Access to the Calanques National Park is controlled again this summer due to damage to the ecosystem caused by the burgeoning number of visitors and increasing fire risks.  The Calanque de Sugiton, which used to attract up to 2,500 people daily, is limited to 400 entries. Pre-booking one of the …

While you have most likely tried polenta before, if you have not visited the South of France you may not have sampled panisse or socca. Golden brown, slightly crispy and topped with a fleur de sel, it’s hard to resist freshly made panisse. Below is my easy recipe for panisse …

Would you like a delicious, authentic Provençal meal in a relaxed atmosphere? How about a big platter of steamed fish and vegetables plus a side of that garlicky Provençal mayonnaise called aïoli? Or some lamb shoulder that’s been cooked for hours so that it practically melts in your mouth? Or …

This appetizer recipe is from Laurel, my cooking school and professional kitchen in Fontvieille, a beautiful village in the Alpilles. The recipe is quick to prepare and brings together fresh summer flavours. Serve with crusty bread and some chilled rosé or cocktail of your choice. This is an easy and …

What’s On in the South of France? During the summer in Provence and the Côte d’Azur, daytime temperatures range from warm to hot. So, you don’t need an excuse to laze by the pool. The lavender is in bloom this time of year, and the sunflowers put on a spectacular …

This recipe is so easy. It’s hardly a recipe, but I must share it as tomato season in Provence is almost upon us, and these blistered cherry tomatoes are a perfect summer side dish. When you join a cooking class at Laurel in Fontvieille, we will make several dishes, including …

Customs and terminology can be confusing in a foreign country, and France is no exception. North Americans and other international travellers might not understand (or search for) terms like gîte, mazet, chambres d’hôtes, or hôtel de charme. What is a Gîte? A gîte is a terrific option for holiday rentals …

From humble beginnings as a fishing village on the French Riviera, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has a reputation as a playground for the rich and famous. Billed as one of the most expensive places on the Côte d’Azur and is reinforced by grand villas, magnificent gardens, and luxury hotels. These are only a …

Few things exist so precious and beneficial to our health and happiness than that pure, liquid gold – olive oil. Softening, calming and astringent, olive oil nourishes strengthens and protects us inside and out. Containing vitamins E and K, omegas 3 and 6, and phenolic compounds, olive oil promotes anti-oxidant …

Some people shy away from cooking fish, particularly whole fish, but my recipe below for Grilled or Roasted Daurade Royale is failproof. Dorade Royale is sometimes referred to as Sea Bream. If you can’t find Dorade or Sea Bream, Red Snapper or Branzino are good alternatives. Simply ask your local …