As I write this article in early October, the harvest season is still underway in Provence, but I can already tell you that the 2020 season will go down as one of the most memorable in history! Harvest Labour In particular, sourcing harvesters has been particularly problematic because of the …

Provence’s diversified nature is what makes it the perfect source of inspiration for writers. For centuries, the South of France has been a getaway for writers and artists looking for creative inspiration. From rolling vineyards over pine forests to lavender fields, Provence can provide you with different experiences, whether you …

Long-time Aixcentric followers will have read about the development of the old SNCF railway sheds and shunting yards into LUMA Arles, a stylish arts centre, funded by Swiss industrialist and art-lover Maja Hoffman. Hopefully, the photo gives you an idea of the scale of the ‘Parc des Ateliers’ site: the …

Visiting local vineyards for a walk, tasting, and some art should provide a perfect outing for these days of social distancing. Here are a few suggestions by region: Luberon Vineyards: Wine and gourmet food are reasons to visit Chateau la Coste (near Aix-en-Provence), but there is no question the contemporary …

The French style of entertaining called the apéro dînatoire is a favourite way of throwing parties in France. Since I am in France for an average of 3 to 5 months every year, we have grown roots in Provence, specifically in the area of Aix-en-Provence! I love apéro dînatoire gatherings …

Hiking and Culture Works by British sculptor Andy Goldsworthy, known for creating outdoor installations from natural materials found nearby, form part of a new 150km “art” hiking route which stretches across the north of our region. Named the Refuge d’Art, in the Unesco Geopark reserve in collaboration with the Gassendi Museum …

PANDAS Awareness It took more than a village to bring the À Table! concept together – Susan and Towny Manfull needed a vineyard. In August 2018, Alexandra Manfull passed away, shortly after self-diagnosing her condition as an auto-immune disease that she had coped with for several years. The couple’s grief …

Festivals and Fall Events in Provence Fall in Provence directs you towards a heartier menu. Enjoy meat (lamb, wild boar, taureaux, rabbit, fowl) roasted with herbes de Provence, root vegetables and delicious red wine blends. At this time of year, the hiking is fabulous, biking is possible, and golfers might …

The Seaward family settled in Provence after touring the world for 15 months. In July 2019, Richard Seaward launched – Aix Walking Tours – inspired by some of the city walks that they enjoyed during their global journey. After a fast-paced career, Richard chose to slow-it-down and focus on small-group …

This vegetarian recipe for stuffed zucchini flowers comes from the Rose et Marius blog (with permission). The season for these delicate zucchini flowers is short. When you have the chance, don’t hesitate to buy them, but make sure to cook with the flowers the same day as they spoil quickly. …