Walk & Discover: Majestic Provence

Destination Overview: Provence, France

Provence is arguably the most seductive of all the French regions, with colourful fields of lavender and sunflowers interspersed with vineyards, olive groves, and gently rolling hills. Deep valleys are carpeted with oak and pine forests, while garrigue-covered hillsides are punctuated by cypresses, filling the air with a distinctive aroma while cicadas hum. The wild beauty of the Camargue adds to its allure, where white horses gallop across wetlands, herds of black bulls roam, and striking flocks of flamingos fly in perfect formation.

Provenal towns are a real delight. Aix-en-Provence stands out with its old town comprising streets lined with traditional shops and squares, vibrant markets, and caf terraces nestling under the shade of plane trees. Over it all towers the majestic Mont Sainte-Victoire, immortalised by Czanne in over 80 paintings. The region has been a magnet for artists including Van Gogh and Picasso, drawn to Provences natural beauty and light. Avignon boasts imposing medieval buildings and a fabled bridge, while Arles ancient monuments are breathtaking. Another man-made wonder is the mighty Pont du Gard aqueduct, a testament to Roman engineering.

Tour Highlights:

• Experience the famous light of the Luberon Mountains on a guided walk

• Stroll around the stunning landscape around Mont Sainte-Victoire, immortalised in paintings by Czanne

• Take a guided walk through the Alpilles and see where Van Gogh painted The Starry Night

• Enjoy a guided tour of Aix, the City of a Thousand Fountains

• Learn about Arles Roman and Van Gogh heritage on a guided tour

• Discover medieval Avignon and hilltop Les Baux

• Visit the Camargue wetland, famous for its pink flamingos, white horses, and black bulls

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Aix-en-Provence

• Arrive at the airport for your flight to Nice, Marseille, or Montpellier.

Day 2: Walk – Aix-en-Provence

• Enjoy your first country walk with a specialist guide.

Day 3: Discover – The Camargue

• Head to the Camargue after breakfast.

Day 4: Walk – Luberon Mountains

• Head inland to the Luberon Mountains for a morning walk.

Day 5: Free day in Aix

• Spend the day at your leisure in Aix.

Day 6: Walk – Les Baux & The Alpilles

• Explore charming Les Baux and its surroundings on guided walks.

Day 7: Discover – Avignon

• Visit the historic city of Avignon.

Day 8: Return home

• Transfer to the airport for your return journey.

Hand-picked Hotels:

Grand Hotel Roi Ren Mgallery, Aix-en-Provence, France

• 4 stars, chosen for prime location in the heart of Cezanne’s hometown.

Travel Connections:

• Marseille Airport to Aix-en-Provence: Approx. 1 hour transfer time.