This article was previously published on Ginger and Nutmeg. Cistercian Abbeys Classified as a French historic monument in 1840 L’Abbaye du Thoronet restoration work started the following year and continues today. The Cistercian Thoronet Abbey is the third “sister” to abbeys Silvacane and Sénanque in Provence. These religious structures are …

When the Barefoot Blogger decided to travel to France, this blog was born. It was intended as a “letter back home” to those I know so they could keep up with my adventure. Little did I know that the blog would take on a life of its own. Now it …

The Perreal hill is on the west side of Saint Saturnin Les Apt and the walk gives spectacular views in all directions. From our house, we walk the 800 metres to the village and then continue straight across opposite the bar du Platane. At the end of the road, turn …

Much like her decision to follow a good looking French photographer to his native land. The couple were struck by a coup de coeur (love struck) when they spent one fateful night in Arles in 2003. You can read the full story in Heather’s blog post here. Whether you are …

Rebecca Ronane was born in the United Kingdom, but she tells me that she embarked on a career of travelling after the age of 19. Rebecca and her husband Alain (also a travel bug) met while working as tour directors. As a guide, Rebecca has journeyed throughout Europe, the United …

Recently, PJ Adams the author of Intoxicating Southern France shared with readers why she is intoxicated by Provence (and the rest of France). If you missed the previous article, follow this link to learn more about why PJ is legally intoxicated by Provence. This, is how PJ describes her Perfectly …

Tasha Powell says she reinvented herself after a corporate career in product development for sporting goods. That might not be entirely accurate. It could be that Tasha is finally allowing her Francophile foodie to rule the day. From Allentown, Pennsylvania and Penn State University to living in Provence while she …

Tethered to a cliff edge overlooking the Durance River and the plains of the Luberon, you will find a unique garden in the hilltop village of Lauris. This garden envisioned and operated by Couleur Garance, is located on what were the terraces of the 18th-century Chateau de Lauris. Jardin conservatoire …

Sparkling azure waters, chilled pink wine, cicada-led symphonies and the market aromas of rotisserie chickens it is easy to see how one might get drunk on the sensory indulgence of Provence. Intoxicating PJ Adams grew up in California where she studied, before heading to the London School of Economics. Her …

The Luberon in Provence is best known for its beautiful ‘villages perchés’ which visitors flock to in large numbers especially during July and August. Many are unaware of the existence of Pont Julien and indeed some visitors simply stumble upon it while visiting the most well known of these villages, …