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An Ideal Day in the Luberon

in What To Do In Provence

An Ideal Day in the Luberon France In May of 2014 I was fortunate enough to stay at Le Mas de Gancel outside the small town of Vernègues in the South of France. While staying at this lovely villa, I was able to explore villages in the Luberon and the Alpilles, as well as spend some time in Aix-En-Provence. To say I enjoyed my time in Provence would be an understatement — I loved it. Every village felt like a profound discovery, and while I’m reluctant to play favorites, I’ve put together my recommendation for what I think makes a fantastic day in the Luberon.   My ideal day in the Luberon starts in Rousillon, cited as one of the most beautiful villages in France. I love the way the morning sun hits the magnificent ochre cliffs; the yellows, reds and pinks of the ochre against the blue sky, contrasting with the vibrant green foliage — it’s simply captivating. Explore the ochre...

The Beautiful Flowers Of Provence

in What To Do In Provence

Lavender, the iconic flower of Provence, is the image everyone conjures when dreaming of the south of France, though magnificent flowers bloom throughout the year. Whenever you choose to visit Provence, you’ll find a rainbow of colorful flowers to enjoy, from the brilliant yellow mimosas of winter, to the red poppies bursting in spring, through the famed lavender fields of summer — every new season brings with it a vibrant, multicolored landscape. Flowers are easily found almost any time of year. Wildflowers and wild herbs flourish year round in the Alpilles and Luberon regions of Provence, bringing various hues and tones to the hillsides. Daily markets feature cultivated flowers, making it possible to enjoy fabulous bouquets at your villa rental. Many villa gardens gorgeously spotlight regional flora. Winter comes alive with yellow mimosas and purple irises. Don’t miss the beauty of...

Two Great Restaurants In Aix-en-Provence

in What To Do In Provence

Aix-en-Provence is often called a mini-Paris, as it’s very walkable with excellent shopping and an abundance of restaurants. Known for the fountains throughout the city and the Plane trees that line the every popular Cours Mirabeau, Aix is an easy city to negotiate on foot, but a map certainly doesn’t hurt. There are markets from Monday through Saturday, the biggest on Saturday. If you’re looking for a little change of scene food-wise, Aix has plenty of options and far more variety than in the smaller villages of Provence. Being close in proximity to the port of Marseille, you’ll find lots of seafood and several menus with North African and Spanish influences. There is no doubt in working up an appetite strolling though Old Town and browsing the eclectic shops along Rue Paul-Bert. Here’s a bit about two very lovely restaurants in Old Town:       Le Zinc...

Eygalières Village: A Hidden Gem

in Villa Rentals Provence, What To Do In Provence

Eygalières is a small village on a hill in the Alpilles, not far from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. There’s a quiet charm to this special village, though it’s often overlooked for the more well-known

Planning Your Gordes Vacation

in Villa Rentals Provence, What To Do In Provence

While on vacation in the south of France, be sure to visit Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in Provence. Built on a hilltop, Gordes offers breathtaking panoramic views of the French countryside. Sunset is particularly wonderful time to go, perhaps to enjoy an aperitif in the Luberon.

Five Great Reasons To Visit Saint Remy de Provence

in What To Do In Provence

A vacation in the south of France should absolutely include a trip to Saint Remy de Provence. Close to the Luberon, and just south of Les Alpilles (mountain range) near Avignon, St. Remy is known as the birthplace of Nostradamus, the village where Van Gogh sought refuge and a delight for visitors exploring Inland Provence.