The Durance River plays a crucial role in this region, which features high mountain peaks of the Alps and the lower alpine foothills, as well as remote villages. While there are other rivers, most of the watershed from the mountains runs down the Durance towards the Mediterranean. Digne-les-Bains Goldsworthy’s Refuge …

Provence is a unique region of France. There are numerous natural attractions in this region. Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez are all Provence, but calanques, mountains, lavender fields and ocher canyons are also Provence. However, to see all the diversity of this region, you will need an appropriate rental car. Provence …

Clafoutis is a summer classic in France. It’s such an easy dessert to make, and only requires whatever fruit you have on hand and basic ingredients most people have in their fridge and cupboards. Apple and cherry is such a delicious combination, sweet but with just the right amount of …

When the weather is warm (hot), I love to serve a big plate of fresh greens lightly dressed with extra virgin olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice, topped with slices of grilled chicken cutlets and fresh farmers market tomatoes. I marinate the chicken in the same salad dressing ingredients, …

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 at this time of year, and the sunflowers put on a …

Last July, we went to Provence for the first time in a while. Although I wrote about our favourite things in Provence shortly before our trip, seasonal “floral” attractions such as red poppies, lavender, and sunflowers are high on our list. Since July is sunflower season, we set off one …

Saint Rémy de Provence has it all, shopping, galleries, a big market on Wednesday mornings and (almost) too many restaurant choices. The picturesque, lively town snuggled into the base of Les Alpilles, the miniature Alps. With a rich history—highlighted by the Romans, Nostradamus and Vincent Van Gogh—plus heritage celebrations and …

Where’s the beef, you ask? It’s cleverly wrapped like a little holiday gift for your table! I often think of Beef Wellington as a holiday dish, but it’s perfect for any special occasion. Including my birthday, which is in August! A French chef might put you through your paces to …

What does one do about a sweet craving? Giselle Courteau found a way to satisfy it. Courteau discovered baking early on and has spent a lifetime perfecting her recipes. This sweet affair has led Courteau to co-ownership of the Duchess Bake Shop, Duchess Atelier, and Cafe Linnea, all in Edmonton, …

There are many beautiful villages in the Luberon – Gordes, Ménerbes, Roussillon and Bonnieux to name but a few. I think Saignon is one to add to your list to visit. It’s just above the town of Apt so you could perhaps head to its wonderful market on a Saturday …