My name is Virginie Van Der Wees. I am a French teacher for non-French speakers. I live near Aix-en-Provence. Every morning, it’s a pleasure to wake up and tell myself that I live at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire mountain, 25 minutes from Aix-en-Provence. Je m’appelle Virginie Van Der Wees. …

French bakers have perfected tarts in both sweet and savoury versions. In this recipe, the combination of leek and goat cheese is a creamy delight. This tart is perfect for a lunch dish with a green salad, or serve bite-sized pieces as an appetizer. We used goat cheese in this …

An Aixcentric follower yesterday prompted me to remind everyone of a series of crime novels set in Aix-en-Provence and beyond.  She had spent time in town recently on holiday and loved reading fiction set in places newly familiar.  For all those who aren’t in Provence right now but would like …

As Aixcentric followers will know, the 18th-century country house, Jas de Bouffan, which was home to the Cezanne family for 40 years, was closed over a year ago for renovation.  I went in for a visit on its last day of opening, and my goodness, it needed renovation: think cold, …

Susan Gish writes: This article is a bit about us and wine, and a bit about three women who manage or own wine shops in Aix.  (We’ve also included some other wine shops in Aix). Susan and Sam are serious wine lovers. They enjoyed a romantic honeymoon in Champagne and …

Culinary references to a version of calissons lead to medieval Italy but these sweets are commonly associated with Aix-en-Provence – Calisson d’Aix. This came after 16th-century farmers planted the first almond crops in the region. These delicious calissons have been consistently made in the same way for many generations. Traditional …

Susan Gish may not have a long history of reading works by Marcel Proust, but she shares his love for the classic French cookie-cake = madeleines. She wrote the following, “All I knew was that I am addicted to them. Not all madeleines, just those from Christophe Madeleines in Aix-en-Provence. …

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 …

When at home in Aix-en-Provence, we never tire of strolling the cobbled lanes, looking up and around to see what new treasures we can spy – have we noticed that fountain before? And look at that interesting frieze just below a roofline!  Looking Up in Aix We have guided our …

Market Day in Aix Thursday is usually an exercise rest day for me. I often use this opportunity to go to the big food market in the old town of Aix-en-Provence to buy local, seasonal produce. Provence is famous for its markets. In Aix-en-Provence, residents and visitors enjoy daily markets …