Search Results for: Aix-en-Provence

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Revealing the Secrets of Ice Production at Provence’s Glacières

August 19, 2024

Provence, known for its scorching summers, may not seem ideal for ice production. Yet, between 1650 and 1885, many ice houses (glacières) were ingeniously constructed in the region. This historical innovation, born out of necessity, is a testament to the resourcefulness and some royal assistance. Ice Production Provence’s Glacières In the 17th century, when Provence

Continue Reading

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Guided Holiday Tours

Savour the Springtime Splendors of Provence on a Goût et Voyage Tour

August 15, 2024

Provence is magical in the spring, making it a great time of the year for touring. The weather is pleasant but not too hot, and plenty can be seen without worrying about the summer crowds. While it may not be lavender season, these spring flowers are in bloom: poppies, wisteria, roses, and iris. Book your

Continue Reading

Inspire · Keith Van Sickle · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

Feel the Music: Unforgettable Summer Concerts in Provence by Candlelight

August 9, 2024

Imagine sitting in a comfortable seat in an ancient Roman city with a mountain rising behind it. As the sun sets, and you can see thousands of candles among the ruins, perched on stone walls, stairs, and fallen columns. As the sky darkens, the candles begin to glow. Then, a string quartet comes out and

Continue Reading

Visitor’s Guide: Ceramics and Pottery Artists in Provence

July 31, 2024

Provençal Ingredients Provence’s Mediterranean climate and fertile agricultural land are suitable for growing olives, lavender, a wide variety of produce, and grapes for winemaking. The soil varies throughout the region, with abundant clay (argile), which is likely why the area has so many artisan ceramic and pottery makers. Provence’s ceramics industry is a vibrant and

Continue Reading

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · French Decor & Gardens · Inspire

Our Visitors Guide to 22 Beautiful Gardens in Provence Côte d’Azur

July 26, 2024

It’s hard to compete with a long list of magnificent, historically significant gardens in a country that includes gardens built for French royalty. The Palace of Versailles and its immaculate grounds are on your list of must-sees in Paris. Then there are the Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau south of the capital and the stunning

Continue Reading

Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions · Virginie Van Der Wees

Discovering French Bastille Day Traditions in Provence

July 5, 2024

On July 14, 1789, an angry mob stormed the Bastille in Paris, which housed only seven inmates. To an enraged crowd, the medieval structure represented a landmark symbolizing their frustration with the reigning monarchy, a weak economic environment, high taxes and a lack of personal financial control. This milestone event sparked the start of the

Continue Reading

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · French Decor & Gardens · Inspire

Lavender in Provence 7 Best Places to Visit

June 12, 2024

Lavender blooms for a relatively short time in Provence. Like any plant, the exact peak flowering time depends on several factors, including weather and altitude. Generally, the lavender fields in the South of France peak in early July and are harvested by mid-August. Many people plan their trips specifically to see the lavender blooming. However,

Continue Reading