Begin your exploration of Aix-en-Provence where, in 123 BCE, Roman Consul Sextius Calvinus stamped his name on the nearby hot springs. Called Aquae Sextiae, the name became associated with the town that grew around the hot springs which over time has been shortened to Aix. The name has shortened, but what is known as Aix-en Provence has expanded to encompass an entire province. On your first day, enjoy breakfast then take to market with a food specialist and walk amongst stalls filled with fresh fruits and other delectables. Your guide will elucidate on how to prepare some of the fresh ingredients found in the market and restaurants of note and a discussion on the region’s food culture will take place. A visit to the historical and meticulously preserved studio of Paul Cezanne precedes afternoon libations within a traditional bastide (fortified town or manor house). HOTEL DE FRANCE OR SIMILAR.

After breakfast, travel past orchards and lavender fields to Avignon on the banks of the Rhône. Once there, enter a 15th century townhome for a culinary class where, under the guidance of a professional chef, you will learn how to prepare and then eat, an exquisite lunch. Walk off your afternoon respite on a tour of Avignon, which from 1309-78 was the City of Popes, the seat of the papal authority having been moved from Rome by Pope Clement V. Continue to Abbaye Saint André which sits across the Rhône from Avignon where your proboscis will be met by the scent of the myriad flowers populating the Mediterranean styled terraced gardens of the now privately owned estate. Aperitifs with the owner follow the tour then return to Aix where you may enjoy a dinner of your own choosing. HOTEL DE FRANCE OR SIMILAR.

Raise your appreciation of French cuisine when you take to the Alpilles. Though relatively low in altitude, this mountain range is dramatic in its presentation and its numerous valleys provide purchase for a diversity of crops. The product of this agriculture can be found in many shapes, such as the hand crafted soaps of Salon De Provence, made of natural oils and plant based fragrances. After indulging your olfactory sense with sweet essences, treat your palate to some wine and fresh pressed olive oil at a nearby estate. Carry on to Baux de Provence to view the product of local artisans, craftspeople, and farmers. Proceed to the town of Saint Remy and SaintPaul de Mausole Asylum, location of Vincent Van Gogh’s 53 weeks self “confinement” during which he created some 143 oil paintings. Let the tongue taste what the eyes have seen on a visit with a chocolatier of national renown. HOTEL DE FRANCE OR SIMILAR.

Today leave the pastoral charm of Aix behind and stride for the seaside sophistication of Nice, stopping to taste wine at Chateau Sainte Rosaline along the way. As you enter Nice, drink in the stunning panoramic views of the city, the intricate Belle Époque building facades and the stratospheric and ornately decorated domes of Saint Nicholas Church. Conclude in Cimiez and the serenity of the Franciscan monastery of Our Lady of Cimiez and its enchanting gardens. Located in the heart of Nice, close to the Place Masséna and Promenade des Anglais, your Art Deco hotel offers 23 spacious rooms, each with its own unique character. DE SUEDE or similar.

After your morning meal, repair to Grasse, considered the perfume capital of the world. A feast for the nose awaits you in a perfumery’s workshop, then it is away to the village of Saint Paul de Vence for a lunch of cheese and wine. Post meal, behold the modern art masterpieces of Miró, Chagall, and Bonnard, on display at the Maeght Foundation. Return to Nice in the evening. DE SUEDE or similar.

A gastronomic tour of Nice is the plan of the day! Under the skillful tutelage of a food specialist learn how history has shaped the cuisine of Nice. Taste some of the culinary creations that are unique to Nice, such as tourte de blettes, a tart made of sweet Swiss chard, parmesan, pine nuts, and raisins. Sample olive oils and vinegars infused with exotic flavors like passion fruit, and let the rich earthiness of French cheese permeate your palate in the market. This last full day will culminate in a farewell dinner with your travel mates at a gourmet restaurant. DE SUEDE or similar.

Today bags are packed and farewells said to the south of France. Take with you the rich textures of the flavors, aromas, and landscapes of the region. Bon Voyage!