In keeping with my newfound tradition in Provence of getting a massage while my husband bikes Ventoux or elsewhere, I made an appointment at the new spa at la Coquillade resort. Now, please note that I don’t stay in these places but just indulge in a little treat now. Read …

I have avoided the Riviera when visiting Provence, figuring that it would be too busy, too ritzy for my taste. Well, after finally deciding to give it a try—after all it is the Riviera—all I can say is “I get it!!!” I now see why it is so popular. Read …

For the last few years, I’ve heard mention of le Fournil Restaurant in several gîte rental binders, and it had been on my list of restaurants to try. It did not disappoint! In fact, with each bite, we were asking, “How soon can we get back?” Le Fournil is located …

Just the mention of Provence conjures up images of lavender and sunflowers. Beautiful indeed! But what about the autumn? Is there more to enjoy than just the lavender? Autumn in Provence has an intoxication all of its own. With the crowds have left and the temperatures slightly cooler. Read Cobblestones …

There is nothing like wandering through a French market filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, bread, soap, honey, and so much more. It’s a lively place—the heart of France, the heart of the village. Today, I was meandering a French market in the stunning hilltop village of Bonnieux in …

The small perched village of Banon, located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, is authentic Provence at its best. Banon wasn’t at the top of my list to see but was a spur-of-the-moment stop. What a surprise! I had no idea that it would prove to be the most photogenic village in …

I’m back in Provence and exploring a bunch of villages, all in the name of research, to confirm which one is my favourite. And Joucas still is the one! The Luberon is very quiet today at the end of August with all the tourists had returned home from their summer …

Hungry in France? Wait a minute! Isn’t France all about the food? Isn’t it known for its boulangeries, pâtisseries, cheese, bread, croissants, steak frites, and Michelin-star dining? Don’t people go to France for the food? Yes, yes, and yes. There is wonderful food everywhere, as long as you play by …

The temperatures in Provence are still very hot right now. Though beautiful as always, the region seems a little worn, a little tired, after a busy summer. Even my favourite Joucassienne dog is a little wiped out from the heat. Remember my picture of him from last year in June? …

Overlooking the towering Mont Ventoux is the sleepy plus beau village of Venasque with its fountains, charming walkways, artisan shops, ancient ruins and ramparts, cherry orchards, and stunning views of the Vaucluse as well as of the Giant itself. Read Cobblestones and Vineyards for photos of Venasque, a gorgeous perched village …