Rich in centuries of history and ancestral know-how, Provence brims with wonders to be discovered. From the Vaucluse to the Alpes-Maritimes, the region has something for everyone. Provençal life is a unique art de vivre where tourists and locals alike are invited to take part. From admiring the sunrise above the lavender fields to falling asleep with the cicada song, a day in Provence is definitely a day to remember.
More than its sunny climate, Provence is home to traditional markets and some of the best rosés in the world. As you may have noticed, art, history, nature and, of course, food and wine lovers will make Provence their next home.
Hence, Winerist has created for you the ideal weekend to spend in Provence. Want to know more on how to spend the perfect 4-day (or more) break in the sunniest region of France?
For your first visit to the region, using Avignon as a hub is a must. You can reach Avignon, formerly seat of the Catholic Popes, by train from Paris or London, or by air from Avignon, Nimes or Marseille airports.
Day 1
On Day 1, you can visit Avignon, famed for its Popes’ Palace and its Bridge that you might have heard about in your very first french lessons back at school with the music Sur le pont d’Avignon. For lunch, you can try our favourite wine bar and restaurant, AOC, which offers a traditional french brasserie cuisine and a great selection of cold cuts and cheese platters. In the spring and summer, the terrasse is a must to relax and enjoy the Provençal life with a glass of wine. Later in the afternoon, we advise you to try the Domaine du Vieux Lazaret in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 20km north of Avignon. This winery is the largest wine estate of the appellation where novices and connoisseurs alike will be delighted by their world-class wines. In the evening, stay at Château de Varenne (from 158€/night), a few kilometres away from the winery. This charming château will leave you with a feeling of sophistication.
Day 2
On Day 2, join a wine tasting initiation on the slopes of Mount Ventoux with our local experts where your five senses will be awaken. During this interactive wine education journey, you will taste 5 different wines and discover the secrets of winemaking. Head towards the Château Pesquié in the afternoon where you can join, depending on the season, a wine tasting course or a harvest course with the winemaker. In the evening, unwind at Metafort, a contemporary B&B combining luxury, design and wellness near the Mount Ventoux. No worries for dinner, the hosts offer unmissable gourmet experiences made with local products. Sit back and enjoy the delights of Provence.
Day 3
On Day 3, do not miss a visit to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon, perched on the edge of the Plateau du Vaucluse. Enjoy a lunch in Bonnieux, south of Gordes, at the famous La Bergerie restaurant where hardiness and sophistication are combined to perfection. Then, drive to Domaine de Fontenille, an organic winery in the heart of Luberon, where you can enjoy a unique wine tasting in their cellar (from 15€ pp). After this exceptional day, unpack at La Bastide de Marie to relax in luxury in the middle of the vines.
Day 4
On Day 4, enjoy a typical French breakfast at the hotel with croissants and a selection of local cheeses, jam and honey. Morning and afternoon, cooking classes, wine tastings and spa treatments are available at the Bastide. You can either have one more night at La Bastide de Marie or leave in the afternoon. Whatever you decide, make sure you go on either a morning lavender fields’ tour and/or a truffle-hunting tour which takes place in the evening (from 84€ pp).
Ready to go? We promise that this weekend will be an unforgettable one. Don’t forget to relax and take some time for yourself to unwind in the beautiful hotels you will be staying at. Get in touch with us for more tips and information about Provence.
