Lavender and Photography in Provence Capture the Magic in July
It’s not a dream. Outside your window, the cicadas are chanting as the sun moves higher in the morning sky, warming the Provencal countryside. You are in Provence during the lavender season and learning about photography.
Now that is a dream!
On holidays, you want to immerse in the local lifestyle and not just skim the surface. When creating Your Private Provence, Emily Durand, small group tours, wants her guests to experience the region’s essence. However, space is limited, so book your spot on the Lavender and Photography tour July 11-17, 2023 and get ready to admire the unspoilt scenery, try the local cuisine and relax in the handpicked accommodation.
Spotting a flowering lavender field for the first time is magical. The plants stretch toward the horizon like small purple streams. Once you step outside, you are overwhelmed by the heavenly fragrance. It’s little wonder that there are so many images of these stunning, natural backdrops.
Has a trip to Provence been on your travel bucket list for a while? Or maybe you want to return for more. Just imagine lavender fields, cobalt blue skies, and a glass of Provencal wine.
Summer Travel in Provence
Emily Durand makes it her raison d’être to discover untouched parts of the region that locals know and enjoy. Summer is a busy travel period almost everywhere, and Provence is no exception. And, when the lavender blooms in late June through mid-August, the purple flowers are mesmerizing but popular, so finding a secluded spot is not evident, which is why Your Private Provence tours stand out.
The itinerary starts on July 11th in the heart of charming Isle sur la Sorgue – the Venice of Provence. This town was once an island and is known today for its large concentration of antique dealers, tempting boutiques, and Sunday market.
On the drive to Montbrun-les-Bains, a perched village with a medieval château, there is time to get to know the rest of the group. Arriving in the Drôme Provencal lavender country, you will probably agree that Montbrun-les-Bains deserves the cultural award as one of les plus beaux villages de France (most beautiful villages).
Unpack once! The Domaine de la Done is a restored farmhouse, a bed and breakfast (B&B), and your home for the next six (6) nights. The itinerary includes enough downtime at the B&B to enjoy the pool and the nature walks on the grounds. Every day delivers a curated program with enchanting villages, typical Provencal markets, farm-to-table experiences, and improvement of photography skills, best experienced in a small group environment.
“Enjoy the high region of Provence combining Mediterranean flavors with a pre-alpine influence while the lavender is in bloom. This backcountry of Provence is a hidden gem offering spectacular views of rolling hills of lavender and authentic villages nestled up high in the sky.” ~ Your Private Provence.
Photogenic Provence
No prior photography background is required for the trip; simply a desire to learn from a professional – Raina Stinson. The Your Private Provence tour agenda provides the backdrop for photo opportunities in unspoilt, remote locations away from the summer crowds. Whether you are taking photos with your mobile photo or a DSLR camera, these villages are the perfect setting. With classic shutters, floral highlights, stone ramparts, and medieval facades, there is an eye-catching charm at every turn during the week. A skilled photographer, Raina, will help you with storytelling through photography. In addition, she will share photo editing techniques and speak to the nuances of lighting and positioning.
“On this tour you will be using photography to capture magical moments, artistic flair, and the Provencal way of life. “~Your Private Provence.
Tour Leaders
Emily Durand, the founder of Your Private Provence, has spent over two decades in the South of France. Originally from America’s west coast, Emily lives in Provence with her family. During the quieter times of the year, it’s her objective to explore the out-of-the-way places and roads less travelled for clients who want to experience Provence at its best. Founded in 2013, Your Private Provence is a small travel company offering tours in Provence that focus on lifestyle and well-being. Fully bilingual and well acquainted with the region, Emily arranges for single-day tours or complete itineraries.
Raina Stinson turned a hobby and a fascination with images and lighting into her second career. She launched Raina Stinson Photography in 2011. Learning and improving her photography skills was exciting after a long nursing career. However, Raina credits her training as a nurse with an aptitude for portrait photography. Fascinated with France since childhood, Raina Stinson visited the country for the first time in 2014. That trip was the turning point. Shortly after that journey, she decided to take early retirement and combine her passions: portrait photography and living in Provence. Read more about Raina in our interview here.
Tour Details and Booking
Provence Lavender and Photography Tour
July 11-17, 2023 (6 nights, 7 days)
All-inclusive pricing $4,700 USD per person (single room price)
Small Group Tour – 8 spots maximum
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