Visions and Videos of Perfectly Provence
Come and join us.
Find out more about Perfectly Provence in this interview with Rebecca Ronane, the founder of both Network Provence and Forward after Fifty:
Elusive Truffles Hunting for Black Gold in Provence – Searching for and finding Tuber Melanosporum (black truffles) requires a combination of well-trained animals and local knowledge of the terroir. Its rarity and distinctive earthy aroma make the black truffle the equivalent of culinary gold for many chefs. In France, the black diamond (diamant noir) has been considered a luxury gourmet ingredient since the 18th century, thanks to the fact that King Francois 1er insisted that truffles be served in his court at every meal. Richerenches is a quiet agricultural village, in the Vaucluse, complete with the elements you expect to see a stone church, a tree-lined main street, and a few shops. However, on the 3rd Sunday in January, the town is anything but sleepy when crowds gather for the annual Messe aux truffes (Truffle Mass) in l’Église Saint-Denis. Since 1952, this service has honoured Saint Antoine, the patron saint of the trufficulteurs (truffle farmers). As an outsider, you can expect to stand outside the church, stamping your feet to keep warm or squeeze into la Maison Templière, where the mass is broadcast on a big screen. Here is the video:
Discovery Walk Cap d’Antibes: A Jewel on the Glittering Côte d’Azur – When exploring the stunning Côte d’Azur, visiting the captivating Cap d’Antibes is a must. This enchanting coastal path, the Sentier de Tirepoil, offers an unforgettable 5-kilometre hike, where each turn reveals breathtaking views. Nestled away from urban life, this path is perfect for adventurers wearing sturdy shoes, ready to embrace the refreshing sea breeze that gives the trail its name, “Tire-Poil”—the wind sweeps your hair in a delightful dance. Enjoy this video of beautiful Cap d’Antibes:
Not helped by its setting for gangster and crime movies, France’s second-largest city – Marseille – used to have an image problem. However, ask any local; this city is pure magic. Situated on the Mediterranean, Marseille residents can swim at their favourite beach before work and watch the sunset over the water with a glass of pastis. The culinary “home” of bouillabaisse is a gastronomic paradise with daily markets carrying a cross-section of exotic and local food. This article covers some of the must-see highlights of Marseille, a city its residents adore. Enjoy the short video below – Summer Fun in Marseille.
Grasse: A Day in the Perfume Capital of the World. When you find yourself on the stunning Côte d’Azur, set aside a day to explore the enchanting town of Grasse, renowned as the perfume capital since the 18th century. Nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, this picturesque region boasts the perfect climate for cultivating fragrant flowers for perfume production. Don’t miss out on an immersive experience capturing the essence of Grasse. Watch this video by Christine van de Linden and Haas Zeegers featuring a visit to the enchanting flower gardens, where you’ll witness an insightful interview with the head gardener.
Guide to French Riviera Gardens
Nestled just a short ferry ride from the glamorous shores of Cannes, the Lérins Islands offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera. Of these islands, Île Sainte-Marguerite stands out as a haven of natural beauty and tranquillity. The 15-minute journey is a feast for the senses, offering panoramic views of the Cannes lighthouse, the charming old town, and the famed Boulevard de la Croisette with its luxurious hotels. Discover the Lérin Island in this video by Christine van de Linden and Haas Zeegers.
Cannes is a city you probably recognize because of the famous Festival de Cannes red carpet and star-studded festival attendees. A former fishing village, Cannes has grown in about 200 years into a city with 75,000 inhabitants and 3 million visitors per year. It has many facets, from local markets, authentic spots, and artisan bakeries to harbours with luxury yachts and events full of glitz and glamour. Discover the allure of Cannes and enjoy this video by Christine van de Linden and Haas Zeegers.
Tips for Surviving the Film Festival with the Red Carpet
Just an hour north of Cannes, nestled in the rolling hills, lies the enchanting La Réserve des Monts d’Azur. This natural reserve offers a perfect getaway for families, couples, and friends looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Provencal wilderness. Accessible via a picturesque route, this park is a sanctuary where wild animals have been reintroduced to their natural habitat, promising a day or weekend filled with wonder and discovery. The Réserve is a chance to immerse in Provence’s remarkable natural environment. Please enjoy this video by Christine van de Linden and Haas Zeegers.
Villages of the Var: Charming Tourrettes. Escaping from the vibrant Côte d’Azur to the serene countryside is always refreshing. Less than an hour’s drive from Cannes, you’ll find the charming medieval village of Tourrettes, nestled in the Var department. This village is one of the nine (9) ‘villages perchés’ of the Pays de Fayence, along with Mons, Fayence, Seillans, Callian, Montauroux, Tanneron, and Saint-Paul-en-Foret. Their elevated locations historically protected them from enemy attacks. In the video below by Christine van de Linden and Haas Zeegers, find out more about Tourrettes, a lovely village in the Var.
Meet the Founder: I enjoyed interviewing Martine Bertin-Peterson, the founder of boutique travel company Goût et Voyage. She started the company in 2014 by creating small group tours based on her travel preferences. Her vision was to develop slow-travel experiences that feel like a journey with friends.
Witness 1000 animals, 200 men and women on horseback as they head to Saintes Maries de la Mer on November 11th each year. This abrivado (or more precisely 11 of them in a row) is the season finale, takes place along six (6) kilometres of beach in the Camargue.
Course Camarguaise in Noves. If you see a flyer for a course camarguaise head to the local arena to witness this combination of animal strength and male agility. It’s great fun for the whole family.
Dancing under the stars in Salon-de-Provence. We were lucky to see this group dancing one summer night in Salon-de-Provence.
St Agrève American-style Rodeo. An August visit to the Ardeche for the annual country music and rodeo event.
Whether you are a race car fan or not the Monaco Grand Prix has something for everyone.
Provence is all about slowing the pace. What better way to do that than to rent a 2CV (Deux Chevaux) for a day of touring the countryside.
Once a year the town of Richerenches in the Vaucluse gathers to celebrate culinarily gold the Black Truffles of Provence (market list).
Cycling races in Provence – La Ronde d’Aix.
La Fete des Lumières in December is a perfect excuse for a road trip to the gourmet capital of Lyon.
But, it can be a bit hard to sleep: