masterly,” and it certainly lives up to that reputation. The …

I recently read Le Dit du Mistral, by Olivier Mak-Bouchard, an entertaining book set in Provence. The author, who grew up in the Luberon, weaves fact and legend into the story of two neighbours who discover an ancient relic, and the adventures that follow. Reading the book taught me a …

What is the Mistral Wind? Most of us who have lived or even visited Provence have experienced the mistral, that riotous and mysterious wind that blows down the Rhône Valley, usually without warning. Think back to the opening scene of the movie “Chocolat,” watching the wind move the mother and …

Living in the south of France is a beautiful thing. Except for the wind. It is so prevalent and so powerful that it has a name: “Le Mistral” Residents of Uzes have a saying about Le Mistral: “It sometimes lasts only one or two days, frequently lasts several days, and …

Provence claims thirty-two different winds, but the mistral, that strong, cold wind that roars down the Rhone Valley from Lyon to Marseille, is master of them all. The very name “mistral” means masterly in the Provençal language, and according to local expressions, it can blow the tail off a donkey, …

When I was first considering the move to Uzes, France, a new friend mentioned the “wind” in the winter. Since she chooses to return to her home in London each year from late September until April, I figured the “wind” was convenient… Explore this Post In the summer months, a …

As is the case, there are almost too many choices for art exhibits in Provence. The following list is not exhaustive, but some 2023 shows in Marseille’s museums and beyond. Let’s start in Marseille, where MUCEM continues with ‘Amités, creativité, collective’ until 13 February. Next up is ‘Alexandrie: Futurs anterieurs’ …

Provence wine region is the leader in France in percentage terms of organic vineyard areas, and that number continues to increase. Since November 2022, you can also check where the organic vineyards are in Provence, and the whole of France, so you can now see if your favourite producer’s vineyards …

If you like French wine, there is a good chance that you have sampled some vintages from the Rhône Valley. Some vineyards in the southern Rhône are near the famous Mont Ventoux – Provence’s giant mountain. This article focuses on six (6) villages in the Côtes du Rhône wine region. …

Looking at the Mediterranean while sipping a crisp glass of Rolle at a vineyard confirms the City of Nice’s enviable location on the French Riviera. Historians believe that wine grapes have grown in the vineyards of Bellet since Phocean mariners settled in Massalia (Marseille) and Nice near the Baie des …